Deeonemedianews

  The Para-Olympics Committee of Nigeria, PCN, has ascribed the  recent success of Team Nigeria at the Para Grand Prix in Tunisia to the intentional support the National Sports Commission, NSC, is giving to the country's Para-Sports. These were the remarks of the PCN President, Sunday Odebode, as he revelled in the performance of the country's Para-athletes in Tunisia, where Nigeria finished second overall out of 42 countries that featured at the competition. " The NSC under the leadership of the Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, and the Director General, Hon Bukola Olopade, has taken the support given to people living with disabilities to another level". " We have never had it this good in the past where the Commission is not only supporting us financially but also assisting us in every technical way to succeed both with our international competitions and domestic ones". " This is why to whom much is given, much is expected and the athletes did not disappo...

  The Abegyi Bwaya of Bwari and Chairman of the Federal Capital Territory Football Association (FCT FA), Alhaji Adam Mouktar Mohammed, was among distinguished personalities honoured by the Nigeria National League (NNL) for their contributions to the growth and development of football in the country. The respected philanthropist and sports administrator was recognised on Wednesday alongside the President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau; former NFF Secretary-General, Fani Amun; and other notable individuals who have played key roles in advancing the NNL and grassroots football. The honour, presented during the April and May editions of the NNL Awards in Abuja, acknowledged Mouktar’s unwavering support for the league and his impactful efforts in promoting football development within the FCT and beyond. The NNL Awards aim to celebrate outstanding achievements by players, coaches, teams, and stakeholders, while also encouraging excellence, fostering g...

  The National Sports commission has congratulated Joshua Aiyenuro Babatunde for setting a new record for the longest professional hairdressing marathon which he just concluded at the velodrome of the Abuja National stadium. Tjosh as he is popularly called embarked on the record breaking mission on the 10th of June 2025 and finished on Tuesday, June 17th 2025. Chairman of the NSC, Mallam Shehu Dikko alongside the Director General of the sports commission , Hon Bukola Olopade, were amongst some of the top dignitaries that visited him during the exercise to cheer and motivate him. The NSC Chairman said this is another example of the true spirit of the Nigerian youths which is the reason President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has continually prioritised the capacity building of the Nigerian Youth. " I am not surprised with this latest feat coming from another Nigerian youth because our youthful population are the most resilient, dogged and hardworking in the world". " I want to...

The President of Professional Footballers Association of Nigeria (PFAN) Tijani Babangida, MON, General Secretary, Comrade Edema Fuludu,MON and a Benue State PFAN Executive Committee member, Father Dennis, were at the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Abuja, Tuesday, to throw more light on the petition by PFAN to the Inspector General of Police, Mr Kayode Egbetokun, on the tragic and untimely death of Vipers Sports Club of Kitende, Uganda footballer, Abubakar Lawal, a Nigerian, who passed on a few months back in controversial circumstances.  PFAN gave some fresh and useful information to the Interpol with the help of the late footballer's wife. There is assurance that the Ugandan police, will collaborate with the Nigeria police to unravel how and what led to the death of Abubakar Lawal. As it is expected that those involved in the incident will be brought to book, and the widow given the late husband's entitlements. 

  By Akeem Busari  A large group of sober sports personalities including members of the Ghana Football Supporters club, accompanied by members of Nigeria's foremost football fans group, the Nigeria Football Supporters Club, as well as, the wife of the late Nigerian boxer Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju, were at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, to receive the body of the deceased boxer. Speaking with journalists at the venue, National Chairman of Nigeria Football Supporters Club, Rev. (Amb) Samuel Ikpea, in an emotion laden tone, described the death of the late boxer as a painful and unfortunate incident that could have been prevented.  "There has been several reasons given by the people on what could have caused the death of Segun Olanrewaju. No matter the excuses or reasons, I believe the incident was avoidable, if necessary precautions had been taken. "However, this is not the moment to share blames. What we all should do is to put on our usual garb of h...

