The 2025 edition, which kicks off on Saturday 4th January 2025 at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano, promises to be a milestone event. For the third consecutive year, the competition will incorporate FIFA-approved technology, including the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system. But this year, organizers are taking it a step further with the introduction of live streaming and real-time match statistics, offering fans an immersive experience like never before.
The prestigious Ibrahim Galadima Cup, now in its third year, celebrates the enduring legacy of Alhaji Ibrahim Galadima—an influential figure in Nigerian sports and a patron of the Nigeria Olympic Committee. This tournament serves as a tribute to his exceptional contributions to sports development in Kano and across the nation.
Suleiman Musa, Head of the Local Organizing Committee, also expressed pride in the tournament’s role in pioneering technology in Nigerian football. “Three years ago, we began integrating VAR into our competition,” he noted. “Now, as we continue to honor Alhaji Ibrahim Galadima, we are proud to be part of Nigeria’s progress toward embracing modern football technology.”
At a prior seminar, Referee Coordinator Ibrahim Umar Fage, a retired FIFA referee, highlighted the significant learning opportunity this technology offers to match officials.
“The use of such advanced systems in this event allows our referees to enhance their skills in ways they might not have the chance to elsewhere,” he said.
Also this year, teams like Damburan and Funtua FC from Katsina and a team from Zamfara state join 13 teams from Kano.
