Rafa Corporation, a leading Nigerian manufacturing company, has signed a three-year shirt sponsorship agreement with Kano Pillars Football Club. The partnership, unveiled in Kano under the theme "Together for a Stronger Tomorrow," features three new official Kano Pillars jerseys bearing the Rafa brand logo. This collaboration aims to strengthen Rafa's connection with consumers while supporting Nigerian football and creating opportunities for young people.
The agreement was signed by Alhaji Kabiru Rabiu, Chairman of Rafa Corporation and Group Executive Director of BUA Group, and Alhaji Ahmed Musbahu Garo, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Kano Pillars Football Club. Rabiu expressed his excitement about the partnership, describing it as a natural connection between a proudly Nigerian manufacturing business and a football institution with a significant following.
Kano Pillars, founded in 1990, is one of Nigerian football's most distinguished institutions, with four national league championships and a 2019 Federation Cup win. The club, affectionately known as Sai Masu Gida, commands a passionate following centred on the Sani Abacha Stadium and extending well beyond Kano. Rabiu noted that the sponsorship would extend beyond brand visibility to supporting the club's development and expanding its reach across Nigeria and beyond.
Garo welcomed the partnership, describing it as one of the most significant achievements of his tenure and an important step towards strengthening the club's commercial foundations. He thanked Rafa Corporation for its support, noting that stronger private-sector partnerships would help reduce dependence on government funding, support academy development, and provide a sustainable foundation for sporting success.
As part of the broader collaboration, Rabiu disclosed that discussions were underway on establishing a Rafa Football Academy in partnership with Kano Pillars. The proposed academy would identify and nurture promising young players through structured coaching, discipline, and development opportunities, preparing them to represent Kano Pillars, progress to national teams, and pursue professional careers internationally.
Rafa Corporation is advancing a substantial manufacturing investment programme aimed at building one of Africa's leading home and personal care businesses. Through Starium Detergents FZE, Rafa operates an 80,000-tonne-per-annum powder detergent manufacturing facility in Alaro City, Epe, Lagos. Since commencing production in 2024, the business has focused on modern manufacturing, consistent product quality, and the development of the Rafa brand.
Kano Pillars has made an encouraging start to the 2026/27 Nigeria Premier Football League season, remaining unbeaten through its opening six matches and standing fifth following its 3 October fixture. The sponsorship deal is expected to bring renewed momentum to the club and contribute to a successful season. Key points include:
Key points
- Rafa Corporation signs a 3-year sponsorship deal with Kano Pillars Football Club.
- The partnership aims to support Nigerian football and create opportunities for young people.
- Discussions are underway on establishing a Rafa Football Academy in partnership with Kano Pillars.
