The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Akor, Ejuke sign off with Sevilla  with goals

    Akor, Ejuke sign off with Sevilla  with goals

    Super Eagles stars Akor Adams and Chidera Ejuke rounded off their pre-AFCON duties in emphatic fashion on Sunday night, as Sevilla cruised to a commanding 4–0 victory over Real Oviedo at the Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán.

    With the Africa Cup of Nations set to kick off on December 21, the Nigerian duo underlined the attacking depth available to Nigeria with decisive contributions and will leave for Cairo, Egypt today with confidence high that the Super Eagles will turn a corner in Morocco when the competition begins.

    Sevilla wasted no time asserting control, racing into the lead in the fourth minute through Akor Adams. Djibril Sow doubled Sevilla’s advantage in the 22nd  minute with a composed finish from inside the area, but Adams remained central to the hosts’ attacking rhythm. The Nigerian forward finished the match with a goal and an assist, two shots on target, and several key passes. He came close to scoring again in the 65th  minute, unleashing a powerful effort that narrowly missed the top corner after a well-weighted pass from Alexis Sánchez.

    Read Also: SPORTS PERSON OF THE YEAR: VICTOR OSIMHEN

    Adams eventually turned provider for Sevilla’s third goal, supplying his second assist of the game for Batista Mendy, who made it 3–0 and effectively ended the contest. The striker’s all-round display — combining goal threat, link-up play and defensive work rate — drew warm applause from the home crowd as he signed off in style.

    Chidera Ejuke joined the action in the 77th minute, replacing Sánchez, and made an instant impact. The winger needed just one clear sight of goal, calmly finishing from inside the penalty area in the 89th minute to register his first goal of the season.

    Ejuke completed several successful dribbles, stretched the Oviedo defence with his pace, and capped Sevilla’s dominant performance with a clinical touch.

    With Akor Adams contributing directly to two goals and Ejuke marking his return to the score sheet, Sevilla fans were left with fond memories — and Super Eagles supporters with renewed optimism — as both players head into AFCON brimming with confidence and form.

  • NDG: Athletes’ registration begins as organisers unveil state’s liaison committees

    NDG: Athletes’ registration begins as organisers unveil state’s liaison committees

    Registration portal for the 2nd Niger Delta Games (NDG) has opened for athletes and coaches of the nine participating states with the organisers’ constitution and inaugurating states Liaison Committees.

    Athletes from across the Niger Delta region can now register online to participate in the multi-sport festival as the organisers pledged to provide technical support to each participating states to ensure a smooth and inclusive registration process.

    Lead Consultant, Sir Itiako Ikpokpo, KSM was represented by the Project Director, Fred Edoreh at the inauguration of Liaison Committees for Ondo, Edo and Delta States on Thursday and Friday at their respective state capitals.

    Ikpokpo enjoined all members of the state liaison committees to work together in implementing their tasks on behalf of the organising committee.

    “We expect work to begin and trial for athletes to go through the inner parts of all your state local government areas to give opportunities to all indigenes,” he charged members.

    He outline the functions of the state liaison committees to include organising of the preliminary trials of athletes, from the Local Government level to the final selection at the state level and to ensure the online registration of all participating athletes and the entry of the selected athletes in the games registration portal. .

    ‎Other irresponsibility of the committee is to ensure that the trials and selection of athletes are in strict conformity with the general and technical rules and regulations of the games.

    They are also saddled with the task of ensuring the successful camping and training of the contingent ahead of the games as well as arranging comfortable transportation of the state contingent to and from the Games, and carry out all other directives of the Project Consultant, Dunamis Icon Limited.

    Read Also: SPORTS PERSON OF THE YEAR: VICTOR OSIMHEN

    Ondo State Commissioner for Sports, Segun Henry Omoyofunmi is the Chairman of the State Liaison Committee which has four other members, namely, Dr Henry Babatunde as Secretary, Tunde Akinsemola Segun Giwa, the Chairman of Ondo State chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) and Mrs Evelyn Lebi, the state Director of Sports.

    In Benin, the State Liaison Committee was inaugurated on Friday with Hon. Amadin Enabulele as Chairman and Bright Idahosa as Secretary. The others are Sogbayi Opeoluwa – Joseph Aghahowa, the State Director of Sports and Kehinde Osagiede, the State SWAN Chairman.

