Deeonemedianews

  By Wale Ajayi  After their exploits in football, Sports lovers waited anxiously for that elevation, that will see Shehu Dikko and Bukola Olopade step up to the next level of sports administration, as they saw in both sport technocrats, visionary leaders, with a knack for excellence and an eye for success.  That perhaps explains the euphoria that greeted their appointment as Chairman and Director General of the National Sports Commission. President Bola Tinubu must have done proper investigation to have found out that these men have painstakingly built a reputation for themselves in Sports marketing and administration as both individuals have always distinguished themselves as two of the best brains in the sector.  Shehu Dikko's success story in football, especially during his tenure as chairman of the League Managenent company was outstanding, while Bukola Olopade on his part, transformed wheelchair basketball in Nigeria from obscurity to international limelight. H...

  The Nigeria Football Federation has inaugurated an interim management board for the unification of the Nigeria supporters club.  According to the memorandum of understanding signed by the six recognized supporters groups for Nigerian football, the abridged name for the association shall be called The Nigerian Football and Sports Supporters Group till when newly elected administrators  of the association would take over from the interim management. The unification effort to bring all factions under one body for progress and better organisation was initiated by the Nigeria Football Federation. The Interim Management Committee (IMC) shall pilot the affairs of the NFSSC for a period of one year and it is composed of representatives from the formerly divided factions, with fair and equal representation. The tenure of the IMC shall not be renewable or extended under any circumstances and upon the expiration of the IMC’s tenure, a duly elected executive body shall take over th...

  The Director General of the National Sports Commission, NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, has used the occasion of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's 73rd Birthday celebrations to praise and salute his invaluable Leadership and Mentorship Qualities. Hon Olopade who is the Osi Asoju Oba of Egbaland said  President Bola Ahmed is a perfect example of a true living legend for all his achievements from his days as a private citizen to now being one of Africa's most influential Political figures. " I must say with every sense  of confidence that as a country we are very lucky to have someone like President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to lead the nation at this critical time of our history and Nigeria Sports is already reaping from his excellent and Visionary leadership"  " And as a country I know that we are facing some challenges and the President is putting a lot of strategies in place to ensure that the sacrifices of today are  met with long term gains for the Country". " I wa...

  The Sporting city of Abeokuta will come alive in a few days time when the highly anticipated BetKing 3x3 wheelchair Basketball tournament begins from April 3 to 7, 2025. The entire Ijeja neighborhood in Abeokuta is already anticipating the dunking off of the tournament and also gearing up to welcome top sports dignitaries and athletes from across the Country. Among the top administrators expected at the tournament include the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, NSC, Mallam Shehu Dikko, the Director General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade and the President of the Nigeria Para-Olympic Committee, Sunday Oyebode. The Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Elite Athletes and Podium Board, Yusuf Ali , is also expected to grace the Championship. President of the Nigeria Wheelchair Basketball Federation, Seyi Johnson,  emphasized the core essence of the tournament which he says it's primarily to discover new talent and select players for the National team. " As a board we ar...

  On the 3rd of March, 2023, the Benue state Government entered into a contract with Monimichelle Sports Facilities Construction Limited to resurface Aper Aku Stadium football pitch following a fabrication that the Nigeria Professional Football League organizer had banned the pitch for hosting matches.  The contractor, highly recommended, was invited by the then Governor Samuel Ortom, to come and handle the project because it was his company that constructed the same pitch that lasted for 15 years without any serious maintenance.  Therefore, the contract was awarded to Monimichelle Sports Facility Construction Limited at the cost of N243, 361, 470.00 (Two hundred and Sixty One Million Three Hundred and Sixty One Thousand Four Hundred and Seventy Naira) only. The terms of contract stipulated that 30% of the value of the contract was to be released to the contractor in advance to mobilize him to site.   The stadium was handed over to the contractor by the governme...

