Sport

Nigeria Thrashes Benin Republic 11-0 at Maiden West Africa Para Games

By Web News 530

By Olusegun Folarin

The Nigeria Amputee football team defeated Benin Republic by 11-nil in the first game of the ongoing 1st West Africa Para Games in Abeokuta.

The Nigerian team who dominated the match recorded five goals in the first half while six goals were scored in the second half of the game played at the main bowl of the MKO Abiola sports arena in Abeokuta.

The Nigerian team showed class from the kick off, dominating possession till the end of the match, making the Benin Republic amputee football team to look ordinary.

The fans at the stadium were thrilled by the performance of the Nigerian team, cheering them throughout the duration of the game

In a post match news conference, the coach of the Nigerian team, Gbenga Dosunmu, appreciated the team for the brilliant performance adding that the boys had been motivated before the competition.

He said that his boys would approach their next game against Cameroon with all seriousness.

Meanwhile, about 700 para-athletes from 16 countries are already in Abeokuta, the Ogun State Capital to contest for medals in 11 sporting events at the ongoing first West Africa Para Games.

The Chairman, Local Organising Committee, Mr Victor Achakpo, stated this while speaking with sports journalists in Abeokuta.

Mr Achakpo who announced that the host nation would parade 190 athletes noted that arrangements had been concluded towards the success of the competition, which began on Friday, 28th November, 2025 and ends on Thursday, December 4.

The LOC chairman assured the athletes of their safety through out the games adding that two countries outside the West African regoin ; Democratic Republic of Congo and Cameroon would be participating with other fourteen West African nations in the games, assuring participants of a free and fair games.

The Secretary-General, Africa Paralympic Committee , Mr Ignatius Elletey, commended the Federal Government and the Nigeria Paralympic Committee for hosting the maiden edition of the West Africa Para Games.

He described the gesture as historic and impactful contribution to the development of Para sports in the continent.

Also, the President, Paralympic Committee of Nigeria, Mr Sunday Odebode commended the National Sports Commission under the leadership of Sheu Dikko , Director General, Bukola Olopade and African Paralympic committee for making sure Nigeria host the maiden West Africa Para Games.

Edited by Olaolu Fawole

Sport

Tinubu Urges Super Eagles to Refocus on AFCON

By Web News 260

By Maxwell Oyekunle

President Bola Tinubu has commended the Super Eagles for what he described as a determined effort in their bid to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite Sunday’s playoff loss to the Democratic Republic of Congo.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the president urged the team to put the disappointment behind them and immediately begin preparations for the 2026 African Cup of Nations, scheduled for January to February in Morocco.

Nigeria’s World Cup hopes ended on Sunday after the Super Eagles lost 4–3 on penalties to DR Congo in Morocco, following a 1–1 draw after extra time.

The defeat marked the second consecutive time Nigeria failed to reach the Mundial.

President Tinubu acknowledged the pain of missing out but said the players deserved praise for pushing deep into the qualifiers, especially after winning their first playoff match.

“Notwithstanding the unfortunate loss, we must commend the players for their efforts and continue to support them,” he said.

He called on football authorities and stakeholders to address lapses exposed during the qualifiers.

“We must now plug all the loopholes. Our football administrators, players, and indeed all stakeholders must go back to the drawing board,” he said.

President Tinubu added that national attention should now shift to the upcoming AFCON.

“Now is the time to focus all efforts on the Cup of Nations. Our Super Eagles must recover the lost glory,” he said.

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Sport

2026 WCQ Playoffs: Chelle Names Super Eagles Squad, Recalls Okoye, Ejuke

By Web News 594

By Olaolu Fawole

Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, has unveiled a 24-man squad including captain, William Troost-Ekong, striker, Victor Osimhen, and goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali ahead of next week’s decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup African Play-off Tournament in Rabat, Morocco.

Three matches will be played by knock-out system in the format of semi-finals and final.

The semi-finals will take place on Thursday 13 November and the final on Sunday 16 November.

Also making the list are full-back Bright Osayi-Samuel, Calvin Bassey, and 89-cap midfielder Alex Iwobi, alongside rising defensive sensation Benjamin Fredericks.

Midfielders Frank Onyeka and Wilfred Ndidí also joined Samuel Chukwueze and Ademola Lookman in a squad brimming with pace, power, and technical quality.

