Katsina governor pledges NFF partnership after 0-0, 7-6 Gusau Cup

Katsina Governor Umar Dikko Radda has pledged to sustain the state’s partnership with the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) during the 2026 Gusau/Ahlan Cup. Ranchers Bees of Kaduna won the tournament final 7–6 on penalties against Kwara United after a 0–0 draw in regulation time.

Radda made the commitment while hosting NFF President Ibrahim Musa Gusau and football officials representing the country’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. The delegation also included members of the NFF board and Sharif Rabi’u Inuwa Ahlan, the chairman of the Kano State Football Association.

The governor said the cooperation would remain part of Katsina’s efforts to grow football and provide stronger opportunities for young players. He also promised that his administration would complete outstanding work at the Umaru Dikko Radda Stadium.

Radda linked investment in sport to wider economic benefits for the state. He said football could give young people a route to develop their abilities and build careers that may take them to the international level.

Two players from Katsina have recently travelled abroad for trials, the governor said. One of them is an Almajiri who has been given the chance to pursue a football career.

Gusau welcomed the support from the Katsina government and said the NFF would continue working with the state. He also assured the governor that the federation would provide further assistance for football development.

The final at the Umar Dikko Stadium ended without a goal after 90 minutes, leaving the title to be settled in the shootout. Ranchers Bees held their nerve to claim the Gusau/Ahlan Pre-Season Soccer Tournament, while Kwara United finished runners-up.