  It has come to our attention that a misleading report is being circulated regarding the renovation of Aper Aku Stadium, particularly concerning Monimichelle Sports Facilities Construction Limited and its Managing Director, Mr. Ebi Egbe. First, let it be known that while the Benue State House of Assembly is within its rights to seek accountability on public projects, the claims made in the report by Austin Tyowua are riddled with inaccuracies and exaggerations. 1. Funding and Project Timeline The allegation that Monimichelle Sports collected "large sums of money without tangible results" is both misleading and malicious. Renovation projects of this magnitude follow structured phases, and payments are made based on the progress of work done—not arbitrarily. As of today, the work done on the stadium is visible, and while delays have occurred, it is due to factors beyond the contractor’s control, including bureaucratic processes and logistical challenges. 2. Project Scope and P...

  By Dayo Awoniyi Plateau United head coach Mbwas Mangut is confident that his team can finish the season on a high note after securing a hard fought 1-0 victory over Rangers in Enugu. The win at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium on Thursday boosted Plateau United's position in the league standings, with the Jos-based club climbing to 11th place on the NPFL table with 41 points from 31 matches. Mangut hailed the significance of the result, saying, "This victory means a lot to us. We faced a tough period, but we are gradually picking up points." The coach believes that the win over Rangers will give his team the momentum needed to finish the season strong. "Beating Rangers gives us more confidence to finish the season strong," he said. With the win, Plateau United's hopes of a top finish have been reignited, and Mangut will be looking to build on this momentum in their upcoming matches.

  The highly anticipated BetKing Wheelchair Basketball 3×3 National Open Championship is set to take place at the Lake Sports Centre, Ijeja, Abeokuta, Ogun State, from April 3 to 4, 2025.  The championship, backed by BetKing's sponsorship, marks a major boost for wheelchair basketball, which is rapidly growing into one of Nigeria's premier para-sports.   Speaking ahead of the event, the President of the Nigeria Wheelchair Basketball Federation (NWBF) expressed profound gratitude to BetKing for their unwavering support.   "On behalf of Nigeria Wheelchair Basketball, the entire board, and every stakeholder in the sport, I want to personally appreciate BetKing for all they are doing. When we approached them, it felt as though they were already expecting us. Their immediate willingness to support us shows they truly understand Nigeria’s sports history and the vital role Special Sports have played in the country’s international successes over the years," he said...

  The National Sports Commission (NSC) has confirmed that His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will officially flag off the Unity Torch movement at a ceremony scheduled for Tuesday, March 25, 2025, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. The Commission described the Unity Torch as a symbol of peace and unity, emphasizing its significance in fostering national cohesion.  "The Unity Torch, which symbolizes peace and unity, will be taken around the capitals of all states of the Federation to herald the National Sports Festival and transmit the message of peace and brotherhood among the people of Nigeria," the official communication stated. The Festival, which is Nigeria's premier multi-sport event, will bring together athletes from across the country to compete in various sporting disciplines, promoting talent discovery, unity, and sportsmanship. Recall that across the nation, zonal eliminations took place a few weeks ago, as State contingents jostled for slots to compete a...

  Top International Athletes have continued to show interest to be part of the Enugu City Marathon billed to hold on the 3rd of May 2025 in the Coal city State. The Maiden edition of the Enugu City Marathon has continued to generate widespread attention and buzz both within and outside the Country from interested runners. Nigeria is undoubtedly becoming a hub for Road Races not only in Africa but in the World, especially due to the huge success of road races like the Gold labelled Access Bank Lagos City Marathon and the Ogun Women Run. And Organisers of the Enugu City marathon, Nilayo Sports Management Company and the Government of the state have started working on modalities to ensure it sets new standards for the race. The race is expected to showcase the beautiful landscape and tourist potentials of Enugu state to the entire World and will further prove the tireless hard work of Governor Peter Mbah in transforming the  state to becoming one of Nigeria's fast growing modern ...