Nigeria faces Gabon in the first semi-final at the 22,000-capacity Complexe Sportif Prince Héritier Moulay Al Hassan, while Cameroon lock horns with DR Congo at the 18,000-seat El-Barid Stadium, both in Rabat.

Chelle has also recalled goalkeeper Maduka Okoye and winger Chidera Ejuke, while midfield Raphael Onyedika, plus forwards Tolu Arokodare, Jerome Akor Adams, and Olusegun Olakunle, strengthen the attacking options.

Defender Semi Ajayi is suspended for the semi-final after accumulating two yellow cards during the qualifiers.

The players are expected to arrive in Morocco from their respective bases across Europe and beyond, converging on Rabat on Monday, November 10 as the Eagles begin their push for World Cup qualification.

Sport

Gov. Adeleke Appoints Davido as Sports Trust Fund Chairman

By Web News 630

By Funmi Ojo

Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has appointed Afrobeats megastar David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, as the Chairman of the newly established Osun State Sports Trust Fund.

Governor Adeleke announced the appointment in Osogbo, stating the initiative aims to rejuvenate the state’s sports sector through sustainable financing, improved athlete welfare, and upgraded infrastructure.

The governor explained that the creation of the Trust Fund and a corresponding Sports Commission marks a strategic shift from ad-hoc support to a structured, long-term development framework.

He added that the appointment of Davido, transcends sports, focusing also on youth development, empowerment, and rebranding Osun State globally.

The appointee, Davido, who hails from Ede in Osun State, is expected to leverage his international influence to attract private investments, sponsorships, and partnerships into the state’s sports ecosystem.

The Trust Fund will focus on rehabilitating stadiums and training facilities, supporting grassroots sports, and implementing welfare programs for athletes.

It also aims to promote transparency in managing sports funds, a sector historically plagued by underfunding and neglect.

The Osun State Sports Trust Fund and Sports Commission are scheduled to begin operations before the year’s end, following their respective boards’ inaugurations.

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Sport

FRCN Ibd. Mgt. Thrashes Staff 3-1

By Web News 252

By Olaitan Oye-Adeitan,Olaolu Fawole

 Laughter, giggles and excitement electrified the atmosphere as the Management of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, Ibadan Zonal Station, took on the Staff of the Corporation in a thrilling friendly match that ended in a stunning, three goals to one in favour of the management.

The novelty match was part of the weeklong programme commemorating the Senior Staff Association of Statutory Corporations and Government Owned Companies, SSASCGOC.

The pitch of the United Missionary Comprehensive College, Molete, Ibadan, venue of the match, was a show of drama which left spectators grinning with infectious laughter as some female members of the team turned the football match to handball all in the effort to score goals.

In a dazzling display of footwork and flair, Adewumi Faniran, Wale Afinjuomo, Dayo Adenuga, Stephen Sanusi from the management team and Gbolahan Akanbi, Biodun Omiyale, Motunrayo Ojolumade, Adeola Ogunbiyi, Stella Oyebamiji and Olaolu Fawole of the New Media Department on the staff team, stole the show with their impressive dribbling skills, leaving the crowd in awe and erupting in thunderous applause.

Beyond the boardroom, the management team unleashed their inner athletes, proving their mettle on the pitch that they are more than just decision-makers as they outplayed the staff team to secure a well-deserved win. 

Alhaja Wosilat Salami opened the goal chart for the management team in the first half of the encounter, while Ife Akindele equalised for the staff team few minutes later.

The management team scored the two other goals in the second half of the match.

Commenting on the match, The Zonal Director, Radio Nigeria Ibadan, Mr. Dominic Mokikan, emphasized the importance of balancing work and play, saying, “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.” 

He believed such an event would leave a lasting impression on attendees.

The sponsor and Chief Executive Officer of Kayrom Lee Gym and Fitness Center, Ambassador Romoke Ayinde expressed delight at the turnout, highlighting the strong synergy between management and staff. 

She encouraged everyone to prioritize fitness for a healthy lifestyle.

SSACGOC Chairman, Mr. Sunday Olowookere, noted that the match aimed to foster unity between management and staff of the corporation in promoting a positive work environment.

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Sport

FIFA Sanctions South Africa, Deducts Three Points over Ineligible Player

By Web News 592

By Olaolu Fawole

The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has sanctioned the South African Football Association (SAFA) for fielding an ineligible player, Teboho Mokoena, in the South Africa versus Lesotho match played on 21 March 2025 in the FIFA World Cup 2026 preliminary competition.

