The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Season’s Festivities: CIBN fetes football legends  with  ‘Symphony of gratitude’ 

    Season’s Festivities: CIBN fetes football legends  with  ‘Symphony of gratitude’ 

    At its annual end-of-year event tagged  the Evening of Praise 7.0. and  themed  “Symphony of Gratitude”, the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) elegantly extended its corporate social responsibility beyond the financial sector.

    Led by its esteemed Council members, the Institute dedicated a special segment  of the hugely attended event to recognize the indelible contributions of former Nigerian football internationals.

    The event was presided over by the Institute’s President/Chairman of Council, Prof. Pius Deji Olanrewaju, alongside key figures including the 1st  Vice President, Dr. Dele Alabi; the 2nd Vice President, Dr. (Mrs) Mojisola Asieru-Sweet; Past President Dr. Bayo Olugbemi and the Registrar & Chief Executive, Mr. Akin Morakinyo.

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    Their presence underscored the Institute’s profound commitment to honouring national heroes who have shaped the country’s cultural and sporting heritage. Their heartfelt l initiative was met with deep appreciation by the esteemed ex-internationals, who were led by Engr. Waidi Akanni.

    The celebrated legends included Henry Nwosu (MON), Victor Agali, Godwin Okpara, Wasiu Ipaye, Friday Elahor, Friday Ekpo, Benson Edema, Loveday Omoruyi, Franklin Howard, Taiwo Oloyede, and Monday Kanu.

    By applauding these icons under the direct stewardship of its leadership, the CIBN has set a commendable precedent for celebrating excellence and fostering a culture of remembrance and national pride.

  • Seyi Akinwunmi Charity Foundation event  hold Dec. 27th

    Seyi Akinwunmi Charity Foundation event  hold Dec. 27th

    The 11th  Seyi Akinwunmi Charity Foundation event is scheduled for December 27th  at Igbobi College in Lagos, featuring six teams with two women and four men teams already confirmed, and a novelty match between old college associations.

    The women teams are Golden Eko Ballers Women Team and Asisat Oshoala Girls Academy while for the boys, Golden Eko Ballers U-14 Team, Dosu Football Academy, 36 Lions Football Academy and Ikorodu City Football Academy will compete for honours.

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    There will also be a novelty match between Igbobi College Old Boys Association of 2000 set and the Igbobi College Old Boys Association of 2001 set.

    This edition is supported by the ICOBA 78/80 set and the target of developing the young one to attain their potential to become future champions remain the same.

    Head of the Technical arm of the organizing team, Dotun Coker, stated that planning for the event has been ongoing in the past months.

     “We have been working for some time now and we are now putting finishing touches to the preparations. We have good plans to make the participants happy in all aspects. More of the plans will be unfolded as we move closer to the D-Day,” Coker said.

  • NPFL reschedules Nasarawa United, Barau FC Matchday 18 Clash

    NPFL reschedules Nasarawa United, Barau FC Matchday 18 Clash

    Nasarawa United Football Club has announced a change in the date of its Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 18 fixture against Barau FC.

    According to a statement issued by the club’s Director of Media, Eche Amos the league organisers have rescheduled the 2025/26 NPFL encounter from Sunday, December 21, 2025, to Tuesday, December 23, 2025.

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    The statement clarified that the venue and kickoff time for the match remain unchanged, with the game still set to take place at the Lafia City Stadium by 4:00 pm.

    Nasarawa United urged its supporters, fans and the general public to take note of the new date and help in disseminating the information across various platforms to ensure wider awareness ahead of the fixture.

  • ArmWrestling confirmed for 2026 National Para Games in Abuja

    ArmWrestling confirmed for 2026 National Para Games in Abuja

    The President of the Nigeria ArmWrestling Federation, Samuel Jackson, has confirmed that arm wrestling will officially feature at the 2026 National Para Games scheduled to take place in Abuja.

    Jackson described the development as a major milestone for the sport, especially for athletes with disabilities seeking more competitive platforms at the national level.

    According to the National Sports Commission, the National Para Games will be held in March 2026 and will involve athletes from the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory.

     “We are happy to confirm that arm wrestling will be part of the 2026 National Para Games. This is a big step for the growth of the sport,” Jackson said.

    He explained that the inclusion reflects the steady progress Nigeria has made in arm wrestling and the growing recognition of the sport both locally and internationally.

     “Our athletes have shown significant improvement in recent years, and this platform will help us discover even more talent,” he added.