  The ongoing renovation of Aper Aku Stadium by Monimichelle Sports Construction is gradually taking shape, despite challenges ranging from logistics to bureaucratic hurdles.  On March 19, 2025, a joint team of supervisors from the Ministry of Works and Housing and the Ministry of Youths, Sports, and Creativity convened for their monthly progress meeting, bringing together architects, quantity surveyors, civil engineers, and builders to assess the pace and quality of the work being executed. During the meeting, the supervisory team commended the speed and quality of the renovation while acknowledging the complexity of upgrading a 10,000-capacity stadium that has remained untouched for 35 years.  They noted that refurbishing such a structure is more demanding than constructing a new one, as every technical detail requires careful evaluation to ensure durability and modern standards.  The supervisors also appreciated Governor Alia's determination and commitment towards...

By Tema Ager. A visit to Aper Aku Stadium in Makurdi will leave anyone marveling at the ongoing renovation work. Despite the lingering dispute between the contractor, Monimichelle, and the Benue State Sports Commissioner, Hon. Terkimbi Ikyange, the level of progress at the stadium speaks volumes about the transformation underway. While Monimichelle is focused on delivering a world-class sports facility, allegations persist that certain quarters believe the Hon. Commissioner is deliberately frustrating the government's efforts. However, beyond the political wrangling, what truly matters is the impressive work being carried out at the stadium. Determined to get firsthand information, I personally visited the facility and met with the CEO of Monimichelle Mr Ebi Ezekiel Egbe. After an extensive tour, I can confidently say that despite some delays, once completed, the stadium will not only be fully operational but will also gain global recognition. Significant upgrades are being impleme...

  By Dayo Awoniyi The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) is set to revolutionize football development in the country with the groundbreaking ceremony of a modern players' hostel and training pitches in Abuja. Scheduled for Tuesday, the ceremony will be performed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas GCON. The NFF-FIFA Players' Hostel, a 68-room facility, will provide comfortable accommodations for players, featuring 62 single rooms, four suites, and two executive suites. Additionally, the project includes the construction of two new training pitches, reconstruction of the existing synthetic pitch, sitting terraces for spectators, and dressing rooms for players and officials. Funded by FIFA through its FIFA Forward 3.0 program, the construction project is expected to last 24 months. NFF President, Ibrahim Musa Gusau, expressed excitement about the project, stating that it will enhance team management, reduce expenditure, and enable the NFF to co...

  The President of the Nigeria Wheelchair Basketball Federation, Seyi Johnson, has praised the Corporate Social sagacity of BetKing for it's support to the growth of the Sports in the Country. Wheelchair Basketball which represents one of the fastest growing Para-Sports in the Country, has been boosted with the partnership and Sponsorship from BetKing. The President of the Federation, Seyi Johnson said BetKing has shown that they are a true lover of Nigerian Sports and special sports in particular, with all its doing for the Federation. " On behalf of the Nigeria Wheelchair Basketball,  the entire board and every stakeholder in the Sport, I want to personally appreciate BetKing for all they are doing. " Words are too few to express my sincere gratitude to them because they have really shown that this is where their mouth is, with the kind of support we are getting from them". " When we approached them , it was just like they were already expecting us and they sh...

  The National Sports Commission (NSC) has applauded the Nigerian contingent at the 2025 Spanish Parabadminton International, after another impressive outing that saw the team secure a gold and a bronze medal in Toledo, Spain, on Sunday. Paralympic medallist Eniola Bolaji continued her dominance, winning her second gold medal in two weeks with a commanding 2-0 (21-7, 21-10) victory over Turkey's Halime Yildiz in the women’s SL3 final. Bolaji had won gold a week earlier at the Spanish International in Victoria, Spain. In the men’s SL4 doubles event, Nnana Jeremiah and Eze Chukwuebuka delivered a strong performance, battling their way to a well-deserved bronze medal. NSC Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, commended the athletes for making Nigeria proud and praised the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, led by Francis Orbih, for ensuring the team’s optimal performance on the international stage. “These athletes have once again showcased the resilience and talent that define Nigerian sports. ...

