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By Muzammil Dalha Yola ‎Clever Warriors FC Kano is set to kick-start its preparations for the upcoming season with the resumption of training on Monday, 3rd November 2025. In prees statement signed by the club media officer Musbahu Bala Chediyar Yangurasa issued to SportsZone.ng stated that, the club's management has announced that all players, technical crew, and backroom staff are expected to report to BUK Old Site by 7:00 AM for the commencement of training and regular club activities. ‎The club is also inviting interested players, managers, and agents to attend the training session, providing an opportunity for talent assessment and discussions on potential collaborations. This move is expected to inject fresh talent and energy into the team, as Clever Warriors FC Kano aims to make a strong impression in the new season. ‎Clever Warriors FC Kano, currently playing in the Nigeria Nationwide League One (NLO), has set its sights on promotion to the Nigeria National League (NNL). Th...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola ‎The 2025 Chairman's Cup witnessed an exciting display of skills, drama, and sportsmanship on Wednesday, October 29th, as Commander's Team, KMC, Zone, and Danbatta Teams battled for supremacy in the continuation of the group stage matches held at the FAAN Club Football Arena, Airport Road, Kano. ‎The first match of the day kicked off around 1600hrs between Commander's Team and KMC Team. Commander's Team drew first blood, scoring two goals in the first half, but KMC Team staged a dramatic comeback, leveling up and eventually winning 4-2. In the second match, Zone Team took an early lead, but Danbatta Team put up a good fight, equalizing before eventually losing 5-4. ‎On Thursday, October 30th, MAKIA Team defeated Commander Team 4-2, maintaining their lead with six points. KMC Team secured a 3-1 win over Danbatta Team, adding to their tally. The presence of Deputy Zonal Commander Zone 5 CN Ahmed Ramat and Deputy Zonal Commander Advocacy and Sensitis...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola ‎Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology (ADUSTECH) Wudil recently hosted the NUGA Zone E Preliminary Games, a prestigious event that brought together top universities in the zone. The universities, includes Bayero University Kano, Northwest University Kano, Federal University Dutse, Sule Lamido University Kafin Hausa, Khalifa Isyaku Rabiu University of Nigeria (KHAIRUN), and host ADUSTECH Wudil, competed fiercely for a ticket to the main national event of NUGA games, hosted by the University of Jos in November. ‎The Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee, Professor Abdulkadir Muhammad Dambazau, expressed his delight with the excellent hosting and hospitality extended to the visiting universities by the ADUSTECH community. He congratulated the athletes and universities that will represent the zone, urging them to be good ambassadors and make the zone proud by winning many medals in the national event. ‎Professor Dambazau praised the Vice Chancellor...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola ‎Nigeria University Games Association (NUGA) Zone E preliminaries are set to kick off on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at the Wudil Campus of Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology (ADUSTECH), Kano. The Local Organizing Committee has concluded arrangements for a successful hosting of the event, according to a statement issued by Chairman of the Sub Committee on Publicity, Abdullahi Datti Abdullahi. ‎Large contingents of athletes from universities in the zone, including Bayero University Kano, Northwest University Kano, Federal University Dutse, Sule Lamido University Kafin Hausa, Khalifa Isyaku Rabiu University of Nigeria (KHAIRUN), and host ADUSTECH Wudil, are expected to compete in various events. The events include football, beach volleyball, e-sports, hockey, judo, taekwando, chess, karate, athletics, squash, basketball, volleyball, handball, tennis, table tennis, and badminton, among others. ‎The chairman of the Local Organizing Committee, Prof. Abd...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola ‎Bichi First FC is set to make its mark in the upcoming Gusau/Ahlan NNL 2025 preseason tournament, kicking off on Wednesday, October 22, 2025 to 31st October 2025, in Bauchi. The team has been preparing intensively, playing eight friendly matches, winning five, and drawing three, with an impressive 20 goals scored and only five conceded. ‎Technical Adviser Abubakar Abubakar Musa praised his players' commitment, hunger, zeal, and passion, but emphasized that there's still room for improvement. "We're progressing despite starting late, but this won't be an excuse," he said. "We need to see the level of our confidence in this tournament before entering the league. We need to test our players' mental and physical fitness." ‎Musa highlighted the importance of preseason, stating, "It's an avenue to correct weaknesses, test our style, philosophy, and more." He thanked the organizers of the Gusau/Ahlan NNL Preseason T...

