Deeonemedianews

  The President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, Francis Orbih, has lauded the Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, for his visionary approach to sports development in the state.  Orbih disclosed this during an interview session with Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Kwara State Chapter at the Taiwo Awoniyi Sports Media Center in Ilorin, Kwara State. He expressed admiration for the governor’s commitment to improving sporting infrastructure, which he believes will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of sports in the region. Orbih particularly highlighted the ongoing construction of a state-of-the-art indoor sports hall in Kwara, describing it as one of the best in the country.  "The ongoing indoor sports hall is shaping up to be one of the best in Nigeria. It is a facility that will support the development of various sports and provide athletes with the kind of world-class environment they need to excel," Orbih said. The federation pres...

  Sweden-based Nigerian international and founder of MSport Link, Matins Moses Ebuka, has expressed his dedication to transforming young lives through the AddBrand Cup, a grassroots football tournament aimed at providing opportunities for talented kids from rural and underprivileged backgrounds. Speaking about the initiative, Matins said, “We want to show the kids that we value them and care for them. We want to use this tournament to keep their dreams alive.” He emphasized the inspiration he draws from the young participants, adding, “I see passion, I see hope, I see what football means to them, and I see myself in all these kids.” The AddBrand Cup, which has grown significantly since its inception, continues to attract talented children from Lagos State and surrounding areas, offering them a platform to showcase their skills without any participation fees. This commitment to accessibility ensures that financial barriers do not hinder the dreams of young athletes. “The tournament ...

  President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau MON, on Monday assured ball fans, administrators and Nigerians in general that the football-governing body will adequately prepare the various National Teams to bring joy and glory to the nation in the coming year.   While reflecting on the outgoing year 2024 and projecting for the coming year 2025, Gusau, still delighted with the Super Eagles’ nonchalant dismantling of Ghana’s Black Galaxies to qualify for the 8th African Nations Championship, disclosed that the focus of the NFF is on ensuring the adequate preparation of all National Teams to credibly compete for honours at major tournaments, and not simply turn up to make up the number.   “The era of Nigerian teams arriving at major championships just to participate is gone. Our objective now is to ensure that our teams can strongly contend for honours anywhere, and that can only be done by preparing the teams well ahead of qualifiers and competit...

  By Adewale Ajayi(SAJ) He is not one man who wants to be celebrated, infact, he prefers to dance without the trumpet or the drums. That is how Otunba Kunle Soname, the multi billionaire club owner whose team Remo Stars is currently top of the Nigeria Premier Football league loves to do his thing.  Over the years, this influential gentleman who hails from Ikenne Remo in Ogun state has steadily but silently climbed the podium of success, clinging so much to what he believes in and waiting to take his chance when the opportunity arises.  His journey into the now booming Sports Betting business started like childs play but it was just a matter of time before fate catapulted him to the very top. That same fate led him into football club ownership  where he has not only excelled but is on the verge of making history as the best football administrator to ever emerge from this part of the world.  For someone who just heard about the Nigeria premier league and desperate...

  The Senior Special Assistant to President Tinubu on Grassroots Sports Development, Adeyinka Adeboye, has conveyed the message of President Bola Tinubu to the technical crew and players of the Super Eagles B for picking one of the tickets for next year's African Nations Championship (CHAN) to be co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda from February 1st to 28th, 2025. Zulu, as the SSA is fondly called, said President Tinubu was happy with the players for their on-and-off-the-pitch performance and the grit and resilience they displayed in the course of the match which saw them triumphed after the blast of the final whistle by the Moroccan referee, Hamza El Fariq.  "I want to inform you, the players and the technical crew, that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is happy with your performance on Saturday at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo where you took your Ghanaian counterpart, the Black Galaxies, to the cleaners with your outstanding display and clinical finishes whi...

  The Nigeria Volleyball Reporters have extended their heartfelt congratulations to the President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), Engr. Habu Ahmed Gumel, on his recent appointment as the President of the Finance Commission of the Fédération Internationale de Volleyball (FIVB). This prestigious appointment highlights Engr. Gumel's growing influence in the international sports community.  The FIVB, in its recent announcement, revealed the formation of its Finance Commission, which comprises 12 distinguished members, including three representatives from Africa. Engr. Gumel's selection to this pivotal role underscores the trust and respect he commands within the global volleyball community. During a visit to Engr. Gumel's residence, the Nigeria Volleyball Reporters presented an award to the NOC President in recognition of his outstanding leadership and significant contributions to the development of volleyball in Nigeria, Africa, and globally.  The award acknowledges ...