  World number 2 Eniola Bolaji has solidified her dominance in para-badminton SL3 by winning her second medal in two weeks.  The Paralympic bronze medallist triumphed over Turkey's Halime Yildiz 2-0 (21-7, 21-10) in the women’s final at the Spanish Para Badminton International 2025 in Toledo, Spain, today Sunday 16th March 2025. Bolaji began her campaign by defeating India’s Sanjana Kumari 2-0 (21-15, 21-8) in the second round, followed by a 2-0 (21-9, 21-12) win over Turkey's Halime Yildiz in the third round.  The multiple African champion then dispatched Ukraine’s Oksana Kozyba 2-0 (21-16, 21-4) in the semifinal. An elated President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, Francis Orbih praised Eniola Bolaji’s resilience and continued record-breaking achievements in para-badminton.  He highlighted her status as the only African player to win 12 gold medals in all internationals played. Orbih said, “I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Eniola Bolaji on her incred...

The Director General of the Nigeria Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, has joined the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, to decorate the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, as the Grand Patron of the 2025 African Women's Volleyball Championship.  The event which took place at the Presidential Villa, celebrated the First Lady’s relentless support for women’s sports development and her commitment to advancing significant causes in Nigeria and across the continent. Accepting the honour, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, emphasized that women have a rightful place in all spheres of the nation and can occupy that space through hard work and dedication. The First Lady highlighted Nigeria’s esteemed position in the global sports community, crediting the tireless efforts of female athletes. She encouraged them to mentor and inspire young Nigerian girls with their stories of perseverance and success. Addressing the female officers in attendanc...

  By Olayinka Owolewa   Awoniyi Taiwo, the Nigerian striker for Nottingham Forest, has demonstrated remarkable generosity by reaching out to the needy in Kwara, Nigeria, in the spirit of Ramadan and the Lenten season.  This act of kindness showcases his commitment to giving back to his community, especially during significant religious periods. Awoniyi's humble beginnings in Illorin, Kwara state, may have instilled in him the importance of helping others.  Awoniyi's rise to football stardom is a testament to his hard work and dedication.  As a devoted Christian, Awoniyi's actions reflect his values of compassion and empathy. His generosity is particularly noteworthy during the  Lenten season, a period of reflection and selflessness in the Christian faith. In the spirit of Ramadan, Awoniyi's kindness also resonates with the Islamic values of charity and generosity. As highlighted in Islamic teachings, generosity during Ramadan is considered a means of s...

  By Dayo Awoniyi Good work and character can't be hidden, and Chief Oladokun Jeremiah's commitment to community development has earned him recognition. He was before this new Chieftancy bestowed with the esteemed chieftaincy title "AMAYEDERUN OF OFIN ISANLU " by the good people of OFFIN ISANLU Yagba East Local Government of Kogi State Yesterday in Mopamuro Local Government. As a philanthropist, human capacity development expert, financia and Entrepreneurial coach and grassroots development advocate, Chief Oladokun has made significant contributions to communities across Kogi State and beyond. His dedication has not gone unnoticed, and this title is a testament to his tireless efforts. The Double Chief is from Takete-Isao in Yagba East Local Government of Kogi State, Chief Oladokun expressed his gratitude after the coronation, saying, "I'm highly elated to be recognized for my efforts in community and human development. This gesture motivates me to do more....

  The President of the Nigeria Wheelchair Basketball Federation, Seyi Johnson, has praised the Corporate Social sagacity of BetKing for it's support to the growth of the Sports in the Country. Wheelchair Basketball which represents one of the fastest growing Para-Sports in the Country, has been boosted with the partnership and Sponsorship from BetKing. The President of the Federation, Seyi Johnson said BetKing has shown that they are a true lover of Nigerian Sports and special sports in particular, with all its doing for the Federation. " On behalf of the Nigeria Wheelchair Basketball,  the entire board and every stakeholder in the Sports, I want to personally appreciate BetKing for all they are doing. " Words are too few to express my sincere gratitude to them because they have really shown that this is where their mouth is, with the kind of support we are getting from them". " When we approached them , it was just like they were already expecting us and they s...

