Flowerbud News

Category: Sports

  • President Federation Cup: Women teams to play May 8

    President Federation Cup: Women teams to play May 8

     

     

     Flowerbudnews 

    The women’s teams will finally begin hostilities in this year’s President Federation Cup competition at the national level on Wednesday next week, when the Round of 32 matches will be played in nine centres across the Federation.

     

    Uyo, Enugu, Asaba, Lafia, Ibadan, Benin City, Akure, Auchi and Abuja will host the 16 games.

    Thirteen of the matches will hold on Wednesday while the remaining three, in Asaba and Benin City, will take place on Thursday.

     

    Cup holders Bayelsa Queens are up against Bright Future Queens of Enugu at the Uyo Township Stadium, while last year’s runners-up Rivers Angels tackle Ekiti Queens in Asaba.

     

    Nasarawa Amazons will confront Suit De Queens from Oyo State in Enugu while Delta Queens take on Fortress Ladies of Edo in Akure.

     

    WOMEN’S ROUND OF 32 MATCHES

     

    Bayelsa Queens (Bayelsa) Vs Bright Future Queens (Enugu) – Uyo – 08/05/24 – 4pm

    Nasarawa Amazons (Nasarawa) Vs Suit De Queens (Oyo) – Enugu – 08/05/24 – 4pm

    Dannaz Ladies (Lagos) Vs Mighty Jets Mata (Plateau) – Enugu – 08/05/24 – 1pm

    Remo Stars Ladies (Ogun) Vs Oske Leans (Rivers) – Asaba – 08/05/24 – 4pm

    Abia Angels (Abia) Vs Castmong Ladies (Ogun) – Asaba – 08/05/24 – 1pm

    Naija Ratels (FCT) Vs ON Youth Academy (FCT) – Lafia – 08/05/24 – 1pm

    Heartland Queens (Imo) Vs Golden Sun (Bayelsa) – Asaba – 09/05/24 – 1pm

    FC Robo Queens (Lagos) Vs Onimang FC (Ondo) – Ibadan – 08/05/24 – 4pm

    Kwara Ladies (Kwara) Vs Ahudiya Queens (Abia) – Benin City – 08/05/24 – 1pm

    Delta Queens (Delta) Vs Fortress Ladies (Edo) – Akure – 08/05/24 – 4pm

    Sunshine Queens (Ondo) Vs Green Foot (Enugu) – Benin City – 08/05/24 – 4pm

    Plateau United Ladies (Plateau) Vs Honey Badgers (Benue) – Lafia – 08/05/24 – 4pm

    Gallant FC (Kaduna) Vs Osun Babes (Osun) – Auchi – 08/05/24 – 4pm

    Confluence Queens (Kogi) Vs Delta Ladies (Delta) – Benin City – 09/05/24 – 4pm

    Edo Queens (Edo) Vs Kada Queens (Kaduna) – Abuja – 08/05/24 – 4pm

    Ekiti Queens (Ekiti) Vs Rivers Angels (Rivers) – Asaba – 09/05/24 – 4pm

     

    Meanwhile, the men’s Round of 64 games will hold on Wednesday and Thursday this week in Abuja, Kaduna, Owerri, Lafia, Awka, Enugu, Benin City, Ibadan, Asaba, Ilorin, Aba and Kano. The 32 matches will produce the candidate-teams for the Round of 32.

     

    MEN’S ROUND OF 64 MATCHES

     

    Bendel Insurance (Edo) Vs Stormers SC (Ogun) – Abuja Area 3 – 01/05/24 – 4pm

    Wikki Tourists (Bauchi) Vs Jr. Danburan (Katsina) – Kaduna ABS – 01/05/24 – 1pm

    Osun United (Osun) Vs EFCC FC (FCT) – Awka – 01/05/24 – 4pm

    Edel FC (Anambra) Vs Discovery Talent FC (Kebbi) – Abuja Goal Project – 02/05/24 – 1pm

    Zamfara United (Zamfara) Vs ABS FC (Kwara) – Abuja Bwari – 01/05/24 – 4pm

    Kebbi United (Kebbi) Vs Ine Stars (Edo) – Abuja Area 3 – 01/05/24 – 1pm

    Akwa United (Akwa Ibom) Vs Cynosure FC (Ebonyi) – Owerri – 01/05/24 – 4pm

    Mighty Jets (Plateau) Vs Zamfara United Feeders (Zamfara) – Kaduna ABS – 02/05/24 – 4pm

