Plateau State’s sporting landscape received a major boost on Saturday, October 11, 2025, with the official launch of the New Hope Stars Football Academy in Jos. The event, held at the academy’s newly completed football facility along Domkat Bali Road, drew football enthusiasts, sports stakeholders, and community members who described it as a landmark stride in grassroots sports development.

Speaking at the ceremony, Musa Ibrahim Ashoms, Plateau State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, commended the initiative, noting that it reflects the growing private sector interest in sports development across the state.

“We are unveiling a new football academy here, and that tells you sports is set to grow aeronautically in Plateau State,” Ashoms said. “Private investors are now showing confidence in our peaceful atmosphere, and this facility will not only groom young talents but also impact families economically.”

The commissioner reaffirmed the government’s commitment to revitalizing sports infrastructure across Plateau State, citing the ongoing rehabilitation of the Rwang Pam Township Stadium and preparations to host the Nigeria University Games in November.

“You can see our intentional investment in the sporting sector. Platforms like this create opportunities for discovering future stars who will represent Plateau and Nigeria at international levels,” he added.

Ashoms also lauded the management of New Hope Stars Academy for their foresight and pledged continued collaboration with the state government to ensure sustained growth in youth and sports development.

“New Hope Stars Academy has provided a credible platform for harnessing the energy and creativity of our youth. This aligns with Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s commitment to youth development and empowerment,” he stated.

Founder and Chairman of the Academy, Mr. Yohanna Gorgi, said the idea was born out of passion and a desire to give young people a chance to achieve their football dreams.

“I have always loved football and saw great talent among youths in Jos. The vision is to help them grow into international stars who can one day play for the Super Eagles or win global honors,” Gorgi said.

He revealed that the project is currently self-funded but open to partnerships with individuals and organizations that share the same vision of youth empowerment through sports.

In his remarks, Mr. Simon Asemoh, Consultant and Director of Programs for the Academy, announced that New Hope Stars has already established international collaborations with clubs in Europe and America for exchange programs.

“This academy is designed to meet global standards. We plan to integrate academic learning with football training so our players are not just talented but also educated and disciplined,” Asemoh explained.

He added that the academy’s expansion plan will include the construction of a school, a recreation center, and the establishment of a female football program.

“We are committed to building complete athletes — disciplined, morally upright, and academically sound. Our goal is to produce world-class players who will make Plateau State and Nigeria proud,” he said.

The launch concluded with an exhibition match between the academy’s under-14 and under-16 teams, offering a glimpse of the promising talents eager to make their mark in Nigerian football.

With the establishment of New Hope Stars Football Academy, Plateau State continues to strengthen its reputation as a cradle of sporting excellence and a breeding ground for future football legends.