African Beach Soccer Union (ABSU) President Mahmud Hadejia has applauded the Kaduna State Government for its support and commitment to the preparation of the Super Sand Eagles ahead of their decisive return-leg encounter against Ghana in the 2026 Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

Hadejia made the remarks during the national beach soccer team's visit to the Kaduna State Ministry of Sports Development, where he expressed appreciation to the state government and ministry leadership for providing the necessary support throughout the team's preparations.

Speaking on behalf of the players and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), the ABSU president highlighted the importance of the partnership between the team and the ministry, noting that the assistance had enabled the squad to enjoy an extended period of preparation.

“I want to, on behalf of the team and also the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), appreciate the Kaduna State Government for the support.

“Particularly the synergy and relationship and the care we have had from the Ministry of Sports Development. Without the support of the Ministry, I don't think this would have happened,” Hadejia said.

He explained that the team had benefited from a level of preparation it had not enjoyed for some time, including friendly matches and competitive engagements leading up to the AFCON qualifiers.

“It has been quite a while that this team had such kind of preparation. All the engagements that we had, from the friendly to the qualifier. Sincerely, on behalf of the team, we want to appreciate the government and also wish the Ministry well,” he added.

Hadejia also commended the ministry's leadership for its hospitality and for ensuring the welfare of both the Nigerian team and visiting delegations during their stay in Kaduna.

“The leadership of the Ministry have also done well in terms of taking care of our guests and team. We want to send an appreciation message to the leadership of the ministry. Kaduna is now the home of Sand Eagles. Nobody can take it away,” he said.

The ABSU president further disclosed that the team would proceed to Abuja before travelling to Ghana for the return leg of the qualifiers, expressing confidence that the Super Sand Eagles would secure their place at the continental tournament.

“On this note, we will be embarking on a journey to Abuja. By Friday, we should be flying to Ghana to get our AFCON ticket, Insha Allah,” Hadejia stated.

The first leg of the qualifiers in Kaduna ended in a 3-3 draw, leaving Nigeria with a crucial task in the return fixture in Keta, Ghana, as the team seeks to qualify for the 2026 Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations in Senegal.