    Gombe United (Gombe) Vs Karim United (Taraba) – Bauchi – 01/05/24 – 1pm

    El-Kanemi Warriors (Borno) Vs Adanimogo FC (Ondo) – Lafia – 01/05/24 – 4pm

    Lobi Stars (Benue) Vs Delta Marine (Delta) – Enugu – 01/05/24 – 4pm

    Shooting Stars (Oyo) Vs Solution FC (Anambra) – Benin City – 01/05/24 – 4pm

    Ikorodu City (Lagos) Vs Green Berets (Kaduna) – Ilorin – 01/05/24 – 4pm

    Coal City (Enugu) Vs Ekiti United Feeders (Ekiti) – Asaba – 01/05/24 – 4pm

    Beyond Limits (Ogun) Vs Hammola Int’l (Osun) – Ibadan – 01/05/24 – 4pm

    Inter Lagos (Lagos) Vs May Frank (Cross River) – Asaba – 02/05/24 – 4pm

    Warri Wolves (Delta) Vs Lautai FC (Jigawa) – Abuja Area 3 – 02/05/24 – 4pm

    Kwara United (Kwara) Vs Rovers FC (Cross River) – Enugu – 01/05/24 – 1pm

    Abia Warriors (Abia) Vs Ilaji FC (Oyo) – Benin City – 02/05/24 – 4pm

    Sporting Supreme (FCT) Vs PCM FC (Ebonyi) – Asaba – 01/05/24 – 1pm

    Nasarawa United (Nasarawa) Vs FC Bako (Kogi) – Kaduna ABS – 01/05/24 – 4pm

    Sokoto United (Sokoto) Vs Ofirima FC (Rivers) – Lafia – 02/05/24 – 4pm

    FC One Rocket (Akwa Ibom) Vs Fr. Eburuaja (Imo) – Aba – 01/05/24 – 4pm

    Enyimba FC (Abia) Vs Warinje FC (Bauchi) – Ilorin – 02/05/24 – 4pm

    Plateau United (Plateau) Vs Ekiti United (Ekiti) – Enugu 02/05/24 – 4pm

    Sunshine Stars (Ondo) Vs Jedo Academy (Sokoto) – Abuja Goal Project – 01/05/24 – 4pm  

    Rivers United (Rivers) Vs Ikukuoma FC (Imo) – Aba – 02/05/24 – 4pm

    Niger Tornadoes (Niger) Vs Niger Tornadoes Feeders (Niger) – Abuja Goal Project – 02/05/24 – 4pm

    Katsina United (Katsina) Vs Dutse Strikers (Jigawa) – Kano – 01/05/24 – 4pm

    Bayelsa United (Bayelsa) Vs FC Basira (Nasarawa) – Enugu – 02/04/24 – 1pm

    Doma United (Gombe) Vs Gamji Eaglets (Taraba) – Bauchi – 02/05/24 – 4pm

    Kano Pillars (Kano) Vs Rangers Int’l (Enugu) – Abuja Bwari – 02/05/24 – 4pm (Flowerbudnews)

  • NFF appoints Finidi George as Head Coach of Super Eagles

    NFF appoints Finidi George as Head Coach of Super Eagles

     

     

    By Flowerbudnews

    The Board of Nigeria Football Federation on Monday approved the recommendation of its Technical and Development Committee to appoint former ace winger Finidi George as Head Coach of the Senior Men National Football Team, Super Eagles.

    George, who spent 20 months as assistant to José Santos Peseiro before the Portuguese voluntarily left the post following the accomplishment of Africa Cup of Nations runner-up position at Cote d’Ivoire 2023, took charge of the squad in interim capacity during two friendly matches in Morocco last month.

    (George with Super Eagles’ top striker Victor Osimhen)

    His squad edged Ghana 2-1 in the first match, ending an 18-year winless streak against the Black Stars, but then lost 0-2 to Mali in the second game

    George, a member of the so-styled ‘Golden Generation’ that won the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations tournament in Tunisia and emerged the second most entertaining team in Nigeria’s debut at the FIFA World Cup finals in USA the same year, won 62 caps for Nigeria, including featuring at the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cup finals. He also won gold, silver and bronze medals from the 1992, 1994, 2000 and 2002 AFCON tournaments.

    The 52-year-old former Ajax Amsterdam (The Netherlands) and Real Betis (Spain) forward, who made a scoring debut for fatherland in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match against Burkina Faso at the National Stadium, Lagos on 27th July 1991, also featured for Calabar Rovers and Sharks FC in the domestic scene before heading to Europe. He assisted Rashidi Yekini (of blessed memory) to score Nigeria’s first-ever FIFA World Cup goal against Bulgaria in Dallas, USA on 19th June 1994.