    Jackson noted that the Games will also serve as a vital scouting avenue for identifying athletes capable of representing Nigeria at continental and global competitions.

     “The Para Games will allow us to scout athletes from across the country and build a stronger national team,” he said.

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    He emphasized the federation’s commitment to inclusivity, pointing out that arm wrestling offers opportunities for athletes regardless of physical limitations.

     “This sport gives everyone a chance, and that is why its inclusion in the Para Games is very important,” Jackson stated.

    The federation president revealed that preparations are already underway to ensure a well-organized and competitive event.

     “We are working closely with coaches and officials to ensure proper organization and fair competition,” he said.

    Jackson expressed confidence that the Games would help raise awareness and increase participation in arm wrestling nationwide.

     “When people see the opportunities available, more athletes will be encouraged to take up the sport,” he noted.

    He concluded by thanking the National Sports Commission for its support and reaffirmed the federation’s ambition to use the Games as a foundation for future success.

     “This is about building pathways for athletes and strengthening Nigeria’s presence in arm wrestling,” Jackson said.

  • M4STV  appoints  Uyah  as Managing Director/ Chief Operating Officer

    M4STV  appoints  Uyah  as Managing Director/ Chief Operating Officer

    Anthony Uyah has been appointed as the new Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer of M4STV, bringing extensive engineering and leadership experience to enhance the platform’s operations and reach.

    M4STV, the vibrant multimedia platform for news, entertainment, sports, hospitality and health, is owned by sports marketing guru and CEO of Pamodzi, Mike Itemuagbor.

    Uyah’s arrival marks a significant step in the company’s mission to elevate content quality, expand digital reach and strengthen its technological backbone.

    Uyah, a 1990 graduate of Mechanical Engineering from Obafemi Awolowo University, brings more than three decades of deep technical expertise, broadcast engineering mastery, and executive leadership to M4STV.

    His professional development spans advanced training in TCP/IP administration, transmitter maintenance, satellite systems, link optimization, Cisco networking, and business analytics at the University of Cambridge’s Judge Business School, a blend of technical and strategic skills that positions him uniquely for the demands of modern media operations.

    His career began at MG Communications Systems Limited in 1991, where he managed satellite systems across the Eastern Zone. In 1992, he joined DAAR Communications PLC and quickly became a central figure in the evolution of Nigeria’s private broadcasting landscape.

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    He contributed to the birth of Ray Power 100FM, the country’s first private radio station, and played a defining role in the launch of Africa Independent Television (AIT) in 1996 and expand its frontiers across Ghana, Sierra Leone, the Americas, Europe and Asia.

    Over the years, he rose to become Executive Director of Engineering Services and IT at DAAR Communications, a position he held until his retirement in October 2024.

    His national contributions include serving on the Presidential Advisory Committee on Nigeria’s transition from analogue to digital broadcasting in 2008, coordinating DAAR Communications’ host broadcaster operations with FIFA during the 2009 U‑17 World Cup, and leading the Broadcast Organizations of Nigeria’s signal distributor bid under MTS Communications Limited in 2014.

    At M4STV, Uyah brings a rare combination of engineering excellence, operational discipline, and visionary leadership. His experience in building broadcast networks from the ground up, managing large scale technical teams, and navigating the complexities of digital transformation will be instrumental as M4STV expands its footprint across Africa and beyond.

  • NOC’s Annual General Meeting  holds  Dec. 29 in Abuja

    NOC’s Annual General Meeting  holds  Dec. 29 in Abuja

    The Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) is scheduled to hold its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Monday, December 29, 2025.

    This is in accordance with its constitution; the NOC hosts this annual gathering to review the year’s activities and strategise for the future.

    The meeting will take place at the Starview Palace Hotel, Plot 7, 4th Avenue (by Setraco Gate), Gwarimpa, Abuja, starting at 11:00 AM.

    Read Also: JUST IN: Ahmed Musa retires from international football

    This assembly serves as a vital “stocktaking” session for stakeholders.

    The agenda includes a comprehensive review of the committee’s 2024 programmes, financial audits, and the President’s annual report.

    The Attendance, Representation and Participation is mandatory for all Olympic and recognised non-Olympic sports federations. Attendees will include: Executive Committee Members; National Federations (Olympic & Non-Olympic); International Federation Board Members and National Sports Commission (NSC) representatives .