    ‎At their inauguration, Enabulele reiterated the readiness of Edo State to host the rest of the region.

    ‎”I want to assure the organisers the rest participating states that we are ready to begin work immediately and be rest assured that we will do our very best as host State to give you the best hospitality and improved games” he declared.

    For full details on registration, event schedules, and participation guidelines, visit the official website: nigerdeltasportfestival.com

  • Crown Solicitors lifts Aare Afe Babalola trophy  

    Crown Solicitors lifts Aare Afe Babalola trophy  

    Lawyers honour legal icon in Ibadan 

    By Joseph Okwuofu,  Ibadan.

    Crown Solicitors Law Firm emerged the undisputable champions of the 2025 Afe Babalola (SAN)/Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) five aside Football League.

    The football tournament which started with eight teams in 2019, is sponsored by Afe Babalola & Co (Emmanuel Chambers) to celebrate Aare Afe Babalola SAN for his unrivalled contributions to legal profession in the country.

    Attracting legal practitioners from different law firms within the Premier Bar , the football tournament saw the Crown Solicitors trashing the Aare Afe Babalola’s Boys 2-1 to clinch the trophy.

    The football fiesta was held at the main bow of the Olubadan Sports Complex , Ibadan as legal practitioners converged for a celebration of sportsmanship and camaraderie.

    Among the top legal practitioners that witnessed the final match are one of the pillars of law profession, and Senior Partner,  Aare Afe Babalola & Co, Mr.Adebayo Adenipekun (SAN),the Chairman,  Ibadan Football Association, Mogaji Rotimi Alli, the Chairman, Nigerian Bar Association,  Ibadan branch, Mr Ibrahim Lawal and other senior members of the Premier bar.

    At the end of the competition, Crown Solicitors lifted the trophy, while the Afe Babalola team finished as runners-up.

    The Makanjuola Esan’s team secured third place following a walkover against the Lateef Fagbemi football team.

    In his brief remarks, the representative of Aare Afe Babalola SAN, Mr. Adenipekun who presented the medals and trophy to the champions, expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the event and urged participants to embrace the spirit of sportsmanship.

    “It is not about winning at all costs. I congratulate those who won and those who participated. Even those who could not participate should be encouraged to join in future editions,” he said.

    Speaking on the significance of the annual event, the Chairman of the NBA Ibadan Branch, Mr. Ibrahim Lawal, said the tournament was designed to promote physical fitness and unity among lawyers.

    “Most of the time, we sit in our offices for long hours, and that affects our mobility. A sporting activity like this energises the body and keeps us in good shape,” Lawal explained.  “That is why Aare Afe Babalola decided to sponsor this programme. It has become a yearly event that encourages sporting activities and brings all of us together, beyond the courtroom.”

    Read Also: SPORTS PERSON OF THE YEAR: VICTOR OSIMHEN

    Lawal noted that the competition has grown more competitive over the years, with increasing enthusiasm from both participants and spectators.

     “Every year, the tournament gets more competitive. You can see the passion and commitment of our members, including those who came to watch. It has achieved its purpose of fostering unity and healthy rivalry,” he said.

    He further expressed optimism for better organisation and wider participation in future editions.

    Reacting to their victory, Lawal, whose team emerged winners, described the moment as deeply fulfilling.

     “This is my fourth time participating in this competition, and finally lifting the trophy is a great feeling. The last time, we came third, so this victory is very special,” he said.

    Also speaking, the captain of Crown Solicitors, Adeboye Adetayo, praised both teams for an intense and entertaining match.

    He noted that the match was a very tough game with high intensity,” we appreciate everyone who came out to support us, adding that the team would work hard to defend the title next year.”

    Apart from the medals, a cash award of N.5million was showered on the winners of the competition,  while N.3million and N.2million were given to second and third place respectively.

  • NPFL: Abia Warriors, Shooting Stars claim vital

    NPFL: Abia Warriors, Shooting Stars claim vital

    Nigeria Premier Football League Matchday 17 delivered a flurry of decisive results across the country yesterday, with Abia Warriors and Shooting Stars securing crucial away victories to boost their campaigns.

