Northwest University Kano Honors Staff and Students for Sporting Excellence

In recognition of their outstanding performances in various sporting activities at both state and national levels, the Directorate of Sports, Northwest University Kano, under the leadership of its Head, Mr. Ahmad Surajo, organized a special reception on Thursday, August 21, 2025.

The event, which took place in the Senate Chamber of the University in the early hours of the morning, celebrated staff and students who have brought honor to the institution through sports.

The ceremony was graced by several principal officers of the University, including the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Dr. Tijjani Rufa’i Buhari, the University Librarian, Dr. Karimatu Isa Maisango, the Director of Research, Innovation, and Development, Professor James Abrak Timbuak, the Chairman of the University Sports Advisory Committee, Professor Abubakar S. Garba, the Dean of Students Affairs, Dr. Ibrahim Musa, and Professor Rabiu Muhammad, among other dignitaries.

During the colorful event, commendation letters were presented to coaches who led the University teams in major competitions such as the Nigerian University Staff Sports Association (NUSSA) Games, the International University Sports Federation (FISU) events, and the maiden KANAWA Basketball Championship. Similarly, outstanding staff who distinguished themselves in the games received special awards for their exemplary contributions.

One of the highlights of the day was the formal presentation of a trophy and certificates to the Team VC’s Office, who emerged winners of the last staff football competition. In addition, the University’s Taekwondo and Judo teams were recognized with certificates of participation for representing Northwest University Kano in the highly competitive International University Sports Federation (FISU) Games.

The event also acknowledged external support, as Hajiya Naja’atu Shehu Dahiru, CEO of SHAMNOOR Agro-Allied Enterprise, was specially appreciated for her generous donation of a set of baseball jerseys to the University. Her contribution was lauded as a boost to the sporting spirit of the institution.

In a remarkable turn of honor, the Directorate of Sports also presented two special certificates to the Vice Chancellor, Professor Mukhtar Atiku Kurawa, in recognition of his steadfast support and contributions to the growth of sports within the University.

In his remarks, Vice Chancellor Professor Kurawa expressed deep happiness over the achievements of staff and students in various sporting engagements. He commended them for flying the University’s flag with pride and assured them of his administration’s continued commitment to advancing sports development alongside academic excellence.

“Sports play an integral role in building unity, discipline, and global recognition for our University. I am proud of the teams and individuals who have represented us so honorably, and I assure you that this administration will continue to support initiatives that will place Northwest University Kano at the forefront of sporting excellence in Nigeria and beyond,” the Vice Chancellor declared.

In his welcome address, the Head of the Directorate of Sports, Mr. Ahmad Surajo, expressed gratitude to the University Management for its consistent support, noting that under the guidance of Professor Kurawa, the Directorate has recorded unprecedented achievements.

“This success story is not ours alone; it is the result of the firm encouragement we receive from the University leadership. We are committed to sustaining the momentum and making Northwest University a true hub for sports and academics,” he stated.

Similarly, the Chairman of the University Sports Advisory Committee, Professor Abubakar S. Garba, appreciated the efforts of all athletes, coaches, and staff who participated in various competitions. He highlighted that Northwest University Kano is gradually earning a reputation as not only a center of learning but also a rising force in sports.

> “We are proud to be known as a sporting university in addition to our academic reputation. This dual recognition sets us apart, and we owe it to the unrelenting support of our Vice Chancellor and the dedication of our participants,” Professor Garba remarked.

The reception ended on a high note with photo sessions and an atmosphere of pride and unity as the University community celebrated its achievements in the world of sports.