  By Dayo Awoniyi Mr. Ebi Egbe, CEO of Monimichelle Group, has emerged as one of the winners of the prestigious Newstap/SWAN Five Star Sports Award. He's  joined by four other distinguished individuals who have made significant contributions to sports development in Nigeria. The other awardees include Executive Governor of Benue State, Reverend Father Hycinth Alia; President of NPFL side Kunle Soname; Chairman of Benue FA, Barrister Paul Edeh; and Strategic Partners of NPFL, GTI Assets Management and Trust Limited. According to the organizers, the selection process was rigorous, with numerous nominees vying for the award. However, these five individuals stood out for their passion, commitment, and immense contributions to Nigerian sports ¹. The award ceremony is scheduled to take place in Lagos on February 27, 2025. This recognition is expected to encourage the awardees to continue their excellent work and challenge others to strive for excellence in Nigerian sports.

  The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports Development,Adeyinka Adeboye, popularly known as Zulu, has charged home-based Super Eagles, to go for victory against their Ghanaian counterpart today.  The Coach Daniel Ogunmodede-tutored Super Eagles B will host in the second leg at the Black Galaxies at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo to pick at one of the tickets for next year's African Nations Championship (CHAN) to be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania from February 1st to 28th February, 2025. The first leg in Accra a week ago ended goalless.  Zulu, a seasoned sports administrator, in a release by his media office on Saturday said, "I want to call on our boys to go for victory against the Black Galaxies as the whole country is behind them. They are our pride and we will do all that is possible to make sure that they fly past their eternal rival.  "I want to urge them to maintain and sustain maximum concentration in the cou...

    For the first time in 69 years, Nigeria’s sports industry is on the brink of a revolution. The Federal Government of Nigeria’s (FGN) 2025 budget, presented by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the National Assembly on December 18, 2024, earmarked an unprecedented ₦78 billion for sports development. This historic allocation underscores a paradigm shift in the country’s approach to sports, signaling its potential as a powerful tool for national development, youth empowerment, and economic transformation. The massive financial commitment is part of the Renewed Hope Initiative for Nigeria’s Sports Economy (RHINSE), spearheaded by the National Sports Commission (NSC). Under the leadership of Mallam Shehu Dikko as Chairman and Hon. Bukola Olopade as Director General, the commission is resetting the narrative around sports in Nigeria. The initiative's Reset, Refocus, and Relaunch (RRR) framework aims to reposition sports as a vital driver of economic growth and social cohesion. “Thi...

The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, has urged Nigeria’s Super Eagles B, to avoid complacency as they prepare to face Ghana in a decisive qualifying match on Saturday, December 28, in Uyo.   Olopade emphasized the importance of capitalizing on home advantage and urged the players to remain disciplined, determined, and tactical throughout the match.   "This is not the time to relax or underestimate the opposition. The team must stay focused and give their best to avoid a repeat of the past disappointment against Ghana. The stakes are high, and the country is counting on them to deliver," Olopade said.   The first leg of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifier ended in a goalless draw in Ghana, leaving everything to play for in the return leg in Uyo. The winner of the match will secure a ticket to the 8th African Nations Championship.   Hon. Olopade reminded the team of the bitter experience Ni...

  Nothingham Forest and Super Eagles striker, Taiwo Awoniyi on Boxing Day hosted African Most Celebrated Football Agent, Makanjuola Nureni in his UK home, BSNSports.com.ng reports.  Makanjuola, who was in the United Kingdom for holiday, was received by the Nigerian and Nottingham Forest striker. The Chairman of Water FC, often known as MK described the visit to Awoniyi as unforgettable.  It was gathered that the renowned football Agent praised Awoniyi's model of humility while acknowledging his contributions to the development of the society.  Responding to the kind gesture, Awoniyi reciprocated by gifting MK with a Nottingham Forest Jersey.

  President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has thrown his weight behind early preparations for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics and other critical competitions. This much was revealed by National Sports Commission (NSC) Chairman, Shehu Dikko while declaring the virtual Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) Annual General Assembly open.  While pointing out that the Commission had resolved to go down a route never used in the past, Dikko observed that a key step is to change the nation's pattern of preparing for the Olympics and other major international competitions.  His words, "In addition to other sporting activities, myself and my DG have managed to create a deliberate budget line in the 2025 budget for the Olympics 2028 preparations. We want to make this a standard in sports budgeting as preparations should not only be left till the year of the event but also a continuous yearly process hinged on some domestic sports development. Every year we will make sure that there is funding  in ...

  In a move that underscores the Federal Capital Territory Football Association's (FCT FA) commitment to transparency and fairness, Chairman Adam Mouktar Mohammed has directed the Ethics and Disciplinary Committee to conduct a thorough investigation into a serious incident that marred the recently concluded bye election. The committee, which has been tasked with getting to the bottom of the incident, has been given a clear mandate to: - Investigate the Incident : Gather facts, testimonies, and evidence from all relevant parties to establish the roles and responsibilities of individuals or groups involved. - Assess Compliance with Rules and Regulations : Determine if any FCT FA statutes, election guidelines, or ethical codes were violated during the election process or related events. - Recommend Disciplinary Actions : Propose appropriate sanctions or corrective measures, if necessary, in accordance with the FCT FA Constitution and relevant regulations. - Provide Gui...

