*Appreciates SWAN for award, vows to do more in developing sports By; KATO P. LADAN, Kaduna One of those honoured by the Sports Writers
*Appreciates SWAN for award, vows to do more in developing sports
By; KATO P. LADAN, Kaduna
One of those honoured by the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) at its Diamond Jubilee Anniversary, tagged “SWAN @60, Fadallah Habufari of Wukari, fondly called “De Governor ” has disclosed that funding a football club in Nigeria requires huge financial burden.
He expressed this on the sidelines of the SWAN @60 awards ceremony, held at the VIP Hall, Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja on Friday October 31, 2025.
“Well, this is a clear indication that I should continue what I’m doing,
that people are looking at me from everywhere, from all angles.
And I will keep giving my support.
“It’s not easy when you finance a club by yourself alone,” he said.
According to him, “I want to start by thanking SWAN for finding me worthy of this award. It’s a clear indication that hard work pays. Whatever you’re doing, people are looking at you.
“I am a passionate person that loves football, especially football. I play football, but not to the professional level. So I feel I can use that skill, that opportunity to empower the young ones to achieve their dreams.”
Explaining, he said that ever since he became chairman of Ashana Football Club in 2018, he has ensured that he contributes hugely to sports in Taraba State.
“Not only Taraba State,
I’m still in Abuja here. I run Ashana FC Abuja,” he added.
According to him, due to his passion in empowering youth, he has taken three players outside the country now they are playing in Shiroka Albania.
“I’ve sponsored a lot of competitions, giving a lot of prize support and ensured that Ashana FC got promoted from non-league
side to a league side as i’m talking to you this year, we’re going to compete,” he added.
He further informed that aside that, he pays stipends to the players, to help them with their day-to-day needs and so much more
“I want to assure you I will keep doing it. I will keep nurturing these young players that want to achieve their dreams of becoming professional football players.
“I will keep inviting scouts from Europe. Just this year, I’ve invited up to seven scouts from different European countries. And I want to assure you there are about five players. that will soon travel. We are working on their papers so these are the little contributions that I will keep putting to make sure that one day I can sit, watch on my Tv, these players in premier
league, in .the Portuguese league, beating my chest that i helped these players become what they are,” he assured.
The spotlight at the SWAN @60, shone brightly on one of Taraba State’s most influential and generous leaders, Fadallah Habufari.
The award presented was in recognition of his immense contributions to sports development and youth empowerment.
SWAN conferred on him, one of the highest honours bestowed by the association.
For many, this award does not come as a surprise.
In Wukari Local Government and beyond, Fadallah Habufari has become a symbol of hope, support, and transformation, especially for the sports community.
His dedication to nurturing young talents, often from rural and neglected communities, has earned him admiration and respect across Taraba State and Nigeria at large.
Unlike many leaders whose interest in sports is ceremonial, Fadallah Habufari’s commitment is deeply personal and practical.
Over the years, he has sponsored football tournaments, donated sporting equipment, and provided financial support to young athletes striving to make a name for themselves.
Many young footballers, athletes, and coaches in Wukari proudly say, “De Governor believed in us before anyone else did.”
His actions go beyond philanthropy; they represent a deliberate effort to uplift youths through sports, keeping them away from drug abuse, crime, and idleness, while encouraging discipline, teamwork, and ambition.
In a region where opportunities for young people are often limited, Habufari has created platforms that empower them to dream and achieve.
By funding local sports academies and competitions, he has opened doors for young men and women to be scouted by professional clubs, both within and outside Nigeria.
“He doesn’t just give; he guides,” says one local coach in Wukari. “He wants every young athlete to understand that greatness comes from hard work, consistency, and belief in oneself.”
The award by SWAN is not just a plaque or a medal, it is a recognition of a legacy. A legacy built on passion, generosity, and service to humanity.
It reflects Fadallah Habufari’s vision of a society where sports are not just entertainment, but a powerful tool for development and unity.
Meanwhile, speaking on the award presentation, the people of Wukari and Taraba State were filled with pride.
“This honour is not only for one man, it is a victory for every child he has inspired, every team he has supported, and every dream he has helped ignite.
“Habufari Fadallah’s life shows that true leadership is measured not by power, but by impact. In sports, philanthropy, and community development, he stands tall as a shining example.
“The SWAN Diamond Award only confirms what many already know, he is a rare gem, a builder of dreams, and a true champion of the people,” Henry Agbu said.
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