In 2022, CK Gefane FC secured its first significant corporate sponsorship, which provided the financial boost the club needed to expand its operations. This partnership would be a key factor in enabling CK Gefane FC to invest in more advanced training programs, recruit higher-quality staff, and offer better opportunities for their players.

The Deal with KGEES Diamond LTD

After several years of negotiations, CK Gefane FC reached an agreement with KGEES Diamond LTD to become the club’s official sponsor. The partnership included financial support for team operations, as well as a commitment to improve the club’s facilities, including the expansion of the training ground and the purchase of new kits and equipment.

Mrs. Akadri Bilikisu Blessing’s Reflection:

“Securing our first corporate sponsor was a dream come true. It meant that our vision was being recognized and supported by those who believed in the future of youth football. It gave us the resources to elevate the quality of our programs and reach even more players.”

Improved Training Facilities and Player Development

With the new sponsorship deal, CK Gefane FC was able to hire additional coaches and provide players with a more professional training environment. The club also introduced specialized training programs, focusing on specific skills like technical ball control, fitness, and mental toughness. The sponsorship also allowed the club to expand its youth development programs, attracting more young players from across Kaduna and beyond.

Impact of Sponsorship on the Club’s Community Role
The sponsorship not only allowed CK Gefane FC to enhance its football development programs but also amplified its impact within the community. With the backing of KGEES Diamond LTD, the club organized free football clinics and outreach programs for underprivileged children in the region, giving many a chance to experience professional football training for the first time. These programs further strengthened the bond between CK Gefane FC and the local community, fostering a sense of pride and belonging.

Additionally, the club launched initiatives to provide educational scholarships for talented young players who were unable to afford formal schooling. This holistic approach to youth development demonstrated CK Gefane FC’s commitment to nurturing not just athletes but well-rounded individuals.

Player Testimony (Emmanuel Okafor):
“I never thought I’d have access to professional-level training at this stage in my career. The sponsorship brought new opportunities for all of us and gave kids in my community something to dream about.”

A Catalyst for Growth
The partnership with KGEES Diamond LTD marked a turning point in CK Gefane FC’s journey. With increased funding and resources, the club expanded its footprint, participating in more tournaments and improving its performance on the field. It also gave CK Gefane FC the confidence to approach additional sponsors, leading to the eventual involvement of KOMET NIG. LTD and other local partners.

Building Toward the Future
The success of the first corporate sponsorship deal laid the foundation for the professionalization of CK Gefane FC. It was a bold step forward, ensuring the club would remain competitive in the Nigerian youth league while continuing to produce top-tier talent ready for international opportunities.

Mrs. Akadri Bilikisu Blessing summed it up best:
“This partnership was about more than just football. It was about hope, opportunity, and building something that will last for generations. CK Gefane FC is not just a club; it’s a family, a community, and a dream for young players.”

The club ended 2022 on a high note, with increased visibility, stronger team performance, and a clear path toward sustainable growth, setting the stage for even greater achievements in the years to come.