Kano Pillars Retain Amputee Football Championship Crown

By Arinzechi Chukwunonso

Kano Pillars have once again proven their dominance in Nigerian amputee football, successfully defending their title to emerge champions of the 2025 Nigeria National Amputee Football Championship, which concluded in Abuja on Friday.

The high-stakes final against Phoenix FC of Lagos lived up to its billing as a battle of skill, grit, and tactical discipline.

After an intense 0–0 stalemate in regulation time, the encounter was decided by penalties, where Kano Pillars held their nerve to convert all their spot-kicks, while Phoenix faltered twice — sealing a 3–1 victory for the champions.

The contest showcased the very best of amputee football. Bethel Emmanuel proved instrumental for Pillars, constantly testing the Phoenix defence, while tournament top scorer Michael Joel, ably supported by the energetic Onyekhozuru Collins, kept the Kano backline on edge throughout the match.

Despite several close opportunities at both ends, neither side could find the decisive goal until the dramatic shootout.

In the third-place playoff, Niger State edged Plateau State 3–1 on penalties after a hard-fought 1–1 draw in regulation time, capping an exciting week of top-tier competition.

Speaking after the final, Paul Maduakor, President of the Nigeria Amputee Football Federation (NAFF), lauded the exceptional quality of play and hailed the emergence of new stars across participating teams.

“I’m deeply impressed with the level of competition this year and the rise of promising young talents from clubs like Gidagida FC and Kaduna FC,” Maduakor remarked. “It clearly shows that the future of amputee football in Nigeria is very bright.”

He also commended the Kano State Government for its unwavering support for persons with disabilities, particularly amputee athletes, and expressed optimism about Nigeria’s prospects at the upcoming Amputee World Cup.

“With the blend of experienced foreign-based players and new homegrown talents discovered at this championship, I’m confident that Team Nigeria will make a strong impact on the global stage,” he added.