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Showing posts from May, 2025

AJIF Allstars Pre-Season Friendly Games Kicks off Sunday

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  By Akeem Busari  Ahead of the 1st edition of the Ajeromi-Ifelodun Allstars football league organised by Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Sports Council, a series of friendly matches have been lined up to keep the teams in top shapes, as they prepare for the league tournament scheduled for August, 2025. These rounds of pre-tournament matches starts tomorrow (Sunday), at the Nathaniel Idowu football pitch,  Oregie, Ajegunle.  Speaking with journalists on the plans for the preseason matches, Director-General of AJIF Sports Council, McAnthony Anaelechukwu stated that the football tournament is aimed at fostering unity, engendering peace and of course, boosting the health and well-being of the players, who are mostly businessmen and retired footballers in the Ajegunle community.  "Beginning tomorrow being Sunday, we'll kickoff the 7th edition of the monthly rounds of friendly in preparation for the long awaited All Stars League. While the Saturday rounds of matche...

Ogun state sets new standards for future National Sports Festivals _stages an inspiring closing ceremony as Delta retains title_

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  Ogun State took the hosting of the National Sports festival to another new level after ending the Games with a breathtaking closing ceremony on Thursday at the MKO Sports Arena. After about two weeks of non stop competition, the closing ceremony had every element of a true global sporting spectacle.  From the quality of attendance, to the inspiring calisthenic display, to the musical performances and the different inspiring speeches of top government dignitaries, Thursday's closing ceremony has definitely raised the bar for future games. Unarguably no state seemed to have done it better to inspire thousands of Nigerian youths using the power of Sports, like Ogun state, and the show it displayed for both the opening and the closing ceremony, will leave a lasting legacy for a very long time. Delta state emerged the winners of the games and successfully defended the title they won two years ago in Asaba as host, with a total of 337 medals, out of which 126 are gold , 100 silver...

Automobile and Touring Club of Nigeria Set to Host Two-Day Youth Mobility Program in Abuja

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    The Automobile and Touring Club of Nigeria (ATCN) is proud to announce a two-day program dedicated to promoting safe and sustainable mobility for youth. The event, scheduled to hold from May 30 to 31, 2025, will take place at the prestigious Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja, bringing together stakeholders from across the country to focus on empowering the next generation with the tools and knowledge for safer, greener mobility. This initiative aligns with the core vision of the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), of which ATCN is a member, to consistently foster a culture of safety, responsibility, and sustainability in road use, particularly among young people. The program is designed around a comprehensive approach that combines education, infrastructure development, public policy, and community engagement to build long-term change. Speaking ahead of the event, the President of the ATCN, Mr. Ishaku Bamaiyi, emphasized the pivotal role of education and awa...

ATM Foundation Throws Weight Behind Beach Tourism In Ilaje

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  In the continued effort of Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s plans to unlock the economic potential of Ondo State’s riverine areas, the Abdul Adetunji Mohammed (ATM) has thrown it's weight behind Beach Tourism at the recently concluded Araromi Beach Carnival, hosted by Dr. Taiwo Malumi a notable philanthropist and founding member of the APC in Ondo State. The promoter of the ATM Foundation, Adetunji Abdul emphasized the importance of beach development in advancing Nigeria’s Blue Economy in line with the President Ahmed Bola Tinubu administration for a diversified national economy. "The Ilaje region holds significant potential to boost Ondo State’s GDP if properly harnessed," Adetunji Abdul stated. "Our foundation is ready to collaborate with the government to develop the beach ecosystem for sustainable economic growth." “Beach development and tourism are vital for community and economic growth. Tourism generates revenue, creating jobs in hospitality, transportation, and...

