The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • FAME Foundation ends exciting tourney for PwDs in Lagos

    FAME Foundation ends exciting tourney for PwDs in Lagos

    By Olalekan Israel

    The FAME Foundation has marked this year’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities(PwDs) by hosting the Inclusion Games at the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.

    ‎‎The tournament, which is part of activities marking the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, commemorated annually on December 3, featured 26 participants competing in six events including 100m final (visual impaired), 100m final (cerebral palsy), 100m final ( deaf), discuss throw (amputee/polio), shot put (amputee/lexul upper) and long jump (amputee/ lexul). ‎

    ‎The Executive Director, FAME Foundation, Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi,  expressed her joy for organising the event ,affirming the foundation’s commitment to promoting inclusion and celebrating diverse abilities. ‎

    ‎“I am happy with today’s event. The Inclusion Games allowed us to celebrate different abilities through activities such as the 100m finals for visually impaired athletes, athletes with cerebral palsy, and the Deaf, as well as the Discus Throw for amputees and polio survivors, and the Shot Put for amputee and Lexul athletes. This is what inclusion should look like in our society.”‎

    ‎She added: “This is the same principle that drives our HerSTEM Initiative. Through activities like the ongoing HerSTEM 2025 cohort, which provides digital literacy and basic computer skills training for women and girls with disabilities, and the HerSTEM Inclusive Tournament, we are creating spaces where they can learn, compete, and showcase their abilities. We are breaking stereotypes and showing that with the right opportunities, people with disabilities are not just included, they are leaders and contributors to social progress.”‎

    Read Also: NFF president visits Ola Aina in London

    ‎Aderonke also emphasised the need for collaboration and systemic change.

    ‎‎She said: “Building a truly inclusive society requires all of us working together. We call on the government to fully implement and enforce the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018. We also urge the private sector, civil society, and media to invest in accessibility, champion inclusive policies, and amplify the voices and achievements of persons with disabilities.

    ‎‎“Our collective progress depends on our commitment to inclusion. Let us work together to build a Nigeria where every individual, regardless of ability, can contribute their talents and succeed. Disability is not a limitation but one aspect of our diverse human experience.”‎

    ‎Folashade Oluwafemiayo, the World Record holder in the women’s para-powerlifting and ambassador of the FAME Foundation believes the tournament will be an eye-opener for other stakeholders to establish more initiatives for people living with disabilities.‎

    ‎“I was sitting right there looking at the athletes doing their thing. We have new up-and-coming talents who will make this nation proud in the future,” she said.

  • Victor Ikpeba Football Challenge starts Dec. 18 with bigger prize

    Victor Ikpeba Football Challenge starts Dec. 18 with bigger prize

    The next edition of the Victor Ikpeba 5-a-Side Football Challenge has been confirmed to hold in Warri, Delta State, between  December 18 and 20.

    This event has been designed to be a refreshing addition to the Christmas/end-of-the-year festivities for the community and the Bet9ja patrons in the area. This 5th edition has also been refined with a bonus for the teams and players, with the cash pool increased to N1m (one million naira). It is increased with a smaller number of teams this year for proper coordination and extra entertainment value.

    The football practical will involve eight teams built around the Bet9ja vendors in that area. Bet9ja is a partner of this laudable community sports and entertainment initiative.

    Read Also: W’Cup 2026: NFF begs Tinubu, Nigerians over  Super Eagles’ setback

    Day One of the competition will produce the semi-finalists, and it continues the following day to the third-place game before the grand finale on Saturday, the 20th.

    Victor Nosa Ikpeba, the African Footballer of the Year (1997), held the first edition in 2021 after the very first was organised in Surulere, Lagos. Since then, it has continued to be an event to look forward to for these communities. He spoke about this forthcoming event.

    Ikpeba said, “I don’t know if we would have come this far if Bet9ja did not see that it is helping the youths and decided to partner. So, it’s a thank you to Bet9ja.

     “This year’s edition is wonderful as it ushers in the 2025 AFCON (African Nations Cup), so it will simply be a build-up to the African event. I am happy when I see these young people sweat out for the trophy. We were like these decades back, and my prayer always is that the very gifted ones find a higher ground to fulfil their dreams.”