  • NWFL: Bayelsa, FC Robo set early pace as title race heats up

    NWFL: Bayelsa, FC Robo set early pace as title race heats up

    Bayelsa Queens and FC Robo Queens emerged as the standout sides of Matchday Four of the Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL) Premiership, as both teams tightened their grip on the summit of their respective groups with commanding performances.

    In Yenagoa, Bayelsa Queens climbed to the top of Group A after a comfortable 2–0 victory over Pacesetters Queens. Blessing Ilivieda opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 17th minute before Aminat Folorunsho doubled the advantage just before halftime to seal another assured home win.

    The Prosperity Girls now sit first on goal difference with nine points from three matches, level with Edo Queens and Rivers Angels, who also recorded vital home victories.

    At the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, Edo Queens handed Adamawa Queens their first defeat of the season with a disciplined 2–0 win. Chioma Moses converted a first-half penalty, while Atume Doosuur added a second in the 75th minute to underline Edo’s growing title credentials. Despite having played one game more, Edo remain firmly in the hunt with nine points.

    Rivers Angels also kept pace at the top, edging Ibom Angels 1–0 in Port Harcourt. Ramotalahi Kareem’s 55th-minute strike proved decisive as the former champions continued their steady climb with maximum points from three outings.

    In Abuja, Heartland Queens showed great character to rally from two goals down and force a 2–2 draw against Naija Ratels. Goals from Onu Markwell and Paulina Orshio had put the hosts firmly in control early on, but Emmanuella James and Faith Samson struck in the final 20 minutes to earn the Owerri-based side a valuable away point. Heartland moved up to fifth with four points, while Ratels remain seventh with two.

    In Group B, FC Robo Queens continued their imperious form with a stunning 5–1 demolition of Dannaz Ladies in Lagos. Goals from Kemi Adegbuyi, Tosin Rafiu, a brace from Opeyemi Ajakaiye, and a late strike by Robiat Yusuf sealed Robo’s fourth straight win of the campaign. Augusta Chukwuma scored Dannaz Ladies’ consolation, the only goal Robo have conceded so far this season.

    With 12 points from four games and a remarkable attacking output, FC Robo Queens sit comfortably at the top of the group.

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    In Lafia, Nasarawa Amazons were held to a frustrating 0–0 draw by Abia Angels, with goalkeeper Fatima Oloko producing a series of fine saves to deny the hosts. The Amazons remain second with eight points, while Abia Angels climbed to fourth on five points.

    At Ile-Ogbo, Osun Babes and Remo Stars Ladies played out a cagey goalless draw. Remo Stars maintained third place with eight points from four games, while Osun Babes moved to four points.

    Delta Queens finally got their season up and running in Asaba with a 3–1 victory over Confluence Queens. Destiny Itobore struck early, Seember Emmanuel equalised for the visitors, before late goals from Tsebee Rita Seember and Amarachukwu Onuorah sealed Delta’s first win of the campaign.

    In Umuahia, Ahudiyannem Queens and Sunshine Queens shared the spoils in another scoreless encounter, a result that earned Ahudiyannem their second point of the season.

  • Joshua sends message to  Fury on  next year’s  fight

    Joshua sends message to  Fury on  next year’s  fight

    Anthony Joshua insists he wants to face Tyson Fury in 2026 ahead of his fight with Jake Paul tomorrow..

    AJ will go up against YouTuber-turned-boxer Paul in Miami, which will be streamed live on Netflix.

    Last week, The Ring Magazine, which is owned by Saudi Arabia’s boxing kingpin Turki Alalshikh, reported that a fight between Joshua and Fury is ‘as close as it has ever been to finally happening’, and is planned to headline a Riyadh Season card in 2026.

    Fury announced his retirement from boxing after a second successive defeat to Oleksandr Usyk in their undisputed world heavyweight title fight last December.

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    But over the weekend, Fury teased a potential comeback as he posted a message on social media which read: ‘The king must return to his throne. There is a long and lonely road that only I can walk on, but after the long and hard battles awaits immortality!’

    Joshua, meanwhile, is currently in Miami preparing for his fight with Paul, which will be shown at around 3:30am in the UK on Saturday morning, but speaking at a media event on Tuesday night, the 36-year-old said he is optimistic about his chances of fighting Fury next year.

     “I’ve spoken to Tyson before, me and Tyson have. I actually signed to fight Tyson,” Joshua said.“I think it was actually around the time I put my belts up to fight [Oleksandr] Usyk, I was supposed to fight Tyson Fury.

     “And Fury had his issues with [Deontay] Wilder and their contractual issues, so they fought a third time. But I’ve been in a position to fight Fury a number of times, yeah.”

