The Sokoto State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Dr. Engr. Mustapha Muhammad Kofar Marke, made an unannounced visit to Sokoto United FC’s training ground to assess the team’s condition and observe the ongoing selection process.
His visit, which came as a surprise to many, was aimed at evaluating firsthand the preparations of the team as they push for promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL). The Commissioner arrived at the training ground early in the morning, wearing a mask to ensure an unbiased assessment.
Speaking on the visit, the Commissioner emphasized his commitment to personally verifying the state of affairs rather than relying on secondhand reports. “I arrived at the training ground as early as possible, wearing a mask to observe the situation firsthand. I do not rely on secondhand reports—I believe in seeing things for myself,” he stated.
During his assessment, Engr. Mustapha Kofar Marke expressed concern over the absence of key management figures in the selection process. He criticized the lack of involvement from the club’s leadership, stating, “It is unfortunate that most of the management members are not actively involved in the selection process. They are not even present on the field.”
Reaffirming the state government’s commitment to Sokoto United FC, the Commissioner highlighted the need for unity and collective effort in ensuring the club achieves promotion to the NPFL. “Our goal is to secure promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League. To achieve this, we must come together and work collectively,” he said.
Engr. Mustapha Kofar Marke acknowledged the challenges facing the club, particularly the mid-season departures of several key players. He noted that these exits had created gaps in the squad that needed urgent attention. “Many of our players have left for various reasons, and we need to fill those gaps as soon as possible. With the mid-season registration window closing soon, we must carefully select the best from both the invited players and our homegrown talents,” he added.
To address the club’s long-term development, the Commissioner announced plans to establish a feeder team. This initiative aligns with the vision of the club’s president, Prof. Mustapha Aliyu, who aims to develop young football talents from the grassroots level.
“We are working on creating a feeder team to nurture young players. Those who prove their potential will have a pathway into the main squad. His Excellency, Dr. Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto, is a youth-friendly and sports-loving governor who fully supports both home and external players,” he assured.
The Commissioner also encouraged players who may not make the final selection to remain hopeful, as opportunities would arise in the newly planned feeder team. “For those who are not selected this time, remain hopeful—opportunities will arise in the feeder team. The government is committed to supporting your development,” he stated.
Addressing the technical crew and management staff, Engr. Mustapha Kofar Marke stressed the importance of setting aside personal interests and working together toward a common goal. He urged all stakeholders to prioritize the club’s success over individual agendas.
“Our target is to elevate Sokoto United FC to the NPFL. This can only be achieved through unity, dedication, and teamwork,” he emphasized.
Players at the training ground expressed mixed reactions to the visit, with some seeing it as a wake-up call for better organization, while others appreciated the Commissioner’s direct involvement.
A club official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, acknowledged the Commissioner’s concerns and assured that management would take immediate steps to address the lapses. “We take his observations seriously and will make necessary adjustments to ensure the club runs efficiently,” he said.
Fans of Sokoto United FC welcomed the Commissioner’s visit, believing it would bring much-needed attention and reforms to the team’s operations. Some supporters also called on the state government to provide more resources to improve the team’s performance.
As the selection process continues, Sokoto United FC faces crucial decisions in assembling a squad capable of achieving its promotion target. With government backing and strategic planning, the club aims to strengthen its squad and compete at the highest level.
The Commissioner’s visit underscores the government’s commitment to sports development in Sokoto State. Whether his intervention will lead to the club’s transformation remains to be seen, but for now, his presence has sparked renewed optimism within the team and its supporters.
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