    In Owerri, Abia Warriors returned to winning ways after a difficult run, edging Kun Khalifat 1–0 at the Dan Anyiam Stadium.

    Former Heartland forward Suraju Lawal proved the difference, striking in the 81st  minute to hand the Umuchineke Boys their first win in six matches. The result lifted Abia Warriors to fourth place on 27 points, while Kun Khalifat slipped into the relegation zone in 18th with 17 points, suffering their third defeat of the season.

    In Kano, Shooting Stars continued their steady rise as Sodiq Ibrahim’s early ninth-minute goal sealed a 1–0 win over newcomers Barau FC at the Sani Abacha Stadium. The victory moved the Oluyole Warriors up to seventh on 26 points, while Barau FC remain 19th with 17 points.

    Read Also: SPORTS PERSON OF THE YEAR: VICTOR OSIMHEN

    Elsewhere, Kano Pillars finally avoided defeat on the road, holding Warri Wolves to a goalless draw in Ozoro. Although the result marked Sai Masu Gida’s first away clean sheet in over a year, they remain bottom of the table with 13 points, while Warri Wolves sit ninth on 23 points.

    In Minna, Niger Tornadoes delivered one of the most emphatic performances of the round, thrashing El Kanemi Warriors 3–0. Azeez Akintunde opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the fifth minute before Rickson Mendos added a late brace to propel the Tornadoes to fifth place with 26 points, leaving El Kanemi 17th  on 19 points.

    Enyimba also enjoyed a productive afternoon in Aba, defeating Kwara United 3–1 with goals from Samuel Agu and a Chidera Michael brace. Despite Toheeb Gidado’s consolation strike for the visitors, the People’s Elephant climbed to eighth with 23 points, while Kwara United dropped to 12th  on 21 points.

    League leaders Nasarawa United were held to a goalless draw by Plateau United in Jos, a result that keeps the Solid Miners top on 31 points but leaves the door open for Rivers United, who trail by just one point with two games in hand.

    Bayelsa United marked an emotional occasion in Yenagoa with a 2–1 comeback win over Remo Stars, while Bendel Insurance and Rangers International settled for a 1–1 draw earlier on Saturday.

    Attention now shifts to today’s fixtures, where Rivers United host Wikki Tourists knowing that victory will take them to the summit, while Ikorodu City face Katsina United with a chance to climb as high as second on goal difference.

  • Rivers United target victory against depleted Wikki Tourists

    Rivers United target victory against depleted Wikki Tourists

    Rivers United will approach their Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 17 clash against Wikki Tourists today with clear intent, knowing that only a victory will propel them to the top of the league table.

    The Pride of Rivers have been consistent in almost all their league games this season and will be keen to capitalise on familiar surroundings when they welcome the Bauchi-based side today in Port Harcourt.

    The Port Harcourt outfit understand the significance of the encounter, with the title race entering a decisive phase. A win would not only boost their points tally but also pile pressure on their closest rivals in the standings. With strong home support expected, Rivers United will look to impose them early and dictate the tempo of the contest.

    Read Also: SPORTS PERSON OF THE YEAR: VICTOR OSIMHEN

    Wikki Tourists, however, travel south determined to avoid defeat after settling for a home draw against Ikorodu City in their last outing. That result left them searching for greater consistency, and Abdu Maikaba’s men will be desperate to return to winning ways as they continue their battle for a respectable finish on the NPFL table.

    The visitors face added challenges heading into the game, with head coach Abdu Maikaba forced to contend with key absences. Defender Sani Ibrahim is suspended, while Isah Ndala and Nickson Ironsi are sidelined with ankle and knee injuries respectively, limiting Wikki Tourists’ options and depth.

    Despite the setbacks, Wikki Tourists are expected to adopt a disciplined approach in a bid to frustrate their hosts. For Rivers United, the objective is straightforward—secure maximum points and climb to the summit. All signs point to an intense and high-stakes encounter as both sides chase crucial outcomes in the NPFL title run-in.

