Deeonemedianews

By Dayo Awoniyi Al Ahly, the reigning champions of the Women's African Volleyball Club Championship, has secured a spot in the semifinals after defeating Kenya Prisons 3-1 (25-12, 25-20, 22-25, 27-25) in a thrilling match. Al Ahly dominated the first set, winning 25-12, with Tatjana Bokan leading the charge with a series of powerful attacks. The Egyptian team maintained their lead in the second set, despite some errors that allowed Kenya Prisons to close the gap. Al Ahly ultimately won the set 25-20. Kenya Prisons fought back in the third set, taking the lead and securing a win 25-22. However, Al Ahly regrouped and dominated the fourth set, with both teams engaging in a fierce battle. A series of key blocks and hitting errors from Kenya Prisons set Al Ahly up for a 27-25 win. "We played a great match, and our team showed a lot of spirit and determination," said Al Ahly's coach after the game. Al Ahly's victory secures their spot in the semifinals of the 2025 Women...

  By Dayo Awoniyi Abuja, Nigeria - Nigeria's hopes of a continental volleyball title were dashed as both the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) Spikers bowed out of the 2025 Women's African Volleyball Club Championship. In the round of 16, NCS, the host team, lost 3-0 to Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB) with sets scores of 25-19, 25-17, and 25-17. Despite a passionate fightback, NCS couldn't overcome KCB's dominance. Meanwhile, CNS Spikers also failed to progress, losing 1-3 to Litto Volleyball Club of Cameroon. The Naval Spikers gave their best but ultimately fell short, with set scores of 22-25, 18-25, 25-18, and 17-25. Both Nigerian clubs will now focus on the classification matches. The defending champions, Zamalek, took a bold step towards retaining their title with a commanding 3-0 win over Descartes of Cote d'Ivoire. Other teams that advanced to the quarterfinals include Carthage of Tunisia, who conquered Sococim of Senegal 3-0, Al Ahly o...

  Director General of the National Sports Commission, NSC , Hon Bukola Olopade has expressed excitement over potential collaboration between the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC Limited and the Sports Commission. The DG stated this after a fruitful strategic meeting held in his office when the newly appointed Chairman of the NNPC Limited, Eng Musa Kida paid him a working visit on Tuesday. The DG said it is an exciting time for Nigerian Sports and the meeting with the new NNPC Chairman who is also the President of the Nigeria Basketball Federation,NBBF, has further opened up better opportunities that will enhance the rapid growth of the Country's Sports. " We can't be more proud in Sports that we have Eng Musa Kida occupying the position that he holds now and as someone who is very passionate about Nigerian Sports, we are already discussing areas of possible collaboration between the Country's apex oil and gas institution and the NSC". " Mr Preside...

  By Dayo Awoniyi Two time champions CFC Carthage of Tunisia have secured a spot in the quarterfinals of the ongoing volleyball tournament, following a convincing 3-0 win over Sococim of Senegal in their round of sixteen tie. The Tunisian side dominated the match from the outset, with Sococim struggling to contain their powerful attacks. CFC Carthage took the first set 25-11, with Sococim's errors proving costly. The Senegalese team showed some resilience in the second set, but ultimately succumbed to CFC's relentless attacks, losing 25-17. In the third set, Sococim managed to mount a brief challenge, but CFC's experience and skill ultimately told, as they won 25-20 to seal their spot in the quarterfinals. CFC Carthage's dominant performance has set them up for a promising run in the tournament, and they will look to continue their winning ways as they aim to add to their two previous championship titles.

  The leadership of the Lagos State Football Association led by its amiable chairman,  Hajji Gafar Liameed has released a strongly worded letter of condemnation on the wanton attack on players and officials of Ikorodu City by hooligans in Ibadan,  after the week 31 game of the 2024/2025 season of the NPFL, played on Sunday, that ended 0-0. After the game, unruly fans of the home team, 3SC, obviously dissatisfied with the result began by pelting match officials with objects. And also held the players and officials of Ikorodu City, hostage in the dressing rooms for over two hours. Security was later beefed up before the team could leave the stadium.  In the statement signed by the LSFA boss, Hajji Liameed, it described the incident as barbaric and shameful.  "The Lagos State Football Association, as well as, the stakeholders and enthusiasts of the beautiful game condemns the attack on the players and officials of Ikorodu City, after their match against 3SC in the ...