According to a statement by FIFA, the act breached article 19 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code (FDC) and article 14 of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Preliminary Competition Regulations.

Consequently, the FIFA Disciplinary Committee has declared the match in question to have been forfeited by the representative team of South Africa by a score of 3-0.

SAFA has also been ordered to pay a fine of CHF 10,000 to FIFA, while Teboho Mokoena has been issued with a warning.

The parties were notified of the terms of the FIFA Disciplinary Committee’s decision on Monday.

In accordance with the relevant provisions of the FDC, they have ten days in which to request a motivated decision, which, if requested, would subsequently be published on legal.fifa.com.

The forfeiture decision remains subject to a potential appeal before the FIFA Appeal Committee.

Sport

Dembele Wins 2025 Men’s Ballon d’Or

By Web News 574

Paris St-Germain’s Ousmane Dembele won his first Ballon d’Or as the French treble winners came away with several of the key men’s awards at the Paris ceremony.

The 28-year-old France forward scored 35 goals and made 14 assists in 53 matches for Paris Saint-Germain, PSG last season as they won the Champions League, league title and the French Cup.

He was the joint top scorer in Ligue 1, with 21 goals, and was named the French top-flight and Champions League player of the year.

And he also helped PSG to the Club World Cup final where they lost to Chelsea in New Jersey.

Dembele, who beat Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal to the award, was able to attend the ceremony in Paris – and was in tears as he stood on the stage – despite the fact his team were playing on Monday evening.

The forward is currently sidelined through injury, meaning he missed PSG’s 1-0 defeat away to Marseille in a game which was rearranged because of a storm.

“What I have just experienced is exceptional, I have no words for it, what happened with PSG,” said an emotional Dembele, whose mother joined him on the stage.

“I feel a bit of stress, it’s not easy to win this trophy, and to have it presented to me by Ronaldinho, a legend of football, is exceptional.

“I want to thank PSG who came to get me in 2023. It’s an incredible family. The president Nasser [Al-Khelaifi] is like a father to me. I also want to thank all the staff and the coach, who have been exceptional with me – he too is like a father – and all my team-mates.

“We have practically won everything together. You supported me in the good and the difficult times. This individual trophy is one the team has won collectively.“

It caps off a sensational career revival for a player who had not scored double figures in a league campaign season since he was a teenager at Rennes.

PSG manager Luis Enrique – who was named coach of the year – deserves huge credit for Dembele’s award because of a tactical switch in mid-December.

He moved Dembele from a wide right to centre-forward role against Lyon on 15 December, by which stage he had only scored five goals.

He hit 30 goals for PSG from that date onwards.

Dembele has finally shown the quality that persuaded Barcelona to pay an initial £96.8m, potentially rising to £135.5m, to sign him from Borussia Dortmund in 2017.

However PSG – who were named team of the year at the 2025 Ballon d’Or awards – were the team who got the bargain by recruiting him for just £43.5m in 2023.

Dembele also scored twice in seven caps for France in 2024-25.

He is the sixth Frenchman to win the award and only the second of the 21st century after Karim Benzema in 2022.

Lamine Yamal, 18, finished second – and also won the Kopa Trophy for the best young player.

Five of the top 10 players were part of the PSG team last season including Vitinha (third), Achraf Hakimi (sixth), Gianluigi Donnarumma (ninth) and Nuno Mendes (10th).

Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah was fourth and Chelsea and England’s Cole Palmer finished eighth.

Last year’s winner, Manchester City and Spain midfielder Rodri, did not make the shortlist this time after an injury-hit campaign.

BBC/Adetutu Adetule

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Sport

WCQ: Oyo Govt. Opens Gates for Falconets/Rwanda Clash

By Web News 881

By Iyabo Adebisi

Oyo State government has announced no gate fee for Falconets match against Rwanda U-20 team, slated for Saturday, September 27th, at the Lekan Salami stadium Adamasingba, Ibadan.

The State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Wasilat Adegoke, disclosed this while briefing newsmen on the preparations towards the FIFA World Cup qualifier match.

She said a projected audience of about 20,000 Falconets fans were expected to watch the match at the stadium.

According to the Commissioner, hosting the match at the Lekan Salami stadium Ibadan would make Ibadan “once again shine as a centre of culture and unity.

Adegoke said the gesture reflected the commitment of Governor Seyi Makinde to ensure inclusiveness “and to give every football loving Nigerian, especially our people in Oyo state the opportunity to be part of the global event.”

