State of Bako Katangora Stadium: Niger Tornadoes fans sends message to Governor
Mallam Shuaibu Yakubu, a prominent figure in Nigerian football, has made an impassioned plea to Governor Mohammed Umar Bago of Niger State to prioritize the development and enhancement of sports facilities within the state, particularly the renovation of stadiums.
Yakubu, with extensive experience in the football industry through his involvement with clubs such as Bayelsa United, Elkanemi Warriors, Abia Warriors, Kano Pillars, and Rivers United, and currently the General Manager of Sporting Supreme Football Club of Abuja, highlighted the pressing need for infrastructural improvements.
He emphasized that the lack of adequate funding and facilities has severely hampered the performance of local football teams.
“Our beloved state team is struggling because they are forced to play their league games away from home. I am appealing to the government to intervene and address these issues,” Yakubu stated.
While commending Governor Bago for his positive contributions to Niger State, Yakubu urged the governor to focus on the renovation of the Bako Kontagora Stadium. He argued that such an initiative would yield significant economic and social benefits for the community.
“The Niger State Football Association, under the leadership of Mallam Ahmed Yusuf Fresh, has made remarkable strides in football development. His capacity-building efforts have transformed football management in the state,” Yakubu added.
Despite recognizing the financial constraints facing both the state and the country, Yakubu called for a strategic plan to rejuvenate the Bako Kontagora Stadium. He pointed out that the lack of football activities at the stadium is economically detrimental to both the team and the local community.
“This is a clarion call to our sports-loving governor to take the necessary actions and save our community from the inconvenience of having to travel outside the state to watch league matches,” he urged.
Yakubu also lauded Engineer Ibrahim Dada, the chairman of Niger Tornadoes, for his unwavering support and personal financial contributions to keep the team competitive.
“Engineer Dada has done an exceptional job this season despite the challenges. He deserves our applause and support,” Yakubu said.
He encouraged other stakeholders to join the campaign for the rehabilitation of the Bako Kontagora Stadium, emphasizing that a functional stadium would significantly boost the local economy and revitalize football activities in the state.
Recalling the 2023 directive by Governor Bago to close and renovate the Bako Kontagora Stadium to meet Nigeria Football Federation specifications, Yakubu noted that progress has been slow and called for expedited efforts to enable the Niger Tornadoes to play their home matches in Minna.
“For the past five years, Niger Tornadoes have been playing their matches outside the state. We want to relieve them of the stress of traveling for home games, and that’s why I’m pleading with the governor to help us restore the stadium to full functionality,” Yakubu concluded.
