…Advise Caution in Sponsoring Football Tournaments, Call for Support for State Contingent
By Ado Salisu
Sports stakeholders in Kano State have called on the state government to prioritise preparations for the forthcoming 23rd National Sports Festival in Enugu before committing resources to other sporting competitions and tournaments.
The stakeholders, while acknowledging the importance of sports development initiatives, advised Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to exercise caution in considering sponsorship requests for competitions, particularly those whose relevance and contribution to the state’s sporting development have yet to be clearly established.
Speaking on behalf of the stakeholders, Ibrahim Ahmad observed that several initiatives organised under the banner of the Renewed Hope campaign for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf should be carefully assessed to ensure that they align with the broader interests of sports development in Kano State.
He expressed concern that, with the National Sports Festival scheduled to take place from November 26 to December 11, 2026, in Enugu, the state government was yet to release funds for the preparations of its contingent of over 200 athletes, coaches and officials.
Ahmad noted that available resources should be directed towards supporting athletes and officials representing the state at recognised national competitions.
He cited the recent inability of Kano Pillars’ 22-member handball team to participate in the National Premier Handball League in Lagos, describing the development as a setback that underscores the need for improved institutional support for sports teams in the state.
The stakeholder further urged the government to engage experienced sports administrators with genuine commitment and a clear understanding of the challenges facing sporting activities in Kano.
He maintained that while privately organised tournaments and sporting initiatives could contribute to the development of the sector, their sponsorship should be considered alongside the immediate needs and priorities of the state’s athletes.
“Requests for substantial financial support for tournaments, including those organised under the Renewed Hope banner, should be carefully considered, particularly at a time when our athletes, coaches and officials require adequate preparation and support for major national competitions,” he said.
Ahmad also expressed concern over what he described as the limited financial support available to the state contingent ahead of the National Sports Festival, urging the government to address the situation without further delay.
The 23rd National Sports Festival is expected to bring together athletes from the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is expected to declare the 2026 edition of the festival open on November 28 in Enugu.