She, therefore, called on the people of the state to come out in their numbers to fill the stadium to capacity and cheers Falconets to victory.

The State Government had last Tuesday approved the sum of N110million for camping and hosting of the match.

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Sport

 World Cup: Flying Eagles Name Final Squad

By Web News 1092

Preparations for Nigeria’s Flying Eagles ahead of the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup have been confirmed by key players’ withdrawals.

French club Stade Reims and Germany’s Hoffenheim have refused to release Nigerian players for the competition, which is not on FIFA’s official calendar.

Recalled, Emmanuel Chukwu and Precious Benjamin, both with Hoffenheim, will miss the tournament in Chile after the club turned down a request from the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF.

Ibrahim Hafiz, a striker with Stade Reims, is also unavailable after the French side declined to release him.

All three players are considered key prospects for the team.

Head coach Aliyu Zubairu has adjusted his plans and named a final 21-man squad without several overseas-based players.

Enyimba winger Clinton Jephta, along with Bidemi Amole and Divine Oliseh, who featured at the U-20 WAFU B qualifiers in Togo, was left out.

Team captain Daniel Bameyi headlines the squad. Over 10 players named have participated in recent training camps and friendly matches.

New inclusions include Israel Ayuma, Ebenezer Harcourt, Charles Agada, Auwal Ibrahim, Kparobo Arierhi, Tahir Maigana, and Odinaka Okoro.

Vanguard/Adetutu Adetule

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News Sport

Youth Games: Ogun gives Kudos to Contingent

By Web News 386

By Olusegun Folarin 

The Commissioner for Sports Development in Ogun State,  Mr Wasiu Isiaka, has expressed satisfaction with Team Ogun’s performance at the just concluded 9th National Youth Games in Asaba, Delta State.

Mr Isiaka while speaking with newsmen in Abeokuta, said the team  put up an impressive show despite not prioritizing medal wins.

Highlighting the identification of four talented athletes as a major achievement, the Commissioner for Sports Development noted that the primary goal of team Ogun at the Games was to identify and nurture young talents for the state and national teams. 

Mr Isiaka pointed out that the Sports Ministry had been working tirelessly to develop sports in the state, describing the discovery of the four athletes as a testament to their efforts.

Announcing that plans were ongoing to partner the primary and secondary schools to discover and nurture talented athletes, he noted that the initiative would enable the state to compete with very young and talented athletes at the next National Youth Games. 

Mr Isiaka expressed gratitude to the Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, for providing the necessary funds to support sports development in the state. 

Ogun State finished 12th on the medals table with 4 gold, 9 silver and 18 bronze medals 

Sport

Super Eagles Arrive Camp for World Cup Qualifiers

By Web News 230

The number of players in the Super Eagles’ camp has increased to 13, as Nigeria intensifies preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and South Africa.

This follows the arrival of nine more players at the team’s camp in Ikot Ikpene on Tuesday, according to Promise Efoghe, the team’s media officer.

The new arrivals include Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Ola Aina, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Moses Simon, Chidozie Awaziem, Adebayo Adeleye, and Benjamin Fredericks.

They joined the quartet of William Troost-Ekong, Amas Obasogie, Felix Agu, and Raphael Onyedika, who checked into camp on Monday.

Efoghe confirmed to the News Agency of Nigeria that out of the 23 players who were invited for the double-header fixtures, only 13 had arrived, with 10 more players still being expected.

“A total of 13 players are currently in camp, and we are expecting the rest of the squad to arrive later today and early tomorrow,” Efoghe said.

He also shared details of the team’s upcoming media engagements.

“There will be a press conference with the coaching staff and selected players on Wednesday at the training pitch of the Godswill Akpabio Stadium,” Efoghe stated.

“For Friday, the pre-match press conference will holbe held the same venue, and the first 15 minutes of the team’s training session will be open to media coverage.”

Players still beiexpected to be included arealkeeper Stanley Nwabali; defender Bruno Onyemaechi; midfielders Wilfred Ndidi and Frank Onyeka; and forwards Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Cyriel Dessers, Christantus Uche, and Tolu Arokodare.

Nigeria will host Rwanda on Friday at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, in a Matchday 7 fixture. They will then travel to Bloemfontein to face South Africa on Monday, in a Matchday 8 encounter.

The Super Eagles currently sit third in Group C of the African qualifiers with two points from two matches, behind leaders South Africa (four points) and Rwanda (also four points but with an inferior goal difference).

