Kaduna State Ministry of Sports Development

The Permanent Secretary and Overseer of the Kaduna State Ministry of Sports Development, Mrs. Dorcas Into Benjamin Tanko, is currently hosting the leadership of Kaduna State Football Veterans, led by its President, Mr. Abubakar Aliyu, during a courtesy visit to the Ministry.

The engagement focuses on discussions aimed at promoting sports development in Kaduna State, with particular emphasis on football growth, strategic collaboration, and the role of veterans in nurturing emerging talents.

Also in attendance are the Special Assistant to the Governor on Sports, Mr. Sa’id Idris Dibis, alongside management staff of the Ministry.

The Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Dorcas Benjamin Tanko, is currently leading staff of the Ministry of Sports Development in the weekly keep-fit exercise as part of ongoing efforts to promote healthy living, physical fitness, and staff wellbeing. The exercise has brought together members of staff from various departments in an atmosphere of unity, teamwork, and wellness.

Kaduna State Records Strong Outing at 3rd National Para Games, Abuja

Kaduna State athletes have begun their campaign on a positive note at the ongoing 3rd National Para Games at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, securing a total of six medals across different events.

In taekwondo, the state won three bronze medals through Abdurrahman Ibrahim (K41), Abubakar Abdussalam (K42), and Khalid Suleiman (K42). Yahaya Usman clinched a silver medal in the 50m freestyle swimming event.

In para-karate, Keneng Gyang earned a silver medal in the K10 Female Kata (visually impaired), while Caleb Bagudu secured a bronze medal in the K21 male category (intellectually impaired).

This impressive performance underscores Kaduna State’s growing strength in para sports and stands as a clear testament to the commitment of Governor Uba Sani to sports development in the state.

Kaduna Secures Full Control of Ahmadu Bello Stadium as State Unveils Bold Sports Transformation Plan

The Kaduna State Government has formally taken over the ownership, custody and control of Ahmadu Bello Stadium following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Governor Uba Sani and the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko.

The agreement was signed on February 26, 2026, at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.

Speaking at a World Press Conference, the Honourable Commissioner for Sports Development, Prof. Benjamin Kumai Gugong, described the transfer as a bold and strategic achievement driven by the visionary leadership of Governor Uba Sani. He noted that the Governor’s decisive engagement with the Federal Government reflects his commitment to repositioning Kaduna as a leading hub for sports development and youth empowerment.

The Commissioner stated that Kaduna is the first state to fully key into the Federal Government’s sports revitalisation agenda under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu by taking concrete responsibility for a major national sporting asset.

He disclosed that comprehensive reconstruction of the stadium has commenced, with seating capacity being expanded from 16,000 to 32,000. Upon completion, the facility will become the second largest stadium in Nigeria.

According to him, the project goes beyond physical expansion. It is designed as a modern Sports City with upgraded facilities and commercial components to ensure sustainability and revenue generation.

Prof. Gugong outlined expected gains including job creation, economic stimulation, increased hosting capacity for national and international competitions, and strengthened youth development pathways.

He emphasised that the transfer reflects Governor Uba Sani’s broader development philosophy that infrastructure must serve both economic and social purposes.

The Commissioner expressed appreciation to the Federal Government, the National Sports Commission and all stakeholders for their collaboration, describing the MOU as the beginning of a new era for sports infrastructure and youth advancement in Kaduna State.

*CONGRATULATORY MESSAGE ON THE HISTORIC TAKEOVER OF AHMADU BELLO STADIUM*

I warmly congratulate the Executive Governor of Kaduna State Sen. Uba Sani CON,on the successful and historic takeover of the iconic Ahmadu Bello Stadium from the Federal Government of Nigeria, following the approval of His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

This bold and visionary achievement marks a defining milestone in Kaduna State’s journey toward repositioning sports as a powerful engine for economic growth, youth empowerment, and social transformation. Originally commissioned in 1964, the stadium stands as a symbol of heritage and unity. Its ongoing comprehensive reconstruction and expansion from 16,000 to 32,000 seating capacity will elevate it to become the second-largest stadium in Nigeria, after the Moshood Abiola National Stadium.

This remarkable feat reflects purposeful leadership, strategic thinking and commitment to development. The upgrade will undoubtedly stimulate economic activities, promote sports tourism, create employment opportunities and attract meaningful investments into Kaduna State.

I must also extend my heartfelt congratulations to Professor Benjamin Kumai Gugong, Honourable Commissioner for Sports Development, Kaduna State, whose tireless dedication, technical insight and exceptional stewardship were instrumental in championing the facilitation, engineering processes and successful takeover of the stadium. His commitment and resilience throughout this process exemplify visionary public service and effective leadership in action.

This achievement is not merely an administrative transfer,it is a landmark accomplishment that will redefine Kaduna’s sporting landscape and strengthen its position on the national stage. Importantly, the stadium remains a national asset, open to Nigeria’s national teams and major sporting programmes of collective importance.

Once again, congratulations to the Governor(Sen.) Uba Sani and Professor Benjamin kumai Gugong on this historic milestone. May this bold step usher in a new era of sporting excellence, economic prosperity, and pride for the people of Kaduna State and Nigeria at large.

The Ministry of Sports Development is currently conducting its Promotion Interview Exercise for eligible staff members.

The process reflects the Ministry’s firm commitment to merit, professionalism, and structured career progression within the civil service.

Representatives from the Office of the Head of Service, the Bureau of Establishment, and the Kaduna State Civil Service Commission (CSC) are present to ensure transparency, fairness, and full compliance with civil service regulations.

The exercise continues as candidates appear before the panel, demonstrating readiness for greater responsibility in advancing sports development across Kaduna State.

KADUNA CLINCH DOUBLE GOLD AT PRESIDENT BEACH VOLLEYBALL CHAMPIONSHIP

Kaduna State Beach Volleyball Team delivered a commanding performance at the President Beach Volleyball Championship organised by the Nigeria Volleyball Federation, held from 12th to 18th February at Murtala Muhammed Square.

Kada Emerald claimed gold in the senior women’s category after a decisive victory over Anista in the final. The team displayed composure, tactical discipline and consistency throughout the competition.

In the U17 boys’ category, Kada Prince also secured gold after overcoming Philirc in a competitive final, further strengthening Kaduna’s dominance and underscoring the state’s commitment to developing young talents.

The President of the Nigeria Volleyball Federation, Musa Ni**od, commended the high standard of play and organisation of the championship.

The Honourable Commissioner for Sports Development, Benjamin K. Gugong, who was present alongside the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Dorcas Benjamin Tanko, and other management staff of the Ministry, applauded the athletes for their outstanding performance and reiterated government’s resolve to sustain investment in sports development.

At the closing ceremony, trophies and cash prizes were presented to the winners in recognition of their achievements.

Earlier today at Murtala Muhammed Square, the Deputy Governor of Kaduna State, Dr. Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe, led the maiden edition of the Monthly Fitness Exercise.

The initiative, convened under the administration of Governor Senator (Dr.) Uba Sani, CON, and powered by the Kaduna State Human Capital Development and Social Investment Strategic Team chaired by the Deputy Governor, is designed to promote healthy living, improve productivity, and strengthen teamwork across government institutions.

Political appointees, senior civil servants, and other key stakeholders turned out in strong numbers, underscoring a clear message: a healthy workforce is essential to delivering effective and responsive governance.