Stakeholders Sound Warning as Bauchi Sports Sector Falters

By Mubarak Aliyu Kobi

Stakeholders in the sports sector have called on Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, to declare a state of emergency on sports development in the state, citing years of neglect and administrative lapses.

The call was made by a former Secretary of the Nigeria Football Association, Alhaji Sani Ahmed Toro, during Albarka Radio’s flagship programme Gatarin Gwari, aired as part of activities marking Bauchi State’s 50th anniversary.

Alhaji Sani Ahmed Toro said Bauchi State has a rich sporting history and abundant talent, but has failed to properly harness sports for youth empowerment, unity and economic growth, stressing the need for urgent government intervention.

Also speaking, a former Director of Sports in the state, Alhaji Sa’idu Tanimu, recalled how Wikki Tourists Football Club was established with just one million naira, noting that the funds were carefully managed to build a solid foundation.

He, however, expressed concern over the current state of the club, saying it is no longer being run in line with the original vision and structure that guided its formation.

Another contributor, former sports journalist and ex-commissioner in the state, Alhaji Ubati Muhammad, blamed the decline of sports on poor leadership choices and the appointment of individuals without passion or expertise in sports administration.

Similarly, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Bauchi State Council, Comrade Umar Sa’idu, called for reforms and competent leadership, saying mismanagement has played a major role in the setback of sports development in the state.