Gov. Abba Kabir-Yusuf of Kano has commended Team Kano for its outstanding performance at the just-concluded 1st Chief of Naval Staff U-20 Male Youth Football Championship in the state.
The tournament was organised by the African Youth Sports Federation (AYSOF) and sponsored by the Nigerian Navy, under the leadership of Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo.
This is contained in a statement by Ibrahim Garba-Shuaibu, Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor, issued to newsmen on Sunday in Kano.
The governor explained that the tournament was organised to showcase exceptional talents and fierce competition among the participating teams.
Kabir-Yusuf, represented by his deputy, Alhaji Aminu Abdussalam, expressed appreciation of the importance of sports in fostering peace, unity and understanding among communities in the country.
He highlighted the positive impact of AYSOF in nurturing talents and facilitating the integration of the state’s youth, into international football teams, where they excelled and earned well-deserved recognition.
The governor further revealed plans to establish a management team dedicated to steering the affairs of Kano Pillars in their upcoming tournament in Asaba, Delta, with the aim of bringing home the trophy.
He also assured sports enthusiasts that the state government was fully committed to supporting Kano Pillars FC
The governor reiterated government’s determination to promote sporting activities in the state, as a means of engaging and empowering the youth.
He further acknowledged the efforts of AYSOF President, Ahmed Lawal, spanning over four decades, in organisng nationwide tournaments to enhance relationships among diverse ethnic groups and religious bodies.
Earlier, Lawal said the primary objectives of the tournament was to foster unity among youths, bridge economic and ethnic disparities.
He further said the AYSOF was also geared towards redirecting young individuals away from negative influences to meaningful engagements in sports.
The Chief of Naval Staff, represented by Commodore, Usman Bugaje, Commandant of Nigerian Navy Logistics College, Dawakin Tofa, expressed gratitude to AYSOF for organising the tournament.
He said he felt honored to serve as the patron of the organisation.
Bugaje reaffirmed the Nigerian Navy’s unwavering support to AYSOF and extended his appreciation to the people of Kano for hosting the event.
The tournament’s champion, Team Katsina and runners up team Kano were awarded the trophy, medals and certificates, following an intense final match decided by a penalty shootout.