  Preparations are in full swing for the 23rd National Sports Festival, to be hosted by Enugu State, as the Coal City positions itself to deliver a memorable fiesta. The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, held a productive meeting with the Executive Governor of Enugu State, His Excellency Peter Ndubuisi Mbah at the Enugu State Government House on Tuesday, as part of strategic engagements to ensure early planning and smooth execution of the biennial multi-sport event. During the visit, the Governor reaffirmed Enugu State’s  resolve to delivering a world-class festival that will not only celebrate Nigeria’s athletic talents but also promote national unity and youth engagement. In a major step forward, Governor Mbah has approved the composition of the Local Organising Committee (LOC), which will be officially inaugurated on Wednesday.  The LOC comprises seasoned professionals with robust credentials in sports administration, youth ...

  The Nigerian American Football Association ( NAFA ) has unveiled its competition apparel to the National Sports Commission, NSC, as it gets set to depart for the inaugural IFAF Africa Flag Football continental Games in Egypt billed for the 20-21 of June 2025. In a brief but significant ceremony, the President of NAFA, Babajide Akeredolu, unveiled the jerseys the team will be using in Egypt to the Director General of the NSC, Hon Bukola Olopade on Tuesday, as the DG charged the team to do the country proud and return with flying colours. "On this trip to Egypt I wish you guys well and I am more encouraged that you guys are very confident that our women team will win Gold. I am also very fascinated that you are taking U13 to this tournament.It's inline with the Commission's renewed hope vision to also start building for the future". "I must also thank you and your team for the kind of aggressive publicity and glamour you are creating around flag football  in Nige...

By Dayo Awoniyi The FCT Football Association League got off to an electrifying start, with CASMATT FC, Golden Boys, Defence Strikers, Youthful Ballers, and Pride FC all securing impressive victories in their opening matches. The month-long tournament, which commenced on Monday, July 16, 2025, features 18 teams divided into three pools, with matches being held at key venues across Abuja, including the Area 3 Playing Pitch and the Old Parade Ground. From the onset, the competition has delivered excitement and top-notch entertainment, as teams from across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) battle for glory and a place in the Super Six showdown. In one of the standout fixtures of Day 1, CASMATT FC defeated Gwarinpa FC 3–1, while Golden Boys of Ushafa edged IB Sports 4–3 in a thrilling encounter. Defence Strikers FC also claimed a 4–3 victory over Royal FC. Youthful Ballers dispatched Camp United 2–0, and Pride FC narrowly beat Makinz FC 1–0. Meanwhile, Ramsaky Optimum and their opponents ...

  The countdown has officially begun as Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State, braces itself to welcome the continent’s future stars for the 3rd African U18 and U20 Athletics Championships, now just 30 days away. Scheduled to hold at the newly upgraded MKO Abiola International Stadium, the championship promises to be a spectacle of speed, strength, and emerging talent. Over 50 countries are expected to participate in this prestigious event, with national contingents beginning to arrive from July 12. The championship will take place from July 16-20, 2025. The Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) has given full endorsement to the facilities, certifying Abeokuta as ready and capable of hosting the continent’s best young athletes.  All eyes will be on Nigeria as it sets the stage for a new generation of stars, poised to follow in the footsteps of national legends like Falilat Ogunkoya, Mary Onyali, Olusoji Fasuba, Deji Aliyu, and Yusuf Alli — all of whom first shone on similar j...

  The Emir of Ilorin and Chairman, Kwara State Council of Chiefs, Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari CFR, has urged the players of Kwara United Football Club to remain focused and determined as they prepare for the final of the 2025 President Federation Cup against Abakaliki FC, scheduled for Saturday, 28th June, at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos. Speaking while receiving the team at his palace for royal blessings, the Emir assured the club of his full support in their quest to bring a major national trophy home to Kwara State. > “I was once an official of Shooting Stars and the Nigeria Football Federation. I know what is at stake in a crucial match like this. Prepare well, remain focused, and stay united. We will continue to pray for your success,” the Emir said. He commended the team’s efforts so far and emphasized the importance of discipline, unity, and hard work, adding that their victory would bring immense pride to the entire Ilorin Emirate and the state at ...

