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 described the sponsorship as a natural connection between a proudly Nigerian manufacturing business and a football institution whose significance extends far beyond the field of play.
Rabiu highlighted the club's extraordinary following, enduring place in Kano's identity, and distinguished contribution to Nigerian football as key factors in the partnership. He noted that for many people born and raised in Kano, supporting Pillars begins in childhood and becomes a lifelong attachment. Football, he added, brings young people together, encouraging discipline, friendship, and a shared sense of purpose.
The partnership aims to extend beyond brand visibility to support the club's development and expand its reach across Nigeria and beyond. Rabiu recalled earlier support for Kano Pillars by BUA Group back in 2013, describing the agreement as a renewal of a longstanding connection and a foundation for greater collaboration. He also commended the Executive Governor of Kano State, His Excellency, Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf, for his continued support for the club and commitment to youth and human capital development.
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 noted that stronger private-sector partnerships would help reduce dependence on government funding, support academy development, and provide a sustainable foundation for sporting success. Garo expressed confidence that the collaboration would bring renewed momentum to the club and contribute to a successful season.
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.
Kano Pillars, founded in 1990, is one of Nigerian football's most distinguished institutions, with four national league championships and a semi-final appearance in the 2009 CAF Champions League. With a median age of 18.3 years, there is a need to engage the huge and growing young population in a productive manner, and the Rafa Football Academy aims to provide opportunities for young talent to develop and succeed.
Key points
- Rafa Corporation signs a three-year shirt sponsorship deal with Kano Pillars Football Club.
- The partnership includes plans for a Rafa Football Academy to develop young players.
- The collaboration aims to support Nigerian football and create opportunities for young people.
