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  By Jamilu Uba Adamu As the beautiful game continues to captivate audiences worldwide, the importance of safety and security in football stadia cannot be overstated. In modern football administration, substantial investments are made to train security personnel on crowd control measures, ensuring spectators and players are safeguarded on match days. However, the reality in Nigeria is alarming. A stadium with a capacity of 18,000 was recently grossly overcrowded with nearly 30,000 football fans. The stark reality is that overcrowding, due to the overselling of tickets, poses a significant threat to the structural integrity of our dilapidated stadium stands. The consequences of a disaster are too catastrophic to contemplate. It is imperative that the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) takes proactive steps to address this ticking time bomb. The NPFL must encourage teams to educate fans, club officials, and security personnel on crowd control and ticket sales management. Thi...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola  The Kano State Football Referees Council has made a remarkable performance in the ongoing National Fitness Examination held in Zaria, with an impressive 78% pass rate. According to a press statement signed by the Council's Publicity Secretary, Muhammad Sani Shuaibu, the council sent 54 contingents to participate in the examination, with 53 taking part in the test and only one, Sha'araani Guza, unable to participate due to health reasons. The statement listed the 42 referees who successfully passed the examination, while 11 others did not make the cut. The following referees have successfully passed the examination: 1. Yusuf Garba Rumbu 2. Habibu Ghali 3. Shehu Sa'idu Akai 4. Shamsu Yusha'u 5. Ismail Ishaq 6. Mustapha Ado 7. Aliyu Umar 8. Abbas Musa 9. Muhammad Sunusi 10. Abubakar Bala 11. Hassan Sisa 12. Muhammad Ya'u Kawo 13. Hamza Garba 14. Abdullahi Sharada 15. Aminu Hamisu 16. Ali Rabi'u Darma 17. Bashir Mukhtar 18. Yahaya Gambo 19. J...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola  The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Kano State Command has intensified its "Kick Drugs Out of Sports" awareness campaign, taking it to the next level. On Sunday, November 24, 2024, the Drug Demand Reduction Unit delivered lectures on the effects of drugs to members of the Kano State Football Coaches Association at the Sani Abacha Stadium press center. The event, aimed at promoting a healthy and drug-free lifestyle among youths, educated and enlightened 25 registered members of the association on the dangers of drug abuse. CSN Ibrahim Zubairu led the lectures, emphasizing the importance of staying drug-free. Alh. Ibrahim Umar FIFA (rtd), Chairman of the Kano State Sports Commission, expressed his support for the initiative, stating that it "comes at the right time when it's needed." He pledged his full support for the campaign. This initiative is part of NDLEA's efforts to combat drug abuse and promote a healthy lifestyle ...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola  On Saturday, November 23rd, 2024, Yucateco, in collaboration with the North West State Boxing Associations, organized a boxing reform tournament among young players at the Headquarter 3 Brigade, Bukavu Barracks in Kano State. The event also honoured outstanding personalities in sports development with awards of excellence. Seven northwestern states, including Jigawa, Kaduna, Katsina, Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara, and the host state Kano, participated in the tournament. Yucateco Chairman Omoleyi Yakubu Emmanuel expressed his delight with the talent displayed during the event, noting that the region has immense potential but lacks encouragement and investment in boxing development. Emmanuel called on state governments and private companies to invest more in boxing, emphasizing that with the region's large population, significant investments, and encouragement, they can harness the best talents. The Commandant of the Headquarter 3 Brigade Bukavu Barracks, Brigadier G...