  The Management of Bullet Energy Drink in conjunction with the Samuel Oguche Basketball Foundation has announced a mouthwatering incentives for winners and participants at the forthcoming lucrative basketball tournament scheduled for 22nd to 26th in Porthacourt (Rivers State) and on 29th April to 3rd of May in Lagos. According to the CEO of Bullet Energy Drink, Mr. Harmeet Ahuja, the tournaments in Porthacourt and Lagos is a different ball game because of the positives that Bullet Energy drinks bring to basketball development in Nigeria. It's on record that the Bullet Energy Drink basketball 2025 season started with a bang with the successful hosting of the loudest basketball fiesta in Keffi (Nasarawa state ), Zaria (Kaduna state) and Jos (Plateau state). The number one energy drink in Nigeria (Bullet Energy Drink) has created a healthy balance for youths participating in basketball tournaments across Nigeria. Apart from the prize money for champions of the tournaments, there are ...

  The second phase of the 2025 Bullet Energy Drink Basketball tournament is around the corner and your favourite teams are expected to be competing for glory. Winners of the first phase are already dreaming and planning how to cash out on the numerous opportunities offered by the nutritious energy drink for sports lovers around the world (Bullet Energy Drink). Early this year, the first phase of the tournament tipped off in Nasarawa State, where Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK) emerged as champions, securing their spot in the grand finals in Lagos. The next stop was Zaria, Kaduna State, where Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) clinched victory, earning a cash prize and a place in the finals. In Jos, Plateau State, Hot Coal Basketball Club dominated the competition, also winning a cash prize and advancing to the grand finale. Port Harcourt in River state is the next point of call for Bullet Energy Drink, with games set to run from April 22nd to 26th, 2025, with the grand finals in...

  Captain of Kenya Pipeline, Gladys Ekaru has praised the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) for the exceptional organization of the 2025 African Women's Volleyball Club Championship in Abuja. Ekaru gave the remarks shortly after beating Club Omnisports 3-0 (25-10, 25-5, 25-15) in their last group stage matches. The national team player applauded the efforts of the NCS, particularly under the leadership of Comptroller General Adewale Adeniyi MFR. She expressed her admiration for the level of organisation and hospitality extended to all teams during the championship. Ekaru said. “From the facilities to the support for every team, it's clear that a great deal of effort has gone into ensuring everything runs smoothly.  “The Nigeria Customs Service, led by Comptroller General Adewale Adeniyi MFR, has done a top-notch job in organizing this championship." She noted that the seamless coordination of the event, combined with the exceptional hospitality, made the experience memorable f...

As part of our activities to mark 2025 International World Sports Day, we write to express delight and satisfaction in the deeds of President Bola Tinubu for signing the Anti-Doping Bill into law. This signing which came just a few days before 6th of April totally aligns with our motive of celebrating world sports day by having a vigorous Anti-Doping Campaign and promotion of Clean Sports.  We acknowledge that the federal government is indeed lover of youths and promoter of sports, as this Bill was intended to immediately rescue Nigeria, and solve issues with WADA in 2024, which threatened our participation at the Paris Olympics. It is indeed very satisfying that this concern has been addressed by the government, cementing routine compliance within Nigeria sports with the creation of the National Anti-Doping Organisation in view; this truly assures renewed hope for sports in Nigeria.  We also want to affirm that alot more needs to be done to elevate Nigerian sports in order to...

  By Dayo Awoniyi  Nigeria Customs suffered a dismal 3-0 defeat (25-10, 25-17, 25-16) at the hands of APR of Rwanda in front of their home crowd. The Rwandan side dominated the match from start to finish, solidifying their position in Pool B. APR's consistent serves and strong hits left Nigeria Customs struggling to find their footing in the first set, which APR won convincingly 25-10. In the second set, APR opened strong with a powerful cross-court spike, putting pressure on Nigeria Customs. Despite a few impressive blocks from the hosts, APR pulled away, winning the set 25-17. The third set saw APR continue their dominance, with block after block securing their lead. Nigeria Customs attempted to close the gap but ultimately fell short, as APR won the set 25-16 and the match 3-0.

  President of the Nigeria Wheelchair Basketball Federation, Seyi Johnson, has expressed immense satisfaction with the quality of competition and the discovery of new talents at the ongoing BetKing 3×3 National Wheelchair Basketball Championship in Abeokuta, Ogun State. Speaking during the tournament, Johnson praised the remarkable progress seen across the participating teams and lauded the event for delivering beyond expectations. “I’m truly thrilled by the level of talent we’ve uncovered during this championship,” he said. “Some of these athletes are shining for the first time on a huge stage like this  , and I’m confident that a few of them will make the cut for Team Nigeria as we prepare for the Nations Tournament in Agadir this June.” Johnson also noted the increased competitiveness of the tournament, with emerging states challenging the dominance of traditional powerhouses. “We’re seeing a real shift—states that were once considered underdogs are now giving the big teams...

