By: Mukhtar Yahaya Shehu
Kano State is set to host the 2026 edition of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Renewed Hope Football Cup in September, with the two-week interstate tournament expected to bring together youths from the 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Tagged “The Game Changer,” the competition will use football as a platform to promote peace, unity, youth development and social cohesion, while providing young people with positive opportunities to showcase their talents.
The Special Adviser on Sports and Youth Development to Kano State Governor, Alhaji Sani Musa Danja, said the tournament is designed to positively engage youths and discourage involvement in social vices, while strengthening relationships among young people across the region.
The Technical Director of the competition, Dr. Abdulgafar Oladimeji , said the tournament will also contribute to the development of grassroots football in Northern Nigeria by building the capacity of coaches and support staff, discovering emerging talents, promoting social interaction and boosting the local economy.
The competition will begin with a group stage before progressing to the knockout rounds, with the grand final scheduled to take place at the Sani Abacha Indoor Stadium, Kano.
???? PRIZE MONEY — ₦17 MILLION
???? Winner — ₦10 Million
???? Runner-up — ₦5 Million
???? Third Place — ₦2 Million
The organisers said the prize money is aimed at rewarding excellence, encouraging youth productivity through sports and fostering stronger ties among communities across Northern Nigeria.
The Game Changer is coming to Kano football for peace, unity and youth development.
