Kaduna State athletes have made a resounding statement at the North West Zonal Elimination, held at Murtala Muhammed Square, securing a dominant performance that earned them a spot at the upcoming National Sports Festival (NSF) in Ogun State this May.
According to a statement by the Public Relations Officer of the Kaduna State Ministry of Sports Malam Hassan, said the event which ran from February 23rd to 28th, saw Team Kaduna outshine competitors from Kano, Katsina, Jigawa, Sokoto, and Zamfara, cementing their status as a powerhouse in team sports.
Kaduna’s athletes delivered a series of impressive victories across multiple sports, claiming top honors in five team sports.
The Commissioner for Sports Development, Benjamin Kumai Gugong, has celebrated the achievements of Kaduna State's athletes. Gugong acknowledged the athletes' dedication and hard work, which have contributed to the state's reputation as a leader in sports development.
"Kaduna State has always been at the forefront of sports development, and this result is a testament to the talent and commitment of our young athletes," Gugong remarked. He expressed confidence that the athletes will continue to bring pride to the state at the upcoming National Sports Festival.
Gugong highlighted the importance of sports as a means of fostering unity and promoting healthy lifestyles within the community. He noted that the athletes' success is not only a personal achievement but also a source of inspiration for others in the state.
The commissioner also emphasized the role of the state's sports programs in providing opportunities for young people to develop their skills and pursue their passion for sports. "Our investment in sports development has yielded positive results, and we remain committed to supporting our athletes in every way possible," he said.
With star performance Team Kaduna dominates and won the slots to represent the Northwest zone in the following events:
- Cricket: Both the male and female teams emerged victorious, with the men defeating Sokoto and the women overpowering Zamfara.
- Hockey: Kaduna’s male and female hockey teams showcased exceptional skill, securing gold medals in their respective categories.
- Beach Volleyball: The state’s beach volleyball teams mirrored their hockey counterparts, clinching victories in both the male and female divisions.
- Basketball (Male): In a thrilling showdown, the male basketball team edged out Jigawa to secure their place at the NSF.
- Football (Male): The male football team delivered a standout performance, defeating Kano in a highly anticipated final to claim the top spot.
In addition to these triumphs, Kaduna also celebrated strong second-place finishes in female basketball and outdoor female volleyball, underscoring the breadth of their sporting talent.
The North West Zonal Elimination, which focused on team sports, served as a critical platform for athletes to showcase their skills. Kaduna’s commanding performance has set high expectations for their participation at the NSF Ogun 2025.
With the festival fast approaching, the mood in Kaduna is one of excitement and anticipation. Stakeholders have rallied behind the athletes, offering unwavering support as they prepare for the national stage. The Kaduna State Sports Ministry has pledged to provide the teams with the necessary resources and training to ensure they excel.
As the countdown to the National Sports Festival begins, all eyes are on Team Kaduna, who are poised to make a significant impact and bring glory to the North West Zone.
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