    There is a trophy for the winners, the individual awardees and cash for all.

  • AFCON 2025: Amuneke urges to brace for tough challenges

    AFCON 2025: Amuneke urges to brace for tough challenges

    Former African Footballer of the Year, Emmanuel Amuneke, has urged a clear-headed assessment of the Super Eagles as Nigeria heads to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

    The Heartland FC Technical Manager  stressed that the national team remains a powerful brand but must confront its inconsistencies with honesty and strategic planning.

    Speaking on the Eagles’ fluctuating performances, Amuneke noted that progress rarely follows a straight line.

     “Things will flourish, and sometimes there will be difficult moments. But when one is constantly evaluating and seeking solutions, it helps to get us back on track. Our national team is a big brand and a household name but the truth is they have been struggling,” he said.

    Read Also: NFF president visits Ola Aina in London

    Nigeria will head to Morocco aiming to improve on their runners-up finish at AFCON 2023 in Côte d’Ivoire, where they fell narrowly to the hosts in the final.

     Amuneke believes that result showed the team’s potential, but insists only meticulous preparation can turn potential into continental dominance.

     “The Super Eagles can win in Morocco but every nation going to Morocco also wants to win, so it depends on our level of preparation and how ready we are to compete with the rest of the continent,” he concluded.

    His call echoes sentiments from several Nigerian football analysts who have repeatedly highlighted the need for early planning, squad stability, and improved tactical identity. The 35th AFCON is scheduled for December 21 to January 16, 2026.

  • Fubara tops list of honourees  as Rivers host inaugural SSMEAwards

    Fubara tops list of honourees  as Rivers host inaugural SSMEAwards

    The first edition of the South South Media and Entertainment Awards (SSMEAwards) will take centre stage on Sunday, December 14th , in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

    Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, will be honoured at the event, alongside prominent individuals, Bankers, Captains of industry, academicians, organizations and institutions that performed creditably in their respective fields and disciplines, in the year under review.

    Rivers State Sports Commissioner, Barr. Christopher Tam Abinye Green and the Permanent Secretary of the Rivers State Ministry of Information and Communications, Dr. Honour Sirawoo, will also be honoured.

    The event hold  at the prestigious Atlantic Hall, Hotel Presidential, Port Harcourt with the Red Carpet commencing at 5pm while the event proper starts at 6pm.

    Partners of the event include the Rivers State Government, the Rivers State Ministry of Information and Communications, Rivers State Ministry of Sports and Rivers State Ministry of Health.

    Others include Taj Bank, Zenith Bank, Globus Bank, Guaranty Trust Bank, Ofure Global, Oga Sammy Sports Shop and Navitas Realties,

    Speaking on the drive behind the awards, President of the South South Media and Entertainment Awards, Sammy Wejinya explained that the need to improve service delivery in all sectors of the economy was a major driving force behind the initiative.

    “I have always been associated with excellence and my team at the South South Media and Entertainment Awards thought it wise to come up with this event which we believe will, in no small way, help in improving service delivery across board,” he said.

    “This covers virtually all sectors of the economy, from revenue generation to sports, health to entertainment, Banking to the Academia, we have it all covered.

    “It is our belief that all key stakeholders will raise their game and consistently put their best foot forward, knowing that the SSMEAwards, and in extension, the wider society is watching.

    “All of this adds up and we believe that we will be contributing our quota in making society a better place,” he concluded.

    Four judges have been selected to run the rule in all 31 categories which was also made open to the public for voting.

    The judges are Ify Onyegbule (Director General, Imo Broadcasting Corporation, Owerri & Founder, Woman of Substance (WOS)/ WASEI), Sampson Fiberesima (Station Manager, Rivers State Broadcasting Corporation), Rosemary Orubo (Director of Compliance and Enforcement) and Sammy Wejinya (Megalectrics Limited).