   By Dayo Awoniyi Zamalek's reign as defending champions remains unchallenged after a convincing 3-0 victory (25-14, 25-20, 25-16) over Chief Naval Staff (CNS) of Nigeria. The African champions showcased their exceptional skills, demonstrating superb ball control, precise touches, and powerful spikes. Despite initial missteps, Zamalek quickly regained momentum, outpacing CNS in all three sets. CNS struggled to keep pace, with Zamalek's deliberate serves and counter-block combinations proving too strong. The Nigerian team briefly narrowed the gap in the second set, but Zamalek's resilience and a decisive mega spike secured the set 25-20. The third set saw CNS's efforts falter, with Zamalek capitalizing on faults and an ace to seal the match with a resounding super spike, winning 25-16. With this win, Zamalek remains unbeaten, solidifying their position at the top of the championship.

  Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun has set the ball rolling with a moral boosting visit to the Alake Sports Center, Ijeja, the venue of the BetKing 3x3 National Wheelchair Basketball Championship, which runs from April 3rd to the 7th 2025. During the visit, the Governor commended the Wheelchair basketball players for their dedication and resilience, encouraging them to continue excelling in the sport they love so much. " I want to commend all the players participating in this tournament and I want all of you to know you are already a winner. Despite your challenges, you guys determined to stay true to your passion and I want to encourage you and assure you that as a Sports loving state we will continue to support you to live your dreams", he stated. In his response, the President of the Nigeria Wheelchair Basketball Federation, Seyi Johnson, expressed his gratitude to  the Governor for the visit,  describing it as a significant milestone for the federation and a so...

By Dayo Awoniyi The 2025 Women's African Volleyball Club Championship heated up on Day 2, with Nigeria's CNS (Chief Naval Spikers) securing a thrilling 3-0 victory over Botswana's SSV. The Nigerian team dominated the match, winning 25-22, 25-21, and 25-08. In another Pool C match, Egypt's Ahlaly delivered a crushing 3-0 defeat to Senegal's SOC, with scores of 25-10, 25-14, and 25-06. Defending champions Zamalek of Egypt also made a strong statement, defeating Kenya Prisons 3-0 in Pool B. The Egyptian team won comfortably, with scores of 25-23, 25-17, and 25-23. Despite a low turnout of supporters, the CNS team made Nigeria proud with their impressive performance.

  The FCT FA Chairman, Alhaji Adam Mouktar Mohammed, has commended the Nigeria media and journalists for their roles in the development and growth of sports, especially football in the FCT and Nigeria in general.  Adam Mouktar, the number one football administrator in the FCT, stated when he paid a courtesy visit on Kayode Adeniyi, the Manager Sports, Nigeria Television Authority (NTA) at their office inside the Moshood Abiola Stadium Abuja The FCT FA Chairman, while speaking, thanked the entire media space for their commitment, and effective watchdog role in the sports sector.  "I want to state that, the role of the media in any society can never be over emphasized. Any society without the media is a nonexisting society. So also the role of media on sports. We can never quantify it. There have been lots of progress and working synergy. It is good for sports." Adam Mouktar, called for more collaboration between sports administrators and the media in Nigeria.  "Let me...

  By Akeem Busari Highly rated midfielder of Ekiti based NLO 1 side Olukismet FC, Popoola Ridwan Abdulrasaq has joined  Hungarian side Kisvarda FC on a five- year deal. According to a statement from the Ekiti based team which is known for churning out top young talents under the tutelage of renowned youth talents developer, Coach Gabriel Oladeji Atobaje, Popoola has quickly hit the grounds running with some wonderful displays in the games he has played for the promotion seeking side since he started pulling on the red and white of the club. In his remarks, Coach Atobaje expressed confidence in the abilities of the 18 years old midfielder, who has started turning heads with his performances in the Hungarian league. "We're very confident that our boy Popoola would make us proud out there in Hungary.  "This is a very gifted young player with uncanny ability and intelligence and physical strength to dominate the midfield play, even at the highest heights of world football,...

