Published: January 10, 2025
GANTA – With just three days to the official kickoff of the National County Sports Meet (NCSM), authorities of the Nimba County Sports Steering Committee have appealed to the tournament organizers for a schedule adjustment to allow the county observe the burial of its Senator, Prince Yormie Johnson.
Senator Johnson, who was first elected in 2005 to represent Nimba County, passed away at a local health facility in Paynesville, Montserrado County, on November 28, 2024.
In a formal communication addressed to the organizers of the 2024-2025 NCSM, Nimba County Sports Steering Committee Chairman Diamond Yormie requested a rescheduling of the county’s final group stage match, originally slated for January 18, which coincides with the burial date of the late Senator Johnson.
Nimba County, drawn in Group D alongside host Grand Cape Mount County and River Gee County, is scheduled to play its opening game against Grand Cape Mount on January 12.
Speaking on a local radio station in Ganta on January 9, Chairman Yormie explained that the county’s request for an adjustment stems from concerns over the potential absence of key stakeholders and citizens who would want to attend Senator Johnson’s funeral.
“Most of our leaders and citizens would want to travel to Cape Mount to watch the game, but they will not do so if the game remains scheduled for the 18th, as they would want to participate in the burial ceremonies of Senator Johnson. That is why we have asked for the game to be rescheduled,” Chairman Yormie stated.
The committee is also appealing for approval to allow Nimba’s players to wear black armbands throughout the tournament as a mark of mourning and respect for their fallen Senator.
“We are also asking the Ministry of Youth and Sports to permit our players to wear black armbands throughout their games to show signs of mourning and respect,” Chairman Yormie added.
The National County Sports Meet, organized annually by the Ministry of Youth and Sports in collaboration with partners, aims to promote peace, unity, and young talents. Established in 1956, the event has grown significantly, drawing thousands of Liberians to venues across the country to cheer for their respective counties.
Nimba County has a remarkable record in the tournament, winning the football trophy six times, making it the most successful county in the competition’s history. Grand Kru County follows closely, having won the trophy five times.
The tournament features various disciplines, with football, kickball, and basketball being the most popular.
As of now, there is no official response from the tournament organizers regarding Nimba County’s request. However, Chairman Yormie expressed optimism that their appeal would be granted.
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