  By Ado Salisu  Special Education Secondary School, Tudun Maliki, Kano, is set to participate in the 6th edition of the National Deaf Secondary Schools Football Championship, tagged "A.A. Sule Cup 2024." The championship, organized by the Nigeria Deaf Football Association, aims to promote inclusivity, empowerment, and talent development among deaf students nationwide. According to the Secretary General of the Association, Mr. Nahemiah Daret, the championship will take place from December 5th to 15th, 2024, at the Lafia Township Stadium in Nasarawa State. Governor A.A. Sule of Nasarawa State is expected to declare the championship open, with other dignitaries from within and outside the state in attendance. The association has sent invitation letters to various state governments to support their deaf football students, with the goal of motivating them to excel. The Director of Sports in the Kano State Ministry of Education, Malam Ibrahim Bello, views the invitation as an oppo...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola  The 37th edition of the Dala Hard Court Tennis tournament came to a thrilling conclusion on saturday, with Khadija Mohammed and Abua Canice emerging as the winners of the female and male singles titles, respectively. In the male singles final, Abua Canice, the national number four, clinched victory against national number two Oparaojo Uche. Canice, who finished in second place last year, took home the prize money of one million naira (#1,000,000). In the female singles final, Khadija Mohammed continued her dominant year, winning over Udofa Mary, the national number twelve. This marks Khadija's second consecutive title win, having also won the tournament in 2023 as an amateur. She took home the prize money of six hundred thousand naira (#600,000). Khadija, who is currently ranked number two on the national tennis ranking as of October 30th, 2024, expressed her excitement at winning the tournament. "We are very happy; it is a dream of all players in the c...

By Abdulgafar Oladimeji in Doha, Qatar Nigeria’s deputy senate president, senator Barau Jibrin has stepped into the sports sector  unannounced with enviable silent  achievements  that could best create an anticipation of his soonest possible initiation into the hall of fame, which houses those who are meritiously brandishing the prestigious rank of Nigeria’s Pillars of sports. Barau’s initiation and support to projects in the sports sector in his  private and public  capacity as senator representing Kano north in the hallowed chambers has continued to  attract enviable reactions from millions of  sports adherents . The northern Nigeria sports circle  is currently  drenched in debates around  those dreams that invoke  the wonderlands, that where, if every senator and their political peers holding  forth at various levels in public offices would resort to constructing one new sports facility or renovate dilapidated ones or upgrad...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola  In the heat of the moment, it's easy to forget the crucial role referees play in the game of football. While players, managers, and fans are all integral to the sport, referees are often the unsung heroes who ensure the game is played fairly and safely. During every match, mistakes are made by all parties involved. Players give the ball away or miss chances, managers make tactical errors, and referees make incorrect decisions. However, it's essential to remember that these mistakes are never intentional. Referees, like players and managers, want to enjoy the game and do their best to ensure a fair and exciting contest. Despite this, referees are often subjected to abuse and criticism from fans, players, and managers. This can range from verbal insults to physical intimidation, and it's unacceptable. Referees are human beings who deserve respect and dignity, regardless of the decisions they make on the pitch. One of the most significant challenges ref...

  By Muzammil Dalha Yola  In a proactive effort to promote a healthy and drug-free lifestyle among young athletes, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Kano State Command, in collaboration with the Drug Demand Reduction Unit (DDRU), launched the "Kick Drugs Out of Sports" awareness campaign at An-Nour Science Academy on Thursday, November 21, 2024. The campaign, held at Cobra Sports Arena, Magaji Rumfa Nassarawa GRA, Kano, targeted 100 students and staff, both male and female. Ibrahim Zubairu, Chief Superintendent of Narcotics (CSN), led the sports-related World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) lectures. Renowned sports personality Jabir Hassan shared his personal experiences, emphasizing the importance of staying drug-free. "This campaign shapes young minds, promotes healthy habits, and ensures a brighter future," Hassan stressed. NDLEA Kano State Commander, Abubakar Ahmad Idris, reaffirmed the agency's commitment to creating a drug-free sports environment...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola  Bayelsa United's sensational young player, Rabiu Abdullahi, popularly known as "Pele," is making waves in his first Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) season. With 4 goal contributions, including 3 goals and 1 assist, the former Tudun Wada United attacking midfield has caught the attention of the football fraternity. Abdullahi's impressive performance has earned him an invitation to the CHAN Super Eagles, a testament to his rapid rise in the Nigerian football scene. "My top priority is to help Bayelsa United finish in a better position," Abdullahi said confidently. "I'm focused on scoring more goals and providing assists for my team." The Kano-born star has already made a significant impact, scoring in 1-1 draws against Kano Pillars and Katsina United. He also netted the only goal in Bayelsa United's victory over Heartland FC of Owerri and provided an assist in their 1-1 draw against Kwara United. With his s...

