The Niger State Sports Commission threatens to withdraw Niger Tornadoes Football Club from the ongoing Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), citing what it describes as unfair treatment by football authorities over the relocation of the club’s home matches outside the state.
Mediaplusng.com reports that the Chairman of the Niger State Sports Commission, Abdullahi Masu, raises the concern while briefing journalists in Minna, accusing the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) of acting unfairly and without proper justification. He describes the decision to move Niger Tornadoes’ home games from the Bako Kontagora Memorial Stadium as politically motivated and damaging to the integrity of the league.
Masu insists that the reason given by the NFF—poor camera viewing angles at the stadium—does not justify relocating matches to other states. He explains that the issue can be resolved within one week, adding that the Bako Kontagora Memorial Stadium is better equipped than several other venues currently hosting NPFL fixtures across the country.
He warns that continuous interference and politicisation of sports administration could hurt football development in Nigeria. According to him, clubs should be treated fairly, regardless of location or perceived influence, to ensure credibility and growth in the domestic league.
Mediaplusng.com also reports that the Sports Commission chairman calls on the NFF to immediately reverse the decision and allow Niger Tornadoes to continue playing home matches in Minna. He stresses that withdrawing the club from the NPFL remains an option if what he terms “institutional injustice” persists.
Masu says Niger Tornadoes is a symbol of pride for the people of Niger State and should not be subjected to administrative decisions that undermine the morale of players, officials, and supporters. He adds that football fans in the state deserve the opportunity to watch their team play at home under fair conditions.
He further urges football administrators to focus on strengthening league structures rather than taking actions that could discourage state governments and private investors from supporting football clubs. According to him, stability and fairness are essential for the long-term development of Nigerian football.
While addressing the controversy surrounding the NPFL, the Niger State Sports Commission also announces the commencement of its maiden Inter-Collegiate Sports Games, scheduled to begin on February 9, 2026, in Minna. The competition is designed to promote unity, youth engagement, and talent discovery across tertiary institutions in the state.
Masu discloses that eleven higher institutions across Niger State are set to participate in the games, marking the first time such a large-scale inter-collegiate sporting event is organised by the state. He describes the initiative as a strategic investment in grassroots sports development.
According to the commission, more than 500 registered athletes are expected to compete in eleven sporting events. These include football, volleyball, basketball, handball, racket games, combat sports, chess, scrabble, and other competitive disciplines aimed at showcasing diverse talents.
The Sports Commission chairman explains that participation in the games is free for all eligible institutions, with transparent registration procedures already put in place. He assures athletes and officials that strict measures are adopted to ensure fairness, professionalism, and safety throughout the competition.
Masu notes that the Inter-Collegiate Sports Games are not only about competition but also about building friendships among students from different institutions. He says the event will help instill discipline, teamwork, and healthy rivalry among young people in the state.
He adds that outstanding athletes discovered during the games will be groomed and prepared to represent Niger State at national competitions, including the upcoming National Sports Festival scheduled to hold in Enugu State later in the year.
The chairman confirms that four major trophies have been provided for the competition. He explains that the overall best-performing institution will receive a giant trophy, while the first, second, and third runners-up will also go home with trophies.
In addition, medals and sportswear will be awarded to athletes who place in various events. Masu says silver and bronze medals are available for other outstanding participants, as part of efforts to motivate students and reward excellence.
He commends Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umar Bago, for creating an enabling environment for sports to thrive in the state. According to him, the governor’s support has made it possible to invest in sports infrastructure, youth programmes, and talent development.
Masu also appreciates members of the organising committee and individuals who donated medical supplies and other resources to support the smooth running of the games. He describes their contributions as vital to the success of the event.
The Sports Commission chairman calls on the private sector to increase its involvement in sports development, noting that partnerships with businesses and corporate organisations can help sustain sporting programmes in the state.
He reiterates that sports remain a powerful tool for youth empowerment, social cohesion, and economic development. According to him, Niger State is committed to using sports as a platform to engage young people positively and reduce social vices.
As preparations intensify for the Inter-Collegiate Sports Games, the Niger State Sports Commission assures participants and the public of adequate security, medical support, and proper logistics throughout the event.
Masu concludes by reaffirming the commission’s commitment to fairness in sports administration, both at the state and national levels. He insists that while Niger State is ready to collaborate with national football authorities, it will not hesitate to defend the interests of its clubs and athletes when necessary.
The coming days, he says, will determine whether Niger Tornadoes remains in the NPFL under fair conditions or whether the state will take further action in response to the disputed decisions affecting the club.
