Save Kano Pillars Teams From Relegation, SWAN appeals 

The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Kano State Chapter, has made a passionate appeal to the Kano State government to intervene urgently and save the Kano Pillars Handball and Volleyball teams from relegation.

According to SWAN Kano Chairman, the teams’ performance is being threatened by inadequate funding, which may lead to relegation. This is a pressing concern, especially considering the recent historic success of Team Kano at the National Youth Games in Asaba, Delta State.

Team Kano’s impressive performance, which earned them 5 gold, 2 silver, and 2 bronze medals, was attributed to the adequate timely fundings and early preparation by the state government. However, the current funding situation may jeopardize the teams’ chances of success in the ongoing and upcoming competitions.

In few coming days, the Kano State contingent will participate in the Northwest zonal elimination qualifier at Kaduna State, while the national sports festival games will be held in early January 2025 at Ogun State.

The SWAN Kano Chairman emphasized the importance of timely intervention, citing the saying “if you fail to plan, you plan to fail.” The association hopes that the Sports Commission, Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, and the State Government will take immediate action to address the funding issue.

 Additionally, SWAN Kano State Chapter, has commended the Kano State government for its efforts in promoting sports development in the state. The association specifically praised the government for renovating the Sani Abacha Stadium, which will provide a conducive environment for athletes to train and compete. This renovation is part of the state government’s efforts to develop sports facilities and boost the morale of Kano Pillars FC and the youth of Kano.

Speaking on behalf of the chairman, the Assistant Secretary, Muzammil Dalha Yola, SWAN Kano commended the government for distributing sports kits to 600 football clubs across the 44 local governments in Kano State. This initiative is a significant boost to grassroots football development in the state. The association expressed its appreciation for the government’s commitment to sports development and urged it to continue supporting the growth of sports in the state.