Category: Sports

By Mohammed Baba Busu

Alhaji Mohammed Ndarani, SAN, has organised a football competition among youths in his community in order to promote unity and peace in Niger and the country at large.

Ndarani, the Hukunchi Nupe and Hausaland, spoke in an interview with newsmen after the finals of the football competition in Vunchi, Doko District of Lavun Local Government Area of Niger on Wednesday.

He said the ‘Hukunchi Nupe football competition’, was going to be an annual event.

The Senior Advocate said that the tournament would also bolster peace and unity in Niger and Nigeria in general.

Accordingly to him, the vibrant football competition was aimed at promoting unity and peace among youths.

It would be recalled that Young Stars Football club of Doko has emerged winners of the Hukunchi Nupe Cup

The team defeated Sparkling stars also of Doko 4-3 on penalties after regulation time ended in a barren draw.

Fourteen teams from the axis participated in the competition which lasted for over a month as footballers at the grassroots gave a good account of themselves.

He said that football apart from promoting unity and peace among Nigerians, would reduce youths restiveness in the country.

According to him, football promotes unity and peace, saying, “in Nigeria, sports like football foster national pride and bridge ethnic divides.

“The importance of sports like football extends far beyond physical activity. It creates jobs for many youths.

“It plays a vital role in personal development, community building, and even national progress.

“Football just like other sporting activities that bring about youths engagement that keeps young people away from negative influences and social vices.

“Fitness, football enhances strength, flexibility, and endurance, social and community benefits among others,” he said

Ndarani called on the youths and other Nigerians to embrace football and other sporting activities for the overall development of the country.

The revered legal Icon said, “I feel so delighted to see people from different communities coming together to participate.

“Football is a powerful tool for unity, and we’re proud to host this event.”

The competition has drawn dignitaries from various communities, including traditional leaders and government officials.

The event is expected to promote peace, sportsmanship, and talent development among Nigerian youths.

He added, “I sponsored the football competition in my community to unite all the youths and to ensure that there should be a peace in our area, because football is unity .

“It gives the community the much needed peace without creating any rancour in the society.”

The learned silk assured of his continued commitment to initiate different youths friendly policies and programmes that would keep the youths off the streets in the country.

The renowned legal luminary said organising football competition in remote areas would bring out the hidden talents, that could be stars that the nation can be proud of tomorrow.

“They can also be shining stars in Manchester United, Arsenal, among others in the future, Ndarani added.

The tournament, which featured participants, was designed to inspire young people and steer them away from social vices.

The event attracted dignitaries from different parts of the state included the Etsu Nupe and Chairman, Niger Council of Traditional Rulers, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar and the Shaba Nupe, Alhaji Manko Yilata.

Others were District and Village Heads, Imams, Prof. Tanko Suleiman, Vice-Chancellor , Edu Soko University, Bida and Alhaji Muhammad Alfa-Maali, Chairman of Lavun LGA, among others.

NAN

 

Rising Stars dethrone UI to win Propella Basketball Challenge

By Oluwaseyi Oduneye-Ogunwomoju.

‎Rising Stars on Monday defeated the University of Ibadan (UI) Basketball Club 21–18 to win the seventh edition of the Propella 3×3 Male Open Basketball Challenge held at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Ibadan.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Showtyme emerged third after edging Ondo Raiders 21–16. UI, the defending champions, put up a spirited performance in a keenly contested final but narrowly lost the title.

‎Speaking after the game, UI coach, Momoh Zika, attributed his team’s defeat to inadequate preparation occasioned by ongoing examinations.

Zika explained that the players had little time to train together, as they had to juggle academic commitments with the competition.

“They left their examinations to play this game. We didn’t have any training session together to correct mistakes or build stamina.

‎“When students read overnight, they lose leg strength. However, they gave their best, and I am proud of them,” he said.

Coach of Rising Stars, Taiye Shobogun, told NAN that his team is made up of young and upcoming players whose speed and agility gave them an edge.

‎“Our players are fast and swift on their feet. Their speed and precision with the ball paved the way for this victory, coupled with their skills.

“They shot about 80 per cent more than UI, and that made the difference,” Shobogun said.

‎The convener of the competition, Tunde Popoola, said the event had now become an invitational tournament to improve the quality of play.

Popoola disclosed that 12 teams participated in this year’s edition, including six teams from outside Ibadan.

“Since UI will be hosting the Federation of Africa University Sports (FASU) Games in 2026, we invited institutions to give them the opportunity to prepare and strengthen their teams ahead of the event.

‎“Four universities participated in this year’s competition,” he said.