  The Director General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, says prioritising the  plight of the Country's Special Athletes is one of the integral commitments of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,GCFR, under the revamped Sports Commission. The NSC DG stated this over the weekend when he attended the final of the first edition of the Elite Wheelchair Basketball Championship held at the National Stadium in Lagos. The DG reiterated that every Sports will get its required attention from the National Sports Commission , stressing that the Mandate of Mr President is to ensure a sustainable Sports Economy is built by maximising the potential of every sport. " I must state here that myself and the Chairman of the Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko are totally committed to ensuring that you guys in wheelchair basketball, like every other para- sports, feel the impact of the renewed hope agenda of Mr President  " This is why events of this nature , as small as it may appea...

By Dayo Awoniyi The Federal Capital Territory Football Association (FCT FA) has announced the composition of its first six standing committees, demonstrating its commitment to fostering football development, governance, and innovation across the region. This was contained in a statement signed and made available to journalists by Mr. Adam Mouktar Mohammed, Chairman of the Federal Capital Territory Football Association. He stated that the committees will serve as the backbone of FCT FA's strategic operations to ensure effective management and sustainable growth of football in the FCT. During the inauguration, the Chairman revealed, "The FCT FA is committed to inclusivity and will continue to announce additional committees in the coming weeks to address other critical areas of our operations, including Area Councils, Strategic Development & Partnerships, Youth football, referees' development, and player welfare, Facilities, Media & PR, Appeals." "These appo...

"The era of losing our best sporting talents to foreign countries is over. Aggressive grassroots talent hunting will be put in place and those talents will be nurtured and supported to achieve their dreams and indeed to win laurels for the country without being poached by the opportunistic western world". National Sports Commission Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko put down this marker  while hosting 14 year-old serial-winning gymnast Stephanie Ogechukwu Onusiriuka and her mother.  Onusiriuka has been labelled Nigeria's Simone Biles drawing marked global acclaim and the Commission has moved to tie down her future to the country. She trains at the Leeds Gymnastics and is a member of the UK Gymnastics Club.  Having just finished her Senior Secondary Certificate Education (SSCE) examinations, her parents have been fielding calls from her UK club enquiring when she will be back. To this, Dikko jokingly asked her mother, "Why are they so keen on her returning? What is their pro...

    Director General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, has stated that Ogun State is witnessing a transformative era in sports development under the leadership of Governor Dapo Abiodun, as the state prepares to host the 22nd National Sports Festival, dubbed “Ogun 2024.” Speaking about the governor's achievements, Hon. Olopade stated, "Even before the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) was constituted, when Nilayo Sports Management bidded on behalf of Ogun State, it was evident Ogun was ready. During recent inspections, technical directors from various states applauded the facilities they saw. It was gratifying to know Ogun State's readiness was evident." Reflecting on past challenges, the former commissioner for sports in Ogun, said the legacy he left after office was destroyed and sports looked doomed “until Governor Dapo Abiodun started reawakening the sleeping giant in sports.” Governor Abiodun's administration has prioritized youth empowerm...

By Dayo Awoniyi Sunday Adeleye, Chairman/CEO of New Year Mega Lottery, has reaffirmed the company's dedication to supporting sports development in Nigeria. This commitment aims to give back to society and provide opportunities for youths to engage in positive activities. During the grand finale of the Nationwide League One (NLO) Super 8 in Abuja, Adeleye expressed his satisfaction with the tournament's organization. "I'm impressed with the NLO Super 8 organization, and it's a morale booster for us to continue supporting sports in Nigeria," he stated. "We believe that investing in sports will yield positive results and have a lasting impact on society." He further stated that the organization will not relent in putting smiles on the faces of Nigerians. Millions can be won with just two hundred naira (#200). The organization also used the occasion to distribute gifts to fans, supporters, and spectators in attendance. New Year Mega Lottery has demonstra...

  In a bold stride into sports merchandising, retired Nigerian referee Joseph Okeke has unveiled Lookalike Sports Shop, a state-of-the-art store nestled in the heart of Abuja at Plot 1387, Aminu Kano Crescent, Wuse II. The shop, reminiscent of high-end sports outlets seen in American movies, is a haven for sports enthusiasts, offering an unparalleled shopping experience. From top-class sneakers and canvases to perfectly styled mannequins and premium dumbbells, every detail screams excellence and style. Speaking at the grand unveiling, Okeke reflected on his lifelong passion for football. "Football has always been my passion. Though I couldn't play at the highest level, I found fulfillment in refereeing. While officiating, I developed an interest in the merchandising side of the game, starting small at Area 3 and later expanding to Garki Modern Market," he shared. Okeke emphasized the inspiration behind the new store: "We realized there was a segment of our clientele—...

