By Ahmad Hamisu Gwale
Kano State, widely regarded as a hub of sports development in Northern Nigeria and the country at large, has long played a key role in promoting football among youth and local clubs.
However, there is no denying that sports development in Kano State is currently in serious decline. This reality is most evident in the poor performance of teams and the perceived lack of attention from the state government under Governor Abba Kabiru Yusuf.
Kano Pillars Football Club, one of the state’s most prominent teams, appears to be struggling, with many attributing this to insufficient support from the government.
Notably, Governor Abba Kabiru Yusuf has yet to attend a Kano Pillars match—either home or away—since assuming office in 2023.
This stands in contrast to previous governors such as Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Ibrahim Shekarau, and Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, who were known to regularly attend matches at the Sani Abacha Stadium and even support the team during away fixtures.
Currently, Kano Pillars are battling to avoid relegation in the 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season, a situation that has raised serious concerns among fans and stakeholders across the state.
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In addition, the club has suffered an early exit from the State President Federation Cup, further highlighting the challenges facing football in Kano.
Another major concern is the delay in appointing a new Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development.
The position has remained vacant since 26 January 2026, following the resignation of Mustapha Rabiu Kwankwaso.
Since then, the governor has yet to appoint a replacement, a situation many observers see as a sign of neglect in the sports sector.
Equally troubling is the absence of inter-local government and senatorial district competitions. These grassroots tournaments are essential for identifying young talents and fostering unity through sports.
Their absence has disrupted a critical pipeline for talent development, contributing to Kano’s declining ability to produce athletes capable of representing the state and the nation.
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Unless urgent and deliberate steps are taken to reform the sports system, strengthen management structures, and prioritize youth development, Kano risks losing its long-standing reputation as a center of sporting excellence.
In the short term, immediate action is needed to revive sports in the state and restore Kano Pillars to competitive form. The government should introduce meaningful incentives to boost morale among players and encourage improved performance.
Gwale, a Sports Presenter, writes from Kano and can be reached at [email protected]
