Niger State chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), has applauded the Bida Lions Football Club for its remarkable achievements since the revival of the club about six months ago.
This is contained in a statement issued to Newsmen in Minna by the Chairman of the Association, Alhassan Mohammed Kutigi, in which SWAN praised the club’s management, technical crew, and players for their impressive accomplishments within a short period.
The association noted that Bida Lions have enjoyed a memorable campaign since their return to competitive football, highlighted by their triumph in the 2026 Niger State FA Cup, where they defeated Niger Tornadoes FC in the final, and also secured promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) after emerging champions of the NLO Bida Centre.
SWAN further commended the team’s outstanding performance in the ongoing President Federation Cup. Despite bowing out in the Round of 16, Bida Lions recorded notable victories over established league sides and regular Federation Cup participants, Beyond Limits FC and Warri Wolves FC, on their way to the knockout.
The Association specifically acknowledged the commitment and leadership of the club’s management, particularly the General Manager and former international, Yakubu Alfa (MON), for assembling a competitive squad and building a solid football structure within a short period.
Alhassan Kutigi however urged the club not to be discouraged by its Federation Cup exit but to remain focused in consolidating its achievements and sustaining its growth, noting that the revival of Bida Lions has rekindled a healthy football rivalry with Niger Tornadoes FC, creating additional opportunities for players, coaches, and other stakeholders to showcase their talents towards contributing to the development of football in Niger State.
SWAN also called on the Niger State Government not to relent in supporting football development by providing the necessary infrastructure and financial assistance to clubs across the state for youth empowerment and social development, while wishing the Bida Lions greater success in their future endeavours.
PR ALIYU LAWAL.