  By Akeem Busari Stakeholders of Nigerian football opined that governments at all levels should completely hands off sponsorship or ownership of football clubs in Nigeria. According to some aficionados, the state-owned clubs have not thrived or perform better than privately owned clubs in recent times. And yet, another strong voice in the fortunes of Nigerian football has joined the fray, albeit from a fresher angle. Speaking in a recent interview, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Ikorodu City Football club, Sanmi Doherty, admonished the federal government to establish a football trust fund that would empower the clubs to operate in line with the global best practices in world football. He added that Nigerian clubs would be able to  compete favourably with their counterparts on the continent. "I think government should only provide the facilities the enabling environment for the clubs. I think we can also have a trust fund fir Nigerian clubs. Tell me, why can't the...

  By Akeem Busari The 5th edition of the prestigious Sportsville awards held Thursday, at the Eko Club, Surulere, and with many of the awardees shinning like the stars. One of the distinguished awardees who shone brightest was Hajji Gafar Olawale Liameed, Chairman of Lagos State Football Association. Accompanied by some members of the LSFA board, stakeholders and associates, Liameed, in his acceptance speech acknowledged the invaluable feats of the sports legends and administrators present at the event, but reserved the biggest accolades for the developers of talents at the grassroots level. Unsurprisingly, the highly regarded football administrator, who is equally regarded for his unflinching commitment to the development of football in the grassroots level, went ahead to dedicate his 'Sportsville Special Recognition Award', to the underprivileged and unknown young football talents scattered across different parts of Lagos and Nigeria. "This is a special one. The mirror o...

E The Federal Capital Territory Football Association (FCT FA) has disbursed a total of N720,000 to Area Councils in preparation for the inaugural FCT FA Inter-Area Councils Women's Tournament, which is set to kick off on April 10, 2025. The funding was announced at a media briefing held at Area 10 in Abuja on Thursday, with each of the six participating Area Council teams receiving N120,000 to support their preparations for the competition. The six Area Councils in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT)—Abaji, Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), Bwari, Gwagwalada, Kuje, and Kwali—were all represented at the event. In his address, FCT FA Chairman Alhaji Adam Mouktar Mohammed revealed that the tournament aligns with his administration’s vision to foster the development of women’s football and provide opportunities for young female players in the capital. "This tournament is part of our commitment to providing a platform for the girl-child through football," Mouktar said. ...

  By Dayo Awoniyi The 2025 Women's African Volleyball Club championship kicked off in style, with First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, declaring the tournament open at the Mushood Abiola Sport Indoor Hall in Abuja.  The ceremony showcased the rich cultural heritage of Africa and Nigeria, with music, dance, and art on full display. The event was attended by hundreds of fans, as well as top dignitaries, including CAVB President Bouchra Hajij and the Controller General of Nigeria Customs Service. The 16 participating clubs, representing 10 African countries, were also present, symbolizing the unity and growth of volleyball on the continent. This marks the second time Nigeria is hosting the tournament, having previously done so in 1996. However, it's the first time the championship is being held in Abuja. As the patron of the event, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu's presence added glamour to the occasion, highlighting her support for women's sports and development in Ni...

  By Dayo Awoniyi In a thrilling Pool A opener at the CAVB Women's African Volleyball Club Championship in Abuja, Nigeria, Rwandan side APR pulled off a stunning 3-1 victory over Tunisian giants CFC on Thursday. CFC dominated the first set, winning 25-18 with strong hitting, but APR fought back to take the second set 26-24 after trailing at the first technical timeout. APR's versatility and blocking strength proved decisive in the third set, which they won 25-23, and they carried that momentum into the fourth set. Despite a late surge from CFC, who closed the gap to 23-22, APR held their nerve to seal a famous 25-23 win and take the match 3-1. The comeback victory sets the tone for APR's campaign in the championship and sends a warning to their rivals in Pool A.

  By Dayo Awoniyi Host team Customs Service of Nigeria is gearing up to face Mayo Kane Evolution of Cameroon in the opening match of the 2025 Women's African Club Championship today. The match, scheduled to take place at the Moshood Abiola Sport Stadium, will mark the beginning of the prestigious tournament, which is being held in Nigeria for only the second time after a 29-year absence. Customs Service of Nigeria will have the support of the Chief Patron, the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as they take on Mayo Kane Evolution in front of their home fans. The championship, which runs from April 1st to April 14th, will feature 16 teams from across the continent, all vying for the top prize. The draws for the tournament were held at the Exclusive Serene Hotel in Abuja on Wednesday, with CAVB President and FIVB Vice President Bouchra Hajij in attendance. Groups of Women’s African Volleyball Club Championship Abuja 2025  Pool A Customs - NGR Mayo - CMR APR – RWA CFC...