Only the top team in the group will qualify automatically for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, jointly hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

Full 23-Man Squad:

Punch/Adetutu Adetule

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Sport

Final Home Fixtute: Gateway United Hosts Osun United June 7

By Web News 360

By Olusegun Folarin 

Gateway United will make a long-awaited return to their home ground, the MKO Abiola Sports Arena, Kuto, Abeokuta, this Saturday, June 7, when they host Osun United on Matchday 21 of the 2024/25 Nigeria National League (NNL) season — their final home fixture of the campaign.

It will be the club’s first appearance at the venue in over a year, since their last outing there on April 13, 2024, ended in a goalless draw against Ikorodu City.

After navigating two stadiums this season, the Gateway International Stadium, Ilaro, during the first stanza, and Dipo Dina Stadium, Ijebu Ode, in the second,  the return to Abeokuta is seen as a symbolic homecoming for the club and its fans.

The Acting General Manager of Gateway United, Mr Niyi Soleye, welcomed the development with a sense of relief and renewed hope.

Mr Soleye added that the team has grown stronger in adversity and would be counting on the home crowd to push them over the line.

He urged the supporters to turn out in large numbers to make it a celebration for not just of football, but of resilience and community spirit.

According to the Media officer of the team, Moses Ojewumi kick off is scheduled for 3 p.m. on Saturday at  MKO Abiola Sports Arena.


Sport

Our representatives performance at NSF impressive – OSWA

By Web News 217

By Olusegun Folarin

The Ogun State Wrestling Association, OSWA, has described the performance of the state representatives in the wrestling event at the just concluded 22nd National Sports Festival as impressive.

A total of nine medals which comprises 2 silver and 7 Bronze medals were won during the three day event held at the Civic Centre, Ikenne, Ogun State.

Speaking with Journalists in Abeokuta, the Chairman of the Association, Dr Abimbola Babalola said the state wrestlers had displayed resilience spirit and determination throughout the bouts which he noted had earned the team the feat.

Dr Babalola also commended the support of the state government and the commissioner for Sports Development in Ogun for providing the needed assistance to enable the athletes to achieve their goals.

The Wrestling Association Chairman appealed to the relevant stakeholders to assist the association in providing the wrestling mats, adding that the availability of the equipment would go a long way to improve the performance of the athletes in future competitions.

He encouraged the athletes to remain steadfast and focused to enable them to achieve greatness in their future pursuits.

Also, the Wrestling head coach, Mr Badmus Adebayo acknowledged the support of the state government through the office of the Commissioner for Sports Development towards the success of the athletes during the games.

Mr Adebayo also praised the athletes doggedness, dedication and team spirit efforts which he said earned the team the medals recorded.

Sport

Super Eagles Win Unity Cup, Pip Jamaica 5-4

By Web News 231

By Oluwakayode Banjo

Super Eagles of Nigeria have won the 2025 Unity Cup after defeating Jamaica 5-4 on penalties at Gtech community stadium, Brentford, United Kingdom.

Both sides could not be separated in regulation time after playing a 2-2 draw, but Eric Chelle boys kept their cool from the spot to score all their shootout and clinch the Unity Cup.

Moses Simon opened the scoring in the 9th minute to give Nigeria the lead, however the lead lasted only 3 minutes as Kaheim Dixon levelled the game in the 12th minute.

Nigeria took the lead again in the 53rd minute through a wonderful strike by Samuel Chukwueze.

Nigeria were pegged back again in the 63rd minute when Jon Russell scored for Jamaica to make it 2-2.

The game went to penalty shootout after 90 minutes was not enough to separate both teams and it was Nigeria who converted all their spot kicks to win the 2025 edition of the Unity Cup.

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Sport

Tinubu, Abiodun Mourn 21 Kano Athletes Killed in Road Crash

By Web News 168

By Abimbola Bamgbose / Adebukola Aluko

President Bola Tinubu has expressed sorrow over the tragic accident that claimed the lives of members of the Kano State contingent returning from the recently concluded National Sports Festival in Ogun State.

In a statement issued on Saturday, his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described the incident as a “devastating blow to the nation” and extended heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Kano State, as well as the families of the deceased.

The statement read, “This tragedy casts a shadow over the National Sports Festival, a celebration of unity, talent, and excellence.

“It has long served as a platform for discovering and nurturing athletes who bring pride to Nigeria on both national and international stages.”

The President paid tribute to the victims, noting that their dedication and aspirations reflected the resilient Nigerian spirit.