By Shehu Adamu Kano Pillars Football Club  one of Nigeria’s most iconic football teams has once again found itself in the headlines, this time for the suspension of its Technical Adviser, Coach Ogenyi Evans, and his Assistant, Ahmed Garba “Yaro Yaro.” The decision, announced by the club’s management amid a string of disappointing results in the ongoing 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season, has sparked debate across the football community. Many are now asking: is this suspension really the solution to the team’s struggles, or just another short-term reaction to deeper problems? Background To The Suspension Kano Pillars entered the new NPFL season with high expectations after rebuilding their squad and promising fans a stronger campaign. However, a series of poor performances, including unexpected home draws and away defeats — quickly turned optimism into frustration. Supporters voiced their anger on social media and at match venues, demanding immediate changes. In...

‎ ‎By Muzammil Dalha Yola ‎The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has honored its former North-West Vice President, Ado Salisu, with the prestigious SWAN Fellowship Award. This recognition is part of SWAN's diamond jubilee celebrations, acknowledging Salisu's remarkable contributions to sports journalism over three decades. ‎The award conferment letter, signed by SWAN's National Secretary, Amb. Ikenna Okonkwo, praises Salisu's dedication and prominent role in the association. Okonkwo congratulated Salisu, stating that the award is a testament to his outstanding service. ‎Reacting to the news, Salisu expressed gratitude, saying, "This is an indication that my service was well recorded and appreciated." He emphasized the importance of selflessness and doggedness for young sports writers, highlighting the crucial role of the sporting press in the industry's growth. ‎Salisu's journalism career spans working as a reporter with Triumph newspaper an...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola ‎The Bauchi 2025 NNL Gusau/Ahlan pre-season soccer tournament is set to kick off on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium. The tournament's Coordinator, Abahuraira Dahiru, announced that all necessary arrangements have been made for a successful event in collaboration with the Local Organizing Committee and the Bauchi State Football Association. ‎The following teams have confirmed their participation: ‎- Group A: Adamawa United FC, Basira FC, Darazo Academy FC, Young Generation FC ‎- Group B: Mighty Jet FC, Bichi First FC, Doma United FC, One Touch FC ‎- Group C: Gombe United FC, Jigawa Golden Stars FC, Kano Selected FC, Wikki Tourist Feeder FC ‎The opening match will feature defending champions Adamawa United FC against Basira FC at 4 pm on October 22, 2025. Teams are expected to arrive in Bauchi by October 21, 2025, for the technical meeting and draw. ‎The top three teams from Groups A and B will join top two teams from Group C ...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola ‎The management of Matasa Football Club recently celebrated the team's remarkable achievements in the 2025 Nationwide League Two divisions season. The club's President, Alhaji Abdulwahab Dayyabu, led the occasion, which aimed to recognize and reward the players, coaches, and officials for their dedication and hard work. ‎Matasa FC made an impressive debut in the 2025 Nationwide League One Division Two, finishing in second position with 20 points, narrowly missing the top spot due to goal difference to Dawaki Warriors I Dawakin Tofa centre. The team's outstanding performance was a testament to the players' skills and the coaches' expertise. ‎Alhaji Abdulwahab Dayyabu, the club's President, commended the players and officials for their dedication and reaffirmed his commitment to supporting football development in the state. He urged the players to double their efforts ahead of the upcoming season, emphasizing his ambition to elevate the club...

