The Catholic Youth Organisation of Nigeria (CYON), Kano Diocese, has concluded its 2026 Bishop Olympic Games, with Holy Cross Parish, Badawa, emerging winners of the football competition after defeating St. Thomas Parish in the final.
The grand finale, held on Sunday, November 8, at St. Thomas Field, Kano, attracted Catholic youths from different parishes across the diocese and featured several sporting competitions.
In the football final, Holy Cross Parish defeated their hosts, St. Thomas Parish, 3–1 in a penalty shootout after the contest was decided by penalties.
Other results from the competition saw St.
Thomas Parish emerge winners of the volleyball event, while Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish won the men's 200-metre relay race.
Holy Trinity Parish, Zoo Road, emerged winners of the women's 100-metre relay race.
The grand finale was attended by the Kano State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Comr. Ibrahim A. Waiya, PhD, who was received by church and youth leaders.
Speaking at the event, Waiya congratulated the youths of Holy Cross Parish, Badawa, on their football victory and assured young people in the state of the Kano State Government's support and friendship.
He also acknowledged the importance of youth engagement and the role of sporting activities in creating opportunities for young people.
The event was held under the leadership of the Catholic Bishop of Kano Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. John Namaza Niyiring, OSA, with the participation of the Diocesan Chaplain Rev. Fr. Matthew Adah, Deanery Chaplains, Bro. Kingsley Okede diocesan president, parish youth executives and other stakeholders.
Beyond the sporting competitions, the Bishop Olympic Games provided an opportunity for young people from different parishes to interact, develop friendships and demonstrate their sporting abilities.
The annual event also underscored the role of faith-based youth organisations in promoting unity, teamwork, discipline and peaceful coexistence among young people.
The 2026 edition ended with congratulations to the winning parishes and recognition of all participating athletes and organisers.