Popoola added that the quality of skills displayed by participants had improved significantly over the years, describing this year’s edition as exceptional.

‎“It was a highly competitive tournament, and everyone gave their best. Over the years, many skilful players have emerged from this annual event,” he said.

NAN reports that Rising Stars received ₦150,000 as prize money for winning the tournament, while UI got ₦100,000 and Showtyme ₦50,000.

Lawrence Asieru emerged as the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the competition.

OmoBarca Community Cup kicks off with excitement as organizers release week one highlights and week two fixtures

The much-anticipated OMOBARCA Community Cup commenced last Sunday with an electrifying atmosphere as players, officials, and supporters turned out in large numbers to witness the kickoff of the grassroots football tournament. The opening day was marked by orderly conduct, competitive spirit, and impressive displays of sportsmanship across all participating teams.

In a statement released by the organisers, appreciation was extended to all who contributed to the smooth and peaceful outing recorded during the first week of matches. The organisers commended the players for their discipline, the match officials for their professionalism, and the supporters for creating a vibrant yet friendly environment around the games.

Week One Highlights
Detailed results from last Sunday’s fixtures, including match scores and standout moments, have been compiled and attached for public viewing. Fans and community members are encouraged to review the full highlights to stay updated on team performances and early contenders for the trophy.

Week Two Fixtures Set for Sunday, 16 November 2025

The competition continues this weekend with another exciting lineup of matches scheduled for Sunday, 16 November 2025. A full list of fixtures and match times has been made available in the accompanying release. Stakeholders are urged to familiarize themselves with the schedule, mobilize their teams, and spread the word among supporters.

The organizers called on players to maintain the high standards of discipline demonstrated in the opening week while reminding fans to continue cheering in a positive manner that uplifts the tournament’s spirit and fosters unity within the constituency.

The OMOBARCA Community Cup is fast becoming a rallying point for sports development and community bonding within Ajeromi-Ifelodun Federal Constituency, setting the tone for what promises to be a thrilling series of matches in the weeks ahead.

Football lovers are encouraged to come out again this Sunday to support their favourite teams and enjoy another round of exciting grassroots football action.

“Together, let us continue building a stronger and greater Ajeromi-Ifelodun Federal Constituency,” the organizers said.

Enugu Sports Club inaugurates new Exco, urges Gov. Mbah to check land encroachment

The Enugu Sports Club has urged Gov. Peter Mbah to check the ongoing encroachments into the club’s land particularly at the Golf Course, Enugu.

The new Executive Chairman of the club, Chief Ifeanyi Nweke, made the appeal on Saturday after the inauguration of the 23-member new executives of the club at the club’s auditorium in Enugu.

Nweke noted that these unauthorised activities are causing conflicts and posing a threat to the club’s integrity and property.

He also appealed to the government to help improve the club’s revenue base by assisting it in completion of its abandoned hotel project as well as assisting the club with an ambulance to attend to emergency health concerns.

The chairman called on the governor to assist in installing more solar energy power systems to reduce the monthly bill on electricity and diesel as well as a donation of N10 million to furnish its staff quarters.

“We are appealing for general support from Your Excellency in many fronts to help the club meet with its current obligations and futuristic plans to reposition the club to be the best in the country,” he said.

He lauded Mbah for his resolve for the state to host the upcoming National Sports Festival as well as designating some of the club’s sections as host of some of the festival’s events.

“We appeal to you to assist the club to put facilities to be used in the festival to the required international standard as well as get the state-of-the-art facilities and fittings for these sports events,” he said.

He appreciated Gov. Mbah for bringing “an inspirational leadership” with a clear cut desire to transform the state in a hurry; thus, making Enugu State development trajectory a reference point anywhere in the country.

“Your Excellency coming to lead Enugu State is not by chance but a carefully planned desire to make the difference and reposition the state for all round development cutting across sectors and locations,” he added.

The Chairman of the event, Chief John Nwodo, the former President of Ohaneze Ndi-Igbo, commended Nweke for already hitting the ground running while calling on past leaders and members of the club to support him.

Nwodo, former Minister of Information, called on the new chairman to resuscitate the children section of the club and make it flourish with educational and cultural orientating events.

Responding, Gov. Mbah, who was represented by the state’s Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dame Ugochi Madueke, praised the achievements and already existing projects the club had handled in a short while.

The governor, who is also the President of the Club, commended members for the unity and sense of commitment to development they always display.

He also assured the club and her new executive members of continued support.

Highlights of the event were the swearing in of the new executive members and presentation of Award of Excellence on some notable personalities in the country.