    (New boss, Finidi George takes the reins)

    George had actually scored the goal that took Nigeria to that FIFA World Cup debut, when he put Nigeria ahead against hosts Algeria in a crucial qualifier in Algiers on 8th October 1993. The match eventually ended 1-1 and earned Nigeria a ticket to the finals in America.

    George’s immediate task will be to guide the Super Eagles to victory in two 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against South Africa and Benin Republic in Uyo and Abidjan respectively, in a little over five weeks. The matches are must-win encounters, with the Super Eagles lagging behind in third place in Group C of the African campaign behind Rwanda and South Africa. (Flowerbudnews)

     

     

     

     

    George, who spent 20 months as assistant to José Santos Peseiro before the Portuguese voluntarily left the post following the accomplishment of Africa Cup of Nations runner-up position at Cote d’Ivoire 2023, took charge of the squad in interim capacity during two friendly matches in Morocco last month.

     

    His squad edged Ghana 2-1 in the first match, ending an 18-year winless streak against the Black Stars, but then lost 0-2 to Mali in the second game.

     

    George, a member of the so-styled ‘Golden Generation’ that won the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations tournament in Tunisia and emerged the second most entertaining team in Nigeria’s debut at the FIFA World Cup finals in USA the same year, won 62 caps for Nigeria, including featuring at the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cup finals. He also won gold, silver and bronze medals from the 1992, 1994, 2000 and 2002 AFCON tournaments.

     

    The 52-year-old former Ajax Amsterdam (The Netherlands) and Real Betis (Spain) forward, who made a scoring debut for fatherland in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match against Burkina Faso at the National Stadium, Lagos on 27th July 1991, also featured for Calabar Rovers and Sharks FC in the domestic scene before heading to Europe. He assisted Rashidi Yekini (of blessed memory) to score Nigeria’s first-ever FIFA World Cup goal against Bulgaria in Dallas, USA on 19th June 1994.

     

    George had actually scored the goal that took Nigeria to that FIFA World Cup debut, when he put Nigeria ahead against hosts Algeria in a crucial qualifier in Algiers on 8th October 1993. The match eventually ended 1-1 and earned Nigeria a ticket to the finals in America.

     

    George’s immediate task will be to guide the Super Eagles to victory in two 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against South Africa and Benin Republic in Uyo and Abidjan respectively, in a little over five weeks. The matches are must-win encounters, with the Super Eagles lagging behind in third place in Group C of the African campaign behind Rwanda and South Africa. (Flowerbudnews)

     

  • Nigerian females break barriers,  dominate 2024 Nigeria’s Olympic team

    Nigerian females break barriers,  dominate 2024 Nigeria’s Olympic team

     

     

    By Tony Nezianya

    Flowerbudnews: When the Nigerian Contingent sets sail to participate in the upcoming Olympic Games, tagged the ”2024 Paris Games”, Team Nigeria as they are known will be dominated by the womenfolk.

    It is great news that Team Nigeria will have a strong representation of female athletes at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, which will run from July 26 to August 11, in Paris.

    This is no doubt a testament to the growing prowess and capabilities of Nigerian women in various sports.

    A female athlete like Adekuoroye Adegoroye, OLY, a wrestling athlete and a talented woman in a male-dominated sport, was among the earliest to wrestle her way to an Olympic ticket.

    This was followed by Elizabeth Anyanacho, Oly, a Taekwondoist, who has broken into reckoning as a gold medal prospect for the country if well-managed.

    In Canoeing and Cycling, one athlete in each sport has secured the right to don the national colours at the Games.

    In Athletics, six persons have so far picked the tickets but the females have the upper hand. The women include Tobi Amusan, the world record holder in the 100 metres Hurdles event.

    In women’s Basketball, Nigeria will be represented by a 12-member team, known as D’ Tigress, that qualified at the expense of regional arch-rivals Senegal.

    And in women’s soccer, the 22-member national team, the Super Falcons, have showcased their talent and earned the opportunity to compete at the Mundiale.

    The Super Falcons secured a 1-0 win from the first leg at home in Abuja and, in the return leg a week later in Pretoria, held host South Africa to a goalless draw before their passionate home fans, thus picking the ticket.

    ”It’s wonderful to see women breaking barriers and excelling in their respective sports,” remarked Mary Onyali, OLY, a Silver medalist in the Olympics, who in her heyday dominated the 100, 200 and the relays.

    Their achievements not only highlight their abilities but also inspire and empower other women to pursue their dreams in sports.