He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving transportation safety to prevent such occurrences in the future.

“The greatest honour we can accord them is to take concrete steps to prevent such tragedies and enhance safety standards across the nation’s transport systems,” Tinubu said.

He prayed for the peaceful repose of the souls of the departed and asked God Almighty to comfort and strengthen the bereaved families during this difficult time.

Similarly, Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incident involving members of the Kano State contingent who were returning home after participating in the 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival ,NSF, held in Ogun State.

A bus conveying the athletes was said to have been involved in a crash about 50 kilometres from Kano after passing through Kaduna State, claiming the lives of 21 athletes.

Abiodun, in a statement issued in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, on Saturday, said the incident had left him completely traumatized, especially given that the athletes were vibrant young people who were looking forward to a warm reception from their fans and families after proudly donning the colours of Kano State at the just-concluded Gateway Games 2024.

Expressing condolences to the government and people of Kano State over the incident, Abiodun prayed for the repose of the souls of the athletes, saying that they were heroes whose patriotism and commitment to the cause of Kano State and Nigeria as a whole will never be forgotten.

“We are deeply saddened by this incident, and we pray that Almighty Allah grants them eternal rest.

“I commiserate with His Excellency, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, and his cabinet, the Chairman of the Kano State Sports Commission, Umar Bala Fagge, and the people of Kano State over this most tragic and unfortunate incident. May we never witness this kind of incident again.”

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Sport

Medals Table: Ogun Finishes in Second Position

By Web News 367

By Olusegun Folarin

Ogun State has finished in second position on the medals table behind the defending champion, Delta State.

The host state amassed a total of two hundred and thirty-eight medals, which comprises 93 Gold, 65 Silver and 80 bronze medals.

According to the official medals table released online, Delta State retained its number spot with 126 gold, 100 silver and 111 Bronze medals while Bayelsa finished in third position with 92 gold, 65 Silver and 71 bronze medals.

In the fourth place is Rivers State with a total of 199 medals, which consist of 76 Gold, 58 Silver and 65 bronze medals. Edo State finished in the 5th position on the log with 73 Gold, 101 silver and 109 bronze medals.

Oyo, Lagos, FCT, Osun, and Akwa Ibom States made up the ten on the medals table.

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Sport

NSF Closing Ceremony: Leaders Harp on Sports as Tool for National Development

By Web News 366

By Olusegun Folarin

The 22nd National Sports Festival, GATEWAY GAMES 2024, has ended in Ogun State as Nigerians harp on the need to leverage sports for sustainable peace and economic growth.

According to Radio Nigeria, the official closing ceremony, held at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena, Kuto Abeokuta, offered an avenue for national leaders and sports administrators to highlight the importance of sports as a veritable tool for nation-building.

The occasion was the climax of the two-week-long fireworks of thrilling performances and exceptional athletic talents, showcasing stiff competition for honours in 33 different sporting activities involving more than 10,000 participants.

At the final stage, Delta State clinched the first spot as the overall winner of the largest sports Fiesta with more than 320 medals, with Bayelsa, Ogun, Rivers and Edo states forming a queue on the score-line. 

Addressing the massive gathering of participants and enthusiasts at the closing ceremony, President Bola Tinubu acknowledged that the national sports festival had continued to encourage the spirit of togetherness among citizens, irrespective of social, political, religious or cultural differences.

President Tinubu, who was represented by the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, expressed his determination to change the country’s situation for the better and secure the future of the generations yet unborn, adding that the revitalisation of school sports would further contribute tremendously to national growth.

In a message to the event, Former President Olusegun Obasanjo said the festival was a reminder that every young Nigerian had the capacity for greatness and excellence through the display of courage and sportsmanship.

He encouraged the stakeholders to sustain the legacies of the games and cherish the memories created, describing all the participants as champions, not only of sports, but of unity, diligence, resilience and national pride.

In a remark, Governor Dapo Abiodun said the competition had served as a powerful engine for local economic revitalisation, infrastructure enhancement, community engagement and statewide pride beyond the thrill of the festival.

Governor Abiodun assured that his administration would not relentlessly sustain sports development among other sectors in the state.

Earlier, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Sheu Dikko, had emphasised that the Ogun State government had succeeded in raising the bar and setting a new benchmark for organising a befitting sports festival.

The highlight of the closing ceremony was the presentation of the flag to Enugu as the next host of the event before the symbolic putting off of the games torch to indicate an end to the 22nd of the festival.

