Kano Contingent Set for Gateway Games: Acting Chairman Joins Road Trip to Inspire Athletes

The 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival, tagged “Gateway Games,” is set to hold in Abeokuta, Ogun State, from May 16 to 30, 2025.

The Acting Chairman of the Kano State Sports Commission, Ibrahim Umar Fagge (FIFA), revealed his decision to travel by road with the state’s contingents instead of flying.

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“By virtue of my position, I am entitled to travel by air. However, I have chosen to journey with our athletes, coaches, and officials to experience the road trip alongside them,” Fagge stated.

“My Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, entrusted me with the leadership of the commission. It would not be right for me to fly while over 200 members of our team travel by road. How would I justify that?”

Fagge called on the people of Kano to offer prayers for a safe journey and a successful outing in Abeokuta.

He assured that adequate preparations are in place to ensure a smooth and impactful participation at the festival.

The Kano contingent consists of 173 athletes, 97 coaches, journalists, organizing secretaries, and 15 government officials.

They are set to compete in 17 different sporting events, including judo, boxing, cycling, karate, kung fu, swimming, taekwondo, kickboxing, dambe, kokawa, para powerlifting, golf, shooting, handball, volleyball, football, gymnastics, and chess.

Fagge urged all athletes, coaches, and officials to exhibit discipline, sportsmanship, and be worthy ambassadors of the state.

He also praised Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for his unwavering moral and financial support, pledging that the commission would continue to push for the development of sports in the state and the nation.

Fagge expressed gratitude to the Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Alhaji Mustapha Rabiu Kwankwaso; the Governor’s Special Adviser on Youth and Sports, Alhaji Sani Danja; and other stakeholders for their continued contributions and encouragement. He reaffirmed the commission’s dedication to reviving and promoting sporting excellence in Kano State.