Rangers Foundation partners ENSUBEB to harness, nurture talents of children in sports

The Rangers International FC Foundation says it will partner with the Enugu State Universal Basic Education Board (ENSUBEB) in harnessing and nurturing talents of school children in sports in the state.

The Chairman of the Foundation, Coach Ebere Amaraizu, disclosed this when he led other members of the foundation to a courtesy call to the Executive Chairman of ENSUBEB, Prof. Hyginus Okibe, in Enugu on Saturday.

Amaraizu said that the Foundation remained committed to child development through sports; adding that “catching-them-young will avail a great good to the state and entire country”.

He explained that the initiative would provide pupils (children) with the opportunity to discover their talents early and channel their energy into productive ventures of developing such talents.

“We want to introduce what we do in child development through sports.

“It is about building character, boosting self-esteem, and helping children make informed decisions through long-term and short-term goals.

“With our multi-sports framework, children can explore different sporting disciplines and choose the one best suited for them,” Amaraizu said.

 

The foundation boss lauded the ENSUBEB chairman’s openness and ongoing efforts to transform basic education in the state.

He assured that the foundation would work closely with the ENSUBEB to integrate sports into education as a tool for character development and societal growth.

“The courtesy visit marks the beginning of a potential collaboration aimed at leveraging sports to unlock the potential of school children across Enugu State,” he added.

Responding, Okibe appreciated the foundation’s team members for their vision, describing sports “as one of the greatest unifying factors in Nigeria”.

He expressed optimism that the partnership would not only develop the physical talents of children but also help shape their character and prepare them for a better future.

“Sports, who is a great unifying factor in our country, has the potential to change the lives of children, shaping them to be beneficial to themselves, to the state and to the society at large.

“Indeed, it is one of the treasures that last for too long a time.

“What you are proposing will help us secure the future of our children, who are the leaders of tomorrow,” he said.

Okibe urged the foundation’s team to provide ENSUBEB with a detailed framework of their plans for school sports development.

Amaraizu was accompanied on the courtesy call by the foundation team members, which included: Coach Edmund Ndukamma, among others.

By Vivian Ahanmisi

The Green Falcons of Nigeria on Tuesday defeated the Leopardess of Ghana 40–0 in an international rugby friendly at the Alaro City Rugby Pitch, Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the match was part of Nigeria’s preparation for the World Rugby Series scheduled to hold later in October in Canada.

The game, which began at 4 p.m., thrilled spectators with intense tackles, swift runs, and tactical exchanges between both sides.

Nigeria dominated from start to finish, overwhelming their Ghanaian opponents with clinical execution and superior teamwork.

In spite of showing resilience, the Leopardess were unable to withstand Nigeria’s pressure and eventually succumbed to the home side’s relentless attack.

Head Coach Luke Shearman hailed the team’s performance, describing it as a strong statement of intent ahead of the global tournament.

He said the victory would boost players’ confidence as they fine-tuned their strategies for the World Rugby Series.

Shearman expressed satisfaction with his side’s progress, stressing that their focus remained on teamwork and performance rather than the final scoreline.

He said the build-up to the game had been productive, with the inclusion of international players enhancing morale and overall quality.

“We’ve had a good preparation. Having international players has brought a lot of experience and positive energy into the squad,” he said.

According to him, the team’s training sessions have focused on fundamental skills and intensive drills aimed at improving cohesion and technical precision.

“We’ve just been working on our basic skills and drills to fine-tune our performance,” Shearman added.

On Nigeria’s rivalry with Ghana, Shearman noted that although he had not previously faced the Leopardess, the Green Falcons held a strong record against them.

“The Green Falcons have played Ghana several times and won on each occasion. I’ve watched those games and learnt a lot from them,” he said.

He, however, emphasised that the aim of the friendly was not merely to extend their winning streak but to enhance overall gameplay.

“Today isn’t just about winning,” he said. “It’s about ensuring we deliver our best possible performance,” he said.

Team captain Blessing Aladeyelu expressed delight over the result, saying the encounter tested the team’s unity and fitness levels.

“We respect the Ghanaian side; they gave us a good challenge. But we’re proud of our discipline and execution today,” she said.

She added that the team was well-prepared and motivated for the forthcoming World Rugby Series in Canada.

“Since qualifying for the World Series, we’ve trained hard and welcomed foreign players to strengthen the squad. We’re ready for what lies ahead,” Aladeyelu said.

On her expectations before the match, she said confidence was never lacking. “I expected a win because we always give our best. We’re the giants of Africa.”

Vice Chairman of the Nigeria Rugby League Association (NRLA), Ade Adebisi, said the body was intensifying grassroots efforts to grow the sport nationwide.

