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Showing posts from October, 2024

FCT FA Chairman, Alh. Adam Mouktar mourns death of Chairman FCT Badminton Association, Mr Gabriel Gbayan.

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  The Chairman of the Federal Capital Territory Football Association Alhaji Adam Mouktar Muhammed extends his heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, sports family on the passing of illustrious son, Mr. Gabriel Gbayan, Chairman FCT Badminton Association, who sadly passed on, on October 27, 2024. The condolence messages was contained in a statement signed by the Media Adviser to the FA Chairman, Uche Nwudoh Hillary. Mouktar  describes Gbayan's legacy, compassion, and dedication as one that have left an indelible mark on the lives of many in Nigeria, especially in Sports. "This profound loss is deeply felt by his family, the entire Nigerian state particularly the FCT Badminton Association and the Sports family." "In this difficult time, my thoughts and prayers are with the FCT Badminton Association and his immediate family. May Almighty God grant them solace and strength to bear this irreparable loss." "He was a hardworking Nigerian, who dedicated a gre...

President Tinubu Reaffirms Strong Support for Team Nigeria at 2025 Invictus Games in Vancouver

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  President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has pledged comprehensive support for Nigeria’s team as they prepare to compete in the Invictus Games, set to take place in Vancouver, Canada, in 2025. Representing the President, Hon. Mohammed Abba Isa, Senior Special Assistant on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities, delivered this message of assurance during a sports training week organized by the Africa Unconquered Foundation. Hon. Isa emphasized that President Tinubu’s administration remains deeply committed to inclusivity and to supporting servicemen and women who inspire the nation with their bravery and resilience. Hon. Isa highlighted a recent moment of significance when Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, visited Nigeria, underscoring the country’s support for the Invictus Games. Prince Harry’s initiative to establish the Invictus Games offers a space where wounded and injured military personnel can experience healing and achievement through sports. "Their visit sho...

Nigeria Police Force Scores Big in Fight Against Crime: 1246 Suspects Arrested, 3172 Ammunition Recovered

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  Dayo Awoniyi The Nigeria Police Force has announced a significant milestone in its battle against crime, with the arrest of 1,246 suspects and recovery of 3,172 various ammunition in different criminal cases across the country. According to a statement released by the Force Headquarters, the arrests were made between October 1st, 2024, and spanned various categories of crime, including armed robbery, kidnapping, murder, and unlawful possession of prohibited firearms. The statement also revealed that operatives of the Nigeria Police Force had recovered 210 various firearms, 118 stolen vehicles, and rescued 64 victims of kidnapping. In a major breakthrough, the police arrested a notorious arms dealer, Jubril Musa, operating in Plateau State. Musa was found with a cache of arms and ammunition, including 2 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition, 1 makarov pistol, and 1 fabricated bronny pistol. He confessed to supplying arms to bandits and kidnappers. Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Ad...

Chaingang Cycling Club Abuja Announces 3rd Edition of Abuja Mountain Biking Festival: "Trails of Adventure"

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  The Chaingang Cycling Club Abuja is excited to announce the 3rd edition of its annual Mountain Biking (MTB) Festival, themed "Trails of Adventure," scheduled for November 23, 2024. This year's festival promises an exhilarating celebration of outdoor sports, community, and the breathtaking natural beauty of the Apo Resettlement area in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The Chaingang Abuja MTB Festival has become a landmark event in Nigeria's outdoor adventure calendar, attracting participants and spectators from across the nation. The festival offers a unique blend of mountain biking, running, hiking, and power biking, creating an unforgettable experience for all attendees. Event Highlights: Mountain Biking: Riders will navigate a challenging and scenic 30-kilometer trail with hilly terrains, technical sections, and smooth segments, testing their skills and endurance. Running: An 18-kilometer running trail awaits participants, with a mix of hilly and technical sec...

FCT FA chairman, Mouktar, congratulates former NFF 2nd Vice President, Sheu Dikko on his appointment by President Tinubu.