    CATEGORIES FOR SSMEAWARDS:

    1. Young Person of the Year

    – Adoga Agbo Daniel (Graceland International School)

    – Asonye Angela Akelachi (Vine International School)

    2. School of the Year

    – Vine International School

    – Pine Manor International School

    – Ecole Cherrywood

    – Norwegian International School

    – Graceland International School

    – Provil Schools

    3. Media Personality of the Year (Male)

    – Segun Owolabi (Super FM 93.3, Port Harcourt, Rivers State)

    – Zubby Wokocha (Rhythm 93.7, Port Harcourt, Rivers State)

    – Abai Jacob Brakere (Gbaramatu Voice Newspaper, Delta State)

    – George Ini Abasi Essien (Comfort FM 95.1, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State)

    – Alex Otutu (Classic FM 91.1, Port Harcourt)

    – Azuka Chiemeka (Delta Broadcasting Service)

    4. Media Personality of the Year (Female)

    – Honey Ojukwu (Cool FM 95.9 Port Harcourt)

    – Denise Dennis (Nigeria Info FM 92.3, Port Harcourt)

    – Sharon Mandor (Comfort FM 95.1, Uyo)

    – Landlady (Naija FM 92.7, Port Harcourt)

    – Sergeant Iquo (XL FM 106.9, Uyo)

    – Constance Mega (Nigeria Info FM 92.3, Port Harcourt)

    5. Book of the Year

    – Apologies are useless (Dr. Omoyemi Lynna Ohazulike)

    – Dream Count (Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie)

    – Death of the Author (Nnedi Okorafor)

    – Necessary Friction (Eloghosa Osunde)

    – The Edge of Water (Olufunke Grace Bankole)

    – The Tiny Things Are Heavier (Esther Ifesinachi Okonkwo)

    6. Bank of the Year

    – Stanbic IBTC

    – GTBank

    – Globus Bank

    – Providus Bank

    – Taj Bank

    – Fidelity Bank

    7. Banker of the Year

    – Hamid Joda (Managing Director of TAJ Bank)

    – Walter Akpani (MD, Providus Bank)

    – Yinka Sanni (Chairman Stanbic IBTC Bank)

    – Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe (Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Fidelity Bank Plc)

    – Chukwuma Nwokocha (Group Chief Executive of Stanbic IBTC Bank PLC)

    – Mrs. Miriam Olusanya (MD GTBank)

    8. Brand of the Year

    – Furniture House

    – Prince Mega Agency

    – Callus Miller

    – Sundry Markets Limited

    – Chiques Apparel

    – Lontor

    9. Company of the Year

    – Epenal Group Of Company Nig Ltd

    – Richter Group Of Industries

    – Cakasa Nigeria Company Limited

    – CypherCrescent Ltd

    – Jin International Company

    – Candix Engineering Limited

    10. Minister of the Year

    – Heineken Lokpobiri (Minister of State, Petroleum Resources)

    – Nyesom Wike (Minister of Federal Capital Territory)

    – Ekperipe Ekpo (Minister of State, Gas Resources)

    – Abubakar Momoh (Minister of the NDDC)

    – Festus Keyamo, SAN (Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development)

    – Senator John Owan Enoh (Minister of State for Industry)

    11. Governor of the Year

    – Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom)

    – Douye Diri (Bayelsa)

    – Bassey Otu (Cross River)

    – Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta State)

    – Godwin Obaseki (Edo State)

    – Siminalayi Fubara (Rivers State)

    12. Senator of the Year

    – Godswill Akpabio (Akwa Ibom North-West Senatorial District)

    – Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa West Senatorial district)

    – Barinada Mpigi (Rivers South East Senatorial district)

    – Ned Nwoko (Delta North Senatorial zone)

    – Allwell Onyesoh (Rivers East Senatorial District)

    – Adams Oshiomole (Edo North Senatorial District)

    13. Representative of the Year

    – Thomas Ereyitomi (Warri, Delta State)

    – Julius Ihonvbere (Majority Leader, Edo State)

    – Aniekan John Umanah (Abak/Etim Ekpo/Ika, Akwa Ibom State)

    – Marie Ebikake (Brass/Nembe, Bayelsa State)

