The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Borno State Chapter, has congratulated El-Kanemi Warriors Football Club of Maiduguri on winning the 2025/2026 President Federation Cup, describing the achievement as a landmark victory that has once again placed Borno State at the forefront of Nigerian football.
The Maiduguri-based side clinched the prestigious title after edging Ikorodu City FC 1-0 in the final, courtesy of Muktar Ismail’s 19th-minute penalty, securing the club’s fourth President Federation Cup crown.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Ibrahim Tukur, SWAN said the hard-fought victory reflected the team’s resilience, discipline, technical excellence and consistency, qualities that have continued to distinguish El-Kanemi Warriors as one of Nigeria’s most successful football clubs.
The association also congratulated the Borno State Commissioner for Youth, Sports and Poverty Alleviation, Comrade Saina Buba, applauding his leadership and unwavering support for the club. It equally commended the management, coaching crew, players and backroom staff for their dedication and teamwork in delivering the historic success.
SWAN further praised the administration of Governor Babagana Umara Zulum for its sustained investment in sports development and youth engagement, noting that the government’s support has played a vital role in the club’s resurgence on the national stage.
The association urged the state government to reward the victorious players and officials with attractive incentives, saying such recognition would boost morale, encourage greater commitment and inspire future sporting excellence.
SWAN also renewed its call for improved welfare packages for athletes, better sporting infrastructure and sustained investment in football development to enable El-Kanemi Warriors compete more successfully at both national and continental levels.
With the latest victory, El-Kanemi Warriors have now lifted Nigeria’s oldest domestic football trophy four times—in 1991, 1992, 2024 and 2026—cementing their place among the country’s most decorated football clubs.
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