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  The Chairman of the Federal Capital Territory Football Association Alhaji Adam Mouktar Muhammed has expressed his warmest congratulations to the former Chairman of the League Management Company and 2nd Vice President, Mallam Shehu Dikko on his appointment as the Chairman, National Sports Commission by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.  The congratulatory message was contained in a statement signed Uche Nwudoh Hillary Media Adviser to the FA Chairman,  Mouktar describes Mallam Shehu Dikko’s appointment as a testament of his exceptional skills, experience and dedication to public service. "As a Sports enthusiast, I am thrilled to see an individual like Mallam Shehu Dikko being entrusted with such important role. "This appointment signifies President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's confidence in his ability to contribute to the enhancement of governance, and service delivery in Nigeria, especially in the area of Sports development. "I want to commend His Excellen...

Burna Boy, Davido Set to Perform at NPFL All-Star Game ...Each Player to Earn ₦1 Million Appearance Fee

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  In a bid to further elevate the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), the league’s board has partnered with leading sports management company, Nilayo Sports Management Limited (NSML), to organize the NPFL All-Star Game. Scheduled to take place at the end of the season, this highly anticipated event will showcase top players from the northern and southern regions of Nigeria, competing in a thrilling showdown at a venue to be announced soon. During the contract signing ceremony in Abuja, NPFL Chairman, Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, saying, "This marks another step in raising the profile of the league and creating a more engaging and entertaining environment for fans, players, and the private sector. We are constantly seeking innovative ways to grow the league, and we’re excited to have Nilayo Sports Management Limited on board to help make this happen." Hon. Bukola Olopade, Chairman of NSML, praised the NPFL board for its strides in impro...

Dare Brings Euro Scouts to Nigeria to Foster Youth Development and Talent Discovery

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  By Kola Daniel Immediate past Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Sunday Dare, is sponsoring a groundbreaking football tournament aimed at showcasing young Nigerian talents to scouts from across the world. The tournament, scheduled for October 23-24th at the Adamasingba Stadium in Ibadan, will provide aspiring footballers the chance to secure professional contracts that could transform their lives and communities. Scouts from Israel, Romania, and Egypt are expected to attend the event, alongside representatives from Spanish giants Real Madrid and Rayo Alcobendas, further raising the stakes for these budding stars.  This initiative aligns with Dare's passion to  contribute in nurturing and developing sports talent in Nigeria, while giving.m back to society through the creation of opportunities for young people. Organizers stated that the tournament underscores the importance of youth and sports development and the role it plays in empowering communities and fosteri...

Hajji Gafar Hails Ikorodu City On Recent NPFL Displays

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By Akeem Busari The Chairman of Lagos State Football Association, Hajji Gafar Liameed has hailed Lagos based NPFL side Ikorodu City on its newly found impressive form that has seen the Oga Boys, winning two games and with a draw in its last 3 matches. Gafar, speaking on the back on Ikorodu City latest 4-2 defeat of Lobi Stars in the week 8 of the NPFL season, praised the resilience and determination of the team to prove its mettle as a good team in the league. "I congratulate Ikorodu City for coming up with impressive results in their last 3 matches, so far", Gafar said. The Lagos FA boss went ahead to encourage the players, officials and management of the team to keep the newly found zeal and fervour, going forward into the upcoming matches in the league. He reassured the Ikorodu City and other Lagos based clubsides participating in various cadres of the Nigerian football league of the continuous support of the LSFA, in their bids for honours.

Chief Oladokun Jeremiah Congratulates Hon. Dr. Dare Monday Joshua( Venza)new chairman of Yagba East Local Government on his inauguration.