"A Trailblazer at 59" Olopade Celebrates Chief Sunday Dare on Another Milestone

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By Dayo Awoniyi Hon. Bukola Olopade, Director General, National Sports Commission (NSC), has wished Chief Sunday Dare, Special Adviser Media and Public Communications to the President, a heartfelt happy 59th birthday. An astute, competent, hardworking, and charismatic trailblazer are some of the virtues that uniquely characterize Chief Sunday Dare's personality as he marks another year. As the former Minister of Sports, Olopade recalled how Chief Dare pioneered some of the enabling policies that they are currently implementing today as part of their Renewed Hope initiative for Nigeria's Sports Economy. His passion for sustainable sports development is one reason the 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival is being held in Ogun State, with the closing ceremony coinciding with his 59th birthday. Olopade revealed that he had bid for Ogun State to host the Sports Festival, and Chief Dare, then Sports Minister, believed strongly in their bid, awarding them the hosting rights. ...

Paul Onuachu nears Trabzonspor return as Southampton slash valuation

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  By Dayo Awoniyi Nigerian striker Paul Onuachu is on the verge of rejoining Turkish club Trabzonspor, with Southampton significantly reducing their valuation of the player. Southampton, who were relegated to the English Championship, initially wanted €18 million for Onuachu, but have now lowered their asking price to €8 million.  Trabzonspor are believed to be willing to meet the English club halfway, with a potential transfer fee of around €6 million. Onuachu, 30, had a phenomenal loan spell with Trabzonspor last season, scoring 17 goals in 22 appearances.  He expressed his desire to stay with the Turkish club, but a transfer fee agreement was initially elusive. After returning to Southampton, Onuachu scored four goals in the Premier League, but the English club's relegation has paved the way for his potential return to Trabzonspor.

FCT FA Chairman Mouktar celebrates Nigerian children on World Children's Day, advocates for bullying free generation

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  By Dayo Awoniyi The Chairman of the Federal Capital Territory Football Association, Alhaji Adam Mouktar Mohammed,  the Abegyi Bwaya of Bwari Chiefdom, has joined in the celebration of World Children's Day, 2025.  In a statement signed by the Head of the Media Committee, FCT FA, Uche Nwudoh Hillary, Mouktar congratulated children on this special occasion. "Dear Children, this is to say happy children's day to you all. You are the future and pride of our society and our great nation. I join you to celebrate the 2025 National Children’s Day with immense happiness and profound joy," Mouktar said. He emphasized the importance of the theme, "Stand Up, Speak Up: Building a Bullying-Free Generation," highlighting the need to protect children from violence, bullying, and neglect. "It is imperative to say that violence, bullying, and neglect have no place in the Nigeria of today," Mouktar stressed. Mouktar further called on parents, stakeholders, and the g...

FCT FA Chairman Mouktar turbaned as "Abegyi Bwaya" in FCT

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  Philanthropist, Sports Icon and Chairman, Federal Capital Territory Football Association, Alhaji Adam Mouktar Mohammed has been conferred and turbaned with a Chieftaincy Title, “Abegyi Bwaya” by His Royal Highness Dr. Ibrahim Yaro (JP), the 17th Sa-Bwaya, Esu Bwari and Chairman Council of Traditional Rulers Bwari Area Council, FCT.  In a colourful ceremony held at the historic palace of the Royal Father, His Royal Highness Dr. Ibrahim Yaro (JP), the 17th Sa-Bwaya, Esu Bwari and Chairman Council of Traditional Rulers Bwari Area Council, FCT.  he described the FCT FA Chairman, Mouktar, as a worthy son who has helped place the chiefdom on the global map with his giant strides in youth and sports development in Nigeria and particularly the FCT.  The revered Traditional Ruler, stated that, the title is in recognition of his good service record and hardwork in development and progress of Bwari Chiefdom and the FCT in general.  The title, “Abegyi Bwaya”, according to...

Nigeria makes history with first ever Esports demonstration at National Sports Festival in Ogun

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  By Dayo Awoniyi The Esports Federation of Nigeria has expressed its heartfelt gratitude to all individuals and institutions that contributed to the success of the first ever Esports Demonstration at the National Sports Festival. Pedro Damilola, COO of the Esports Federation of Nigeria, acknowledged the landmark moment in Nigerian sports, saying, "What many once called a possibility is now a reality witnessed, celebrated, and competed in by some of Nigeria's brightest esports athletes." The event, which started with a modest prize pool of ₦2 million, was generously scaled up to ₦10 million, thanks to the contributions of several key individuals and institutions. The Esports Federation extended its sincere appreciation to the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, who contributed ₦4 million, the Director General of the National Sports Commission, who contributed ₦3 million to the prize pool, the Director General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, for an addit...

