By Abdulwahab Muhammad, SSA Communication
Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, has renewed his administration’s determination to restore Wikki Tourists Football Club to Nigeria’s elite football league, unveiling the club’s new jerseys for the 2026/2027 season with sponsorship support from Shafa Energy.
The colourful ceremony, held at the Government House, Bauchi, signalled a fresh chapter for the Bauchi-based football club as it intensifies preparations for the Nigeria National League (NNL) season, with promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) as its ultimate target.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Aminu Hammayo, Governor Mohammed assured the club’s management, technical crew, players and supporters of his administration’s continued support towards reclaiming Wikki Tourists’ position among Nigeria’s top football clubs.
The Governor emphasised that the club remains an important symbol of Bauchi State’s sporting identity, urging all stakeholders to demonstrate unity, discipline and determination in pursuing the promotion ambition.
In a major financial boost, the Governor, through his representative, announced a donation of ₦2 million to Wikki Tourists and another ₦2 million to the newly elected Supporters Club executives, bringing the total contribution to ₦4 million.
The gesture underscores the administration’s commitment to strengthening the club both on and off the pitch while recognising the vital role of supporters in motivating players and sustaining the team’s competitive spirit.
The ceremony also witnessed the formal presentation of the club’s new Technical Adviser, Bala Abubakar Mohammed, whose appointment is expected to strengthen the technical direction of the team ahead of the new campaign.
Earlier, the Sole Administrator of Wikki Tourists, Alhaji Haruna Bako, disclosed that the club had already participated in two pre-season tournaments as part of preparations for the challenges ahead.
He explained that efforts were underway to strengthen the club’s management and technical structures while exploring international marketing opportunities capable of improving its commercial prospects and long-term sustainability.
The Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Alhaji Bashir Ya’u, reaffirmed the ministry’s readiness to provide the necessary institutional support to ensure that Wikki Tourists achieves its objectives.
Speaking on behalf of the players, team captain Shafiu Adamu Duguri pledged their determination to justify the confidence reposed in them through hard work, discipline, teamwork and commitment throughout the season.
The event equally featured the presentation of a Wikki Tourists jersey to Governor Bala Mohammed in appreciation of his sustained support for the club.
Meanwhile, the club’s management and renowned sports philanthropist, retired Deputy Inspector General of Police Sani Mohammed, were acknowledged for their respective donations of ₦1 million each to the newly elected Supporters Club executives.
With Shafa Energy’s sponsorship, renewed government backing, strengthened technical leadership and growing supporters’ involvement, Wikki Tourists will be hoping to translate the renewed optimism surrounding the club into convincing performances on the pitch.
For football enthusiasts across Bauchi State, the message ahead of the new season is clear: Wikki Tourists must rise again, and the journey back to the Premier League begins now.
Alphapressmedia | Sports & Governance
