Kaduna State is witnessing renewed momentum in sports development as major sporting events continue to come to the state, alongside significant investments in sporting infrastructure under the administration of Governor Senator Uba Sani, CON.
The State is currently hosting the Super Sand Eagles’ 23-day training camp, two international friendly matches against Senegal on 2nd and 4th October 2026, and the CAF Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Ghana on 10th October 2026.
The programme runs from 21st September to 14th October 2026.
The development adds to ongoing efforts to strengthen Kaduna’s capacity to host major national and international sporting events.
Among the major projects is the complete reconstruction of Ahmadu Bello Stadium, with its spectator capacity being increased from about 16,000 to 33,000.
The Kaduna Township Stadium, formerly known as Ranchers Bees Stadium, has also undergone comprehensive renovation under the administration of Governor Uba Sani through the Ministry of Local Government Affairs.
Speaking during an interview, the Director of Sports Development, Mal. Hassan Buba, highlighted the Governor’s commitment to the development of sports in Kaduna, noting that investments in infrastructure and support for sporting activities are helping to strengthen the State’s sporting environment.
According to him, the increasing number of major sporting events coming to Kaduna is also an indication of growing confidence in the state, particularly in view of the improved security situation.
He said the hosting of major competitions demonstrates that Kaduna is increasingly being recognised as a suitable destination for sporting activities, while the improved security environment provides greater confidence for teams, officials and organisers.
Also speaking, the Team Coordinator of the Super Sand Eagles of Nigeria, Mr. Sunday Okaye, expressed appreciation to Governor Uba Sani and the Kaduna State Government for the warm reception accorded the team and the support provided for the programme.
Mr. Okaye commended the State Government for creating a conducive environment for the team’s training camp and international engagements, describing the support as a positive demonstration of Kaduna’s commitment to sports and the success of the national team.
He said the team was pleased with the reception in Kaduna and appreciated the arrangements put in place to support its preparation for the international fixtures.
The captain of the Super Sand Eagles, Victor Tale, also expressed appreciation to Governor Uba Sani for the support and hospitality extended to the team.
He said the players were in high spirits and fully focused on their preparations, noting that the training camp was providing the needed environment to build fitness, cohesion and confidence ahead of the international fixtures.
He commended the Kaduna State Government for its support and said the team was determined to make the most of the opportunity to train in Kaduna ahead of the Senegal friendlies and the CAF Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Ghana.
The Super Sand Eagles programme is designed to provide the national team with intensive preparation and high-level international match exposure ahead of the Ghana qualifier, alongside the necessary technical, medical, logistical and administrative support.
Beyond the sporting value, the hosting is expected to increase Kaduna’s national and international visibility, promote sports tourism, create opportunities for local businesses and service providers, encourage youth participation and further develop beach soccer facilities in the state.
The presence of the Super Sand Eagles, Senegalese delegation and other officials therefore, provides Kaduna with an opportunity to showcase its sporting facilities, hospitality and organisational capacity while further strengthening its profile as a destination for major sporting event