    – Michael Etaba (Obubra/Etung, Cross River State)

    – Godwin Odey Offiong (Ogoja/Yala: Ekpo,Cross River State)

    14. Investor of the Year

    – Elder Kingsley Enosa Anon (Ofure Global International Services)

    – Princess Fifi Ekanem Ejindu (CEO, Starcrest Group and Building Support Systems)

    – Engr. Ini Ekong Charles Udonwa (Norfin Offshore Shipyard)

    – Ibifiri Bobmanuel (MD, CEO Bobtrack)

    – High Chief Dumo Lulu-Briggs (Chairman/CEO DLB Group)

    – Tonye Cole (co-founder of Sahara Group)

    15. Sports Personality of the Year

    – Stanley Nwabali (Super Eagles goalkeeper)

    – Barr. Chris Green (Rivers State Sports Commissioner)

    – Engr. Musa Kida (NBBF President)

    – Etubom Paul Bassey (Akwa Ibom State Sports Commissioner)

    – Sabina Chikere (Director, Edo State Sports Commission)

    – Amaju Pinnick (Former President Nigeria Football Federation; Presidential Adviser to the CAF President)

    16. Media Organization of the Year

    – Megalectrics Limited (Owners of The Beat, Classic FM, Naija FM and Lagos Talks FM)

    – Comfort FM (Akwa Ibom State)

    – Capital TV (Port Harcourt)

    – AIM (Owners of Cool FM, Wazobia FM and Nigeria InfoFM)

    – Delta Broadcasting Service (Delta State)

    – CRBC (Cross Rivers)

    17. Gym of the Year

    – Charlies Total Fitness Centre (Port Harcourt)

    – i-Fitness (214 Ordnance Road Trans-Amadi Port Harcourt, Port Harcourt)

    – Bodyboost (Plot F, 6D Abacha Road, Port Harcourt)

    – Image Gym (Jofel Close, No 1 Ada-George Road)

    – ChrisBlinks Gym (No. 312 Fidelia Mall, NTA Junction, Port Harcourt)

    – Jasabi Gym

    18. Gym Instructor of the Year

    – Ebenezer Imbu (i-Fitness Gym)

    – Uruakpa Goodnews (Charlies Fitness Centre)

    – Jennifer Bassey (i-Fitness Gym)

    – Vextrong (Dance Mattaz)

    – Ovunda Wekwa (i-Fitness Gym)

    – Abigail Bariwere William-Namanee (i-Fitness Gym)

    19. Night Club of the Year

    – Beerbarn (Beer Barn is a popular pub in Port Harcourt, located at 78 Evo Road, GRA)

    – Maseraty 65 Evo Road, Port Harcourt

    – The 411 Lounge 7 King Perekule St, New GRA Port Harcourt

    – Lesuka Plot 337 Peter Odili Road, Port Harcourt

    – Sok Lounge, Nightclub And Restaurant No 99 Woji Road, New GRA, Port Harcourt

    – Casablanca Abacha Road, New GRA, Port Harcourt

    20. All Star Club of the Year

    – Goldashe FC

    – All Stars International FC

    – Crystal Stars

    – Under 45

    – Masgulf

    – Ex Professionals

    21. Hotel of the Year

    – Bayview Hotel 2A Location Road, Off Tombia Extension, GRA Phase II, Port Harcourt

    – Citi Base Hotel 26/28 Location Road, off Tombia Extension, GRA Phase II, Port Harcourt

    – The Edge Hotel 2A Location Road off Tombia Extension, 2 Location Road, Rumueme, Port Harcourt

    – J’s signature 14-16 Location Road, off Tombia Extension, GRA Phase 3, Port Harcourt, Rivers State

    – Heliconia Park Port Harcourt Hotel and Suites (Eastern Bypass, Port Harcourt)

    – Novotel (3 Stadium Road, Rumuomasi)

    22. Social Media Influencer of the Year

    – Miss Hotspot

    – Soft Ajebota

    – Oba of Port Harcourt

    – Certified Courtist

    – Chigeru Omereji

    – John Also:

    Read Also: NFF president visits Ola Aina in London

    23. Local Government Area (LGA) Chairman of the Year

    – Chidi Lloyd (Emohua LGA)

    – Aboiyaa Bob Fubara (Akuku Toru LGA)

    – Chima Njoku (Etche LGA)

    – Gift Worlu (Obio-Akpor LGA)

    – Obarilomate Ollor (Eleme LGA)

    – Confidence Nyima Deko. (Gokana LGA)

    24. Construction Company of the Year

    – Monier Construction Company

    – Lubrik Construction Company

    – Fisancol Transcontinental Services Ltd.