    The qualification of female athletes in canoeing and cycling further adds to the diversity and representation within Team Nigeria.

    As they say in Igbo, one of Nigeria’s main languages, “Nwanyi Bu Ife” , meaning “women are invaluable,” re-echoing the importance of women’s contributions to societal growth and sports too

    ”The success of these female athletes in qualifying for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and skill,” noted Engr. Habu Ahmed Gumel, President, Nigeria Olympic Committee, who doubles as IOC lone member for Nigeria.

     

    They will undoubtedly make Team Nigeria proud and show the world the strength and talent of Nigerian women in sports.

    ”Whether from males or females,  what Nigeria badly desires now is Olympic Gold to break the 1996 Jinx, which was the last time Nigeria won Olympic Gold medals,” restated Gumel.

    In the 1996 Games, Nigeria won two Olympic Gold medals – in the men’s Soccer and women’s Long Jump.

  • Federation Cup: Pillars versus Rangers star match of Round of 64

    Federation Cup: Pillars versus Rangers star match of Round of 64

     

     

    Flowerbudnews

    Last year’s runners-up, Enugu Rangers will go up against Kano Pillars in what is indisputably the pick of the men’s Round of 64 matches of this year’s Federation Cup competition.

    At the national draw conducted inside the NFF Secretariat on Thursday, the two former winners were drawn together, with Cup holders Bendel Insurance to face Ogun State flag bearers, Stormers Sports Club.

     

    High-riding Shooting Stars of Ibadan must negotiate for a place in the Round of 32 with Solution FC, while two-time CAF Champions League winners Enyimba FC of Aba must overpower Warinje FC from Bauchi, a survivor of the National Play-offs.

     

    In the women’s draw, Cup holders Bayelsa Queens are up against Bright Future Queens, while Rivers Angels will tango with Ekiti Queens and Delta Queens tackle Fortress Ladies.

     

    Last year’s runners-up Rivers Angels confront Ekiti Queens, with Delta Queens clashing with Fortress Ladies and Edo Queens to battle it out with Kada Queens.

     

    At the draw, NFF President Ibrahim Musa Gusau assured that the Federation is committed to restoring the glamour and glitz of the oldest football championship in the land, while also pledging that the integrity of the competition will be maintained all through the men’s and women’s competitions till the Grand Finale.

    Also at the draw were NFF General Secretary, Dr Mohammed Sanusi; Deputy General Secretary, Dr Emmanuel Ikpeme; Director of Communications, Ademola Olajire; Director of Finance and Admin, Babatunde Akinsanya; Director of Competitions, Ruth David; COO, Nigeria National League, Dr Ayo Abdulrahaman; Head of Marketing, Alizor Chuks; Head of Protocol, Barnabas Joro; Head of Women’s Football, Amina Daura; Head of National Competitions, Danlami Alanana; Member, Cross River State FA Board, Barr. Tom Agi; Special Assistant to NFF President, Abubakar Danladi; Special Assistant to General Secretary, Mohammed Ameenu and; Member, NFF Women’s Football Committee, Harry Awurumibe.

    ROUND OF 64: MEN’S DRAW

     

    Bendel Insurance (Edo) Vs Stormers SC (Ogun)

    Wikki Tourists (Bauchi) Vs Jr. Danburan (Katsina)

    Osun United (Osun) Vs EFCC FC (FCT)

    Edel FC (Anambra) Vs Discovery Talent FC (Kebbi)

    Zamfara United (Zamfara) Vs ABS FC (Kwara)

    Kebbi United (Kebbi) Vs Ine Stars (Edo)

    Akwa United (Akwa Ibom) Vs Cynosure FC (Ebonyi)

    Mighty Jets (Plateau) Vs Zamfara United Feeders (Zamfara)

    Gombe United (Gombe) Vs Karim United (Taraba)

    El-Kanemi Warriors (Borno) Vs Adanimogo FC (Ondo)

    Lobi Stars (Benue) Vs Delta Marine (Delta)

    Shooting Stars (Oyo) Vs Solution FC (Anambra)

    Ikorodu City (Lagos) Vs Green Berets (Kaduna)

    Coal City (Enugu) Vs Ekiti United Feeders (Ekiti)

    Beyond Limits (Ogun) Vs Hammola Int’l (Osun)

    Inter Lagos (Lagos) Vs May Frank (Cross River)

    Warri Wolves (Delta) Vs Lautai FC (Jigawa)

    Kwara United (Kwara) Vs Rovers FC (Cross River)

