Niger sports commission to review, restructure Niger Tornadoes Football Club

By Daniel Ebi,Minna

The Niger State Sports Commission (NSSC) has inaugurated a high-powered Performance Review and Restructuring Committee for Niger Tornadoes Football Club as part of strategic efforts to reposition the club and restore its status as one of Nigeria’s leading football teams following a difficult 2025/2026 football season.

The inauguration ceremony, held at the Commission’s headquarters in Minna, was presided over by the Chairman of the Niger State Sports Commission, Hon. Ambassador Danjuma Abdul Masu

.Also in attendance were the Secretary of the Commission, Baba Sheshi, directors of the Commission, the Legal Adviser, the Personal Assistant to the Chairman, and the Head of Coaches of the Commission.

Addressing the committee members shortly after their inauguration, Masu said their appointment was based on their proven competence, extensive experience, and commitment to the development of sports both within Niger State and across the country.

According to him, the decision to constitute the committee followed a comprehensive assessment of Niger Tornadoes FC’s performance during the just-concluded season, which he described as disappointing and below the expectations of government, stakeholders, and the club’s teeming supporters.

“The 2025/2026 season was particularly challenging for Niger Tornadoes FC. As a responsible sports administration, we must take deliberate and proactive steps to identify the factors responsible for the club’s struggles and chart a new course for future success,” he stated.

The Commission Chairman emphasized that the committee’s primary responsibility is to undertake a thorough review of the club’s operations and recommend practical measures that will strengthen its technical, administrative, and operational structures.

He urged members of the committee to approach the assignment with diligence, professionalism, and a sense of patriotism, stressing that the interest of Niger State and the future of the club should remain paramount throughout the exercise

Masu further disclosed that the committee has been mandated to investigate the root causes of the club’s poor performance by examining technical, managerial, financial, and administrative issues that may have contributed to its challenges during the season.

The committee is also expected to review the club’s personnel structure, including the coaching crew, playing squad, and administrative framework, with a view to identifying areas requiring improvement or restructuring.

In addition, members will conduct an audit of the club’s infrastructure and logistics, covering training facilities, players’ welfare, scouting systems, and other operational components critical to achieving competitive success.

The committee has also been directed to develop both short-term and long-term strategic recommendations capable of repositioning Niger Tornadoes FC for sustained success in Nigeria’s top-flight football competition.

The Commission has given the committee a period of two weeks to complete its assignment and submit a comprehensive report containing its findings and recommendations.

The membership of the committee includes Dr. Bala Shehu as Chairman, a representative of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Alhaji Mukhtari Wonder, a representative of the Niger State Referees Council, Coach Abdulrauf Yusuf.

Also, a representative of the Niger Tornadoes Supporters Club, a representative of the Niger State Football Association, while Ahmed Yakubu Gwam will serve as Secretary.

Speaking on behalf of the committee members, Alhaji Mukhtari Wonder expressed appreciation to the leadership of the Niger State Sports Commission for the confidence reposed in them.

He assured the Commission that the committee would work assiduously and objectively to deliver a report that would contribute significantly to the revival and growth of Niger Tornadoes FC.

The inauguration ceremony ended with renewed optimism among stakeholders that the review exercise would provide the foundation for meaningful reforms and help restore the club’s competitiveness in Nigerian football.

The Niger State Sports Commission reiterated its commitment to strengthening sports development in the state and ensuring that Niger Tornadoes FC returns to its rightful position among the nation’s elite football clubs.