By Dayo Awoniyi It appears that palliative sharing has become a death trap in Nigeria, given the alarming rate at which hungry Nigerians rush to distribution sites to receive food items, seeking relief from the hardships they face. Today, Saturday, December 21, 2024, was a tragic day in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, where at least ten people were reported dead at a worship center where food items were being distributed to the less privileged as a philanthropic gesture. Similarly, a community in Anambra State, Okija, experienced a devastating incident when a stampede occurred during a rice distribution event ahead of the yuletide celebrations. The event was allegedly sponsored by an indigenous oil magnate in the state. Reports estimate that at least 20 people, mostly women, lost their lives while attempting to obtain 10kg bags of rice for their families. The Okija stampede occurred just days after a similar incident took place at a funfair organized at a high school in Bas...

  NSC Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko has reiterated the commission's commitment to having a busy sports calendar all through the year.  Speaking at the final of the National Carnival Polo Tournament at the Guards Polo Club, Abuja, Dikko opined that polo has the potential to contribute to the planned sports weekend economy with a flurry of activities. His words, "Polo is one sport that brings together the lower, middle and higher level of the society and is also a very popular sport. So if you have events littered through the year not just in polo but across all sports, you can imagine the value chain it will create along the way. While here, I have taken my time to look around and I can count over 1000 people in employment here doing one activity or the other in these premises while this tournament is going on, those selling and those servicing the tournament and the polo ground itself. So it will be good if you hold these events more regularly, not just here, let other tournamen...

  By Dayo Awoniyi  Geezers Football Academy, a renowned football management and organization in Nigeria, is poised to discover and nurture young football talents through a series of robust competitions in 2025. During a media parley in Abuja, the academy's management team announced plans to stage football tournaments across various states in Nigeria, with the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) serving as the pilot center. The competition, which targets secondary school students, aims to identify, develop, and sponsor talented young footballers. The academy's Director, Project and Programme Development, Mr. Adeniyi Adedayo Abdulafee, emphasized the organization's commitment to strategic partnerships and collaborations to create sustainable opportunities for young talents. The academy also plans to launch a Secondary School Football League, focusing on grassroots football development, competitive excellence, teamwork, discipline, and leadership. Furthermore, Geezers Football Aca...

  Matchday 2 delivered an exciting spectacle with 40 goals scored across 16 matches in the four NNL conferences. As the teams settle into the league, Matchday 3 presents an opportunity to end the year on a high note before the Christmas break. Here’s a breakdown of the key matches across the conferences:  CONFERENCE  A   1472 FC  vs Smart City A rescheduled Lagos derby with high stakes for 1472. After missing their away match against Abia Comets, another forfeiture could have seen them out of the league. With a new date pending and a two-week break ahead, 1472 may have time to regroup and reenter the competition fully.  Beyond Limits vs Abia Comets This promises to be the standout match of the conference. Beyond Limits will aim to dominate at home, while the visitors from Umuahia look to prove their mettle in a game poised to showcase the league’s quality.  Warri Wolves vs Igbajo United  After suffering a 3-0 defeat to Beyond Limits, Igbajo U...

  The Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, has committed to supporting the continued growth of volleyball in Nigeria.  Adeniyi made this pledge during the closing ceremony of the 2024 Comptroller General of Customs Volleyball Premier League in Abuja. He highlighted the positive impact of the Premier League on Nigerian youth, noting that it had brought together over 1,000 young people from across the country.  “We are proud to sponsor this season’s Nigeria Volleyball Premier League, and we are equally grateful for the support from the Volleyball Federation and the broader volleyball community,” Adeniyi stated.  “These past two weeks have been filled with excitement and entertainment. Watching young talents showcase their skills and dedication has been truly inspiring. The enthusiasm and admiration from the crowd confirm the success of the event.” The Customs CG emphasized the significance of the tournament, which saw partici...

  Nigeria will host the 13th edition of the ECOWAS African Wrestling Tournament billed to hold between March 4th and 10th, 2025. This follows an assurance to this effect by National Sports Commission Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko. Dikko was playing host to Director of Youth and Sports Development, ECOWAS, Francis Njoaguani on Tuesday. Njoaguani came to ascertain the country's preparedness to host the event which will hold two months to ECOWAS' 50th anniversary. His words, "I want to assure you that we are committed. We will do everything possible to host the tournament. And we don't want it to be just a one-off. We want to do more of these tournaments." In Dikko's view,  hosting the event will be in tandem with the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu  commitment to ECOWAS and sports in general. "Few days ago I heard that our visionary President has met up with all Nigeria’s outstanding obligations to Ecowas. It's quite  quite a huge amount of money and shows th...