  • Salim Lawal shines as Fog Halts Istra–Rijeka Clash

    Salim Lawal shines as Fog Halts Istra–Rijeka Clash

    New Super Eagles invitee, Salim Fago Lawal, continued his impressive run of form yesterday after scoring early for NK Istra 1961 in their Croatian league clash against Rijeka.

    The Nigerian forward struck in the 5th  minute to give Istra a dream start, underlining why he recently earned his maiden invitation to the national team.

    Lawal showed great composure inside the box, reacting quickest to a loose ball and firing home to put the visitors under immediate pressure. However, Rijeka responded swiftly and restored parity just four minutes later, capitalizing on sustained pressure to level the scores in an entertaining opening phase of the match.

    Read Also: SPORTS PERSON OF THE YEAR: VICTOR OSIMHEN

    The encounter was later interrupted due to heavy fog, which reduced visibility at the stadium and forced officials to temporarily halt proceedings. The weather conditions made continuation difficult, disrupting the rhythm of both teams after a lively start.

    Despite the interruption, Lawal’s impact did not go unnoticed. The forward has been in red-hot form this season, consistently delivering goals and strong performances for Istra, a run that has now been rewarded with national recognition.

  • Oshoala treble fires Al Hilal into Challenge Cup last four

    Oshoala treble fires Al Hilal into Challenge Cup last four

    Asisat Oshoala was the star of the show as Al Hilal cruised to a commanding 5–0 win over Eastern Flames to book a place in the semi-finals of the Saudi Women’s Premier Challenge Cup.

    The six-time African Women’s Player of the Year underlined her growing influence at the Riyadh-based club with a ruthless hat-trick, delivering a performance that highlighted her quality and experience on the big stage.

    Al Hilal dominated proceedings from the outset at the Al Taraji Club Stadium, dictating possession and pinning Eastern Flames back in their own half. Their early pressure paid off in the first half when Oshoala broke the deadlock with a composed finish after a sustained spell of attacking play.

    Read Also: SPORTS PERSON OF THE YEAR: VICTOR OSIMHEN

    The Nigerian forward doubled her tally soon after the restart, showing great composure in front of goal as Eastern Flames struggled to cope with Al Hilal’s relentless tempo. Oshoala then completed her hat-trick late in the game, netting Al Hilal’s fourth goal to cap a commanding individual display and register her first treble of the season.

    Two additional goals completed a one-sided contest and reflected Al Hilal’s dominance throughout the match. The emphatic victory saw Al Hilal finish second in Group A, confirming their progression to the knockout stage and reinforcing their status as serious contenders for the Challenge Cup title.

  • Africa Youth Chess Championships: Dankwambo hailed  for  Team Nigeria’s outstanding results

    Africa Youth Chess Championships: Dankwambo hailed  for  Team Nigeria’s outstanding results

    The National Sports Commission (NSC) has poured encomiums on the President of the Chess Federation of Nigeria, Senator Ibrahim Dankwambo, for leading the much needed revolution in the sport.

    The former Governor of Gombe State and his board received commendation for their leadership and sustained efforts in facilitating chess development across the country.

    The well-deserved applause from the NSC came on the heels of the outstanding performance of Nigeria’s youth chess contingent at the 2025 Africa Youth Chess Championships held in Harare, Zimbabwe.

     “The Commission applauds not only the results but the spirit with which our young players carried the Nigerian colours on the continental stage.

     “These achievements reflect commitment, preparation, and the development of chess as a key grassroots sport in Nigeria.

    Read Also: SPORTS PERSON OF THE YEAR: VICTOR OSIMHEN

    “We remain committed to expanding support, strengthening our talent pathways, and creating more opportunities for our young athletes to compete and excel internationally,” said NSC DG, Hon. Bukola Olopade.

    It will be recalled with the unwavering support from the NSC and the Dankwambo led board, young prodigies including Deborah Quickpen, Michelle Nwankwo, Jason Nwankwo, Zita Agusionu, Olakitan Elegbede, and Adeola Elegbede competed strongly against some of the continent’s best young players.

    Across multiple age categories, the young athletes showcased strategic mastery, competitive resilience, and the hallmark discipline of Nigerian sportsmanship.

    Their achievement was made possible by the relentless support of coaches, families, and the broader chess community led by the former governor of Gombe State.