Dikko applauds Ogun hosting, urges States to match rising sports standards

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  The Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko, has commended Ogun State for its outstanding hosting of the ongoing National Sports Festival, describing it as a game-changer for sports development in Nigeria. He called on other states aspiring to host future editions to emulate and improve on the standard set by Ogun. Speaking during a World Media Chat held at the Local Organizing Committee Secretariat, Dikko noted that the entire country is taking note of the impressive organization and swift handling of challenges during the festival. "This festival is a major improvement from previous editions," he said. "It is normal to experience hitches in events of this magnitude, but the prompt resolution of those issues shows great commitment. This edition will serve as a benchmark for future games." Dikko emphasized that the Commission, in line with the President's directive, is working to transform sports into a key economic driver. “We are...

Ibhawoh Foundation To Construct Netball Court At Saint Maria Goretti Girls Grammar School

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  In a bid to enhance the educational and sporting development of students at Saint Maria Goretti Girls Grammar School (SMGGGS) in Benin City, the Francis and Fidelia Ibhawoh Foundation, has secured approval from the Edo State Government, through the Ministry of Education, to construct an outdoor netball court within the school premises. The approval that was conveyed via an official correspondence from the Edo State Ministry of Education, reflects the government’s recognition of the Ibhawoh Foundation as a reputable and impactful NGO.  The Ministry commended the Foundation’s proven commitment to the educational advancement and community empowerment, especially among young people. Founded by the Catholic Church in 1959, SMGGGS is located in the Upper Sakponba area of Benin City. The school has a rich legacy of academic and sporting excellence, particularly in hockey. This legacy informed the state government’s recent move to upgrade the school’s hockey field to an astroturf pi...

President Tinubu Inaugurates NNPCL Board Sports Stakeholders ..lauds President Tinubu on Musa Kida's Appointment As Chairman

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  By Akeem Busari  President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday, officially inaugurated the New Board of Nigeria Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited, at the Presidential Villa, in Abuja.  The board, which is led by a renowned oil and gas technocrat, Engr. Ahmadu Musa Kida, has been saddled with  the responsibility of turning around the financial fortunes of the nation's biggest economy mainstay.  President Tinubu in his speech, at the inauguration, expressed  his confidence in the abilities of the newly inaugurated NNPCL board to successfully steer the ship of the most important sector of Nigeria's economy to achieve the desired results. The President noted that he took his time to carefully select the very best in the oil and gas sector which has continued to attract huge commendations both from within and outside Nigeria. He was equally quick to express the expectations of the major players in the global economy including USA and others industrialized e...

Machaty Stadium and High Level Underpass Projects Under Scrutiny

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  Concerns have been raised about the quality of infrastructure standard of Machaty Stadium and the High Level underpass. The Machaty Stadium, renovated to "international standard" according to the current handlers, has already shown signs of vulnerability to weather conditions. A few drops of rain have seen washed away grasses, raising questions about its durability during the peak rainy season from August to October. Similarly, the High Level underpass project has been criticized for alleged  lack of proper water channels, resulting in flooding that affects nearby houses. Residents in the area are said to be  worried about the fate of their homes during the peak rainy season. The issues with these project have sparked concerns among the residence about the competence of the contractors and engineers handling the project.  The public is calling for accountability and transparency in the execution of these projects to ensure that they meet the required standards and ...