  By Muzammil Dalha Yola  Chairman of Kano Pillars Football Club, Ali Muhammad Umar (Nayara) has expressed heartfelt appreciation to the team's esteemed fans for their overwhelming support during the club's first game of the season at the Sani Abacha Stadium on Sunday. The highly anticipated NPFL Match Day 12 encounter against Heartland FC ended in a draw, but Nayara praised the fans' unwavering passion, dedication, and sportsmanship. "Your energy and encouragement remain the driving force behind our success," Nayara said. "Together, we will achieve greatness." He also commended the technical crew and players for their hard work, resilience, and dedication. Nayara emphasized the importance of unity, urging fans to continue supporting the team and promoting the image of Kano Pillars and the people of Kano. "Let us unite as one family and work towards making Kano Pillars FC and the Nigeria Premier Football League a beacon of excellence," he state...

  By Muzammil Dalha Yola  The Kano SWAN Excellence Awardee and Chairman of AK Babes, Alhaji Muntari AK, is set to tie the knot with his beloved wife, and to celebrate this joyous occasion, a special wedding ceremony cup has been organized. The tournament, featuring 64 teams with  knockout format will take place from November 18 to 24, 2024, at the Mahaha Sports Complex. Fixture Schedule : Monday, November 18: - Tokarawa City vs. Kaduba Fagge FC (Diso Field, 4 pm, reporting time 3 pm) - FC She She vs. Diso United (She She Field, 4 pm, reporting time 3 pm) Tuesday, November 19: - Golden Bullet vs. Gaida United (Sheshe Field, 4 pm, reporting time 3 pm) Wednesday, November 20: - Sharada United vs. Salanta United (Sharada Field, 4 pm, reporting time 3 pm) - FC Raula Diso vs. Kabuga United (F'A One Field, 4 pm, reporting time 3 pm) - Indabawa City vs. Almeria FC (F'A Two Field, 4 pm, reporting time 3 pm) - Kano Ambassador FC vs. An Warious FC (Ambassadors Field, 4 pm, reporting...

... Nigerian Super Eagles Soar to AFCON 2025 Qualification... By Muzammil Dalha Yola  Senator Abdurrahman Kawu Sumaila, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Sports, has congratulated the Nigerian Super Eagles on their impressive qualification for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 in Morocco. With just one game remaining, the team's 1-1 draw against Benin Republic in Abidjan secured their spot in the tournament. Sumaila, representing Kano North, praised the team's outstanding performance, particularly highlighting Victor Osimhen's remarkable achievement. Osimhen's 23 goals in 37 appearances for the Super Eagles have earned him the joint second spot alongside legendary Segun Odegbami in the all-time top scorers list, just behind Rashidi Yekini's 37 goals in 58 appearances. This achievement is a testament to the team's hard work and dedication. As Sumaila noted, the Super Eagles' qualification is a proud moment for Nigeria, and he urged the team to continue...

