The Executive Chairman of the Kano State Sports Commission, Alhaji Muhammad Tukur Babangida, is expected to lead top government officials on a tour of sports facilities on Monday, September 20, ahead of the 45th Federation of Public Service Games (FEPSGA).

The inspection is part of the state’s preparations to host the national public service sporting festival scheduled for October 6 to 16, 2026, in Kano.

More than 8,000 participants representing about 80 Federal Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) across Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory are expected to converge on the ancient city for the 45th edition of the games.  

The Kano State Government secured the hosting rights for the competition as part of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s commitment to strengthening the relationship between government and workers while promoting physical fitness, healthy living and workplace wellness through sports.

The state has already constituted a Local Organising Committee to coordinate preparations for the games and ensure that the necessary arrangements are in place before the arrival of participating contingents.  

Babangida said the inspection of competition venues was important to the commission’s preparations, stressing that facilities must be properly assessed and put in suitable condition to guarantee a successful and hitch-free championship.

He also commended Governor Yusuf for his continued support for sports development in Kano, noting that the state’s hosting of FEPSGA provides another opportunity to showcase its organisational capacity and hospitality.

The Sports Commission chairman called for greater cooperation among all stakeholders involved in the preparations, saying every relevant government agency and organising committee member must contribute to the successful staging of the national event.

He further stressed the importance of using the championship to project Kano positively, particularly as thousands of public servants from across the country are expected to spend more than a week in the state.

“We are working closely with the Office of the State Head of Service in order to actualise the set objectives,” Babangida said.

The Kano State Government has also opened registration and enrolment for interested civil and public servants who wish to represent the state at the games, with the deadline set for September 25.  

With preparations gathering momentum, Monday’s facility inspection is expected to provide the Sports Commission and other stakeholders with an opportunity to assess the readiness of the proposed venues and identify areas requiring attention before the October 6 opening.

The 45th FEPSGA is expected to combine sporting competition with its broader objectives of promoting workers’ welfare, unity, social interaction and healthy living across Nigeria’s public service.