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  Dayo Awoniyi Chief Oladokun Jeremiah has extended his warmest congratulations to Hon. Dr. Dare Monday Joshua, popularly known as Venza, on his well-deserved election and inauguration as the Chairman of Yagba East Local Government. This milestone marks a new era of progressive leadership and transformative change for the people of Yagba East. Hon. Dr. Joshua's impressive track record speaks volumes about his capabilities and ability to take Yagba East Local Government to eldorado amongst other local Governments in Kogi state. Chief Oladokun Jeremiah praised Hon. Dr. Joshua's dedication to serving the best interests of every individual in the communities. He said his administration will no doubt build on his remarkable achievements during his time as caretaker chairman. He further said he's expecting him to  bring about significant improvements in the quality of life for Yagba East residents.   As Hon. Dr. Joshua continues to strive for excellence, Chief Oladokun Jer...

Hoops Action Returns: 2024 Men's Premier Basketball League Tips Off October 25

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  Dayo Awoniyi Following the successful conclusion of the 2024 Zenith Bank/NBBF Women's Premier Basketball League, the Nigeria Basketball Federation has announced the commencement dates for the highly anticipated 2024 NBBF Men's Premier Basketball League season. This season, 16 top clubs will compete in the Atlantic and Savannah conferences. The Savannah Conference will take place in Jos, Plateau State, from October 25 to November 3 at the Rayfield Indoor Gym, while the Atlantic Conference will be held at the Indoor Sports Hall, Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City, Edo State. The Atlantic Conference features defending champions Rivers Hoppers, who finished third at the last BAL Championship, alongside Kwara Falcons of Ilorin, Ebun Comets of Lagos, Hoops And Read of Lagos, Police Baton of Lagos, Lagos Legends of Lagos, Oluyole Warriors of Oyo State, and Delta Force of Delta State. The Savannah Conference includes Nigeria Customs of Abuja, Nile University of Abuja, Kano Pillars ...

Rugby Ruckus: Five Players Face Disciplinary Action After South-South League Brawl.

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  Five players are set to face a disciplinary hearing next week after being cited for their involvement in incidents during Wednesday's top-of-the-table clash between Delta State and Edo State. The tension boiled over just before halftime when Edo player Anwar Aliyu tackled Delta winger Isidor Okafor into touch, sparking a massive brawl. Another Edo player escalated the situation when a power struggle ensued, igniting a full-blown melee that dragged in numerous players. It took officials ten minutes to restore order. Two players, Christian Eleberi from Edo and Isidor Okafor from Delta, were sent to the sin-bin for initiating the altercation. Fortunately, the game resumed peacefully after the heated exchange. “Discipline is one of rugby’s core values. The physical intensity of the game demands strict boundaries to ensure it remains safe and fair for all players,” said NRFF General Manager Mr. Azeez Ladipo, who was present at Adolor College, Benin City, to witness the match.

Ex-Professionals All Stars Crowned Champions of 4th Abuja Veterans Tournament

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  Ex-Professionals All Stars triumphed as champions of the fourth edition of the Abuja Veterans Tournament, which concluded on Saturday, October 19, 2024, at the FIFA Goal Project Centre in Abuja. The Abuja-based Ex-Professionals defeated the highly favored Nyanya All Stars 5-4 in a penalty shootout, after regulation time ended in a goalless draw. Despite dominating possession from the start and creating several scoring opportunities, Nyanya All Stars were repeatedly denied by the brilliant performance of Ex-Professionals' goalkeeper, Ifeanyi, who was later named both the Most Valuable Player and Best Goalkeeper of the tournament. Nyanya’s inability to capitalize on their chances proved costly, as the match ultimately came down to penalties, where they fell short. In the third-place playoff, Like Minds All Stars edged out Corporate Kickers Sports Club, winning 5-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in regular time. Okam Orji Okam opened the scoring for Likeminds All Stars, Kuje in the 2...

FCT Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Disu visits Bwari/Ushafa communities, assures water tight security.

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  Dayo Awoniyi The newly appointed Commissioner of Police in the Federal Capital Territory, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, today visited the Bwari/Ushafa Communities to assess the security situation and evaluate ongoing deployments. According SP Josephine Adeh, Police Public Relations Officer  FCT Command, the  visit is to  underscores the Command's commitment to ensuring peace and security across the FCT, especially in communities facing challenges.  CP Disu engaged with traditional rulers, youth groups, and residents, addressing their concerns and emphasizing the police's dedication to swift and professional responses to threats. He further highlighted the importance of collaboration with the community, urging residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities. The Command also said that security architectures have  strengthened by the  deployments in key areas of Bwari, focusing on intelligence-driven operations and rapid response units.  CP ...