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Sport

Blessing Oborududu Quits Wrestling

By Web News 226

By Olusegun Folarin 

2021 Tokyo Olympic silver medalist, Blessing Oborududu, has bid an emotional goodbye to wrestling after 19 years of active bout on the mat.
 

The 14-time African champion won her final bout to clinch gold for Bayelsa at the 22nd National Sports Festival in Abeokuta and end an illustrious career.

The Bayelsa-born wrestler received an emotional farewell from National teammates with a pleasant standing ovation from fans, officials, and wrestling stakeholders.

Competing for Bayelsa State, the 68kg titan sealed her farewell with a commanding victory over Rita Odede of Nasarawa, clinching yet another gold medal to cap off a career marked by dominance, resilience, and historic firsts.

An emotional Blessing Oborududu in her farewell speech expressed appreciation for the support she had received since her career started in 2006.

Oborududu who recounted her memories especially during her participation at the Tokyo Olympics expressed the hope of more medals from the nation’s future wrestlers.

In a remark, the President, Nigeria Wrestling Federation,  Mr Daniel Igali described Oborududu as an exceptional and absolute professional beyond being an athlete.

Also, Hannah Reuben led the tribute of teammates, who stated her heartfelt admiration for Oborududu, acknowledging her dedication, achievements, and impact. 

She expressed gratitude for her years of service and being a great teammate and captain, and wished her well in her future endeavours.

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Sport

Payment of athletes allowances has commenced – Abiodun

By Web News 122

By Olusegun Folarin 

Ogun State Government has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the improved welfare of all participants at the ongoing National Sports Festival, NSF.

Governor Dapo Abiodun, in a statement through his Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Strategy, Mr Kayode Akinmade described as regrettable the protest staged by some athletes representing the state at the ongoing National Sports Festival over delayed allowances.

Pointing out that the athletes acted out of impatience, as all necessary arrangements had been concluded for the payment of their allowances, the governor stated that the protest was inconsistent with the values and objectives the state upholds.

He noted that the payment of allowances had already commenced, with athletes receiving bank alerts as scheduled.

The athletes, in the early hours of Wednesday, staged a protest over the non-payment of their allowances.

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Sport

NSF 2024: Golden Eaglets Beat Team Kaduna to Claim Football Bronze

By Web News 220

By Olusegun Folarin 

The Nigeria Under-17 side, the Golden Eaglets, has defeated Team Kaduna 2-nil in the third-place match of the male football event at the ongoing National Sports Festival, NSF.

The Golden Eaglets who are also referred to as the Invited Junior Athletes, IJA, who lost to Team Ogun State in the semi-finals of the competition, went home with the bronze medal.

In the female category, goals from Damilola Adeyanju and Itunuoluwa Odediya in the first half of the match played at Remo Stars Stadium gave Team Ogun the victory over Team Osun to win the bronze medal.

The final matches in the football event of the festival will be played at the newly renovated MKO Abiola Sports Arena, beginning from 4 PM.

Ogun State team will battle Kwara State in the male category, while the Flamingos will take on Delta State in the female category.

In Handball, Edo State defeated Kogi State by 32 goals to 20 to win the bronze in the female category.

In Abula, Oyo State defeated Bayelsa State to win gold in the women’s category, Team Oyo also recorded a gold medal in the male hockey event after defeating Kaduna State in the final.

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Sport

NSC Partners Ministry of Education on Sport

By Web News 130

By Olusegun Folarin

The National Sports Commission, NSC, has announced a partnership with the Ministry of Education to revive school sports.

NSC Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko stated this while speaking with journalists at the Main Organising Committee, MOC, Secretariat, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, at the ongoing 22nd National Sports Festival tagged Gateway Games 2024.

Describing school sports as the bedrock of Sports Development, Mallam Dikko listed part of the plans to include establishing sports programmes in primary and unity schools across all local governments, and creating universities of excellence in each geopolitical zone to support students with athletic potential.

The NSC chairman affirmed that the current administration under President Bola Tinubu had made budgetary allocations for sports federations to successfully execute their developmental programmes.

He explained that the allocations were aimed at empowering federations to intensify training programmes in preparation for upcoming major international competitions such as the African Games and the Olympic Games.

Mallam Dikko disclosed that within the national budget, provisions had been made for Elite Athletes Development and the Podium Finish Board, both tasked with identifying and nurturing new talents in line with federations’ strategies to ensure podium finishes at the Olympics and global championships.

