Kaduna hockey teams reassert dominance in Nigeria, West Africa

Kaduna State has once again cemented its status as Nigeria’s premier hockey power following another historic exit by its men’s and women’s hockey teams, Kada Stars and Kada Queens, who continue to dominate the sport both at home and beyond the country’s borders.

At the 2026 National Hockey Super League Finals held at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, Kada Stars retained the men’s title after beating Plateau Tigers 3–2 to secure a record fifth consecutive championship.

Kada Queens also successfully defended their women’s title with a 2-0 win over Plateau Queens, claiming their fourth consecutive title.

Earlier in the year, both teams extended their dominance on the international stage by emerging champions of the men’s and women’s categories at the 2026 Median HFS West Africa Invitational Challenge Cup in Accra, Ghana.

The double triumph further cemented Kaduna State as a major hockey force across West Africa.

Since the 2023 National Hockey Super League season, Kada Stars and Kada Queens have remained the undisputed champions of their respective categories, a remarkable achievement that reflects their consistency, resilience and winning mentality.

Kaduna’s influence on Nigerian hockey is equally evident in the national teams. Currently, 8 players from the Nigerian women’s hockey team and 10 players from the men’s national team are products of Team Kaduna, highlighting the state’s enduring role as the country’s leading hub for developing hockey talent.

Reacting to the impressive results, the Permanent Secretary and Supervisor of the Kaduna State Ministry of Sports Development, Mrs. Dorcas IB Tanko, commended the players, coaches and technical officials for their dedication and outstanding performances, describing the victories as a proud moment for Kaduna State.

He attributed the teams’ sustained success to the steadfast commitment and visionary leadership of Governor Senator Uba Sani, whose administration has continued to prioritize sports development through strategic investments in athlete welfare, infrastructure, coaching and grassroots talent development.

According to Mrs. Tanko, the Governor’s deliberate support has created an environment conducive to athlete excellence, resulting in consistent victories in national and international competitions and producing a significant number of players who proudly represent Nigeria on the global stage.

He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to sustaining its achievements by strengthening talent development programs and providing the necessary support to ensure that Kaduna State remains the undisputed home of hockey and a model of sporting excellence in Nigeria.