History was made in Asaba on Thursday as Katsina State recorded its first-ever gold medal at the National Youth Games, thanks to the brilliance of rising golf star Aliyu Bara’u.
The young athlete, competing in the Best Gross Golf Game category, stunned spectators and rivals alike with an impressive gross score of 76 points, outplaying top contenders from Plateau and Ekiti States to clinch victory.
The news sparked jubilation back home, with Governor Dikko Umaru Radda leading the celebrations. In a statement from Government House, the Governor described the feat as “a victory not only for Aliyu Bara’u but for the entire people of Katsina State.”
“This gold medal is not just Aliyu Bara’u’s personal achievement; it is a victory for Katsina State,” Radda said with pride. “It shows what determination and discipline can achieve. We are proud of him and of all our athletes still competing.”
The Governor commended Bara’u’s dedication and resilience, stressing that the achievement reflects the emerging potential of Katsina’s young sportsmen and women. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sports development, assuring that Katsina would continue to invest in facilities, training, and sponsorship opportunities for athletes across various disciplines.
Governor Radda noted that Katsina’s contingent is still flying the state’s flag in Badminton, Fives, and Kokowa (Traditional Wrestling), expressing optimism that more medals are on the way.
His remarks come just months after the state government organized a colourful ceremony to honour champions of Fives, Judo, and Traditional Boxing, where athletes were presented with medals and trophies as part of Katsina’s renewed drive to motivate its youth.
Beyond national tournaments, the Governor hinted at plans for international sponsorships, aimed at giving Katsina’s athletes exposure on the global stage. “Our young talents deserve platforms to shine beyond Nigeria. We will continue to create such opportunities,” he pledged.
For many in Katsina, Bara’u’s victory is a symbolic breakthrough. It not only puts the state on the sporting map but also reflects the youthful energy and resilience that Governor Radda’s administration has consistently promoted.
As Katsina’s athletes gear up for their remaining events in Asaba, the spotlight remains firmly on Aliyu Bara’u, the young golfer who turned a dream into history and gave the state its golden moment.
Press release signed by Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
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