By Muhammad Adam, Kano
Players of the Kano Pillars Volleyball team participating in the ongoing Nigerian Volleyball Federation Premier League in Abuja have reportedly faced accommodation challenges due to delays in settling hotel bills by the Kano State Sports Commission.
The former Nigerian champions, who have previously won the Premier League twice and performed strongly in the African Confederation Cup, are said to be experiencing financial constraints that could affect their performance in the ongoing competition.
Sources close to the team revealed that the players travelled to Abuja with expectations that the state government would provide funds for allowances, accommodation, and logistics for the 16-day tournament.
It was also gathered that the team had to source funds locally to cover fuel and other basic expenses in order to make the trip to the championship.
According to a source, the players were eventually asked to leave their hotel due to unpaid bills, despite efforts to resolve the matter, adding that the situation had been communicated to the Acting Chairman of the Kano State Sports Commission, Dr. Murtala Musa Dagumawa.
The source further lamented the financial difficulties facing sports in the state, calling for urgent intervention to prevent disruption of athletes’ participation in national competitions.
When contacted, Dr. Dagumawa confirmed the financial constraints but stated that efforts were underway to address the situation.
He assured that the state government remains committed to supporting the team and ensuring Kano maintains its strong presence in national and international sporting events.