Sports can keep young people away from drugs: State Minister

Sports have no alternative in keeping young people away from drugs and ensuring their physical and mental development, said State Minister for Housing and Public Works Ahmed Sohel Manjur.

He made the remarks as the chief guest at the final match and prize-giving ceremony of the Arafat Rahman Koko Memorial Football Tournament 2026 at the Government Swarupkathi Pilot Model Secondary School ground in Nesarabad upazila of Pirojpur on Friday afternoon.

The state minister said such tournaments played an important role in developing sports at the grassroots level and creating opportunities for emerging local players.

The final was contested between Liton Smriti Duronto Torun Dal and Rahutkathi Jubo Samaj Kalyan Parishad. Liton Smriti Duronto Torun Dal won the title by defeating their opponents in an exciting match.

State Minister Ahmed Sohel Manjur inaugurated the event.

Among those present were Nesarabad Upazila Nirbahi Officer Ashik Ahmed, Assistant Superintendent of Police of Nesarabad Circle Pronoy Roy, Nesarabad Police Station Officer-in-Charge Md Mehedi Hasan, former Swarupkathi Municipality mayor Shafiqul Islam Farid and local political leaders.

Thousands of spectators from different walks of life gathered at the venue to enjoy the match.

After the game, the UNO and other guests handed over the trophy and prizes to the winning team.

The organisers expressed hope that such initiatives would help revitalise local sports and create opportunities for new talent.