He also attributed the successful partnership with the headline sponsor of this year’s festival to the flexible policies of the Federal Government and the conducive economic environment created, especially in the host state, Ogun.

The NSC chairman emphasized that the combination of government support and private sector engagement was essential to Nigeria’s rise on the global sporting stage.

In a remark, the Director General of the National Sports Commission, Chief Bukola Olopade, acknowledged some concerns raised by the media, assuring that they were addressed in advance.

He promised improved infrastructure and facilities in future editions of the games.

Sport

Ogun, Kwara Set for Showdown in NSF Football Final

By Web News 135

By Olusegun Folarin

Ogun State representative in the football event at the ongoing National Sports Festival has qualified for the final of the male category of the football event.

The Ogun State team defeated the Golden Eaglets of Nigeria by two goals to one in one of the semi finals matches played at the Remo Stadium, Ikenne.

In the other semi final game, Kwara State beat Kaduna State by a lone goal to set up the final match with Ogun State male football team.

Kaduna State will therefore battle the Golden Eaglets for the Bronze Medal.

The final match involving the male and female football teams will take place at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena on Tuesday, 27th May, 2025.

Sport

22nd NSF: NWF President Urges Error-Free Officiating as Wrestling Kicks Off

By Web News 168

By Olusegun Folarin

The President, Nigeria Wrestling Federation, Mr Daniel Ighali, has urged referees to be at their best and ensure error-free performance as the wrestling competition begins on Monday at the 22nd National Sports Festival in Ogun State.

Mr Ighali made the call during the Nigeria Wrestling Federation’s coaches and referees refresher course held in Ikenne, Ogun State.

The course was attended by coaches and referees from various states, with the women’s national team coach, Purity Akuh, serving as one of the instructors.

New rules governing the sport were discussed during the session.

He announced that the Federation would provide three additional jury members, aside from the Virtual Assistant Referees, to assist officials during the tournament.

Mr Ighali emphasized the importance of self development and continuous improvement to enable the Nigerian referees to officiate matches at international competitions.

With wrestling events at the Festival set to begin on Monday, he stressed the need to take proactive steps to elevate the standard of coaching and officiating across the country and meet international expectations.

Sport

Ogun Darts Team Sweeps Medals at Sports Festival

By Web News 136

By Segun Folarin

The Ogun State Darts Team has put up a stunning show winning seven gold, one silver, and three bronze medals at the completion of the competition in the ongoing 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival tagged Gateway Games 2024.

The team, led by Ololade Adeyemi, showcased exceptional skills and talent, leaving other competitors in their wake.

At the competition held at the Abeokuta Sports Club, Oke- ilewo,Abeokuta, Adeyemi was the standout performer, clinching five individual gold medals in the TDB Ladies Single, 501 Ladies Single, 701 Ladies Single, 201 Ladies Single, and 300 Ladies Single categories.

She also won bronze medal in the 301 Ladies Singles and a silver medal in the 701 Ladies Doubles, partnering with Toluwanimi Odedola.

In the same vein, the Ogun State men’s Darts team also made a strong impression, with David Osudare winning gold in the 201 Men’s Single and Adegbola Jide securing gold in the 300 Men’s Single.

The duo of Williams Oluseyi and Lawal Kayode added a bronze medal in the 701 Men’s Doubles, while Damilola Akinsola won a bronze in the 201 Ladies Singles.

The darts competition officially came to a close on Saturday with the presentation of medals to the winners.

Sport

Team Ogun Wins Gold in Mixed Relay

By Web News 137

By Olusegun Folarin

The quartet of Gafar Badmus, Tosin Adeloye, Samson Nathaniel and Toheebat Jimoh have won a gold for Ogun State in the 4×400 mixed relay at the ongoing National Sports Festival tagged “Gateway Games 2024”.

They cross the finish line in a time of 3:20.65, Team Edo finished 2nd in the race with a time of 3:23.41, while Team Lagos got on the podium in the event, finishing with the Bronze medal in a time of 3:24.36

Speaking with Journalists after the race at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena, Abeokuta, the Coach of the team , Saheed Akinpelu, applauded the athletes for the feat achieved.

Coach Akinpelu attributed the victory to dedication and hard work, adding that the camping exercise by the state government also assist the athletes.

He expressed optimism that more gold medals would still be won by the state , saying that the athletes had worked and prayed.

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