Adebisi explained that the association had introduced school tournaments and community outreach programmes to nurture young talents and increase participation.

He said NRLA was partnering with the Rugby League Federation International and sponsors to provide equipment, coaching, and training support for local clubs.

“We’ve trained physical education teachers and local coaches to ensure sustainability. Our aim is long-term development and talent discovery,” he said.

He stressed that grassroots development remained vital to Nigeria’s success on the global stage. “Our dream is to see young Nigerians shine internationally,” he added.

Fans and officials of the Nigeria Rugby Football Federation commended the Green Falcons, noting that the match further strengthened sporting ties between both nations.

NAN reports that the second leg of the two-match series between Nigeria and Ghana is scheduled for Oct. 11. The World Rugby Series will hold in Canada from Oct. 21 to Oct. 26. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The GEJ Golf Club set a new benchmark in Nigeria’s sporting calendar, becoming the first to blend cultural heritage with golf in celebration of the nation’s 65th Independence anniversary.

The event, tagged “Swinging in the Depths of Nigeria’s Cultural Heritage”, showcased golfers clad in traditional attires and promoted indigenous cuisines, making the tournament both a sporting and cultural showcase.

GEJ Golf Club is located at the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Base, Bill Clinton Drive, Airport and managed by the NAF.

The President, Nigeria Golf Federation (NGF), Otumba Olusegun Runsewe, said the innovation marked a turning point in how golf is perceived and celebrated in Nigeria.

“GEJ Golf Club has made history today as the first club in Nigeria to successfully bring culture into the golfing community.

“This is not just about memory; it is a message. It reminds us to love our country and use golf as a platform to tap into the benefits of our rich traditions,” he said.

Runsewe, who described the initiative as “a brand identity for golfing in Nigeria,” said it underscored the importance of unity, peace, and discipline in national life.

“By aligning this celebration with October 1st, GEJ club is not just marking Independence Day, it is promoting peace, discipline, and a renewed sense of cultural pride,” he said.

Runsewe said that with a population of over 250 million people, Nigeria’s Independence celebrations should be expressed through diverse initiatives, with GEJ Golf Club now securing its place in history.

Also speaking, the Vice President of NGF and Captain of GEJ Golf Club, AVM Bgmibgmitawuza Solomon, said the idea was born from a desire to use sport as a medium for national identity and local content promotion.

According to him, with Nigeria marking 65 years of independence, they felt golf could be a unique way to celebrate.

Solomon explained that more than 80 per cent of the players at the event wore locally produced fabrics.

He added that the post-game luncheon also featured a variety of Nigerian dishes, including amala and tuwo, in line with the government’s local content policy.

“This is our way of aligning with the Nigeria-first agenda.

“I must commend the Chief of the Air Staff, whose support made it possible to host the event here at the Air Force Golf Club.

“The initiative has created a model that can be replicated nationwide to not only promote golf but also preserve and celebrate Nigeria’s cultural heritage,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

Ibadan Ready for Big Sporting Events – Gov Makinde

 

By Adewale Owoade

 

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has expressed his administration’s commitment to sports development, highlighting the state’s progress in developing its sports economy over the past six years.

 

Gov Makinde made these remarks while declaring open the 81st Annual General Assembly of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) in Ibadan.

 

 

Gov Makinde stated that his government’s support from the NFF and other sports bodies has enabled it to rebuild sports infrastructure and put in place the right structures, attracting national and international sporting activities to Oyo State. He declared that Ibadan is now equipped to host big sporting events, including Super Eagles matches.

 

 

The governor appealed to the NFF to ensure that the state’s sporting facilities are checked and supported, promising to commit resources to ensure they are in proper shape for such events.

 

The governor said: “On behalf of the government and the people of Oyo State, I really want to thank the NFF president and your executive committee members for your interest in Oyo State.

 

“Yes, we are trying to develop a sports economy here, but if you don’t have the support or you don’t have the pressure from people like yourselves, some of our efforts will just go in vain.

 

“So, we are happy that today you brought your Annual General Assembly to Oyo State. And we are also happy that you brought the match we are going to watch this afternoon between the Nigeria U-20 women and the Rwanda U-20 women.

 

“And, as I mentioned when we were having breakfast this morning, Ibadan wants to have the opportunity to host big events – Super Eagles. So, let them check out our facilities, and whatever we need to do, I give you the promise that we will put the necessary resources in there.”

 

 

NFF President, Ibrahim Gusau, commended Gov Makinde for his support for sports development in Oyo State, including the remodeling of the Lekan Salami Sports Complex and support for the Shooting Stars Sporting Club (3SC).

