Hearts, Enyimba, Sundown to play in Kano

Mega-mix Consults have finally signed agreement with four clubs to feature in the maiden edition of the African Clubs Challenge Cup in Kano on July 7 and 8. Chief Executive officer of the organization, Alhaji Shuaibu Gara Gombe disclosed that the deal was sealed last week between his firm and Enyimba International of Nigeria, Mamelodi Sundown of South Africa, Accra Hearts of Oak, Ghana and Kano Pillars.

Gara said that the initiative was to aid the clubs in preparing for the new season which he said was the vogue in other parts of the world. “The two-day tournament is a private sector initiative,” Gara said. “It’s a way of getting the clubs ready for the next season. We just feel that we have to organise more competitions for Nigerian clubs other than the ones on CAF calendar. I’ve sealed the deal with the clubs.”

The Mega-mix boss refused to disclose the take home of the participating clubs insisting that it was meant to be a secret between his firm and the clubs, noting that insurance policies have been secured for the players and officials, Gara said that he was embarking on this noble venture to develop football in Nigeria, stressing that in spite of the country’s sterling show at the international arena not much can be said of the game locally.

“We are in this to develop local football in Nigeria,” he said. In spite of our strength and performance at the international stage, nothing is happening in the local scene. This is our contribution to the development of the game here at home.

“I’ve been so controversial in the past but now I want to dissipate my energy in helping the game to grow in Nigeria. The tournament is a kind of pre-season show for Hearts, Enyimba, Pillars and even Sundown.”

Gara appealed to corporate Nigerians to grab the opportunity offered by the tournament to showcase their brands as it would be televised live by Super Sports as well as some local television stations. The Nigeria Football Association, NFA, have given their blessing for the championship.