    Abia Warriors (Abia) Vs Ilaji FC (Oyo)

    Sporting Supreme (FCT) Vs PCM FC (Ebonyi)

    Nasarawa United (Nasarawa) Vs FC Bako (Kobi)

    Sokoto United (Sokoto) Vs Ofirima FC (Rivers)

    FC One Rocket (Akwa Ibom) Vs Fr. Eburuaja (Imo)

    Enyimba FC (Abia) Vs Warinje FC (Bauchi)

    Plateau United (Plateau) Vs Ekiti United (Ekiti)

    Sunshine Stars (Ondo) Vs Jedo Academy (Sokoto)

    Rivers United (Rivers) Vs Ikukuoma FC (Imo)

    Niger Tornadoes (Niger) Vs Niger Tornadoes Feeders (Niger)

    Katsina United (Katsina) Vs Dutse Strikers (Jigawa)

    Bayelsa United (Bayelsa) Vs FC Basira (Nasarawa)

    Doma United (Gombe) Vs Gamji Eaglets (Taraba)

    Kano Pillars (Kano) Vs Rangers Int’l (Enugu)

     

    ROUND OF 32: WOMEN’S DRAW

    Bayelsa Queens (Bayelsa) Vs Bright Future Queens (Enugu)

    Nasarawa Amazons (Nasarawa) Vs Suit De Queens (Oyo)

    Dannaz Ladies (Lagos) Vs Mighty Jets Mata (Plateau)

    Remo Stars Ladies (Ogun) Vs OSKE Leans (Rivers)

    Abia Angels (Abia) Vs Castmong Ladies (Ogun)

    Naija Ratels (FCT) Vs ON Youth Academy (FCT)

    Heartland Queens (Imo) Vs GoldenSun FC (Bayelsa)

    FC Robo Queens (Lagos) Vs Onimang FC (Ondo)

    Kwara Ladies (Kwara) Vs Ahudiya Nnem Queens (Abia)

    Delta Queens (Delta) Vs Fortress Ladies (Edo)

    Sunshine Queens (Ondo) Vs Green Foot FC (Enugu)

    Plateau United Ladies (Plateau) Vs Honey Badgers (Benue)

    Gallant FC (Kaduna) Vs Osun Babes (Osun)

    Confluence Queens (Kogi) Vs Delta Ladies (Delta)

    Edo Queens (Edo) Vs Kada Queens (Kaduna)

    Ekiti Queens (Ekiti) Vs Rivers Angels (Rivers) (Flowerbudnews)

  • S’Africa tremble ahead of crucial World Cup qualifying match with Nigeria

    S’Africa tremble ahead of crucial World Cup qualifying match with Nigeria

     

    By Flowerbudnews

    Exactly four months after they were bumped and relegated to the third-place match of the Africa Cup of Nations by the Super Eagles, South Africa’s Bafana Bafana will come up against the three-time African champions again in a crucial 2026 World Cup qualifying match in Uyo.

     

    The Super Falcons om Tuesday pushed the Banyana Banyana, reigning African champions, off the bus to this year’s Women’s Olympic Football Tournament by winning the ticket their ensured first appearance at the glamour tournament for the first time in 16 years.

     

    The assured manner of Nigeria’s victories in the two fixtures have left the hierarchy of South African football flummoxed, and there is no adequate time to recover or rejig strategies before the Bafana Bafana come up against the Super Eagles in a Day 3 encounter of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying series at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo on Friday, 7th June.

     

    With two points from their previous two matches, but aware of the hold they have over the Bafana Bafana, the African vice champions are confident of the three points on the day, which could see them fly to the top of the pool.

     

    It was on 7th February at the Stade de la Paix, Bouake that the Super Eagles kicked Bafana to the third-place match of the 34th Africa Cup of Nations. Despite achieving parity late in the game, the Bafana were cut to size during the penalty shootout with Nigeria’s South Africa-based goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali saving two of the kicks by the Bafana.

     

    South Africans’ boasts of bouncing the Super Falcons in the Women’s Olympic Football Tournament fixture in revenge, ended belly-up with the Banyana failing to score a goal in 180 minutes of action, with the two teams separated by Rasheedat Ajibade’s goal from the penalty spot in Abuja on Friday, 5th April.

     

    Despite being a point ahead of the Super Eagles in their World Cup qualifying group, the Bafana will fall behind once they submit to the superior strength, skill and savvy of the Super Eagles on another Friday in June.

     

    It can be recalled that when the two teams also met at the Africa Cup of Nations in 2019, at the quarter-final stage, Nigeria triumphed 2-1 in Cairo.

