Kaduna Hosts Super Sand Eagles As Uba Sani Steps Up Sports Development Drive

Kaduna State has stepped up its drive to attract major sporting events with the hosting of the Super Sand Eagles of Nigeria ahead of their international friendly matches against Senegal and the 2026 CAF Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Ghana.

The national beach soccer team is spending 23 days in Kaduna, with the programme running from September 21 to October 14.

The Super Sand Eagles will face Senegal in international friendlies on October 2 and 4 before taking on Ghana in the AFCON qualifier on October 10.

The hosting forms part of efforts by the Kaduna State Government to strengthen the state’s capacity to stage major national and international sporting events while improving its sports infrastructure.

Speaking on the development, the Director of Sports Development, Hassan Buba, said the arrival of the Super Sand Eagles was another indication of the administration’s commitment to sports development.

Buba said investments in sporting infrastructure, coupled with support for sporting activities, were helping to position Kaduna as a destination for major competitions.

He also said improved security had boosted confidence among teams, officials and event organisers seeking to hold sporting activities in the state.

Among the major infrastructure projects is the reconstruction of Ahmadu Bello Stadium, whose spectator capacity has been increased from about 16,000 to 33,000.

The Kaduna Township Stadium, formerly known as Ranchers Bees Stadium, has also undergone renovation under the administration of Governor Uba Sani through the Ministry of Local Government Affairs.

Buba said the combination of improved infrastructure, security and government support was creating a more conducive environment for sports development in the state.

Meanwhile, Super Sand Eagles Team Coordinator, Sunday Okaye, thanked Governor Uba Sani and the Kaduna State Government for the reception accorded the team and the support provided for its training programme.

Okaye said the arrangements in place had created a conducive environment for the players and officials to prepare for their international engagements.

He added that the team appreciated the hospitality extended to them since their arrival in Kaduna.

Super Sand Eagles captain, Victor Tale, also expressed appreciation to the state government, saying the players were in high spirits and focused on their preparations.

Tale said the training camp was providing the team with the opportunity to improve their fitness, build cohesion and strengthen their confidence ahead of the Senegal friendlies and the AFCON qualifier against Ghana.

The Kaduna camp is expected to provide the Super Sand Eagles with intensive training and international match exposure, as well as the technical, medical and logistical support required for their preparations.

Beyond the national team’s preparations, the hosting is expected to provide opportunities for local businesses and service providers, encourage greater youth participation in beach soccer and enhance Kaduna’s profile as a host for major sporting events.