By Our Correspondent
The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Kano State Chapter, has called on the Kano State Government to urgently release funds to the State Sports Commission and other relevant sports bodies to revive sports development in the state.
The association made the call against the backdrop of challenges confronting sports development in Kano, particularly delays in the release of funds needed for adequate preparation and participation in major competitions.
In a statement signed by its Secretary, Muhammad Nur Tijani, Kano SWAN stressed that timely funding was critical to the success of athletes and teams representing the state.
It said inadequate financial support had continued to affect preparations and performances at various sporting events, adding that the situation required urgent government attention.
The association observed that the delay in releasing funds to the Kano Pillars Basketball team contributed to several challenges during the recently concluded Final Eight Premier Basketball Championship in Port Harcourt, where the team finished sixth.
It also expressed concern over the preparedness of Kano athletes for the EKO 2026 National Intermediate Games, saying that although the athletes were currently undergoing training, urgent financial support was needed to facilitate their participation in the competition.
Kano SWAN warned that failure to provide the required resources on time could affect the state’s participation and compel some talented athletes to seek opportunities with other states.
The association recalled that Kano had a rich sporting history, having produced outstanding athletes and teams that recorded remarkable successes at national and international competitions.
However, it expressed concern over the deteriorating condition of sports facilities, the movement of athletes to other states in search of better opportunities, and the need to adequately recognise and motivate athletes who had won medals for the state.
Kano SWAN noted that sports had become a major global business venture that required sustained investment, proper planning and adequate support to achieve meaningful results.
The association therefore urged the Kano State Government to prioritise sports development by releasing funds to the Sports Commission and other relevant agencies responsible for sports administration.
It said such a step would help restore Kano’s position as one of Nigeria’s leading sporting states.