... Ali Nayara Calls on Fans to Unite as Team's Home Return Gets NPFL's Green Light... By Muzammil Dalha Yola  Chairman of Kano Pillars Football Club, Ali Muhammad Umar (Nayara), has made a passionate appeal to fans of the Masu Gida to demonstrate their characteristic enthusiasm and discipline as the team prepares to return to their home ground, Sani Abacha Stadium, for their match day 12 encounter against Heartland FC of Owerri. Nayara's plea came during the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) inspection team's visit to the renovated Sani Abacha Stadium on Wednesday. The chairman expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Kano State Governor, Engineer Abba Kabir Yusuf, and Commissioner of Youth and Sports Development, Honourable Mustapha Rabiu Kwankwaso, for their swift response to the stadium's renovation and consistent financial support. "We are deeply indebted to Governor Yusuf and Commissioner Kwankwaso for their unwavering commitment to our great club,...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola  The Nigerian Tennis Federation (NTF) has approved the dates for the 37th edition of the Dala Hard Court Tennis Championships, scheduled to take place in Kano State from November 15 to 23, 2024. In a press briefing by the Tournament Director Yusuf Datti, stated that, the top 20 ranked men and 10 ranked ladies have been invited to participate in the main draw. The preliminary rounds will run from November 15 to 17, with the main draw commencing on November 18. This year's budget is projected to be higher due to rising prices, but organizers are optimistic about receiving support from main sponsors TGI Limited, Fidelity Bank Plc, and First Bank of Nigeria. "We're grateful for the continued support of our sponsors and corporate organizations," Datti said. "Their contributions enable us to deliver a world-class tournament." The organizing committee will provide accommodation and feeding for national officials and players. Kano State Govern...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola  The Coordinator of the Gusau/Ahlan Cup, Abahuraira Dahiru, has hailed Ahmed Musa's return to the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL), describing it as a credit to the league's growing reputation. Musa, Nigeria's national team captain, recently signed for Kano Pillars, sparking excitement among football fans in the country. Dahiru, who has been instrumental in promoting grassroots football through the Gusau/Ahlan Cup, believes Musa's return will elevate the NPFL to greater heights. "Ahmed Musa's decision to return to the NPFL is a testament to the league's growth and potential," Dahiru said. "This move is not just a boost to Kano Pillars but to Nigerian football as a whole." Dahiru drew parallels with Sani Kaita's similar move in the past. "Sani Kaita, another Nigerian international, returned to the NPFL and played for FC Ifeanyi Uba and Enyimba FC before returning to Europe. This trend of elite player...

By Ado Salisu  Kano Government College football team will face off against their Enugu state counterparts in the national Under-15 soccer tournament final in Abuja. The competition, organized by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in conjunction with the Nigerian School Sports Federation (NSSF), aims to promote youth football development through its "Catch Them Young" program. To reach the final, Kano defeated Adamawa 5-4 in a penalty shootout, while Enugu overwhelmed Niger state 4-0 in the semifinals. The Kano team, nicknamed the "Pyramids Boys," will clash with Enugu on Monday, while Niger and Adamawa contest the third-place match. Malam Ibrahim Bello, Director of Sports, Kano State Ministry of Education, praised his team's performance as "wonderful." He urged the boys to sustain their effort, especially in the final, to maintain Kano's impressive football reputation nationwide. Bello emphasized the significance of winning the trophy to r...

By Ado Salisu  The Sabon Gari Football Coaches Society has been officially inaugurated in Kano State, marking a significant milestone for football development in the region. Magistrate Ibrahim Gwadabe, Chairman of the Kano State Football Coaches Chapter, urged members to acquire more knowledge of the game, emphasizing its importance in contributing to football's growth in the area, state, and country. Gwadabe, also an executive member of the National Coaches Association, assured that the state chapter will collaborate with the Sabon Gari society to elevate the state's football status. Chief Julius Madu Orji, Chairman of the occasion, pledged moral and financial support to help the society achieve its objectives. Sir Mike Anike, Chairman of Sabon Gari Football Management, welcomed the timely inauguration, considering the numerous football competitions lined up in the 2025 calendar. He expressed gratitude to the Kano State Football Association for their support and cooperation, p...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola  NPFL and Kano Pillars legend, Rabiu Ali, has appealed to fans to accept any outcome as the team prepares to return to Sani Abacha Stadium, Kano. Ali made the plea following Kano Pillars' 1-0 victory over Bendel Insurance in Match Day 11 of the NPFL at Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Edo State. "Our fans must understand that football is unpredictable," Ali said. "Any team can win away on its good day and lose at home on its bad day. That's the beauty of football." Ali emphasized the importance of sportsmanship and fan support. "Fans must show respect and pray for Kano Pillars' success. We value their loyalty and encouragement." Kano Pillars' return to Sani Abacha Stadium is highly anticipated, with fans eager to see their team in action. Ali's appeal comes as a reminder to maintain a positive and supportive atmosphere. "We're committed to delivering our best performance," Ali assured. "We appreciate o...