By Ado Salisu The President of the Youth Sports Federation of Nigeria (YSFON), Dr. Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna has officially announced the commencement of preparations for the 2nd Edition of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu National Peace Cup, a national U-18 Boys Peace Cup Soccer Tournament scheduled to take place in Katsina, Katsina State, from October 24th to November 1st, 2025. According to a circular issued by the YSFON National Headquarters and signed by the National Secretary, Mr. Patrick Okpavuerhe, entries are now open for all State YSFON teams across the federation. Each participating team is expected to consist of 20 players strictly under the age of 18 and three officials, one of whom must be a YSFON official. Teams are expected to arrive in Katsina on Thursday, October 23rd, 2025, with screening of players scheduled to commence by 7:00 a.m. on Friday, October 24th, 2025, at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium, Katsina. Accommodation will be provided at designated school hostels for all p...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola ‎Katsina United FC has announced the appointment of Bello Abdullahi Papa as the club's new Chief Scouting Officer. According to the club's Chairman, Alhaji Surajo Umar Dalibi, the appointment takes immediate effect and is part of the club's efforts to ensure smooth operations. ‎Bello Abdullahi Papa brings a wealth of experience to his new role, with an extensive network of partnerships and collaborations with football clubs, agencies, managers, and players in Nigeria and abroad. His expertise has enabled him to scout numerous talented players from West Africa and Nigeria for both local and international clubs. ‎Some notable players scouted by Bello Abdullahi Papa include: ‎- Zeidine Ahmeye Ousmane: Niger Republic international, scouted to Heartland and Enugu Rangers ‎- Dauda Kassaly: Niger Republic international, scouted to Katsina United ‎- Salihu Adamu: Scouted to Wikki Tourist ‎- Uche Micheal: Scouted to Al Shorta (Djibouti) ‎- Abba Umar and Muhamm...

By Abdullahi Shehu Karaye ‎Today, October 14, 2024, marks a significant milestone in the life of Nigerian football icon, Ahmed Musa, as he celebrates his 33rd birthday. Born in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria, Musa has etched his name in the annals of Nigerian football history with his remarkable skills, speed, and goal-scoring prowess. ‎ ‎ Early Beginnings and Rise to Fame ‎ ‎Musa's football journey began at GBS Academy, where he honed his skills before joining JUTH FC of Jos. His impressive performance earned him a move to Kano Pillars FC, where he became the first player to score 18 league goals in a single season, a record that still stands in the Nigerian Premier League. ‎ ‎ International Recognition and Achievements ‎ ‎Musa's talent didn't go unnoticed, and he soon earned a spot in the Nigerian national team, representing the country at various levels, including the U20, U23, and Super Eagles. Some of his notable achievements include:- ‎ ‎- Most capped player: M...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola ‎The recent Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) match between Kano Pillars FC and Shooting Stars (3SC) at the Sani Abacha Stadium has sparked controversy, with Magistrate Ibrahim Gwadabe weighing in on the sanctions imposed on Kano Pillars. According to Gwadabe, the decision taken by the NPFL is "unfair and too harsh." ‎Gwadabe expressed his concerns about the summary jurisdiction verdict, stating that it is essential for all stakeholders to stand against such decisions. He emphasized that the principle of natural justice dictates that a party should be given the opportunity to be heard before a verdict is passed. In this case, Gwadabe believes that Kano Pillars was not afforded this opportunity, making the decision unfair. ‎"I don't support or believe in violence, hooliganism, or what some few misguided fanatics, Kano Pillars FC fans, did. However, I believe that justice and fairness for all will help eradicate fan violence in our stadiums,...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola ‎Matchday 8 in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) has been branded "truly pathetic" following scenes of chaos, poor officiating, and violence at the Sani Abacha Stadium (SAS) in Kano. The match between Kano Pillars and Shooting Stars (3SC) ended in a 1-1 draw that sparked outrage from some misguided fans due to multiple refereeing errors. ‎Many feel the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) must urgently review the game footage to objectively assess referee decisions. Denying Kano Pillars two clear penalty kicks, possible red card to away team player for a careless horrible kung fu tackle and a legitimate goal caused unnecessary tension and controversy, forcing a frustrating draw and igniting fan fury. ‎While the violence that followed cannot be condoned, it underscores the immense frustration fans and clubs have over refereeing standards. This kind of poor officiating is dragging down the league’s reputation and quality. ‎The Kano Pi...

  By Muzammil Dalha Yola ‎ ‎Ahmed Musa MON, OON, the General Manager of Kano Pillars Football Club, has extended his sincerest apologies to the players, coaches, officials, and supporters of Shooting Stars Sports Club, match referees, league officials, and football fans across Nigeria and beyond. This comes after a violent incident marred the match between Kano Pillars and Shooting Stars on Sunday evening. ‎ ‎Musa described the incident as "heartbreaking," "shameful," and "completely unacceptable," emphasizing that it does not represent the true values and identity of Kano Pillars. He acknowledged that the club fell short of the expected standards of fairness and honor. ‎ ‎In his apology, Musa stated, "I tender an unreserved apology to everyone affected. Violence has no place in football. It is unacceptable, unjustifiable, and goes against everything this beautiful sport stands for." He assured that Kano Pillars FC will work closely with th...