ESports is here to lead Nigeria's New Sports Economy - COO Damilola Pedro _As eSports makes historic debut at Sports Festival in Ogun state_

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  Chief Operating Office,COO, of the Nigeria Esports Federation, Damilola Pedro, says eSports has the capacity to lead the Sports Economy drive of the country as the Sports made history with its demonstration at the 22nd National Sports Festival, tagged Gateway Games. " Today at the National Sports Festival Gateway Games 2024, we are not just adding another game, we are making a very bold statement.  " Esports is taking the stage. And with it, so is the voice of an entire generation that has long been ignored, misunderstood, and underestimated".  " Because the numbers don't lie and so let me set the facts. The video game industry is worth over $180 billion, larger than the film and music industry combined".  " Over 3.3 billion people play games globally, with Africa projected to house the fastest-growing gaming population, and Nigeria being at the forefront of that conversation, with the projection of having the highest deposit of gamers in Africa and ...

14 Students, 36 Coaches Get Annual 36 Lion Coaching School Scholarships

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  By Akeem Busari In his characteristic magnanimity, the Chairman of Lagos State Football Association, Hajji Gafar Olawale Liameed, has once again activated his annual scholarship for another set of beneficiaries for the NIS Coaches Course. He has decidedly upped the ante by adding five female and nine male students drawn from the pool of National Association of Nigeria Students.  They would join another set of 36 coaches selected for the training course, who would certainly swell the ever-increasing list of football coaches sponsored for the training programme on the scholarship of 36 Lion Investment Limited.  These 14 lucky students will enjoy football education at the National Institute For Sports, the premier sports institution in Nigeria.  According to the sponsor, Hajji Gafar, the sports education initiative is in alignment with the youth empowerment mantra of His Excellency, Governor Babajide Olushola Sanwo-Olu, which also include using sports, particularly fo...

Team FCT Shines at Gateway Games, Scoops 12 Medals So Far

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  Team FCT has been performing exceptionally well at the ongoing 22nd National Sports Festival (NSF), currently taking place in Gateway State. By the end of Day 5 of the competition, the team had secured an impressive haul of 13 medals. So far, Team FCT has clinched a total of: 4 Gold Medals (2 in Ayo, 1 in Golf, and 1 in Wushu Kung Fu) 5 Silver Medals (4 in Weightlifting and 1 in an undisclosed event) 3 Bronze Medals (1 each from Taekwondo, Beach Volleyball, and Weightlifting) With several sporting events yet to commence, Team FCT remains optimistic about increasing its medal tally.  Expectations are high, and the athletes are determined to deliver outstanding performances in the remaining days of the festival.

D’Tigress In Homecoming Abuja Tournament with Togo,others

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   The Nigerian national women’s team, D’Tigress, and the Nigeria Basketball Federation are gearing up for what will be one of the best basketball events held in Nigeria. For the first time, the multiple award-winning D’Tigress will play on the national soil after winning five back-to-back Afrobasket championships spearheaded by Nigerian WNBA Coach Rena Wakama. The African champions will take on high-rising Togo and a yet to be named team in Abuja from July 18 to 20, 2025. The current team is huge and seen as a bumper-pack Nigerian women’s team with ⁠6 WNBA players as the team prepares to defend the title again. As a part of the tournament in Nigeria, the players will help run ⁠women empowerment programmes in this home-coming rendezvous, even as they hold ⁠basketball camps for the up-and-coming stars in Abuja. The event will be hosted at the ⁠prestigious Mo Arena Abuja. The games and activities will be live on Africa’s number satellite station, the SuperSport. Mathew Ohio, the...

22nd National Sports Festival Medals Table Summary - Day 4

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  Bayelsa state maintained it's early lead at the top of the Medals table after Day 4 of the 22nd National Sports Festival, tagged Gateway Games. Bayelsa maintained it's grip with 16 Gold medals , 6 silver and 5 bronze medals. Defending Champion Delta state took a big leap from Day 3 to move to second spot with 10 Gold , 5 silver and 6 bronze medals. In third position, is Osun state with 6 Gold medals and 1 silver and closely followed in fourth position is Rivers with 5 gold medals, 3 silver and 4 bronze medals. Lagos state completes the top five in fifth position after Day 4 with 4 Gold, 7 silver and 10 Gold medals. Oyo State is occupying the 6th position with 4 Gold medals, 2 silver and 6 bronze medals. Akwa Ibom state is manning the 7th spot with 4 Gold and 1 silver  while Plateau state is 8th with 3 Gold, 2 silver and 6 bronze medals. Cross River is 9th with 3 Gold medals, 1 silver and 1 bronze medal as Edo completes the top ten table with 2 Gold , 15 silver and 16 bronze ...