By Abdulgafar Oladimeji Nigeria National League (NNL) debutants, Barau FC, have finalized plans to host their upcoming campaign at the newly constructed Maliya Stadium in Dambatta, Kano North Senatorial District. Following their promotion from the Nationwide League One (NLO), Barau FC has fulfilled major requirements to bring NNL action to the district, confirmed Kano State Football Association (KSFA) Kano North Representative, Hassan Abdullahi Garo. "I'm delighted to confirm that Barau FC will play their NNL matches at the new stadium in Dambatta, constructed by Deputy Senate President, Barau Jubrin," Garo stated. "The playground, dressing rooms, security post, media gallery, medical rooms, rest rooms, and parking lots are all complete." Garo added, "Hundreds of Kano football fans visit the stadium daily, taking selfie photographs. They can't wait to watch NNL matches when the season kicks off." Barau FC Media Officer, Hamisu Gwale, affirmed that ...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola  In a recent phone conversation with SportsZone.ng, Ali Umar Nayara, the Chairman of Kano Pillars FC, emphasized that the welfare of players is his utmost priority as the club prepares to resume home matches at the Sani Abacha Stadium.  Chairman Ali Nayara shed light on the ongoing bureaucratic processes within government structures that have delayed the salaries of new players and technical staff. He reassured fans and stakeholders that all outstanding salaries would be settled by the end of November, expressing confidence that, by God's grace, the situation will be resolved promptly. "It is normal for any new employees to face these bureaucratic delays, but we are committed to ensuring our players are compensated fairly for their hard work," he stated. Furthermore, Umar confirmed that all match bonuses have already been disbursed, showcasing the club's dedication to maintaining its financial responsibilities towards its players. His commitment...

  By Muzammil Dalha Yola US-based siblings, Joel and Aaron Ineh, have expressed their ultimate dream of representing Nigeria's national team. The talented duo has consistently showcased football bravery, courage, and brilliance, catching the attention of coaches, scouts, and agents. The Ineh brothers began playing football at a young age with Nazarene United, a recreational club in Illinois. Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Joel (February 21, 2006) and Aaron (July 4, 2008) grew up with a deep passion for soccer, driven by dreams of playing professional football. Their journey to stardom started at Chicago Fire Academy, where they showcased impressive speed, intelligence, skills, and tactical knowledge. Joel, 6'1" and 18 years old, joined Chicago Fire Academy at 12 and was promoted to the U-17s at 14. He then moved to Colorado Rapids, gaining fame for scoring brilliant goals in the GA qualifiers. Notable Achievements: Joel : - Top three prospect in Colorado Rapids - UPSL title winne...

WAFU-B, Federation Cup Champion and MVP By Muzammil Dalha Yola  Nasiru Salihu, the talented young midfielder, has made an indelible mark on Nigerian football, cementing his status as a rising star. With a stellar performance in the 2024 President Federation Cup, Salihu led Elkanemi Warriors to victory, defeating Abia Warriors 2-0 and scoring a breathtaking brace. Salihu's impressive display earned him the Most Valuable Player award in the President Federation Cup 2024. This achievement follows his triumph with the Flying Eagles, winning the 2024 WAFU-B Championship. Key Statistics: - Games Played: 4 - Assists: 3 - Goal Contributions: 3 - Trophies: 1 (WAFU-B Championship) The 2024 season has been a breakout year for the 18 years Salihu, showcasing his exceptional vision, passing range, and goal-scoring ability. His eagle eye for assists and goals has made him an invaluable asset to both Elkanemi Warriors and the Flying Eagles. Nasiru Salihu recorded an impressive 18 goal contributio...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola  Renowned sports journalist and former SWAN Kano secretary, Abdulgafar Oladimeji, has been appointed a member of the prestigious International Arbitration Council, headquartered in the Netherlands. This esteemed recognition, confirmed in an official letter dated November 1, 2024, underscores Oladimeji's expertise in sports law and arbitration. A Wealth of Experience: Oladimeji's impressive background includes: - Associate of the Chartered Institute of Arbitration since 2013  - Member of the Panel of Neutrals, Kano Multi-Door Court, Kano State High Court of Justice - Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ Constitution Review Committee, Kano council committee - Member of various mediation committees and fact-finding panels at national, zonal, and state levels A Well-Traveled Sports Journalist : Oladimeji boasts an impressive portfolio: - Countless FIFA, UEFA, CAF, Concacaf, and AFC media accreditations - PFSA and IPSO-trained football scout - Q...