  By Dayo Awoniyi The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) is set to witness a thrilling month long football spectacle as 18 clubs compete in the 2025 FCT Football Association League.  The tournament, which is expected to  kicked off in Abuja on Monday will see  18 teams divided into three groups slugging it out  with teams converging at  match venues like the Area 3 Playing Pitch and the Old Parade Ground. Groups and the teams that will play in each pool include Group A CASMATT FC, Defence Strikers, Gwarinpa United, Golden Boys, IB Sports, and Royal FC. Meanwhile, Group B comprises of  Pride FC, Youthful Ballers FA, Optimum Sports, Makinz FC, Camp United, and RAMSAKY FC Group C is made up of  Ejike Ugboaja, Basic Maracana, Abees FA, Future Guarantee, Sofae Sports, and Sensational Stars The top two teams from each group are expected to  advance to the Super Six round, where the ultimate champions will be crowned.  With skills, passion, and pr...

  By Dayo Awoniyi The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has emphasized the importance of youth development as 16 teams prepare to clash in the 2nd edition of the annual Democracy Day U18 Basketball Championship.  The tournament, scheduled to take place from June 13th to June 18th at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, will feature male and female basketball teams from the North Central region and the FCT. Representing the CDS, Brig. Aliyu Abdulahi noted, "The CDS recognizes the importance of the young, vibrant youth population in national development. Hence the choice of the theme 'encouraging grassroots basketball talents' aimed at promoting peaceful coexistence among youths and encouraging tolerance in our society." Brig. Abdulahi revealed that 16 teams, comprising 10 male and 6 female teams, will participate in the championship. The teams include representatives from Kaduna, Nasarawa, Plateau, and the FCT, as well as teams from basketball ...

Fatimat Yusuf-Olukoju has officially accepted her election as the representative of the National Association of Women in Sports (NAWIS) on the board of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), pledging to uphold the association's values and promote inclusivity in her new role. In a heartfelt acceptance speech, the former Nigerian international athlete expressed profound gratitude to the delegates and the leadership of NAWIS for the confidence reposed in her. “It is with profound humility and deep gratitude that I accept my election by NAWIS to serve on the AFN Board. I am truly honoured to have been chosen by the delegates, and I sincerely thank you for the trust and confidence you have placed in me.” Yusuf-Olukoju paid special tribute to the founder of NAWIS, Professor F. B. Adeyanju, and current President, Professor M. A. Sulaiman, acknowledging their visionary leadership and inspiration. “I was just 19 years old in 1990 when she began this inspiring crusade for women in sports...

  The National Association of Women in Sports ( NAWIS ) has commended the Leadership role of the National Sports Commission, NSC, following the election of Ex Nigerian athlete, Fatima Yusuf- Olukoju as NAWIS representative into the board of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, AFN. After the conduct of the NAWIS election that took place in Abuja on Monday, the Director General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, held a reconciliatory meeting with the Association and the principal contestants in the polls, Fatima Yusuf-Olukoju and veteran Sports journalist Nneka Anibeze to iron out grey areas that must have arisen from the outcome of the elections. The election conducted by NAWIS saw Yusuf-Olukoju beating Anibeze in the polls but both have now decided to forge a common front and work together for the overall interest of the Girl Child and Women empowerment in Nigerian Sports. A delighted Fatima Yusuf-Olukoju said after the meeting, that she is overwhelmed with the kind of detailed atte...

  By Dayo Awoniyi In a groundbreaking move, over 40 young and talented referees are currently participating in Nigeria's first ever FIFA sanctioned physical and technical instructors' course for referees.  The pioneering training programme is taking place at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja and is organized by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) in collaboration with FIFA. Declaring the course open on Monday, the Secretary General of the NFF, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, urged the participants to make the most of the opportunity and use the knowledge gained to enhance development of  others in their various zones. "This is the first time such a course is happening in Nigeria with both physical and technical instructors from FIFA here to impact knowledge. "At the end of this programme, learning must have taken place. And where learning takes place, there must be a change in attitude and approach to responsibilities. We believe the team of instructors sent by FIFA...

