By Idris Malikawa
Preparations have reached an advanced stage for this year’s Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau MON Pre-Season Soccer Tournament, tagged Gusau/Ahlan Cup.
The tournament is scheduled to hold from August 7 to 18, 2026, at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium, Katsina State, with several Premier League and National League clubs confirming their participation.
The General Coordinator of the tournament, Alhaji Abahuraira Dahiru, disclosed that the defending champions and runners-up of last year’s edition, Kano Pillars FC and Plateau United FC, have officially accepted invitations to participate in this year’s competition.
He added that other invited clubs have also indicated their readiness to take part in the tournament. They include Katsina United, Barau FC, Niger Tornadoes, Nasarawa United, Doma United and Wikki Tourists.
Other participating teams expected at the competition are Sokoto United, Kebbi United, Zamfara United, Junior Danburam, Ranchers Bees, Jigawa Golden Stars and Lobi Stars, among others.
Dahiru said the Local Organising Committee would work closely with relevant stakeholders in Katsina State to ensure a successful tournament devoid of challenges.
He explained that the objective of the competition is to provide participating clubs with an opportunity to adequately prepare for the forthcoming 2026/2027 football season, while also strengthening unity and relationships among stakeholders in Nigerian football.
According to him, the organising committee, headed by the Chairman of the Jigawa State Football Association, Alhaji Sabo Abdullahi, will close registration for interested clubs on August 2, 2026.
He urged clubs seeking further information about the tournament to contact the organising committee secretariat on 08068078080.