    – Megastar Technical and Construction Company

    – Torrema Limited

    – Reason Engineering and Construction Ltd

    25. Academic Don of the Year

    – Professor Isaac Zeb-Obipi (VC, Rivers State University)

    – Prof. Owunari Abraham Georgewill (VC, Uniport)

    – Dr. Bertha Ekeh – Lecturer, University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State

    – Dr. (Engr.) Amalate Ann Obuebite –Lecturer, Niger Delta University, Bayelsa State

    – Prof. Lucky Legborsi Nwidu (Lecturer, Uniport)

    – Prof. (Mrs.) Stella C. Chiemeke, (KSM, FNCS) Vice Chancellor, Delta University

    26. Shopping Mall of the Year

    – Next Cash And Carry Hypermarket, Port Harcourt

    – Port Harcourt Mall

    – Garden City Mall

    – Hyper City

    – Timeless Superstores

    – Shoprite

    27. Tertiary Institution of the Year

    – Rivers State University (Port Harcourt, Rivers State)

    – University of Port Harcourt (Port Harcourt)

    – University of Benin (Benin City, Edo State)

    – Delta State University (Asaba, Delta State)

    – Niger Delta University (Yenagoa, Bayelsa State)

    – University of Uyo (Uyo, Akwa Ibom State)

    28. Oil Servicing Company of the Year

    – Penchin Global Services Limited

    – Substrata Oil & Gas Limited

    – Ocean-Tides Oil and Gas Servicing Company Limited

    – Pacan Oil & Gas Limited

    – Ofure Global

    – Ashbard Energy Company Limited

    29. Real Estate Company of the Year

    – Hamrex Properties Limited

    – Odibola Properties

    – Velox Real Estate and Investment Limited

    – Landdiaries Properties

    – Igolo Real Estate Offers

    – Entero Homes Limited

    30. Man of the Year

    – Grant Offor (Group Managing Director of RAMEC Group)

    – Finidi George (Technical Manager, Rivers United FC)

    – Harrison Gwamnishu (Humanitarian and Philanthropist)

    – High Chief Kestin Pondi ( MD Tantita security services Nigeria Limited )

    – Chief Samuel Ogbuku (MD, NDDC)

    – Prof.Isaac Zeb Obipi (VC, Rivers State University)

    31. Woman of the Year

    Gloria Diri (First Lady, Bayelsa State)

    Omoni Oboli Oboli (Actress, Scriptwriter, Film Director, Producer and Digital Marketer)

    Yibala Akpama Edimek (Distinguished Medical Consultant, Cross River state)

    Adaeze Chidinma Oreh (Rivers State, Health Commissioner)

    Omosede Igbinedion (Former Lawmaker, Edo State)

    Eunice Thomas (Non-Executive Director to the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPCL).

  • IOC appoints Oshonaike  into  Athletes’ Commission

    IOC appoints Oshonaike  into  Athletes’ Commission

    Seven-time Olympian Olufunke Oshonaike has made history as the first Nigerian appointed to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Athletes’ Commission, following her nomination by IOC President Kirsty Coventry.

    Oshonaike, one of Africa’s most decorated table tennis players, is among five new members appointed to ensure the Commission reaches full composition ahead of the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games.

    In a statement on Thursday, December 4th , the IOC confirmed the appointments of Soraya Aghaei Haji Agha (Iran, badminton), Husein Alireza (Saudi Arabia, rowing), Cheick Sallah Cissé (Côte d’Ivoire, taekwondo), Olufunke Oshonaike (Nigeria, table tennis), and Mariana Pajón (Colombia, cycling). The appointments were made in consultation with IOC AC Chair Emma Terho.

