Kano Pillars Football Club is mourning the passing of its former Chairman, Alhaji Abba Abdullahi Yola, who died on Friday, June 20, 2025, after a prolonged illness.
In an official statement issued by the club’s Media and Communications Directorate, the management described the late Abba Yola as a transformative leader whose vision and dedication laid the foundation for the modern-day competitive structure of Kano Pillars FC.
Alhaji Abba Yola’s impact on Nigerian sports spanned decades and multiple disciplines. His service record reflects a lifelong commitment to sports development, both within Kano State and on the national stage. Among his many notable contributions were:
Secretary of the Kano State Basketball Association, where he helped establish grassroots development structures.
Chairman of Kano Pillars FC, guiding the club through a crucial period of transformation and competitive growth.
Chief of Staff to former Minister of Sports, Hon. Sunday Dare, during which he played a pivotal role in shaping national sports policy.
Four-time Secretary of the National Sports Festival Main Organising Committee, ensuring the success of Nigeria’s flagship multi-sport event.
Chairman of the Presidential Task Force on Sports, leading strategic reforms and developmental initiatives in Nigerian sports.
In the official statement Kano Pillars describe bee Yola as a committed administrator, mentor, and patriot, Yola was widely respected for his integrity, passion, and selfless service to sport. His tenure at Kano Pillars was particularly remembered for driving the club’s rise as one of the country’s most competitive and respected teams.
“The entire Kano Pillars FC family—management, technical crew, players, staff, and our devoted supporters—extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, the Government and people of Kano State, and the entire Nigerian sports community.”
“May Allah (SWT) grant him Aljannatul Firdaus and give his loved ones the strength to bear this irreparable loss,”the statement read.