  • NFF  suspends many referees to protect game integrity

    NFF  suspends many referees to protect game integrity

    The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), through its Refereeing Development Committee, has announced the indefinite suspension of several referees and assistant referees across the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), Nigeria National League (NNL) and Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL).

    The decision, communicated last weekend, was taken to curb excesses, address questionable officiating and preserve the integrity of the game.

    In the NPFL Matchday 9 fixture between Barau FC and Kano Pillars FC, referee Anthony Eze and his assistants Peter Ogwu and Aduba Ngbede were found culpable of multiple infractions, including the wrongful award of a penalty and the failure to sanction a clear penalty incident. The Committee ruled that their collective decisions negatively influenced the outcome of the match and brought the game into disrepute, leading to their indefinite suspension from all football activities.

    The Committee also sanctioned officials in several NNL fixtures. Assistant Referee Ekpouko Ubong was suspended for an incorrect offside decision in the Rovers FC versus Sporting Lagos match that denied an obvious goal-scoring opportunity. Referee Nurah Abdullahi was similarly suspended for failing to protect a goalkeeper in the Mighty Jets versus City FC encounter, while Ahmed M. Usman was penalized for awarding an unjustified penalty in the Sporting Supreme versus Bichi FC match.

    Read Also: SPORTS PERSON OF THE YEAR: VICTOR OSIMHEN

    Further disciplinary action followed the NNL Matchday 5 clash between Kada Warriors and Mighty Jets, where referee Michael Adepoju was suspended for awarding a penalty after being deceived by an attacking player, contrary to the Laws of the Game. The Committee held that the decision had no legal basis and unfairly altered the course of the match.

    In contrast, the Committee exonerated officials in the Lobi Stars versus Basira FC match, affirming that the handball penalty awarded complied with the Laws of the Game, while video evidence was inconclusive on an alleged offside goal. Similarly, match officials in the NWFL fixtures involving Ekiti Queens versus Edo Queens were cleared, as camera angles did not provide sufficient evidence to establish any offside infringement.

    Overall, the NFF Refereeing Development Committee reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on poor officiating and stressed that sanctions would continue to be applied where decisions fall outside the Laws of the Game. The body maintained that consistent enforcement of standards remains critical to fair play, credibility and confidence in Nigerian football competitions.

  • Njokanma, Eccli clinch Ikoyi Club Tennis Masters’ titles

    Njokanma, Eccli clinch Ikoyi Club Tennis Masters’ titles

    The Chairman of the Ikoyi Club Tennis section, Diran Famakinwa, has showered praises on the players who took part in the just concluded Tennis Masters competition.

    The 2025 Top 8 Masters involving the best eight male and best eight female smashers started in August.

    Famakinwa stated that he was very happy with the skills and overall standard exhibited by the players in the week long tournament which took place between December 5th and 13th.

    The tennis section boss said: “We started in August, 2025 with over 60 players in the male category and over 22 players in the female category and eventually top 8 qualified and I have to say we had some excellent participants that Nigeria can be proud of.

     “Though we are a recreational club, the players played at professional level in the competition and it has been a great time watching our Nigerian players and international based players who are members of Ikoyi Club 1938 and it has been exciting for a lot of our members as well.”

    Read Also: SPORTS PERSON OF THE YEAR: VICTOR OSIMHEN

    In the finals decided at the weekend, Mirella Eccli defeated Lolia Kienka 6/1, 7/5 at the centre courts of the tennis section. After losing the first set, Lolia was 5-3 up in the second before Mirella caught up to win and seal the title.

    Chiwete Njokanma also defeated Kalada Kienka 7/5, 6/1 to win the male singles title of the tournament powered by Megamound.

    After the exciting final, Famakinwa also spoke about plans for 2026 at the tennis section.

     “We will be improving on our courts. We will be bringing people internationally to come and increase the coaching skills of our in-house coaches. And also, we will now be implementing a youth development scheme. It’s around harnessing the skills of our very young talents. We will create time for the children so that they can grow up to be top stars. We are going to invest in equipment too.

     “We will be talking to a number of sponsors, to collaborate with us so that the prize money we pay can grow.”