Kaduna government backs Sand Eagles for decisive Ghana qualifier

The Kaduna State Government has backed the Nigeria Beach Soccer National Team, Sand Eagles, to secure qualification for the 2026 Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations in their return-leg qualifier against Black Sharks in Ghana.

The team received the message from Hassan Buba, Director of Sports Development in the Kaduna State Ministry of Sports Development, before leaving Kaduna on Thursday morning.

Buba was speaking on behalf of the Kaduna State Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Ben Kure, who was unable to attend the send-off because of another important engagement outside the State. He assured the players and officials that the state government remained behind them ahead of the decisive match.

The Sand Eagles will travel to Accra after drawing 3–3 in the first leg. Victory, or a sufficiently positive result, would put Nigeria in a strong position to reach the 2026 Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations.

“I extend to you the good wishes of the Honourable Commissioner, who would have loved to see you personally as you depart from Kaduna,” Buba said.

“He wishes you all the very best as you go to Accra for the return leg match, and he is confident that you will earn the ticket to qualify for the Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations.”

Buba called on the players to remain disciplined throughout their stay in Ghana and offered prayers for a successful outing. He also reiterated Kaduna State’s support and said he believed the team could return with a positive result.

“We are solidly behind you in spirit, even though we cannot be physically present in Ghana. We are praying for you. Insha Allah, you will return victorious,” he added.