     

    Players of the Super Eagles are already getting in the mood to deliver the big punches to Bafana in Uyo in a few weeks’ time.

     

    Only on Thursday night, top striker Victor Boniface returned from the injury that kept him out of the AFCON, by coming off the bench to score in Bayer Leverkusen’s Europa League quarter-final duel with West Ham of England.

     

    African Player of the Year Victor Osimhen has also been unable to stop scoring for his Italian Serie A side, SC Napoli.

     

    Goalkeeper Nwabali remains in awesome shape, and midfielder Alex Iwobi and Ademola Lookman shone brightly in the defeat of Ghana in a friendly in Morocco last month.

     

    2024 Federation Cup: Play-Off Results

     

    . Classic FC (Adamawa) 0 Gamji Eaglets (Taraba) 0 – Gamji Eaglets triumph 5-4 after penalties

    . Warinje FC (Bauchi) 0 Simon Ben Academy (Kaduna) 0 – Warinje FC triumph 3-2 after penalties

    . Zamfara United Feeders (Zamfara) 1 PRO Line (Kano) 1 – Zamfara Feeders triumph 5-4 after penalties

    . Ine Stars (Edo) 2 Crusaders FC (Bayelsa) 0

    . KC FC (Kogi) 2 PCM FC (Ebonyi) 3

    . Flight FC (Benue) 1 Fr. Eburuaja (Imo) 2

     

    . Gamji Eaglets, Warinje FC, Zamfara United Feeders, Ine Stars, PCM FC and Fr. Eburuaja qualify for the Round of 64. (Flowerbudnews)

  • NOC Says it handles scholarship grants to athletes with transparency

    NOC Says it handles scholarship grants to athletes with transparency

     

    Describes Insinuation on Channel TV as Disheartening Fake News

     

    By Biola Lawal

    Abuja (Flowerbudnews) The National Olympic Committee (NOC) has assured that it has always handled scholarship grants to athletes with transparency to the satisfaction of athletes.

    NOC gave the assurance in a statement by Mr. Tony Nezianya, its Public Relations Officer.

    The Olympic body said that it was ”disheartening to see esteemed organizations, like Channels TV, promoting fake news through their London-based sports Correspondent, Austin Okon Akpan, who described the NOC officials and those of the sports Ministry as ”incompetent”.

    ”This is a strong language easily associated with the ‘street’ media”,

    ”In this modern era of journalism, there is no place for practices that aim at undermining a credible non-governmental organization like the NOC by Channels TV that has deliberately misinformed the General public.

    The statement read:

    NOC obtains scholarships from the International Olympic Committee (IOC) through its affiliate bodies, namely Olympic Solidarity and the Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOCA).

    These scholarships are directly deposited into the athlete’s accounts.

    The selection process involves a complex but meticulous system evolved over the years by the Olympic Movement. The recommendations commence from the respective federations, continental and international federations.

    Athletes must meet specific criteria set out by awarding bodies to be considered eligible for the awards of scholarships.

    Once the awarding bodies process the funds, they, then, inform the National Olympic Committees about the athletes who will receive the scholarships.

    The NOCs, then, ensure that verified athletes’ accounts are provided for the funds to be dispatched.

    Athletes are expected to confirm the receipt of their funds to both the NOCs and the awarding bodies.

    Deliberately spreading misinformation about such an important but complex matter without contacting the Custodians of the Olympic Movement in Nigeria shows a lack of knowledge and understanding of the Movement.

    The NOC accredits all recommended athletes, who have met the minimum Olympic standards and qualifications to be in the Olympic Games and this case the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.

    The Ministry of Sports Development pays the Athletes their due and deserved allowances as and when due at Games times.

    Today date, there is no Nigerian athlete now or in the past known to the NOC that has ever complained about not being paid their Olympic Grant.

    This is exactly what transpired in Ghana at the 13th African Games and the previous Games. We in the NOC are satisfied that the current Sports Minister, Senator John Enoh followed a transparent process in granting athletes and officials their allowances and winning bonuses.

    It is, therefore, disheartening to see esteemed organizations, like Channels TV, promoting fake news through their London-based sports Correspondent, Austin Okon Akpan, who described the NOC officials and those of the sports Ministry as ”incompetent”.

    This is a strong language easily associated with the ‘street’ media.

