By Amina Samuel, Kaduna
Hon. Ekene Abubakar Adams, the member representing Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency and Chairman of the House Committee on Sports in the House of Representatives, has made a generous donation of 20 million Naira to eight Kaduna football teams in preparation for the upcoming Nationwide League One (NLO) tournament.
During a press briefing with members of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) in Kaduna State, held at the prestigious Ahmadu Bello Stadium (ABS), Hon. Ekene expressed his love for sports and his desire to see Kaduna State regain its status as the home of football in the country.
The honorable member stated that the donation is intended to support the logistics and other needs of the eight qualifying teams for the NLO competition. He emphasized the importance of motivating the teams and ensuring their successful participation in the tournament.
“As the House Committee Chairman on Sports, it is our responsibility to provide every possible support to the teams, enabling them to excel in the upcoming NLO season. Therefore, I am pledging 20 million Naira to the eight Kaduna teams, not only for their logistics but also to inspire other teams to work hard,” Hon. Ekene announced.
He further expressed his commitment to bringing positive changes to sports administration, drawing from his grassroots experience as a sports administrator, player, and team manager. Hon. Ekene stressed the need for dedicated sports administrators to rectify past mistakes and create an inclusive environment for everyone involved in sports.
Responding to the generous donation, Mr. Faisal Mohammed Abdullahi, the Chairman of the Kaduna State Football Association (FA), commended Hon. Ekene for his efforts in reviving sporting activities in the state. He acknowledged the positive collaboration between the FA and the lawmaker, highlighting the significant progress achieved under their joint initiatives.
In attendance at the press briefing was Isaiah Kemje Benjamin, the National President of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), who commended Hon. Ekene for his commitment to the success of sports in Kaduna State and the entire country. He called for prayers and support for leaders like Hon. Ekene, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts in promoting sports governance.
The generous donation from Hon. Ekene Abubakar Adams to the Kaduna football teams is a significant boost for their preparation ahead of the NLO tournament. It reflects his dedication to the development of sports in Kaduna State and his vision for a thriving sports industry in Nigeria.