 

He assured that the Super Eagles would soon play in Ibadan.

 

“Let me, on behalf of the Nigerian Football Federation Executive Committee, as well as the entire Congress, and indeed the football stakeholders of this great country, thank you immensely for what you have been doing for sports, especially football in Oyo State, since when you came on board as the Governor of Oyo State about six years and some months ago.

 

“Everybody knows that Oyo used to be the home of football and that Governor Seyi Makinde is an avid football fan. If you are with him and he gives you some history of how far he has gone in the support of football, you will not believe it.

 

“This was why when we saw what he was doing in the area of sports, especially football, we were not surprised. We talked about remodelling the stadium, which he did. He also did all he could to revive 3SC.

 

“Very soon, and by the grace of God, the people of Oyo State will see the Super Eagles playing Ibadan, courtesy of their own support and contribution.”

 

 

On the entourage of Governor Makinde were the Head of Service, Mrs Olubunmi Oni;

 

Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Alhaja Wasilat Adegoke; Commissioner for Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Mr Williams Akin-Funmilayo; Commissioner for Special Duties, Alhaja Faosat Sanni; and Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, CP Fatai Owoseni (Rtd).

News Investigators/ President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed Nigeria’s readiness to host a world-class 2030 Commonwealth Games, aiming to become the first African nation to achieve this historic milestone.
‎
‎Represented by his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, Tinubu gave the assurance on Thursday during a visit by the Commonwealth Sport Bid Evaluation Committee to the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
‎
‎The President reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to hosting an inclusive, diverse, and world-class 2030 Commonwealth Games on African soil.
‎
‎Gbajabiamila held strategic meeting with the delegation led by Darren Hall, Commonwealth Director of Games and Assurance, and member of the 2030 Evaluation Commission.
‎
‎Tinubu emphasised that the Commonwealth champions unity and diversity, and Africa deserves its moment after nearly a century.
‎
‎The games have never been hosted in Africa since inception in 1930, making Nigeria’s bid historic and overdue.
‎
‎”You’re very welcome to Nigeria. I hope you enjoy our great hospitality which we are known for, Mr President also asked me personally to convey his regards, he’s fully in support of this bid.”
‎
‎”As I said the President has written a Letter of guarantee to you, he’s full weight is behind this bid.”
‎
‎”What I can assure you is that we’re ready. We’re willing, we’re able, and we actually want this. It’s been 100 years… The games have not been held on any soil in Africa.”
‎
‎”The element of inclusivity is what Commonwealth is, and we hope that to our benefit.”
‎
‎”You know, this administration has set some bold reforms to reposition sports. We see sports as a strategic driver of national development.”
‎
‎”The President intentionally scrapped the Ministry of Sports and created a National Sports Commission to drive sports development,”
‎
‎President Tinubu assured the delegation that all infrastructure, security, and hospitality needs will be met ahead of schedule.
‎
‎He stressed that Nigeria’s bid is not just about hosting but leaving a legacy for youth and national development.
‎
‎Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), made a strong case for Nigeria over India, stressing that Africa has 22 Commonwealth nations, and Nigeria as the giant of Africa deserves the honor.
‎
‎”One thing I want to assure you is that the President sees the hosting of the Commonwealth Games in 2030, if we win the bid, as a celebration of the country’s growing force in sports, beyond just participation.”
‎
‎Habu Gumel, President of Commonwealth Sport, Nigeria, said the country is ready to host an environmentally sustainable Games.
‎
‎Mainasara Illo, Chairman of the Bid Committee, presented Nigeria’s proposal, highlighting key plans and innovations.
‎
‎He revealed that Nigeria proposes 15 sports, with football introduced to boost excitement, global visibility, and audience engagement.
‎
‎Darren Hall, Commonwealth Director of Games and Assurance, thanked President Tinubu and the Nigerian team for their warm welcome.
‎
‎“I have been most thrilled by the passion of the Nigerian people in all their endeavors, including sports.”
‎
‎He said the Commonwealth, now comprising 74 nations, is aiming for greater diversity as it approaches its 100-year milestone.
‎
‎Top government officials attended the meeting, including Ministers of Information, Aviation, Culture, Police Affairs, and Housing.
‎
‎The delegation who are on a four-day visit will meet will key stakeholders and inspect key facilities.
‎
‎Nigeria and India are the two official bidders for the 2030 Games, with Abuja and Ahmedabad as their proposed host cities.
‎
‎The Commonwealth Games General Assembly will decide the host city in November 2025, after thorough evaluation of both bids.

NAN