Goals, Networks, and Camaraderie: Corporate Stars League Kicks Off Oct 19

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  The countdown begins for the highly anticipated Corporate Stars League, launching in Abuja on October 19, 2024. The inaugural edition features eight teams, with draws held today in Abuja, setting the stage for an exciting competition. Olumide Aturu, Managing Director of 5Star Consultancy Limited, highlighted the league's significance: "We identified a gap in the corporate space and created the Corporate Stars League to bring professionals together, relive memories, network, and foster camaraderie." Enthusiasm was palpable among participating organizations. Mouktar Ahmed from the National Pension Commission (NPC) welcomed the league as a fun and networking opportunity, emphasizing sports' integral role in NPC's ecosystem. "Management was fully on board when the chance to participate arose." Williams Agbara from MTN expressed eagerness to showcase their skills and compete for the top spot. Labadan Yunusa from the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority no...

Nigerian Trailblazer Arabinrin Aderonke Scoops Top Honor at Sport Positive Awards 2024

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  Dayo Awoniyi  In a glittering ceremony held yesterday in London, Arabinrin Aderonke, Chief Executive Officer of Fame Foundation, was bestowed the prestigious Regional Leader - Africa award at the Sport Positive Awards 2024. Aderonke's triumph was all the more impressive given the stiff competition in her category, which included Super Eagles Captain, William Troost-Ekong, and a nominee from Kenya. This recognition underscores her tireless efforts in empowering women and girls through sports. As the helm of Fame Foundation, Aderonke has spearheaded numerous initiatives that have made a lasting impact on the lives of countless individuals in Nigeria, Africa, and beyond. With over 12 years of experience in the sports for development sector, her dedication to giving back to society has been unwavering. Reacting to her award, Aderonke expressed gratitude for the privilege to serve, stating, "I am so grateful for the privilege to serve, having worked in the 'sports for develop...

NFF Hails Aper Aku Stadium Upgrade, Sees Future Super Eagles Venue

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  The President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Ibrahim Gusau has expressed his satisfaction with the progress being made at Aper Aku Stadium in Makurdi, Benue State.  He highlighted the importance of having multiple stadiums in Nigeria where Grade A matches involving Super Eagles can be played.  "It is becoming a major source of worry to me and other Nigerians that in a country like Nigeria, we have only one stadium where we can play grade A matches involving Super Eagles. "So when I heard that the Governor has awarded contract for the upgrade of facilities at the Aper Aku Stadium, I hurriedly came to talk to him to see the extent to which we can come in to assist and I must confirm that am really happy with the quality of work on ground". The NFF President said, the Federation has a technical director who is working hand in hand with the contractors to ensure that the quality of work is not compromised so that in the nearest future, the facility would serve as an a...

Ebi Egbe, CEO of Monimichelle Sports Facilities Construction Limited, Congratulates Daniel Amokachi on Lobi Stars Appointment

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  Dayo Awoniyi Ebi Egbe, Chief Executive Officer of Monimichelle Sports Facilities Construction Limited, has congratulated Nigerian international, Daniel "The Bull" Amokachi, on his appointment as the new Technical Adviser of Lobi Stars Football Club of Makurdi. Mr. Egbe described Amokachi's appointment as "the round peg in the round hole," citing his technical expertise and wealth of experience.  "Daniel Amokachi's presence in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) will undoubtedly bring healthy competition and promote the league," he added. Amokachi joins an illustrious list of ex-internationals, including Emmanuel Amuneke, Finidi George, and Imama Amapakabo, who will also be coaching in the 2024/2025 season. Egbe's statement highlights Amokachi's potential to bring success to Lobi Stars and elevate the NPFL's profile.

