Dearth of sports activities in Kaduna

Since becoming Governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai seems to have neglected sporting activities which is part of the ladder he used in attaining the position he occupies today. During the electioneering campaign, I remember how he held series of meetings with sport stakeholders in the state. In the meetings, he made several promises to them for the development of sport and sporting activities in the state among which he categorically said he will give sport special consideration in his government and consult with the sport stakeholders in appointing any person as Commissioner of Youth and Sport. In this regard,  a support organisation RKG with the his approval and sponsorship organized a football competition which was well attended up to the final match.

Unfortunately, since becoming the Governor never care or show concern with regards to any sporting activity. He has abandoned the state owned club, and appointed a veterinary doctor as Commissioner in the Ministry of Youth and Sport and now Professor of Political Science to head the Ministry. The state club at the moment has falling from Pro League (Division 2) to Amateur League (Division 4). A private club owner in the state,  KADA City FC who got promoted to Nigeria Premiership within 1 season as a result of hard work and genuine concern for sporting activities in Kaduna of its owner was forced to sale the slot to Delta State due to lack of funds and support from the state government.

Just recently, the final match of Nigeria Confederation Cup for both Male and Female Category was held in Kaduna but not even a councillor was sent to represent the state government not to even talk of commissioner in the ministry of youth and sports to attend.

In addition, last week, FIFA issued a press statement that the scheduled FIFA under 20 Women Competition initially slated to hold in Kaduna has been cancelled. This could not be unconnected with how match between Kano Pillars and Niger Tornadoes transpired. Sadly, no any press statement or word of consolation from the state government to the football enthusiasts in the state. But if it were to challenge political opponents like Shehu Sani, Sulaiman Hukunyi or PDP, they would have release countless but needless media statements. 

The earlier we call on the government to resuscitate sporting activities in Kaduna State, the better. We can no longer fold our arms to see this noble venture wasted in ruins being one area the leading employer of youths in the state.

Nura Usman,

Kaduna.

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