Niger State governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has fulfilled his pledge to Niger Tornadoes Football Club with the donation of a brand new 40-seater bus to the team.

The presentation was made at the Government House, Minna, where the governor assured that his administration remains committed to supporting sporting activities across the state.

Bago also received the Niger State contingent from the recently concluded 9th National Youth Games held in Asaba, Delta State, congratulating the athletes for finishing 13th overall at the competition. He further promised to host and honour both the athletes and officials at a later date.

The governor maintained that sports development is a priority for his administration, noting that investments in athletes and facilities will help reposition Niger as a hub for talent and grassroots growth.

Bus donation boosts players’ morale

Receiving the 40-seater bus on behalf of Niger Tornadoes, Chairman of the Niger State Sports Commission, Alhaji Danjuma Abdullahi Masun, commended Governor Bago for redeeming his promise. He described the gesture as a timely solution to the team’s logistics challenges, which have hindered smooth operations in recent months.

Masun explained that beyond easing movement, the governor’s support will also serve as a morale booster for the players as they prepare for the upcoming Nigerian football season. He further praised the administration’s commitment to sports, stressing that it signals a new era for football and athletics in the state.

He added that the backing given to the state contingent of the National Youth Games demonstrates the governor’s belief in youth empowerment and long-term sports development.

Reactions from fans and residents

The development has sparked excitement among sports lovers in Niger State, with many hailing Governor Bago’s continued commitment to football and grassroots competitions. Supporters of Niger Tornadoes took to social media to describe the governor’s action as “a step in the right direction,” urging the players to repay the gesture with improved performances on the pitch.

Others called for sustained investment in sporting facilities, noting that the bus donation is only one part of the wider support required to keep Niger athletes competitive nationally. Fans also emphasized that prioritizing youth sports will not only produce champions but also help in tackling social vices across communities.

Meanwhile, residents have appealed for similar attention to be given to other sports such as basketball, athletics, and table tennis, arguing that a holistic approach to sports development will place Niger State on the national map.