Ado Salisu
In a renewed commitment to youth empowerment and sports development, Major General Sunday Igbinomwanhia has pledged to extend his foundation’s grassroots sports initiatives to primary and secondary schools across Kano State.
The pledge was made at the final match of a grassroots football tournament held at the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kofar Mata, where Zakirai Striker FC defeated Jogana Attackers FC 2–0 to clinch the championship trophy.
Speaking after the final whistle, Major General Igbinomwanhia reaffirmed his dedication to using sports as a tool to distract youth from antisocial behaviour and engage them in productive, unifying activities.
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“Sports remain a powerful tool to unite our people, regardless of tribe or religion, and to positively project the image of our state and country,” he said.
Having supported the tournament for over a decade, the General announced plans to expand his foundation’s sponsorship to include basketball, handball, and other sports at school level.
To begin this next phase, the General directed Alhaji Isa Abdullahi Dazino, Chairman of the Major General Sunday Igbinomwanhia Foundation, to start preparations for upcoming inter-school tournaments across Kano’s educational institutions.
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Major General Igbinomwanhia also lauded the role of senior military officers, community leaders, and stakeholders for their consistent backing, promising continued support for youth development nationwide.
The final saw an exciting showdown, with Zakirai Striker FC emerging champions and taking home ₦300,000. Jogana Attackers FC, the runners-up, received ₦200,000 and medals, while Police Machine FC, who came third, earned ₦150,000.
Alhaji Isa Abdullahi Dazino, a former national team footballer, thanked the General and stakeholders for their unwavering support.
He encouraged youth to see sports as a gateway to greater opportunities.
“This tournament is more than a game—it’s a stepping stone to national and international success. We’ll continue to support youth development through sports,” Dazino assured.