The Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, on Thursday approved the appointment of members of the Kano State Sports Commission and a new Management Board for Kano Pillars Football Club as part of efforts to reposition sports administration and youth development in the state.
The Independent Mirror reports that the appointments were announced in a statement issued by the Director-General of Media and Publicity, Government House, Kano, Sunusi Bature Dawakin-Tofa.
Governor Yusuf constituted a new Management Board for Kano Pillars FC, with Alhaji Ahmad Musbahu Garo appointed as Chairman.
A day after his appointment, Alhaji Ahmad Musbahu Garo paid a courtesy visit to the Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko, at his office in Abuja.
The meeting focused on football development and featured fruitful discussions on the importance of the round leather game as a tool for youth empowerment, national unity, and socio-economic development.
Who Is the New Kano Pillars FC Chairman?
Alhaji Ahmad Musbahu Garo is a distinguished football administrator, accomplished sports executive, and visionary leader.
He brings a wealth of experience in football governance and administration that positions him to lead one of Nigeria’s most successful football clubs into a new era.
He was born in Garo Local Government Area of Kano State.
With an impressive track record spanning football administration, club management, talent development, and sports governance, Alhaji Garo has earned a reputation as one of Nigeria’s emerging football executives.
His leadership philosophy is built on professionalism, accountability, innovation, and sustainable football development—qualities that align perfectly with the ambitions of Kano Pillars FC.
Academic Background
He holds a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree in Business Administration and Management from Stafford University, obtained in 2018.
His academic background complements his expertise in strategic management, organisational leadership, and modern sports administration.
A Leader with Proven Football Administration Experience.
Before his appointment as Chairman of Kano Pillars FC, Alhaji Ahmad Musbahu Garo served at the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) between 2020 and 2024, holding several key administrative positions and making significant contributions to the growth and organisation of Nigerian football.
His responsibilities included serving as:
– Administrative Officer and FIFA Connect Manager
– Team Administrator of the Nigeria U-23 Men’s National Team
– Team Coordinator of the Home-Based Super Eagles
During his tenure at the NFF, he successfully managed football registration and player data through the FIFA Connect platform, coordinated administrative and logistical operations for Nigeria’s national teams, and ensured compliance with FIFA, CAF, and NFF regulations.
He also played a vital role in facilitating communication among players, coaches, officials, and stakeholders while supporting national team preparations, international competitions, and football development programmes.
Internationally Trained Football Executive.
Alhaji Garo’s commitment to continuous professional development is reflected in the elite football management programmes he has completed under FIFA and CAF.
His professional certifications include:
– FIFA Essential Course in Club Management
– Advanced Education in Sports Safety and Security
– FIFA Safety and Security Training
– FIFA Safety and Security Regional Workshop
– Executive Programme in Sports Management
These globally recognised programmes have equipped him with modern expertise in football governance, club administration, safety management, strategic planning, and organisational leadership.
Passion for Talent Development.
One of Alhaji Garo’s greatest strengths is his passion for youth and player development.
Throughout his career, he has worked tirelessly to create pathways for talented footballers to secure professional opportunities both within Nigeria and abroad.
Through strategic networking, effective club development initiatives, and strong relationships across the football ecosystem, he has contributed to the development of many promising players.
His vision places player development at the heart of sustainable football success.
A Vision for Kano Pillars FC
As Chairman, Alhaji Ahmad Musbahu Garo assumes leadership with a clear vision of transforming Kano Pillars FC into a professionally managed, financially sustainable, commercially viable, and highly competitive football institution.
His agenda focuses on strengthening the club’s structures, promoting transparency and accountability, investing in youth development, enhancing stakeholder engagement, attracting strategic partnerships, and building a team capable of consistently competing for domestic honours while making a strong impact in continental competitions.
With his extensive administrative experience, international football education, and unwavering commitment to excellence, Alhaji Garo is well-positioned to guide Sai Masu Gida into a future defined by stability, innovation, and sustained success.
As Kano Pillars FC embarks on this exciting new chapter, the entire Pillars family welcomes a leader whose passion for football, administrative expertise, and strategic vision inspire confidence that the club’s proud legacy will continue to flourish for generations to come.
Kano Pillars narrowly escaped relegation last season. Under the Garo’s new leadership, the club aims to rebuild into a formidable side capable of challenging for the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) title and securing a continental ticket in the coming seasons.
We have just obtained the information about the club’s new chairman from the Media and Communications Directorate of Kano Pillars FC.
Ahmad Hamisu Gwale is a broadcast journalist based in Kano.
He can be reached at ahmadhamisuali733@gmail.com.