    “The Athletes’ Commission is essential in making sure athletes remain at the heart of everything we do,” Coventry said. “I am deeply grateful to our new members for their commitment and the wealth of experience they bring in service to athletes worldwide.”

    Oshonaike competed in seven consecutive Olympic Games from Atlanta 1996 to Tokyo 2020. She currently serves on both the Nigeria National Olympic Committee Athletes’ Commission and the Nigeria Table Tennis Athletes’ Commission.

    Read Also: NFF, Nigeria Police commit to greater safety and security measures in Abuja

    Her fellow African appointee, Cheick Sallah Cissé of Côte d’Ivoire, is a Rio 2016 Olympic gold medallist in taekwondo and co-chair of the World Taekwondo Athletes’ Commission.

    With these appointments, the IOC Athletes’ Commission now comprises 23 members from all continents, including a representative from the Refugee Olympic Team. The body features 13 women and 10 men, representing 15 summer sports and five winter sports.

    Chair Emma Terho welcomed the new members, noting: “Their diverse backgrounds, achievements, and experience will enrich our discussions and help us continue to advocate for athletes worldwide.”

    Expressing excitement, Oshonaike pledged to represent Nigeria and Africa with pride:

     “I am so excited because during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games campaign, I was impressed by the huge support from my country and athletes across the world. This appointment confirms that my efforts did not go unnoticed. It has been my dream to impact the sport that has given me the rare opportunity to live well in life.”

    The IOC AC plays a central role in the Olympic Movement, ensuring athletes’ voices are heard at the highest level. The Commission is composed of up to 23 members—12 elected directly by athletes during the Games and up to 11 appointed by the IOC President to ensure balanced representation across gender, regions, and sports.

  • Aboubakar  faults Osimhen’s ‘over exposure’  in Turkish Lig

    Aboubakar  faults Osimhen’s ‘over exposure’  in Turkish Lig

    Cameroonian striker Vincent Aboubakar has questioned the level of attention Galatasaray hitman, Victor Osimhen is receiving in Turkey, insisting the Super Eagles forward is being excessively glorified by the media.

    Aboubakar, who was recently omitted from Cameroon’s squad for AFCON 2025, argued that several players in the Turkish Super Lig boast a more complete skill set than the Nigerian star.

     “Osimhen is overhyped here in Turkey,” the former  Indomitable Lions captain said. “Based on the football they play, Tammy Abraham is better because he understands the game more.”

    He stressed that Galatasaray’s efficiency as a team makes it easier for strikers to thrive, suggesting Osimhen’s impressive goal return owes more to the system than his individual brilliance.

    Read Also: NFF  hails Tinubu’s  unflinching support for Nigerian football

     “The team needs to use the player well. If he can’t score, you need to improve the support around him. Since Galatasaray works well, Osimhen scores goals,” Aboubakar noted. “Put Abraham at Galatasaray and he would score a lot. He would play and perform better than Osimhen.”

    The Cameroonian forward also compared the Nigerian with Galatasaray’s Argentine talisman, Mauro Icardi, arguing that the latter offers more all-round quality.

     “Mauro Icardi plays good football. Osimhen just has goals. If you take away the goals, what else can he offer?” he concluded.

  • Ndukwu claims IMO SWAN  Heartland’s best player for November

    Ndukwu claims IMO SWAN  Heartland’s best player for November

    The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Imo State Chapter, has  announced Murphy Ndukwu as the Imo SWAN Heartland Player of the Month for November, following his outstanding performances for the club in the ongoing Nigeria National League (NNL) campaign.

    In a historic moment for both the club and the association, Ndukwu becomes the first Heartland FC player to win the monthly award this season, continuing the positive momentum in the second season of the partnership between Imo SWAN and the Owerri side.

    In a press statement signed by the scribe of Imo SWAN, Tunde Liadi, Ndukwu secured the award through a transparent voting process by Imo SWAN members, earning the highest number of votes for the month ahead of equally impressive Uchenna Odeh and Melody Idase.

