Sports

FCT Sports Dept. Launches Drive for New Association Members

"Thankfully, we have gotten the approval required, and we are calling on sports enthusiasts, stakeholders, and residents to join the FCT sports association"

Samuel AkpanMarch 31, 20261 Mins read263

The FCT Sports Department has officially called for residents and stakeholders to apply for membership in various sports associations.

Luka Istifanus, the FCT Director of Sports, announced the move during a news conference in Abuja on Tuesday, March 31.

He explained that the initiative aims to transition from the “caretaker committees” that have managed FCT sports for over three years to permanent, minister-approved boards.

Istifanus confirmed that membership and nomination forms are completely free and available to all residents of the city.

He, however, noted that all applicants will undergo a rigorous screening and vetting process to ensure the integrity and competence of the new boards.

“We are here to kickstart a process introduced by the immediate past Mandate Secretary of Youth and Sports Development, Lawan Geidam,” Istifanus said.

The director revealed that sports in the FCT have been managed by a caretaker committee with very limited powers for over three years.

“When Geidam came on board, he saw the challenge and began initiating a process of getting a board for the sports association, one that will get the approval of the FCT Minister,” Istifanus explained.

“Thankfully, we have gotten the approval required, and we are calling on sports enthusiasts, stakeholders, and residents to join the FCT sports association,” he added.

He announced that the free membership and nomination forms will be available between April 1 and April 30 at the FCT Sports Department located within the National Open University complex, Area 3.

“FCT residents have the opportunity to express interest in any sport of their choice with a minimum of First School Leaving Certificate.

“The membership is for four years when inaugurated, and we encourage sports enthusiasts, including sports writers, to declare interest in joining sports associations,” he further stated.

Esther Whoba, Deputy Director, Technical, in the Sports/Youth Department, called on philanthropists to show interest in developing sports in the FCT.

She stressed that credible philanthropists and sports lovers picking up the forms would boost growth and development of sports in the territory through financial support and mentorship.

Their involvement, she said, would nurture young talents, improve sporting facilities and create more opportunities for athletes to shine at local, national and international levels.

“By becoming active members, stakeholders can contribute meaningfully to building a sustainable sports ecosystem that promotes unity, healthy living, and youth empowerment in the FCT,” Whoba said.