    Asked if he hopes to fight Fury, Joshua replied: “Of course, there’s hope. Especially when you’re talking about doing big time boxing.

    “And Jake’s showcasing it can be done and I’m showcasing it can be done. Now we’ve been in mega fights time and time again.

    “This isn’t our first rodeo, we’re back again, big time boxing, I just feel like it takes two to tango and I’m on the dance floor. I’m just looking for a dance partner.”

  • Henry to be honoured with Lifetime Achievement award

    Henry to be honoured with Lifetime Achievement award

    Former Arsenal and France striker Thierry Henry will be honoured with the Lifetime Achievement award at BBC Sports Personality of the Year.

    The 48-year-old, widely considered to be one of the Premier League’s greatest players, retired in 2014.

    He will be presented with the award at the 2025 BBC Sports Personality of the Year today.

    “Football has given me everything and I gave it my all,” said Henry.

    “To be recognised as part of its history with this Lifetime Achievement award and to have made my mark for the fans and my team-mates is something I’ll never take for granted.”

    Henry scored 228 goals in 377 matches for Arsenal across his two spells with the Gunners, eclipsing Ian Wright to become the club’s record goal scorer in 2005.

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    He won three FA Cups and two Premier League titles during his time in England – including the 2003-04 season when Arsenal’s ‘Invincibles’ remained unbeaten throughout the Premier League campaign.

    The striker won the Premier League Golden Boot a record-equalling four times and was named in the PFA Team of the Year six seasons in a row.

    He holds the joint-record with Kevin de Bruyne for the most assists (20) in a single Premier League season.

    In 2024, the Lifetime Achievement award was awarded to British cycling great Sir Mark Cavendish.

    Other previous winners of the award include Billie Jean King, Pele, Sir Bobby Charlton, Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson, Sir David Beckham, Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill and Sir Chris Hoy.

  • Dansol High School gives back to Lagos community through ‘Food Drive Initiative’

    Dansol High School gives back to Lagos community through ‘Food Drive Initiative’

    Residents of the Agidingbi community in Lagos State benefitted from vital assistance as organisers of the annual “Food Drive” initiative distributed essential food items to households in need.

    The humanitarian outreach, held at the Dansol School premises, drew volunteers, residents and school officials.

    The Food Drive, now in its second year, is part of Dansol High School’s long-standing commitment to community service. Although the institution has carried out various Christmas charity outreaches for more than two decades, the decision to specifically support vulnerable families connected to the school began last year in response to rising economic hardship.

    Speaking at the event, Executive Director of Dansol High School, Mrs. Olanitori Omotara, said the initiative was designed to bring relief to households experiencing financial strain amidst soaring food prices.

    “For years, our learners gathered for fun activities during the Christmas season,” she said. “But as things became tougher for many families, we realised the need to shift our focus from celebration to compassion.”

    This year’s outreach supported slightly above 200 beneficiaries, including parents. Mrs. Omotara expressed gratitude to supporting organisations and parents whose contributions made the outreach possible.

    One highlight of the programme, she noted, was the involvement of students, who prayed with beneficiaries, offered words of encouragement and shared the message of Christmas.

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    “Watching our students minister, pray and show love to the community was deeply touching,” she added.

    Also speaking, Director of Schools, Mrs. Oladosu Tsola, described the outreach as an expression of Christian compassion and social responsibility.

    “Christmas is about giving—God gave us Jesus,” she said. “The best way to honour that gift is by supporting others, especially in a time of economic hardship.”

    She praised the students for their generosity and active participation.

    “Every year, the students exceed our expectations. Some donate money, others bring bags of rice, noodles and essential items. Their contributions are invaluable.”

    The distribution included rice, beans, garri, pasta, cooking oil and other necessities. Volunteers worked throughout the day to ensure a smooth and transparent process.

    One of the volunteers, Tunde Osho, said the experience was eye-opening.

    “Speaking with people makes you understand how real the struggles are. Helping them is fulfilling.”

    Many parents expressed gratitude for the support.

    “This programme came at the perfect time,” said Mrs. Kafayat Ogunlana, a mother of four. “Food prices keep rising, but our income hasn’t changed.”

    Organisers hope the initiative will continue to expand in the coming years.

    “This is just the beginning,” Mrs. Omotara said. “We hope to reach even more families and communities.”

    With today’s event concluded, many families left with not only food items, but also renewed hope and reassurance that compassion remains alive during difficult times.