SPECIAL INTERVIEW | KATSINA TIMES
“The Dan’amana Cup Has Set a Historic Benchmark for Grassroots Football in Katsina” — Ayuba Umar Gambarawa, LOC Chairman
In this exclusive interview with Katsina Times, the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) of the Dan’amana Cup, Malam Ayuba Umar Gambarawa, reflects on the significance, impact, and broader political and social implications of the tournament, widely regarded as the first of its kind in Katsina State.
Katsina Times: The Dan’amana Cup has been widely described as a historic tournament. From your perspective as LOC Chairman, what makes this competition unique?
Ayuba Umar Gambarawa:
The Dan’amana Cup is indeed a landmark competition in the history of Katsina State. From the first kick-off to the final match played on Sunday, January 4, 2026, between Gawo Professional and Durbi Strikers, the entire process attracted unprecedented public and media attention. It was not just a football competition; it became a unifying platform for youths, communities, and stakeholders across the state.
What makes it unique is the structure, transparency, and inclusiveness. All the 64 teams that participated benefited even before the tournament began, and after its conclusion, every single team received support. This has never happened before in the sporting history of Katsina State.
Katsina Times: Can you elaborate on the level of support provided to the teams?
Gambarawa:
Every one of the 64 participating teams was provided with footballs for training before the competition started. After the tournament, teams that did not make it to the round of 16 were given additional footballs, meaning each team benefited from at least two footballs. Furthermore, the 16 teams that reached the knockout stage were rewarded with quality jerseys.
The teams that finished first to fourth also received special prizes. These gestures demonstrate a genuine commitment to grassroots sports development and youth empowerment. All of this was funded personally by the sponsor, Dan’amana of Katsina, Dr. Haruna Umar Maiwada, without seeking personal gain.
Katsina Times: Many observers say the tournament also carried strong political and social messages. How do you see that?
Gambarawa:
It is no secret that Dr. Haruna Umar Maiwada has no hidden agenda other than supporting the success and progress of the Katsina State Government under His Excellency, Governor Malam Dikko Umar Radda, PhD. This tournament played a significant role in promoting unity among youths, advancing the development of Katsina State, and reinforcing public confidence in the Governor’s leadership.
Anyone who watched the final match and saw Dan’amana’s presence and conduct at the stadium would understand this clearly. He set aside all personal ambitions and demonstrated openly that this initiative was not about self-promotion, but about loyalty, service, and ensuring the success of Governor Dikko Umar Radda’s administration. Politically, this represents a major boost not only for the Governor but also for the ruling APC in Katsina State.
Katsina Times: Some have described the organisation of the tournament as exemplary. What challenges did you face?
Gambarawa:
Every competition has its challenges, but we chose not to dwell on them. What is more important is that the successes far outweighed the difficulties. The tournament was conducted peacefully, in an orderly manner, and without major controversies. In fact, it has been a long time since Katsina State witnessed a competition organised with such discipline and minimal disputes.
Katsina Times: What lessons should other political actors and stakeholders draw from this initiative?
Gambarawa:
If other well-meaning individuals and political office holders emulate what Dr. Haruna Umar Maiwada has done, the political and developmental landscape of Katsina State would become much clearer and more stable. He is among the few individuals genuinely supporting the Governor’s vision through action, not rhetoric—working quietly for progress rather than personal recognition.
In Katsina politics today, the Governor remains the central pillar, with only a handful of truly committed allies. People like Dr. Haruna Maiwada are invaluable because they channel their resources toward development and youth engagement, purely to strengthen the success of the administration.
Katsina Times: Finally, what message do you have for the teams and the people of Katsina?
Gambarawa:
I congratulate the teams that emerged winners, especially those who finished first. I commend their effort and sportsmanship. To the other teams, I encourage them to accept the outcome in good faith. Football, like life, involves both victory and defeat, and setbacks should serve as motivation rather than discouragement.
I wish everyone well, particularly His Excellency, Governor Malam Dikko Umar Radda, and Dr. Haruna Umar Maiwada, whose vision and personal sacrifice made the Dan’amana Cup a reality. This tournament has laid a strong foundation for the future of grassroots football and youth development in Katsina State.
Interview conducted by Katsina Times.
