Breakthrough Football Academy has officially commissioned its football pitch in Kano, marking a significant milestone in its journey from training on sand to having a dedicated playing surface. The ceremony, held on Friday, October 9, represents an important moment for the academy as it continues its mission to nurture young talent and create pathways towards professional football.
For founder Hidaa Ahmad Ghadaar, the occasion reflects a journey shaped by ambition, adversity and a determination to give young players better opportunities. Born and raised in Kano in a Lebanese family, Hidaa developed a passion for football in childhood before pursuing the game more seriously while studying in Lebanon. Her dream of becoming a professional player was cut short by repeated knee injuries and multiple surgeries, leading her to redirect her passion towards coaching and youth development.
Returning to Kano, she established Breakthrough Football Academy to help young players access the guidance, discipline and opportunities needed to develop their talent. The transition from playing on sand to having a dedicated football pitch marks tangible progress towards that vision, providing a more suitable environment for training and player development.
The commissioning attracted public officials and community stakeholders, including Kano State Sports Commission Chairman Alhaji Muhammad Tukur Babangida, who attended on behalf of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf. He reaffirmed the state government's willingness to collaborate with private investors to develop sporting infrastructure and support young athletes, commending Hidaa's commitment to grassroots football and encouraging young players to use the facility to sharpen their skills and pursue professional opportunities.