    In this modern era of journalism, there is no place for practices that aim at undermining a credible non-governmental organization like the NOC by Channels TV that has deliberately misinformed the General public. (Flowerbudnews)

     

  • Paris 2024: Ajibade’s strike separates Falcons and Banyana as attention shifts to Pretoria

    Paris 2024: Ajibade’s strike separates Falcons and Banyana as attention shifts to Pretoria

     

    Flowerbudnews

    Captain Rasheedat Ajibade’s well-taken 42nd minute penalty separated nine-time African champions Nigeria and reigning champions South Africa in their Women’s Olympic Football Tournament qualifying match at the MKO Abiola National Stadium on Friday night.

     

    Chinwendu Ihezuo was upended in the box just minutes earlier as the Super Falcons broke forward once more, and the Spain-based Ajibade made no mistake in heaving the ball past Kaylin Swart.

     

    Returnee forward Ihezuo was a real pain in the neck for the Banyana, as her pace unsettled their rearguard several times, but Nigeria failed to make hay from dead-ball situations before and after Ajibade’s strike.

     

    In the second half, the Banyana took over the midfield with Linda Motlhalo, Refiloe Jane and Nomvula Kgoale showing pace and invention, but Osinachi Ohale and Christy Ucheibe in the Nigeria central defence closed them down now and again.

     

    Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie was called upon to make a world-class save midway into the second half, when Jermain Seoposenwe fired a belter from 20 yards after a good pass from the precocious Thembi Kgatlana.

     

    Substitutes Esther Okoronkwo and Rinsola Babajide added some spark to the Super Falcons’ foreline, but they could not get past the outstanding Kaylin Swart.

     

    Attention has immediately shifted to Tuesday’s return leg at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria, where there is still so much to play for with the Falcons only a goal up in the fixture.

     

    The Banyana will fly back to Johannesburg on Saturday morning while the Super Falcons will fly out of Lagos on Sunday night.

  • Famous Debates and Decisions Made in Parliament Houses

    Famous Debates and Decisions Made in Parliament Houses

    Introduction

    The world of business travel is undergoing a major transformation, driven by rapid advancements in technology and changing workplace dynamics. As remote work and global collaborations become more common, the demand for more efficient, flexible, and innovative travel solutions is higher than ever. This article explores how cutting-edge technologies are revolutionizing the way professionals conduct business while on the move, creating new opportunities and challenges in the travel industry.

    The Rise of Remote Work and Its Impact on Business Travel

    The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the shift to remote work, with many companies now embracing hybrid or fully remote models. As a result, traditional business travel is evolving.

    Companies are seeking alternatives to frequent in-person meetings, and many have adopted video conferencing tools like Zoom and Microsoft Teams. However, as borders reopen, there’s still a strong demand for face-to-face interactions, particularly for relationship building and high-stakes negotiations.

    The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Business Travel

    Artificial Intelligence (AI) is playing a significant role in streamlining the travel experience for business professionals. AI-powered apps like TripActions and Lola.com help travelers book flights, accommodation, and transportation, optimizing routes and costs based on individual preferences and business policies. Chatbots and virtual assistants also enhance customer service by providing real-time support and managing itineraries.

    Moreover, AI is improving travel security. Advanced facial recognition technologies are speeding up airport check-ins and boarding processes, while predictive algorithms help airlines and hotels forecast demand, reduce overbooking, and enhance the overall customer experience.

    Virtual and Augmented Reality: Redefining Business Meetings

    • One of the most exciting innovations in the business travel space is the rise of Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR).
    • These technologies are transforming how business meetings are conducted.
    • While video conferencing has become the norm, VR and AR take it a step further by offering immersive virtual meetings that make participants feel as though they are in the same room, regardless of their physical location.

    Companies like Spatial and Oculus are developing tools that allow teams to collaborate in a shared virtual environment, reducing the need for frequent travel. While these technologies won’t fully replace in-person interactions, they offer a cost-effective solution for certain types of meetings.

    Sustainable Travel: Innovations in Reducing Carbon Footprints

    Sustainability is becoming a key concern for both companies and employees. The travel industry is under increasing pressure to reduce its environmental impact, and business travelers are now looking for more eco-friendly options. Innovations such as carbon offset programs, electric aircraft, and alternative fuels are gaining traction in the effort to reduce the carbon footprint of business travel.

    In response, companies are incorporating sustainability into their travel policies. Apps like Thrust Carbon calculate the environmental impact of flights and help organizations make greener travel choices, such as opting for direct flights, using eco-friendly transportation, or staying at green-certified hotels.

    The Future of Business Travel: Autonomous Vehicles and Hyperloop

    Looking ahead, the future of business travel could be shaped by revolutionary technologies like autonomous vehicles and the Hyperloop. Autonomous cars promise to make road travel more efficient and productive, as professionals will be able to focus on work rather than driving. Companies like Tesla, Waymo, and Uber are investing heavily in self-driving technology, which could dramatically change the way we travel for business.