  By Dayo Awoniyi A petition has been submitted to the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), the National Association of Women in Sports (NAWIS), and the National Sports Commission (NSC), challenging the eligibility of former Nigerian sprinter Fatimah Yusuf Olukoju to contest for the position of NAWIS Representative on the AFN board. The petition, authored by Dr. Nneka Anibeze, Olukoju's sole opponent in the just concluded elections, alleges that Olukoju does not meet the criteria set forth by the association's statutes and should have been disqualified from the contest. In the election held on Monday at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, Olukoju emerged victorious, securing 30 votes out of 45, while Anibeze garnered 15. Dr. Anibeze expressed dissatisfaction with the process, citing irregularities, including the disqualification of some contestants and delegates. "Prior to the election, I raised concerns over several irregularities in the voting process," ...

  By Dayo Awoniyi Fatimah Yusuf Olukoju, an athlete of international repute and  former Nigerian sprinter, has emerged victorious in the election for the Nigeria Association for Women in Sports (NAWIS) representative on the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) board.  The election took place on Monday at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, with Olukoju securing 30 votes out of 45, defeating her sole opponent, Dr. Nneka Anibeze, who polled 15 votes. Olukoju's emergence followed a transparent electoral process conducted by NAWIS, aligning with the revised AFN constitution, which reserves a dedicated seat on the board for a women in sports representative.  As a former Olympian and African champion, Olukoju brings a wealth of experience to her new role, with a record breaking performance in the 400 meters and a pivotal role in Nigeria's relay teams during the 1990s. In her acceptance speech, Olukoju expressed heartfelt gratitude for the trust placed in her by ...

  The race to elect a representative for the new board of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) is heating up — but far from being a routine exercise in sports administration, it is fast turning into a test of integrity, equity, and democratic accountability. At the center of the growing storm is the Nigeria Association for Women in Sports (NAWIS), which is pushing back against what it describes as disturbing levels of external interference and political manipulation. The elections, scheduled to take place on Monday, June 9, 2025, in Abuja, have already been marred by controversy, with multiple stakeholders raising red flags about irregularities in the buildup. For NAWIS — a body that has long advocated for the inclusion and empowerment of women in Nigeria’s sporting leadership — this moment was supposed to be a breakthrough. Instead, it has become a flashpoint. Relocation Sparks Outrage One of the most contentious developments was the sudden relocation of the NAWIS election fr...

  The Chairman, Federal Capital Territory Football Association, (FCT FA), Alhaji Adam Mouktar Mohammed, the Abegyi Bwaya of Bwari Chiefdom is felicitating with Muslims in Nigeria and across the world on this year's celebrations of Eid-ul-Adha. He congratulates brothers and sisters in Islam on the occasion, describing it as a time to reflect on the goodness of Almighty Allah. His congratulatory message was contained in a statement signed by Uche Nwudoh Hillary, Head,Media Committee FCT FA. "I want to congratulate our Muslim brothers and sisters on this beautiful celebration." "We should once again be reminded that, the celebration of Eid-ul-Adha is to commemorate Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion to Allah SWT and his readiness to sacrifice his son, Ismail. At the very point of sacrifice, Allah SWT replaced Ismail with a ram, which was to be slaughtered in place of his son. This command from Allah SWT was a test of Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness and commitment to obey his Lord...