    The Naze Millionaires winger delivered a standout performance in Heartland’s season-opening home win against Edel FC, scoring the club’s first goal of the campaign after just 45 seconds—a moment that set the tone for the Owerri side.

    He later provided the assist for the second goal, further underlining his value and influence in the attacking department. Ndukwu also posted commendable performances against Crown FC and Gateway FC.

    Read Also: NSBMB :NFF welcomes scientific body to boost national  teams

    Despite the Owerri side’s frontline showing signs of underperformance in their first three games, Ndukwu has remained the most positive spark, demonstrating quality, consistency, and hunger that gives confidence for improvement as the season progresses.

    Reacting to Ndukwu’s emergence as the winner, the Chairman of Imo SWAN, Cosmos Chukwuemeka, praised the player’s brilliance and commitment:

     “Murphy has been a bright light for the Naze Millionaires so far. His early goal and assist in the opening game lifted the team and gave fans something to cheer about. This award is well-deserved, and we hope it motivates not just him but the entire squad to push harder in the coming fixtures. Our partnership with Heartland FC continues to grow stronger, and recognitions like this are part of our commitment to encouraging excellence.”

    The Imo State Chapter of SWAN congratulates Ndukwu, our Heartland Player of the Month for November, and encourages him to continue leading by example as the Scientific Boys pursues a successful NNL campaign.

    The former Enyimba winger will receive the recognition on Saturday during the club’s home game against Inter Lagos in a Matchday 4 tie.

  • Customs’  Sports Secretary  credits CGC for driving excellence in premier league

    Customs’  Sports Secretary  credits CGC for driving excellence in premier league

    As the 2025 CGC Volleyball Premier League continues to gather momentum, the Nigeria Customs Sports Secretary, Samuel Onikeku, has voiced his delight over the remarkable progress of the service’s men’s and women’s volleyball teams.

    Speaking recently at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, Onikeku applauded the players for their determination, improved coordination, and consistent results.

    He described their upward trajectory as a clear testament to hard work, discipline, and a renewed sense of purpose within the teams.

    Onikeku attributed much of this growth to the unwavering support of the Comptroller General of Customs (CGC)Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, whose investment, he said, continues to elevate the standard of the competition and the organisers of the league.

    “Both our male and female teams have shown tremendous improvement. Their performance keeps getting better, and it’s a sign that our efforts are yielding results,” he said. “CGC has played a major role in providing a platform that motivates teams to push for excellence.”

    He added that sustained success would only inspire CGC and other partners to further strengthen their support.

    Read Also: Abandoned FIFA Project: Monimichelle faults NFF on funding as equipment  rot away in Ugborodo  

    “I believe the more we continue to play well, the more CGC and other partners will be encouraged to do even more. So let’s remain focused and give our best.”

    Acknowledging the physical and mental demands of competing at the highest level, Onikeku praised the players for their resilience and character.

    “The pressure is there, but our players have remained committed. I appreciate everything they are doing. Their performance yesterday was commendable.”

    Reflecting on the team’s journey, Onikeku expressed confidence that their steady rise since April has firmly positioned them as contenders for this year’s championship.

    “Since April, we’ve seen real progress. CGC is growing the game, and we believe we will continue to get better,” he concluded.

  • Kano Pillars, Customs, CNS extend dominance at CGC Volleyball Premier League: 

    Kano Pillars, Customs, CNS extend dominance at CGC Volleyball Premier League: 

    The intensity of the 2025 Comptroller General of Customs Volleyball Premier League final phase heightened midweek as teams across both the men’s and women’s categories delivered pulsating displays at the indoor sports hall of the Moshood Abiola Stadium, Abuja.

    Building on the momentum from Day 1—where CNS Spikers, Nigeria Customs Service, and the Police Force recorded commanding victories—Day 2 produced even more compelling performances, comeback attempts, and tactical master classes as teams continued their push toward the title.

