The Kano State Government has thrown its weight behind a high profile novelty football match involving FC Barcelona Legends and African Football Legends, scheduled to take place on December 19, 2026, at the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kano.

The Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Comrade Abdullahi Ibrahim Waiya, confirmed the state's readiness to host the historic encounter during a press conference at the ministry following a meeting with the match organiser and Chief Executive Officer of Zeus Sports Promotion, Mr Emmanuel Emenogu.

As part of activities marking the announcement, Waiya received a Barcelona jersey presented by a representative of the Spanish football giants. 

He also disclosed that officials from the ministry would visit the Sani Abacha Stadium next week to inspect the facility and assess its preparedness for the international football spectacle.

Beyond the novelty match, Emenogu revealed that the proposed partnership with Barcelona could open the door to a massive sports development initiative in Kano, including plans to establish a Barcelona Academy where children would combine formal education with professional training in football, basketball and handball.

He further disclosed plans to construct a five-star hotel equipped with accommodation and training facilities to cater for professional athletes and teams visiting the state for training camps and other sporting engagements.

According to Emenogu, the proposed investment package could be worth approximately €1.5 billion if approved, with the December 19 encounter serving as a crucial step towards securing final approval for the broader initiative.

He explained that the novelty match would provide Barcelona representatives with an opportunity to experience Kano's peaceful environment, rich sporting culture and investment potential, while strengthening the relationship between the Spanish club and the state.

The star-studded encounter is expected to feature renowned African football icons, including Didier Drogba, John Obi Mikel and Samuel Eto'o, alongside former Barcelona superstars such as Brazilian legend Ronaldinho.

The December 19 spectacle is expected to attract football enthusiasts from across Nigeria and beyond, while placing Kano in the spotlight as the state intensifies efforts to position itself as a leading destination for sports development, international partnerships and major investments.