    Meanwhile, the Hyperloop—a proposed high-speed transportation system that uses vacuum tubes to transport passengers at speeds of up to 760 miles per hour—could drastically reduce travel times between major business hubs. If realized, this technology could make it possible to travel between cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco in under 30 minutes, making long-distance business travel more accessible and efficient.

    Conclusion

    Technology is transforming every aspect of business travel, from how we plan trips to how we conduct meetings on the go. With AI, VR, and sustainability initiatives leading the way, the future of business travel is set to become more efficient, flexible, and environmentally friendly. As these innovations continue to evolve, companies must adapt to the changing landscape, finding ways to leverage technology to enhance productivity and reduce costs without compromising the quality of human interaction.

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    Introduction

    The world of business travel is undergoing a major transformation, driven by rapid advancements in technology and changing workplace dynamics. As remote work and global collaborations become more common, the demand for more efficient, flexible, and innovative travel solutions is higher than ever. This article explores how cutting-edge technologies are revolutionizing the way professionals conduct business while on the move, creating new opportunities and challenges in the travel industry.

    The Rise of Remote Work and Its Impact on Business Travel

    The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the shift to remote work, with many companies now embracing hybrid or fully remote models. As a result, traditional business travel is evolving.

    Companies are seeking alternatives to frequent in-person meetings, and many have adopted video conferencing tools like Zoom and Microsoft Teams. However, as borders reopen, there’s still a strong demand for face-to-face interactions, particularly for relationship building and high-stakes negotiations.

    The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Business Travel

    Artificial Intelligence (AI) is playing a significant role in streamlining the travel experience for business professionals. AI-powered apps like TripActions and Lola.com help travelers book flights, accommodation, and transportation, optimizing routes and costs based on individual preferences and business policies. Chatbots and virtual assistants also enhance customer service by providing real-time support and managing itineraries.

    Moreover, AI is improving travel security. Advanced facial recognition technologies are speeding up airport check-ins and boarding processes, while predictive algorithms help airlines and hotels forecast demand, reduce overbooking, and enhance the overall customer experience.

    Virtual and Augmented Reality: Redefining Business Meetings

    • One of the most exciting innovations in the business travel space is the rise of Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR).
    • These technologies are transforming how business meetings are conducted.
    • While video conferencing has become the norm, VR and AR take it a step further by offering immersive virtual meetings that make participants feel as though they are in the same room, regardless of their physical location.

    Companies like Spatial and Oculus are developing tools that allow teams to collaborate in a shared virtual environment, reducing the need for frequent travel. While these technologies won’t fully replace in-person interactions, they offer a cost-effective solution for certain types of meetings.

    Sustainable Travel: Innovations in Reducing Carbon Footprints

    Sustainability is becoming a key concern for both companies and employees. The travel industry is under increasing pressure to reduce its environmental impact, and business travelers are now looking for more eco-friendly options. Innovations such as carbon offset programs, electric aircraft, and alternative fuels are gaining traction in the effort to reduce the carbon footprint of business travel.

    In response, companies are incorporating sustainability into their travel policies. Apps like Thrust Carbon calculate the environmental impact of flights and help organizations make greener travel choices, such as opting for direct flights, using eco-friendly transportation, or staying at green-certified hotels.

    The Future of Business Travel: Autonomous Vehicles and Hyperloop

    Looking ahead, the future of business travel could be shaped by revolutionary technologies like autonomous vehicles and the Hyperloop. Autonomous cars promise to make road travel more efficient and productive, as professionals will be able to focus on work rather than driving. Companies like Tesla, Waymo, and Uber are investing heavily in self-driving technology, which could dramatically change the way we travel for business.

    Meanwhile, the Hyperloop—a proposed high-speed transportation system that uses vacuum tubes to transport passengers at speeds of up to 760 miles per hour—could drastically reduce travel times between major business hubs. If realized, this technology could make it possible to travel between cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco in under 30 minutes, making long-distance business travel more accessible and efficient.

    Conclusion

    Technology is transforming every aspect of business travel, from how we plan trips to how we conduct meetings on the go. With AI, VR, and sustainability initiatives leading the way, the future of business travel is set to become more efficient, flexible, and environmentally friendly. As these innovations continue to evolve, companies must adapt to the changing landscape, finding ways to leverage technology to enhance productivity and reduce costs without compromising the quality of human interaction.