    In the Men’s cadre, CNS Spikers showed once again why they are the reigning champions, sweeping aside Kada Kings 3–0 (25-20, 25-19, 25-13). Their ball distribution, service accuracy, and defensive organization proved too much for Kada, who struggled to keep pace as CNS tightened their hold on the competition.

    Fellow heavyweights Nigeria Customs Service were equally ruthless, battling past a spirited Offa Volleyball Club to secure a straight-sets victory 3–0 (27-25, 25-15, 25-15). Offa pushed hard in the opening set, forcing deuce, but once Customs settled into rhythm, their power hitting and superior blocking carried them comfortably through the remaining sets.

    COAS Spikers, after faltering on Day 1, bounced back strongly with a well-earned 3–1 (25-22, 25-20, 25-21, 25-22) win against NAF Rockets. The soldiers’ side displayed renewed focus and tactical discipline, shrugging off NAF’s attempts at a comeback.

    The shock of the day came when Kano Pillars, buoyed by their Day 1 win over COAS, halted the unbeaten run of the Nigeria Police Force, powering to a 3–0 (25-16, 29-27, 25-21) victory. The second set—arguably one of the most dramatic of the tournament so far—saw Police squander multiple set-point opportunities. Pillars’ resilience and composure proved decisive as they tightened their grip to close out the straight-sets win.

    In other matches, NSCDC recovered from a disappointing Day 1 showing to defeat Sunshine Spikers 3–0 (25-22, 25-20, 25-19), while Nigeria Correctional Service posted their first win of the final phase, beating UCEM 3–1 (25-21, 25-21, 21-25, 26-24) in a closely fought contest.

    The women’s division delivered its fair share of highlights as well, with CNS Spikers Women cruising past Anambra Queens in a commanding 3–0 (25-12, 25-12, 25-16) performance. Their fluid teamwork, fast transitions, and aggressive serves kept Anambra on the back foot throughout.

    COAS Spikers Women continued their brilliant start to the final phase with a clean sweep against Olalomi Spikers (25-13, 25-10, 25-16), maintaining their strong push for a podium finish.

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    The NAF Queens put up one of the most dominant outings of the day, dispatching Wikki Queens 3–0 (25-11, 25-16, 25-11) with a display marked by precision attacking and disciplined blocking.

    Reigning women’s champions Nigeria Customs Service also showed their quality, overwhelming Kada Emeralds 3–0 (25-15, 25-6, 25-16). The second set, in which they conceded only six points, underscored their championship pedigree and sheer superiority.

    The standout match in the women’s category saw Life Camp edge Benue Queens in a dramatic five-set thriller 3–2 (25-27, 19-25, 25-17, 27-25, 17-15). Life Camp staged a remarkable comeback after losing the first two sets, showing incredible mental strength to clinch a nail-biting decider. The match stood out as one of the most entertaining of the entire tournament so far.

    Day 2 affirmed the dominance of tournament favourites CNS Spikers and Nigeria Customs, while Kano Pillars’ victory over the Police added new intrigue to the title race. With several teams now finding form and others desperate to recover from early setbacks, the stage is set for even more intense battles as the 2025 CGC Volleyball Premier League final phase continues in Abuja.

  • AbdulRazaq commended on support for  PwDs

    AbdulRazaq commended on support for  PwDs

    Kwara State Sports Commission says the state is blessed with best para-athletes making waves in the global sports arena.

    The commission therefore commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his financial and moral support to sports in the state.

    The commission restated its support for the growth of para-sports in the state to ensure that Persons with Disabilities(PwDs)  are motivated to contribute to the growth and development of the society.

    Executive Chairman of the commission Bolakale Adisa Mogaji said this in Ilorin, the state capital at the 2025 International Day of Persons Living with Disabilities organized by the State Ministry of Social Development.

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    The event, themed “Fostering inclusive societies for advancing social progress”, featured empowerment, sports and trade fair.

    At the commemoration of the day, Team Kwara defeated Team Ekiti 3-0 during handball match.

    The occasion also featured an exhibition of products, which the people living with disabilities produced.

    At the event, the state government presented wheelchairs, crutches, walking sticks and cash donations to the beneficiaries.