  Enugu State is set to make history as it prepares to host its first-ever international marathon on May 3, 2025.  The Enugu City Marathon, a World Athletics-certified event, will bring together elite athletes and running enthusiasts from across the globe to compete in a race that promises to be both thrilling and unforgettable.   The marathon, which aims to showcase the rich culture and resilience of the Coal City, will take runners through a carefully mapped-out course, highlighting the beauty and landscape of Enugu. The event is expected to attract top-tier athletes, amateur runners, and fitness enthusiasts eager to test their endurance on an international stage.   Registration for the marathon is now open. Interested participants can register online at www.enugucitymarathon.com or pick up registration forms at Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium and the Enugu State Secretariat. With Enugu State positioning itself as a hub for sports and tourism, the Enugu City Marat...

  Director General of the National Sports Commission, Honourable Bukola Olopade, has hailed the resilient spirit of former NFF President, Amaju Pinnick, despite narrowly losing his FIFA Council seat at the CAF Extraordinary General Assembly in Cairo, Egypt on Wednesday. Pinnick who has been an active FIFA Council member since 2021 lost by a whisker, scoring 28 votes, only one short of both Ahmed Yahya of Mauritania and Souleman Hassan Waberi of Djibouti, who each scored 29 votes to make it to the highest governing body of football in the World. The DG said Pinnick must be proud of himself despite the loss and his passion for the growth of the game is very evident for all to see while expressing confidence that the temporary setback will only propel him to greater heights in his already accomplished career. " I am very proud of you, Amaju Melvin Pinnick. You fought to the very end as a strong man that you are. You had a stint in CAF and FIFA where you used your network to position ...

  By Raymond Ozoji Wife of the President-General of Umueri community Anambra-East Local Government Area of Anambra State, Chief Mrs. Linda John Metchie has described women as very strong pillars of the families and the society at large.  Mrs. Metchie who made the description during a special programme she organized to celebrate women in this year's International Women's Day Celebration, stressed the need for women to always see themselves as change agents, character molders, role models and pillars of support to their husbands and families.  The one-day special retreat held to celebrate women which was powered by Women Initiative Global (WIG), GCUPS LIMITED and Inspiring Women Initiative (IWI) held at Umueri Recreation Centre Umueri was a veritable platform to educate as well as enlighten the women to take their personal health needs as utmost priority and desist from playing second fiddle in the society.  Resource persons took turns to emphasize on healthy living st...

The Nigeria Badminton Federation and its contingent has arrived in Toledo, Spain, for the second phase of the prestigious Spanish Parabadminton International Elite Championship, where the nation's top para-athletes are set to compete against contemporaries from other parts of the world.   The first phase of the tournament took place in Vitoria, Spain, with Nigeria fielding five athletes in various event categories.  Nigeria concluded the first phase with Paralympic medalist Eniola Bolaji slammed to a gold medal in the SL3 event, defeating Ukraine’s Oksana Kozyna in the final. Three of Nigeria’s top para badminton players—Bolaji Eniola, Nnana Jeremiah, and Eze Chukwuebuka will compete in the  second phase in Toledo, Spain. Bolaji Eniola, ranked No. 2 in the world in her SL3 classification, will compete in the SL3 singles event, in a group of 3 opponents. Meanwhile, Eze and Nnana will team up in the SL4 doubles category.   "We’re very hopeful for medals. Enio...

  By Dayo Awoniyi Ebi Egbe, CEO of Monimichelle Sports Facilities Construction Limited, has dedicated his Newstap/SWAN Five Star Sports Award to the National Sports Commission (NSC), recognizing their efforts to transform Nigerian sports. Egbe praised the NSC's transformation agenda, particularly under the leadership of Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko and Director General Bukola Olopade, who were appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. "I want to dedicate this award to the National Sports Commission for the good job they're doing to reposition the country's sports sector," Egbe said, highlighting the significance of the NSC's efforts. Egbe also commended the organizers of the award, stating that the recognition was an indication that his company's efforts were being appreciated by critical sports stakeholders. "This award is too dear to me because it's coming from two reputable organisations who are also major stakeholders in Nigerian sports," ...