CNS/NOWA CUP 2025: Exciting Fixtures Light Up Day Two at Police College Kaduna

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  By Sodiq  Adebara The 2025 Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) U-14 Boys and Naval Officers’ Wives Association (NOWA) U-17 Girls Football Championships continued with full momentum on Tuesday, May 20th, as group stage matches entered Day Two at the Police College Kaduna. A total of eight matches have been scheduled for the day, with young talents from across the country showcasing their football skills and determination to progress in the week-long tournament jointly organized by the Youth Sports Federation of Nigeria (YSFON) and sponsored by the Nigerian Navy. CNS Cup – Boys U-14 Matches: Today’s action will begin at 10:00am, with Zamfara taking on Kebbi on Pitch B, while Kano squared off against Kogi on Pitch A in simultaneous fixtures that set the tone for an action-packed day. At 11:00am, Nasarawa will face Bayelsa on Pitch B, just as Kwara battled Oyo on Pitch A, with both matches drawing crowds of enthusiastic supporters and scouts eager to spot emerging talents. The third ...

NSC disqualifies registered Athletes with Antidoping issues from participating in 22nd National Sports Festival

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  The National Sports Commission, NSC, has cautioned that registered athletes with antidoping issues cannot compete for scoring medals at the ongoing National Sports Festival, tagged Gateway Games 2024. The NSC made it clear after a strategic joint meeting of the Main Organising Committee and the Local Organising Committee of the Games on Monday. The commission announced that this is in line with global best practices and the World antidoping Agency ( WADA) code. NSC DG Hon Bukola Olopade charged all the participating states to take note of this and reiterates the Commission's commitment to ensuring that every athlete compete very clean. " The issue of antidoping is one important mandate of the Commission to ensure that Nigeria is devoid of drugs problems at both domestic and international competitions.  " We are happy now that the National antidoping law has finally been passed by our Sports loving President, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and the ripple effect of such...

YSFON/NN CNS U-14 and NOWA U-17 Girls Football Championships Kick Off in Grand Style in Kaduna

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  The 21st edition of the Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) U-14 Boys and the 13th edition of the Naval Officers’ Wives Association (NOWA) U-17 Girls Football Championships kicked off in grand style on Sunday, May 18, 2025, at the iconic Ahmadu Bello Stadium in Kaduna. The prestigious grassroots football tournament, organised by the Youth Sports Federation of Nigeria (YSFON) in partnership with the Nigerian Navy, has drawn participation from 18 states and the Federal Capital Territory. All matches are being staged across two key venues in Kaduna — the Ahmadu Bello Stadium and the Nigeria Police College. The week-long event opened with a vibrant and colourful ceremony, featuring a traditional match-past parade by all participating teams. The opening fixture, a goalless draw, featured the U-17 girls’ teams from Kaduna and Ondo States. In a goodwill message delivered on his behalf by Rear Admiral YS Idris, the Director of Sports at Naval Headquarters, the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice A...

Eniola’s African Award Boosted My Election – Orbih

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  President of the Nigeria Badminton Federation, Francis Orbih, has described Eniola Bolaji’s recognition as the African Women in Badminton Award (AWIBA) winner as an emotional and uplifting moment for Nigerian badminton. Eniola became the seventh recipient of the prestigious award, and the second Nigerian after Mrs. Obiageli Solaja to earn the honor. “Nobody predicted that she would be the winner,” Orbih said. “I was called out to receive the award on her behalf. It was a bit emotional for me.” He recalled her dedication of the award to her late coach, a gesture that deeply resonated with many in the sport. Orbih noted that Eniola’s achievement had a ripple effect on his successful BWF Council election. “Her winning this award also contributed to my victory,” he revealed. “It portrayed Nigeria as a country doing something great for badminton.” He further announced a groundbreaking three-year sponsorship package for Eniola, which will see her attend at least three international tou...

