A chance encounter last Saturday left me impressed by what could become another landmark in sports development in Kano state.
On my way to Dunawa village in Makoda Local Government Area to pay a condolence visit to a neighbour who had lost his father, I spotted a stadium-like structure a few metres before Dambatta town, on the right-hand side of the road.
I continued my journey but resolved to stop and inspect the facility on my way back. I wanted to know what it was and who was behind the project.
After the condolence visit, I stopped in Dambatta to greet my former colleague at Triumph Publishing Company, Malam Babangida Dambatta. Following a brief visit, I resumed my journey home.
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When I reached the facility I had noticed earlier, I turned off the road and entered the premises.
What greeted me was an impressive sight. A green artificial football pitch stretched before me, with a playing surface that appeared suitable for competitive football.
I was genuinely excited by what I saw. The pitch was the facility’s main attraction and appeared ready to host football matches.
However, beyond the impressive playing surface, some essential supporting facilities appeared inadequate or unfinished.
These included the perimeter fencing, spectator stands and other infrastructure required to make the facility a fully functional stadium.
Determined to learn more, I approached some people who appeared to be working at the facility.
I hoped they could provide information about the project, its ownership and the vision behind its development.
After exchanging greetings with the workers, I asked to see the facility’s supervisor. I was informed that he was unavailable, but a young man named Canibaro was called to attend to me.
When Canibaro arrived, we exchanged pleasantries and introduced ourselves. I explained that I am a sports journalist and had been attracted by the impressive football pitch. I wanted to learn more about the project and its purpose.
Canibaro disclosed that the project was acquired and sponsored by Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, popularly known as Maliya.
According to him, the facility was undergoing renovation and was expected to serve as the home ground for Barau Football Club’s Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) matches.
My observation supported his account that renovation work was ongoing. Various materials needed for the project were on the ground, suggesting that efforts were being made to bring the facility closer to completion.
If completed with the necessary supporting infrastructure, the project could provide Barau FC with a dedicated home ground and strengthen football facilities not only in the immediate area but across Kano State.
At this juncture, I call on Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin to ensure that those handling the project work with urgency and complete it within a reasonable timeframe.
The facility has the potential to contribute to football development in the state, but its full value will only be realised when the renovation is completed and the necessary infrastructure is in place.
I also commend Senator Barau for sponsoring the project and urge other political office holders to emulate such initiatives by investing in sports facilities and other development projects that will benefit their respective constituencies.
A completed and properly equipped stadium would not only serve Barau FC but could also create opportunities for young footballers, support local competitions and contribute to the growth of the game across Kano State.