  The National Sports Commission (NSC) has commended Paralympic bronze medalist Eniola Bolaji and the Badminton Federation of Nigeria following Bolaji’s remarkable victory at the 2025 Spanish Para Badminton International II in Vitoria.  Bolaji secured yet another gold medal, extending her flawless record to 11 wins in 11 international appearances.   The multiple African champion displayed sheer dominance in the women’s singles SL3 final, defeating Ukraine’s Oksana Kozyna 2-0 (21-15, 21-15). Her journey to the podium was nothing short of extraordinary, overcoming top opponents from Brazil, France, Australia, and India with commanding performances.   NSC Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, hailed Bolaji’s victory as a testament to Nigeria’s rising status in para sports.  “Eniola Bolaji’s triumph is a proud moment for Nigerian sports. Her dedication, resilience, and exceptional talent continue to inspire the next generation of athletes. The National Sports Comm...

  Paralympic bronze medallist Eniola has added another prestigious gold medal to her collection, winning at the 2025 Spanish Para Badminton International II in Vitoria. This makes it 11 out of 11 in internationals she has played so far.  The multiple African champion convincingly beat Ukraine’s Oksana Kozyba 2-0 (21-15, 21-15) dominating the women’s singles SL3 final category. Bolaji's path to gold was nothing short of impressive. She first defeated Brazil’s Kauana Michelson Beckenka of Brazil 2-0 (21-15, 21-2) and then France’s Caroline Bergeron 2-0 (21-7, 21-8) at the group stage before cruising through the quarterfinals, where she beat Australia's Celine Vinot 2-0 (21-8, 21-12).  In the semifinals, Bolaji showcased her exceptional form with a dominant 2-0 (21-12, 21-6) win over India’s Neeraj, booking her spot in the final. President of Badminton Federation of Nigeria, Francis Orbih praised Bolaji's remarkable achievement, noting that the gold marks her second in just ...

  The Nationwide League One (NLO) has officially approved the relocation of Black Scorpions FC to Abuja after the club successfully met all necessary requirements.   Proprietor and financier of the club, Chief Sunday Dare, emphasized that Black Scorpions FC is committed to providing a platform for Nigerian youth to thrive and remain productively engaged.  The club is dedicated to nurturing young talent, instilling discipline, and promoting excellence in the game. With a strong emphasis on grassroots development, Black Scorpions FC aims to create opportunities for aspiring footballers to reach their full potential while contributing to the growth of Nigerian football.   In an official statement from the NLO Secretariat, signed by Chief Operating Officer Olushola Ogunnowo, the league confirmed the club’s relocation and compliance with all necessary obligations:   "The Nationwide League One Secretariat presents its compliments to you and your club ma...

  The Director General of the National Sports Commission, NSC, Hon Bukola Olopade, has congratulated the President of the Nigeria Rugby Football Federation, NRFF, Dr Ademola Are, for his election as the 1st Vice President of the Union of West African Rugby Federations. Dr Are, who has been at the forefront of revamping the Country's Rugby got elected alongside other executives in Abidjan, Cote d'Ivoire. The DG said this is a testament to the hard-work currently going on in the Nigeria Rugby family since Dr Are became the President and only shows that the West Africa Sub region also recognises that. " This is very massive for the continuous growth of Rugby in the Country because the NRFF President can now use his current position to seek different intentional collaborations that will strengthen the growth of the Sports both locally and in the West African sub region". " And for us at the National Sports Commission, these are the kind of feat we want our Sports adm...

  By Dayo Awoniyi The FAME Foundation's Annual Women's Day Football Tournament was a resounding success, celebrating International Women's Day with a showcase of , unity, cooperation and  women's empowerment.  Held at the Area 3 Football Pitch in Abuja, the event brought together eight teams, including FAME, IDP, Bet9ja, Pro-Social, FIDA, FIRS, ASWAN, and NUT. Honorable Minister for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, emphasized the importance of women's roles in society, stating, "Women cannot be neglected." He reaffirmed the government's commitment to integrating women into youth development programs and pledged to create more equitable opportunities for young men and women across various government departments, based solely on merit. Mallam Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, expressed his enthusiasm for the unifying power of sports, reiterating the commission's dedication to supporting initiatives like FAME Foundation'...