Tunga Pillars crowned champions as Niger Super League drives youth dev't

Tunga Pillars crowned champions as Niger Super League drives youth dev't 

By Abubakar Hassan

Tunga Pillars Football Club, Minna, have emerged champions of the 2025/2026 Niger State Super League, capping a highly competitive tournament that highlighted the growing impact of grassroots football in the state.

The final, held at the Niger State Sports Commission Complex on Saturday, attracted a large turnout of fans and stakeholders, reflecting increasing interest in organized football competitions.

The Permanent Secretary, Niger State Ministry of Sports Development, Dr. Nuhu Garba Ngaski, commended the organizers for delivering a successful and competitive tournament. He described the league as a vital platform for engaging youths and promoting development through sports.

“I must express my delight to the organizers. The turnout was impressive and the level of competitiveness remarkable,” he said.

Dr. Ngaski stressed that sports remain a powerful tool for youth empowerment, economic growth, and community development.

He urged young people to embrace sports as a productive alternative to social vices, noting that government remains committed to developing the sector.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Niger State Football Association (NSFA), Comrade Ahmed Yusuf “Fresh,” described the tournament as a major success. He revealed that about 38 teams participated, with clubs drawn from various local government areas across the state.

“It has been good all through the tournament. All teams showcased their talents,” he said, adding that the wide participation underscores the league’s growing credibility.

He noted that the competition has created opportunities for talent discovery and reaffirmed the association’s commitment to strengthening grassroots football.

For Tunga Pillars, the victory marks a significant turnaround after falling short in the previous edition of the competition.

The club’s chairman, Dr. Nafi’u Hassan Shiroro, expressed pride in his players, attributing their success to preparation and resilience.

“We came better prepared this year after last year’s disappointment, and we are proud to emerge champions,” he said, while commending the organizers for their efforts.

He added that the team’s success was driven by “prayers, commitment and determination,” urging the players to remain good ambassadors in future competitions.

In the final match, Tunga Pillars defeated Flourish Football Academy, Minna, 4-1 to clinch the title and qualify for the Nigeria Nationwide League One (NLO) state play-offs.

Trophies, medals, and awards were presented to outstanding teams and players, including a 14-year-old who won the youngest player award, while key stakeholders were also recognized.

The competition, organized by the Niger State Football Association, featured about 38 teams and continues to serve as a key platform for nurturing young talents in the state.

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