Abia Para Badminton Championships Set to Raise the Bar – Orbih

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  Abia State’s commitment to para badminton has earned high praise from Francis Orbih, President of the Nigeria Badminton Federation, as the state prepares to host two back-to-back international championships. Orbih lauded Abia’s longstanding support and the current administration’s exceptional investment in the sport. “I must commend the current governor. Every government in Abia has shown interest, but this one has raised the bar,” he said. He noted the massive investment in accessible equipment, including buses and playing maps, which will leave lasting legacies after the events. “A lot of people came up to me during the BWF AGM in China asking about the tournament. That tells you how much attention it’s getting,” Orbih revealed. Ahead of the internationals, a national para badminton championship in July will serve as a test event to fine-tune logistics and facilities. “We are grateful to the state government. What they’re doing is putting Nigeria on the global map for para badm...

National Sports Festival a Launchpad for New Talents – Orbih

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  As excitement builds for the National Sports Festival, President of the Nigeria Badminton Federation, Francis Orbih, has highlighted its crucial role in unearthing future stars for the sport. Orbih said the Festival and the Youth Games have consistently served as platforms for both discovery and surprises. “It’s a time where we all are looking forward to something positive happening,” he stated. “Sometimes we get upsets. It gives us a chance to assess our top players and spot new ones.” He pointed to the absence of reigning champion Anuoluwapo Opeyori, who is currently competing in the US, as a game-changer that opens the field for new contenders. He also praised the Sports Commission for their continued support, citing their novel approaches and encouragement of global leadership aspirations for Nigerian sports figures. “The bar has been raised,” he said. “We need corporate Nigeria to partner with us. The Commission is doing so much, but they can’t do it alone.”

Orbih Pledges Global Impact for Nigeria Through BWF Council Seat

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  President of the Nigeria Badminton Federation, Francis Orbih, has vowed to leverage his recent election into the Badminton World Federation (BWF) Council to bring tangible benefits to Nigerian badminton. Orbih, who is one of only two African representatives on the 26-member global council, described the development as a major opportunity not just for Nigeria but for the entire continent. “When I was running for this election, I always thought that when I reach there, I will represent Africa,” he said. “We are there to make positive things happen for the sport. The belief is that when that happens, it touches everyone.” Although the position is continental, Orbih affirmed his commitment to using his seat to uplift Nigeria’s standing in global badminton. He revealed ongoing discussions with top badminton nations like Japan, Malaysia, and Indonesia aimed at securing coaching support and international exposure for Nigerian athletes. “I can promise you that I will not let the co...

Top Nigerian Music icons Davido and Asa to perform at Opening Ceremony of the 22nd National Sports Festival on Sunday

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  Organisers of the 22nd National Sports Festival, tagged Gateway Games, 2024, have announced that two of Nigeria's finest music Super stars Davido and Asa will perform live at the highly anticipated Opening ceremony of the Games at the MKO Sports Arena. After months of top preparations and planning the Opening ceremony of the Sports Festival will go down today, Sunday 18th at the MKO stadium in Abeokuta, the Ogun state capital by 5pm. As part of activities to ensure the 2024 Gateway Games is one of the best organised festivals, World class activities and cultural displays have been lined up to light up the Games. Director General of the National Sports Commission, NSC, Hon Bukola Olopade who doubles as the Chairman of the Main Organising Committee of the Games, said the stage is set for what is about to be the best organised Opening ceremonies in the history of the Festival. " This is our own Olympics and from start to finish, the festival must portray that global feel,  both...

Nurudeen Academy Unveils State-of-the-Art Talent Camp in Mararaba ...Aims to Nurture and Develop Young Footballers

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  By Tolulope Oguntimehin  One of Nigeria’s leading football development institutions, Nurudeen Football Academy, has launched a state-of-the-art residential camp in Mararaba, Nasarawa State — a strategic location near the Abuja-Nasarawa border. The newly unveiled facility is designed to support talented young footballers, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds or living outside Abuja and Nasarawa, who previously faced accommodation challenges while training at the academy. Speaking at the launch, President of Nurudeen Football Academy, Mahmud Musa, shared the inspiration behind the initiative: "Football has always been a passion of mine. I played when I was younger, and I’ve always dreamed of creating a platform where young, aspiring players can thrive. This academy is more than just a training ground — it’s a hub for nurturing talent while recognizing the business side of football. That’s why we’ve invited top professionals in the industry to assess and help enh...