  A former chieftain of the Nigeria Football Federation, was on Wednesday, June 5, 2025, a guest of the Police Special Fraud Unit, Ikoyi, Lagos, where he was made to answer questions from the police officers investigating the non-completion of the Ugborodo FIFA Project in Delta State.  The former NFF President appearance before the PSFU, was hinged on the petition forward to the anti-fraud unit by renowned football activist and Chairman of PFAN's BoT, Prince Harrison Jalla. Jalla in the petition, is asking the PSFU to look into the misappropriation of 10 million dollars meant for the construction of FIFA Forward 1 and 2 projects located in Birnin Kebbi and Ugborodo, of Kebbi and Delta States respectively.  It further alleged that the Nigeria Football Federation under the leadership of Amaju Pinnick between 2014-2022 received a total of $10m in tranches from 2017-2022 out which $3.2m was allocated to Ugborodo and Birnin Kebbi projects in Delta and Kebbi states. $1.1m was a...

  By Akeem Busari  Ex-Nigeria international players led by Waidi Akanni, have been constituted into a monitoring committee for the construction of the CMS Sports Complex.  The ground breaking of the sports complex located inside the CMS Primary School was done on Wednesday, by the Executive Chairman of Bariga local government Hon. Alabi Kolade David and assisted by Hon. Bukola Adedeji, the Bariga APC Chairmanship candidate. Speaking at the historic ceremony, ex-Nigeria international star player, Waidi Akanni, who led other ex-Internationals that included former Nigeria and PSG of France star, Godwin Okpara, Hon. Kunle Ogunade Adasi,  Ayodeji Julius and others, praised the local government boss for the initiative, which he remarked would help revitalise sports in the community.  "This is a wonderful initiative and we want to assure the local government chairman, as well as, the good people of the Bariga community that we'll be ever present during the construction...

  By Akeem Busari  As the nation continue to reel in pains over the unfortunate road accident that claimed the lives of over 22 athletes and officials, stakeholders have come out to express their sadness, just as they have been preferring solutions to avoid a reoccurrence of the painful incident.  While speaking with journalists on his way to attending the FIFA organised seminar for football clubs executives and league administrators ongoing in Abuja, the youthful chairman of Ikorodu City FC, Sanmi Doherty, expressed his regrets over the sad and painful accident that claimed the lives of Kano State athletes who were returning from the just concluded National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, Ogun State.  Doherty said, while the incident was unfortunate, it could have also been averted, if sports administrators, see and take the welfare and wellbeing of athletes, as paramount.  "It’s painful to loss so many lives of our athletes to such  avoidable road accidents....

  By Dayo Awoniyi Mr. Ebi Egbe, CEO of Monimichelle Sports Facilities Construction Limited, has extended his heartfelt condolences to the Kano State Government and sports community over the tragic loss of athletes, officials, and journalists who perished in a fatal accident while returning from the National Sports Festival in Abeokuta. Egbe described the incident as "unfortunate" and prayed for God's consolation for the immediate families of the deceased, the Kano State Government, and the sports community at large. "I really want to express my deepest sympathy to all affected persons for the loss of these promising athletes and professionals who are dedicated even to the point of death," Egbe said. He further appealed for the victims to be immortalized, stating, "I will appeal for them to be immortalized and their families well compensated, although no amount of money can replace them, but it will be a succor to the people they left behind and also a sense...

  By Dayo Awoniyi The Super Eagles camp has officially opened in Moscow, Russia, with 18 players already arriving in different batches ahead of the highly anticipated international friendly game against Russia's senior men's team. The likes of William Troost-Ekong, Moses Simon, Victor Boniface, and Maduka Okoye are among the early arrivals, alongside home based players such as Isaac Saviour, Papa Mustapha, Sikiru Alimi, and Ismaila Sadiq. Other players who have checked into camp include Semi Ajayi, Igho Ogbu, Benjamin Fedrick, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Frank Onyeka, Chrisantus Uche, Raphael Onyedika, and Tolu Arokodare. The team is scheduled to have their first training session on Tuesday evening, with additional players, including Bruno Onyemaechi and Olusegun Olakunle, expected to arrive on Tuesday morning. The friendly match against Russia will take place at the iconic Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow on Friday, June 6, 2025.