The Director General of the National Sports Commission NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, has congratulated the President of the Nigeria Basketball Federation, NBBF, Eng Musa Kida, for his appointment as the new Board Chairman of the Nigeria National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.  Hon Olopade said Eng Musa Kida has been one of Nigeria's most efficient and Productive Sports administrators who has sacrificed alot for the growth of Nigerian Basketball. The DG maintained that his latest appointment is a testament to his years of passion, hard work, dedication and a very successful track record in the oil sector for more than two decades. " Eng Musa Kida is an accomplished administrator whose achievements cut across both the oil sector and Nigerian basketball.I   have no doubt that the NNPC Limited will attain better efficiency and  attract more investment under his watch". " Under his leadership as the President of the Nigeria Basketball F...

Encomiums and felicitations have been pouring for the President of Nigeria Basketball Federation, Engineer Ahmadu Musa Kida, on his appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as the new Chairman of Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited(NNPCL). Since the appointment which many experts in the oil and gas industry described as long overdue, but timely, it has been stopless prayers and heartfelt goodwill messages for Kida by all Nigerians and particularly, from his immediate sports constituency, the basketball community. In a press statement signed and released by veteran sports journalist Felix Awogu, on behalf of the NBBF  board members, congratulates Kida on his appointment as the chairman of the board of NNPCL. It noted that Kida has proven his ability, capability and integrity as a globally renowned expert in the energy, oil and gas industry, with over 40 years experience bouyed by high levels of efficient and spectacular achievements. "It is no gain saying that you're...

  By Dayo Awoniyi The African Women's Volleyball Inter-Club Championship has kicked off in Abuja, Nigeria, with the 25 teams from across the continent set to participate  The participating teams include Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and Nigeria Navy (NN) from Nigeria, Al Ahly Sporting Club (AHL) and Zamalek Sporting Club (ZMK) from Egypt, and AS Douanes (BUR) from Burundi. Other teams competing in the championship are Sococim (SOC) from Senegal, Volleyball Club La Grace (VGL) and Volleyball Club La LOI (VLL) from the Democratic Republic of Congo, National Alcohol and Liquor Factory (NAL) from Ethiopia, and Club Femini De Carthage (CFC) from Tunisia. Forces Armees Et Police (FAP), Litto Team Volleyball (LTV), and Maya Kane Evolution (MKE) are representing Cameroon, while Spiking Stars Volleyball (SSV) is flying the flag for Botswana. Rounding out the list of participants are Club Omnisports Descartes from Cote D'Ivoire, Queen's Volleyball Club (QVC) from Benin Republic, Rwan...

  The Director General of the National Sports Commission  Hon. Bukola Olopade, has expressed shock with the sudden demise of the President of the Nigeria Taekwondo Federation Abdullahi Saidu. The DG said the death of the Taekwondo boss is a big loss not only to the Taekwondo family but the entire Sports Sector. " Alhaji Saidu was an astute Sports administrator and a passionate Sports man who has contributed so much to the growth of Taekwondo in the Country". " It's a sad day for our Sports  and Alhaji Abdullahi Saidu will be greatly missed by the Sports Commission and  our hearts are with his family at this critical time", stressed. The DG further stressed that Alhaji Abdulahi Saidu has been an exemplary administrator who showed leadership in the ways he piloted the affairs of the Country's Taekwondo and he will be greatly missed".

  Fast Rising Sports Administrator Blessing Chisalam Ekwe has been named as a member of the Local Organising Committee, LOC , for the 23rd National Sports Festival to be hosted by Enugu state in 2026. Blessing who is currently the Chief Operating Officer, COO, of the  Badminton Federation of Nigeria , BFN, was named alongside other seasoned Sports administrators, as members of the LOC which will be Chaired by the Enugu State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Lloyd Ike Ekweremadu Jr. This latest appointment has further buttressed her profile as one of Nigeria's fast growing female Sports administrators. Blessing is a passionate sports enthusiast who specialised in majorly all ball games during her playing days and now an accomplished sports scientist, holding a Master’s degree in Sports Management. She is also a licenced and certified football agent by World Football Governing body, FIFA. She is expected to bring her wealth of experience and expertise to bear as Enugu state ai...