Sport Integrity Foundation sounds call to action for National Sports Festival

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  By Dayo Awoniyi As the National Sports Festival gets underway in Ogun State, the Sport Integrity Foundation (SIF) has issued a rallying cry for integrity, fair play, and respect to be prioritized throughout the competition. In a statement, SIF urged the Main Organizing Committee (MOC) and Local Organizing Committee (LOC) to adopt best practices that promote fair play, safety of athletes, and clean sport. The foundation emphasized the importance of providing a clear pathway and strategies to improve competition organization in Nigeria. SIF also reminded athletes that competing clean, fair, and with respect is paramount, while calling on officials to take responsibility and be accountable at all times. To ensure the integrity of the competition, SIF has deployed its members to observe and promote the games in Ogun State. As the festival progresses, SIF wishes all participants the best, reminding everyone that the greatness of Nigerian sports is a collective responsibility.

Let the Games Begin: Opening Ceremony for 22nd National Sports Festival Holds Sunday in Abeokuta ...Vice President Kashim Shettima to officially declare Games open

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  The crème de la crème of Nigerian sports will converge in Abeokuta this weekend, as the nation’s foremost multi-sport event, the National Sports Festival (NSF), kicks off in grand style.  The 22nd National Sports Festival , dubbed “Gateway Games Ogun 2024,” will open with a colourful ceremony that promises cultural splendour and athletic excellence. Vice President, His Excellency, Kashim Shettima will formally declare the Games open, marking the commencement of two weeks of national unity through sport. The spirit of patriotism, unity, and celebration—hallmarks of the National Sports Festival since its inception in 1973—will once again come alive as Ogun State plays host, following its memorable hosting in 2006. Ogun State Governor, His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has assured the nation that the state is fully prepared to host athletes, officials, and guests from across the country. The leadership of the National Sports Commission (NSC), led by Chairman Mallam Shehu Dik...

Bayelsa Queens crowned Champions, Ebi Egbe hails historic victory

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  By Dayo Awoniyi Ebi Egbe, CEO of Monimichelle Sport Facilities Construction Limited, has congratulated Bayelsa Queens on their historic victory in the Nigeria Women Football League Super Six. Bayelsa Queens emerged champions of the 2024/2025 season, garnering 10 points after defeating Naija Ratel 4-1 on the final day of the competition. "I am thrilled to see Bayelsa Queens make history by winning the Nigeria Women Football League Super Six," Egbe said.  "This achievement is a testament to the team's hard work, dedication, and passion for the beautiful game. I wish them all the best as they represent Nigeria in the Africa Women Champion League." With this victory, Bayelsa Queens have earned the right to represent Nigeria in the Africa Women Champion League, a prestigious continental competition. Ebi Egbe is an advocate of good football Pitches and Remo Stars stadium where Super Six competition was staged which paved way for good football was constructed by his...

John Utaka Football Academy Partners with New Gate University to Promote Education and Sports Development

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  As football continues to grow into one of the largest industries globally, with education playing an increasingly vital role in its evolution, the John Utaka Football Academy (JUFA) has taken a significant step toward repositioning itself as a leading institution in Nigeria. The academy recently sealed a strategic partnership with New Gate University, Minna, aimed at supporting young footballers in combining academic pursuits with their sporting ambitions. The partnership is designed to address the concerns of parents who wish to see their children excel both on the pitch and in the classroom. At the formal signing ceremony held in Minna, Niger State, Usman Chata, Vice President of JUFA, emphasized the academy’s commitment to the holistic development of its players. “JUFA is proud to partner with New Gate University, Minna,” Chata said. “This collaboration creates an opportunity for our players to pursue academic excellence while continuing to develop their football careers. It a...