‎ By Muzammil Dalha Yola ‎The Sports Without Borders ( SWIBODA ) organization has extended its warmest congratulations to its Executive Director and former Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) Kano chapter scribe, Abdulgafar Oladimeji , on his induction as a Doctoral Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Human Resource Management ( CIHRM ). In a statement signed by the Deputy Executive Director of SWIBODA, Chief Sydney Emeafu , the organization expressed immense delight over Dr. Abdulgafar's elevation to this prestigious status. ‎Emeafu attributed Dr. Abdulgafar's achievement to his years of dedication to human development in sports training, recruitment, and development. "Testimonies abound on his commitment to sports human resource management , and his signature is evident in the areas of training, recruitment, and development in the sports sector," Emeafu said. He added that Dr. Abdulgafar has proven himself to be a national sports asset. ‎The organizati...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola The recent FIFA U-20 World Cup match between Nigeria and Argentina ended in a 4-0 thrashing for the Flying Eagles. FIFA license agent Olawale Onipede attributed the loss to the Nigerian team's lack of focus and concentration during the early stages of the match. According to Onipede, this lack of composure disrupted the team's tactical approach and ultimately led to their downfall. Analyzing the match, Onipede noted that Argentina's dominance was evident from the onset, with the Nigerian defense struggling to cope. The Argentina team, known for their formidable defense, exploited Nigeria's weaknesses, leading to a convincing win. Onipede expressed disappointment at the Nigerian team's performance, stating that the goals conceded were avoidable and reflected a lack of quality in defense. Onipede questioned Nigeria's readiness for the tournament, citing their performance in the group stage. He described the team's appearance in the tourn...

‎ By Shehu Adamu ‎Once a dominant force in Nigerian football, Kano Pillars Football Club (Sai Masu Gida) now struggles to find its footing both on and off the pitch. Once feared by opponents and adored by fans, the team’s recent performances in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) have left supporters disillusioned and analysts questioning where it all went wrong. ‎While players and coaches often bear the brunt of criticism, a closer look reveals that much of the blame lies with government mismanagement, inconsistent funding, and lack of professional structure in the club’s administration. ‎POLITICS OVER PROFESSIONALISM: ‎For years, Kano Pillars has been run more like a government department than a professional football club. Key appointments from board members to technical staff have too often been based on political loyalty rather than merit or experience in sports management. This politicization has stifled innovation and accountability, leaving the club trapped in a cycle ...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola ‎Leadership of Barau Football Club recently convened a closed-door meeting aimed at strengthening teamwork and fostering unity for a better future. The meeting, chaired by Club President Shawal Barau Jibrin, alongside Vice President Alhaji Kabiru Baita, Club Chairman Ibrahim Shitu Chanji, and General Manager Dominic Lorfa, was a significant step towards reinforcing collaboration among the club's leadership. ‎In a press statement signed by the club media director Ahmad Hamisu Gwale reported that, the meeting was part of the club's efforts to ensure continued progress and success in the Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL). This development comes after the Proprietor of the Club, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, restructured the management of the club two weeks ago, appointing Kabiru Baita as Vice President and Dominic Iorfa as General Manager. ‎The leadership of Barau FC is committed to ensuring the team's success in the NPFL. The club's ma...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola ‎Celtic Park is buzzing with excitement as second-placed Celtic prepares to host fourth-placed Motherwell FC  in a crucial Scottish Premiership (SPL) encounter 3:00pm on Sunday, October 5, 2025. The match promises to be an electrifying clash, with Nigerian stars Kelechi Iheanacho (Celtic) and Ibrahim Muhammad Said (Motherwell FC) going head-to-head. ‎Ibrahim Muhammad Said has been making waves at Motherwell FC since joining the club in July 2025. The dynamic winger has showcased his skills in four league appearances, totaling 246 minutes of playtime across all competitions. Motherwell FC coach Jens Berthel Askou praises Said, saying, "Ibrahim gives us that spark. He'll be up against some top defenders at Celtic Park, but he loves the big stage." ‎Motherwell FC has exceeded expectations, sitting fourth in the league after six games. With Said's pace, vision and skill on the pitch, the team is looking to cause an upset against the high-flying Celt...