Osimhen sideline as Eguavoen picks Ekong, Lookman, Simon, 20 others ahead of Libya match.

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    Head Coach Augustine Eguavoen has called Captain William Ekong, rave-of-the-moment Ademola Lookman, in-form winger Moses Simon and 20 other players for this month’s home-and-away 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying battle with the Mediterranean Knights of Libya.   Wing-backs Olaoluwa Aina and Bruno Onyemaechi are included, as well as goalkeepers Stanley Nwabali and Maduka Okoya, defenders Oluwasemilogo Ajayi and Calvin Bassey, midfielders Wilfred Ndidi, Raphael Onyedika and Alex Iwobi, and forwards Taiwo Awoniyi, Victor Boniface and Samuel Chukwueze.   Reigning Africa Player of the Year Victor Osimhen is excluded on grounds of injury, just as South Africa-based centre-back Olisa Ndah, but defender Bright Osayi-Samuel makes his way back after missing the duels with Benin Republic and Rwanda last month, and in-form playmaker Chidera Ejuke returns to the fold after many moons.   Veteran forward Kelechi Iheanacho is also listed, as well as midfielders Fisayo D...

Dr. Opeyemi Aderinto Fish Honored as World Outstanding Transformational Leader

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  Dayo  Awoniyi The Executive Director of the African Center for Human Advancement, Social and Community Development (ACHASCOD), Dr. Opeyemi Marcellina Aderinto Fish, has been bestowed the prestigious title of "World Outstanding Transformational Leader" by Yes You Can International UK, a renowned non-governmental organization dedicated to promoting human development and socio-cultural advancement. According to Queen Dr. Elizabeth Lucas Afalolu, leader of the group, Dr. Aderinto Fish was recognized for her organization's remarkable contributions to human advancement and community development, as well as her unwavering commitment to supporting the less privileged and downtrodden in society. In her response, Dr. Aderinto Fish expressed gratitude to the organizers for considering her worthy of the honor and pledged to continue making a positive impact. She also congratulated Yes You Can International on its 4th anniversary and prayed for continued growth and success in their ...

FCT Police storms kidnappers hideouts, arrests four, recover arms and ammunitions. …as Police proactively forestall intended attacks in the FCT on 1st October 2024.

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Dayo Awoniyi The Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the FCT Police Command on 1st October 2024, acting on credible intelligence, trailed and arrested four notorious kidnappers who have been terrorizing the Federal Capital Territory namely: YAU SANI, a.k.a. Baba (an ex-convict), NUHU, a.k.a. Giwa, KABIRU MOHAMMED, and YUSUF HASSAN, at their criminal hideout in Sauka, Abuja living within the general population. According to a statement released by  SP Josephine Adeh, The FCT Police Command  Public Relations Officer,th e suspects confessed to being responsible for series of kidnappings of unsuspecting residents in FCT and its environs, and  the killing of seven (7) victims in the process. According to her,thes gang have also attacked Dakwa, Dawaki, Aco estate, Dupe Village Zuma rock, Kuchiko village and some villages in Niger and Kaduna. They also led Police operatives to another hideout in Gauraka Forest, Suleja, Niger State, where they dug out four (4) AK-47 rifles, thirteen (13) A...

United for football: FCT FA's AGM celebrates progress and potentials, heaps praises on current leadership.

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  Dayo Awoniyi The FCT Football Association wrapped up its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on September 30, 2024, with a renewed sense of purpose. The association expressed gratitude to the Honourable Minister of the FCT, the FCT Sports Council, and the people of FCT for their unwavering support. The AGM also commended the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) under Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau's leadership for providing a conducive environment for the association's activities. This acknowledgment highlights the collaborative spirit necessary for football development. Key resolutions emerged from the meeting, including the promotion of teams from the FCT League division 2 to 1 for the 2024 season. Additionally, Area Councils were praised for their grassroots football initiatives and competitions. To ensure sustained growth, the AGM urged the FCT Football Association to secure sponsors and partners. A by-election for the vacant 1st Vice Chairman position was also approved, with the electo...