By Ado Salisu, Kano
Northwest states are set to storm Kano ahead of a maiden basketball championship in both male and female categories, scheduled to hold from April 16 to 19, 2026.
The championship which is being sponsoring by Dr. Abdullahi Mustapha DAM Foundation and seven states are expected to compete for honour which include Zamfara. Kebbi, Sokoto, Katsina, Jigawa, Kaduna and the host state Kano.
Speaking on the tournament, the competition’s coordinator and former national basketball team head coach, Sani Ahmad said arrangements are in top gear towards the success of the championship.
Coach Sani Ahmad who is the former Chief Coach of Kano Pillars Basketball team revealed that the competition was an opportunity for the participating states to each assemble a formidable team ahead of future various national engagements such as National Youth. Games, National Sports Festival and Nigerian Basketball Federation NBBF Leagues.
While commending the tournament’s sponsor, Dr. Abdullahi Mustapha for his commitment to revive basketball in the northwest zone, he urged other wealthy individuals to emulate him in order reduce dependence on government resources.
”Honestly, we need these kind of competitions among our youth in this part of our zone especially at this critical situation, it will distance our youth from social vices and it is also assist our athletes to develop their skills,” coach Sani Ahmad explained.
He called on the participating teams to exhibit sportsmanship and be good ambassadors of their respective states, assuring that the organisers will do everything possible to ensure free and fair handling of the competition.
Critical stakeholders within the basketball family and beyond are expected to grace the opening and closing ceremonies.