  The management of Air Warriors Basketball Club has extended its heartfelt condolences to the Kano State Sports Commission following the tragic death of Bashir Yargaya, the State's Basketball Secretary, who lost his life alongside 21 others in a devastating road accident. The incident occurred as the team was returning from the recently concluded National Sports Festival held in Ogun State. In a statement issued by the Chairman of the club, Abdulmajid Solademi, the club expressed deep sorrow over the heartbreaking loss. He conveyed sincere sympathy to the family of the late Bashir Yargaya, as well as to the families of other athletes and officials who perished in the accident. “This is a deeply painful moment for the Nigerian basketball community and the entire sports fraternity,” Solademi said. “Bashir Yargaya was a passionate and dedicated servant of the game who worked tirelessly to develop basketball in Kano State and beyond. His sudden passing, along with that of other athlet...

  Veteran Fuji musician King Saheed Osupa paid a courtesy visit to Makanjuola Nureni popularly known as MK at the Water FC Academy in Abuja, commending him for his unwavering dedication to grassroots football development in Nigeria. During the visit, Osupa lauded MK's long-standing contributions to nurturing young talent and empowering underprivileged youth through football. Describing him as a “devoted supporter of the masses” and a “lovely brother,” the music icon emphasized the deep impact MK has made, both on and off the pitch. “Mr. Nureni Muala Kajola Kajolowo is one of the most respected football agents in Nigeria,” Osupa stated. “He has tirelessly worked to elevate numerous Nigerian footballers and has played a vital role in advancing the game at the grassroots level.” MK Makanjuola, the founder of Water FC, is well regarded for his community-centered approach to talent development. The Abuja-based academy currently houses over 36 young athletes, offering them technical trai...

  By Dayo Awoniyi Honourable Kabiru Amadu, Chairman of the House Committee on Sports, has expressed profound sorrow over the tragic loss of 22 athletes and officials from Kano State who died in a fatal auto crash while returning from the 2024 National Sports Festival in Ogun State. In an official condolence statement, Honourable Amadu extended heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved families, the Government of Kano State, and the Federal Government of Nigeria. "On behalf of the House Committee on Sports, I am deeply pained by the loss of lives in the auto crash involving young athletes, officials, and journalists on their way back from the festival in Ogun State," he stated. "This is a shocking, tragic, and unfortunate incident one that demands national mourning, not just in Kano, but across the country." Honourable Amadu described the accident as a "dark moment" for both Kano State and the entire nation. He revealed that the emotional weight of the tragedy d...

  The Professional Footballers Association of Nigeria (PFAN), has expressed its regrets and pains over the the ghastly motor crash that claimed the lives of over 22 athletes, officials and journalists, who were on there way back to Kano after participating in the just concluded National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, Ogun State.  “The Professional Footballers Association of Nigeria, joins the whole Nigeria to mourn the tragic accident that cut short the lives of the athletes. We commiserate with the Kano State Government and all the good people of Kano State," President of PFAN, Tijani Babangida, (MON) said in the message released by PFAN's General Secretary, Edema Fuludu,MON. "Indeed, this is very painful and we are heart-broken.These are athletes who were working to make a living and a career for themselves. And it's unfortunate that their dreams have been cut short.  "We pray that Almighty Allah will grant them rest, and also give the families and friends they l...

  The Nigeria sports community was earlier today thrown into mourning mood following the unfortunate fatal road accident involving the Kano State contigent who were on their way home from the just concluded National Sports Festival, held in Abeokuta, Ogun State.  Reacting to the shocking news of the incident that reportedly claimed over 20 lives of athletes, officials and journalists, the President of Nigeria Basketball Federation, Engr. Ahmadu Musa Kida, described the incident as shocking and heartbreaking. "This a huge shock and it's heartbreaking. To loss over 20 lives of athletes, officials and journalists who have just represented their state at the national sports festival in a ghastly road accident, is painful and saddening.  "Words alone can't express the sadness in the Nigeria sports community. We can only pray that God in His infinite mercies grant the souls of the departed peaceful rest. "We also pray He gives the government of Kano State, the families...