Borgu LG crowned champions of 2025 Niger Governor’s Cup

Borgu LG crowned champions of 2025 Niger Governor’s Cup

By Abubakar Hassan

Borgu Local Government Area, the host of this year’s edition of the Niger State Governor’s Cup Football Competition, tagged "Borgu 2025" has emerged as the 2025 champions, defeating the spirited Bida Local Government team 2–0 in a thrilling final match played before a massive crowd at the New Bussa Township stadium.

The hosts secured their historic victory with goals from Ahmed Muhammad in the 14th minute and Solomon John in the 65th minute, sealing their first-ever Governor’s Cup triumph.

The Niger State Governor’s Cup remains the apex grassroots football competition in the state, organized annually by the Niger State Football Association (NSFA) under its grassroots sports development programme.

Speaking after the keenly contested final, the Special Guest of Honour and Governor of Niger State, Farmer Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, described sports as a veritable tool for unity and youth engagement. He noted that the tournament has continued to bring together people of different religions, ethnicities, and political affiliations under one unifying passion, football.

Governor Bago, who was represented by the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abdulmalik Sarkindaji, recalled that his administration made a commitment to sustain the annual Governor’s Cup to promote youth development through sports.

“When we came on board, we promised to continue sponsoring this championship to keep our youths engaged. I am happy that we have kept to our word,” he said.

He commended the NSFA under the leadership of Comrade Ahmed Yusuf Fresh for its consistency, professionalism, and commitment to organizing the tournament annually, assuring continued government support for sports development in the state.

In his remarks, the Minister of State for Agriculture, Sen. Aliyu Sahabi Abdullahi, lauded the Governor for his visionary leadership and for revitalizing grassroots sports. The Minister expressed personal joy that the competition took place at a stadium he helped renovate during his tenure as a senator.

 “It is quite gladdening that this facility is being put to good use. I am happy to see our youths maintaining and utilizing it. This tournament reflects the new spirit of Niger State,” he stated.

Senator Abdullahi also celebrated Borgu’s maiden victory, noting that despite the area’s strong football tradition, it was the first time Borgu LG would lift the prestigious trophy.

“Kudos to our boys. This is the new Niger we are proud of, competitive, united, and forward looking,” he said.

The Secretary of the Niger State Sports Commission (NSSC), Alhaji Baba Sheshi Katcha, led the Commission’s delegation to the final and applauded the NSFA and Borgu community for the successful hosting.

He noted remarkable improvement in the quality of football displayed and encouraged the state owned club, Niger Tornadoes FC, to scout some of the promising talents discovered during the competition.

Similarly, the Director of Sports in the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Habibu Dokochi, who represented the Permanent Secretary, Alhaji Abubakar Aliyu Mila, praised the organization of the tournament, hinting that the ministry might consider increasing its budgetary allocation to the Governor’s Cup in the next edition.

He stressed that beyond winning, the essence of the competition lies in participation and the joy it brings to communities across the state.

The Chairman of Borgu Local Government, Hon. Suleiman Yarima Kilishi, expressed immense satisfaction that his council not only hosted but also emerged champions. He used the occasion to urge youths to shun violence and drug abuse while channeling their energy into positive activities like sports.

He thanked the state government and the NSFA for granting Borgu the hosting rights and appreciated the residents for their hospitality and support throughout the tournament.

Meanwhile, Suleja Local Government clinched the third place position after defeating Mokwa LG 2–0 in the classification match earlier in the day.

Highlights of the closing ceremony included the presentation of trophies, medals, and special awards to outstanding teams, players, and contributors, including recognition for the Farmer Governor himself for his unwavering support for grassroots sports development in Niger State.