Kano SWAN Urges Gov’t to Declare Emergency in Sports Sector
By Yusuf Alhaji
The Kano State chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has called on the state government to declare a state of emergency in the sports sector, citing longstanding challenges and recent tragedies that have exposed deep systemic failures.
In a press release issued after an emergency meeting held on June 24, 2025, and jointly signed by the chapter’s Chairman, Zaharadeen Saleh, and Secretary, Muhammad Nur, the association warned that Kano’s sporting future is at a critical crossroads.
They emphasized that only bold and comprehensive reforms backed by genuine political will can attract meaningful investments and revive the declining state of sports in Kano.
According to the association, Kano’s sports landscape is plagued by inadequate funding, a severe lack of modern facilities, outdated or non-existent governance structures, and a chronic shortage of trained professionals, particularly in coaching.
These problems have left aspiring athletes and sports administrators demoralized, while the limited resources allocated are often mismanaged or underutilized.
SWAN’s statement also highlighted the recent tragic loss of athletes, coaches, and officials dubbed the “Kano 22” who died after representing the state with distinction at the 22nd National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The association described them as heroes who brought honor to the state and paid the ultimate price in the line of duty.
To immortalize their legacy, SWAN urged the government to name a major sporting facility in their honor and establish an annual event dedicated to their memory.
The association also appealed for urgent support to the bereaved families, many of whom are now left with vulnerable dependents including nursing mothers, school-age children, and elderly parents.
They called for scholarships, educational grants, and economic relief packages to ease the families’ burdens.
Furthermore, SWAN stressed the need for high-level government presence at national sporting events, noting that the visibility of senior officials significantly boosts athlete morale and signals the government’s commitment to sports development.
The association also urged the government to take immediate steps to reposition Kano Pillars Football Club, describing it as one of Nigeria’s most iconic sports institutions that deserves strategic intervention to restore its past glory.
While expressing concerns, SWAN also acknowledged and commended the Kano State Government for the timely release of funds that enabled the state’s participation in the recent National Sports Festival.
The association encouraged the government to build on this gesture with a long-term strategy to revitalize and rebrand sports in Kano.
