Governor Bala Seeks International Partnerships to Reposition Wikki Tourists
News Desk:
Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State has called for practical strategies to attract credible sponsors, investors and strategic partners capable of strengthening the commercial development and sustainability of Wikki Tourists Football Club.
Speaking during the official unveiling of football marketers from Barcelona and Abuja, the Governor said government expects measurable outcomes in sponsorship, investment, branding, merchandising, partnerships and other commercial opportunities for Wikki Tourists.
Bala Mohammed who was represented by his Deputy Auwal Jatau said the State Government is supporting development of an official website and digital platform for Wikki Tourists, to enhance branding, supporters’ registration, sponsorship visibility, merchandising, ticketing and communication.
He urged the marketers, board and management to ensure professionalism, transparency and accountability, stressing that proposed partnerships must strengthen revenue generation, attract investment and gradually reduce the club’s dependence on government funding.
A Football marketer from Spain, Gene Joseph, said his visit to Bauchi followed discussions with consultant to the African Union on Sports, Jacob Onu, who introduced him to Wikki Tourists’ potential.
Gene Joseph said he was impressed by the facilities, players, coaches and supporters he earlier visited, expressing readiness to help establish partnerships with European clubs and develop Wikki Tourists into a sustainable football brand.
On his part, a consultant to the African Union on Sports Jacob Onu who expressed concern with recent poor performance of Wikki Tourists explained that the club requires accountability, proper structures and sound management to return to the Premier League and achieve long-term sustainability.
He said the marketers would facilitate exchange programmes and partnerships involving clubs in Spain, Poland, China and elsewhere, enabling player development, international tours, investment opportunities and stronger commercial prospects.