The Katsina State Government has approved the maiden edition of the Katsina Inter-Ward Grassroots Football Tournament, tagged the “Governor Dikko Umar Radda Youth Mobilization and Empowerment Tournament,” in a major step towards strengthening grassroots sports and youth development across the state.

 The tournament, approved by the Katsina State Executive Council, will bring young people from the state’s 361 wards together through football while promoting unity, talent discovery and socioeconomic opportunities.

 Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Engr. Surajo Yazid Abukur, PhD, FNSE, expressed his appreciation to Governor Dikko Umar Radda for approving the initiative, describing it as an important opportunity to expand prospects for young people through sports.

 The competition is expected to provide a platform for emerging football talents to showcase their abilities while encouraging community participation, physical fitness and positive youth engagement.

 According to the ministry, the tournament will also be used to promote civic mobilization, community enlightenment and constructive interaction between young people and the state government.

 For effective coordination and implementation, the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development will work with the Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs and the various local government councils to ensure the participation of all 361 wards.

 The Katsina State Football Association, Katsina State Coalition for Youth and Sports Development, Katsina State Football Clubs in Support of Good Governance, as well as grassroots youth and sports organisations, are also expected to play key roles in supporting the tournament.

 The ministry has urged traditional rulers, community leaders, football stakeholders and sports enthusiasts to support the initiative and cooperate with organisers to ensure its success.

 The maiden tournament is expected to provide a significant platform for grassroots football development while promoting social cohesion and creating new opportunities for youth empowerment across Katsina State.