The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Levi Ogbonna returns to Nollywood

    Levi Ogbonna returns to Nollywood

    Veteran actor Levi Ogbonna has returned to Nollywood after some years outside the shores of Nigeria.

    Ogbonna, who got into the industry through a friend called Obinna Egelonu, featured in many prominent flicks that included ‘Last Idiot’ which featured late Mr. Ibu, Kingsley Ogbonna, Tony Muonagor among others.

    Ogbonna did very well until higher education came calling. He travelled to the UK to further his education and stayed for a while before he returned.

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    On his return, he said: “Returning to Nollywood has made me understand more about people’s everyday lives and cultures in distant lands. The experiences with different people from all walks of life has helped me to understand that actors have periods of employment between roles and often hold other jobs  in order to make a living. Some actors teach acting classes as a second job. Acting is not as easy as some people think. It takes a whole lot of commitment and dedication. I would advise that if one is going  into acting, do it with utmost dedication not forgetting to take care of the art  for future generations. I am bringing a whole lot of experience to Nollywood today. I have already started work. You will see the difference in my works.”

  • 10th AMVCAs: Wura, Real Housewives of Lagos get nominations again

    10th AMVCAs: Wura, Real Housewives of Lagos get nominations again

    As the anticipation for the 10th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards, AMVCAs, keeps building amongst film, TV practitioners and content creators across Africa, two of Showmax Nigeria’s titles, ‘Wura’ and ‘Real Housewives of Lagos,’ have gotten the industry nod again.

    With the AMVCAs scheduled to hold in Lagos, Nigeria between May 10 and May 11, ‘Wura’ and ‘Real Housewives of Lagos’ are looking at making a statement at the African prestigious film, TV and web awards ceremony.

    After Scarlet Gomez lost the 2023 Best Actress in a Drama/TV Series award for her phenomenal performance in Showmax Nigeria’s first Original telenovela, ‘Wura,’ the series is back for competition.

    And to this end, the second season of ‘Wura’ has received two nominations in two categories namely Best Writing TV Series and Best Scripted Series.

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    In the same vein, the Nigerian adaptation of The Real Housewives franchise, ‘The Real Housewives of Lagos,’ has returned to vie for another category at the AMVCAs after winning the award for Best Costume Designer for The Reunion episode in 2023.

    For the 10th edition of the AMVCAs, the second season of ‘The Real Housewives of Lagos,’ is slugging it out with series like Lol Naija (Season 1), Nightlife In Lasgidi, Gh Queens (Season 2), and Mutale Mwanza Unscripted (Season 1) for the Best Unscripted Series category.

    The emergence of these two titles from Showmax Nigeria isn’t unconnected to fan love which they have both received from different parts of Africa. For two straight seasons, both original titles have made their mark.

    While Wura’s great storytelling and actors’ superb role interpretation endeared the series to several fans, ‘The Real Housewives of Lagos’ was a hit from the first episode to the reunion in both season one and two.

    When Rogers Ofime, the executive producer on season two said, “Season 2 of Wura has been a labour of love for the entire team. We’ve poured our hearts and souls into creating a telenovela that will keep audiences at the edge of their seats, just as they were in Season 1,” not many knew what he was hinting at until the series garnered not only a massive fan base but equally went on to nab two nominations at the 2024 AMVCAs.

    For ‘Wura,’ the second season of the critically acclaimed series builds on the success of the first season, taking fans and viewers deeper into the world of Iperindo as well as the life of Wura-Amoo Adeleke, a woman of unwavering resolve and boundless ambition. For season two, which has earned the series two nominations at the AMVCAs, the series’ protagonist continues her journey as she navigates the treacherous waters of family politics, corporate intrigue, and personal sacrifice. With twists and turns, intrigues and emotions, and layers of storytelling, it’s no surprise that the series is up for an award for the second year running.

    While the art of storytelling by Musa Jeffery David, Olumide Kuti, Isaac Ayodeji, Esther Kokori, Lois Truly, and Uchenna Ugwu distinguishes ‘Wura’ from many other series, the production quality has kept fans and viewers on the edge of their seats.

    At the relaunch of Showmax early in 2024, Showmax Nigeria General Manager, Opeoluwa Filani, stressed that the new Showmax will usher in a new era for entertainment and champion the streaming platform’s commitment to local content.

    “Our steadfast dedication lies in amplifying indigenous content creation, championing narratives that authentically represent Africa’s rich cultural heritage.”

    The feat of the original titles on Showmax Nigeria at the 2024 AMVCAs is not new as the 2023 edition had Showmax Originals including The Real Housewives of Lagos, Crime and Justice Lagos, Diiche, Flawsome, and Wura getting a total of 22 nominations. Crime and Justice won Best Picture Editor (Movie and TV Series) and Best TV Series while The Real Housewives of Nigeria won the award for Best Costume Designer for The Reunion episode. Other titles on the streaming platform like Ridordi, Njoro Wa Uba, and Mpali also won.

    For the 2024 edition of the AMVCA, other Showmax titles that got nominations include 

    GH Queens for Best Unscripted Series, Slum King for Best Writing TV Series, Best Scripted M-Net Original, Itura for Best Scripted M-Net Original, The Irabors’ Forever Ever for Best Unscripted M-Net Original, Mutale Mwanza Unscripted Season 1 for Best Unscripted Series, What Will People Say for Best Unscripted M-Net Original and Masquerades of Aniedo for Best Writing TV Series.

    Despite the obvious fact that winners in many of the 10th AMVCAs categories that feature Showmax Originals and other titles will be determined by a specially selected jury headed by Femi Odugbemi, viewers, fans and crew behind the scenes are hopeful of wins in many of the categories because of the quality of the stories and production.

  • LINDA JOHN: Infidelity is a deal breaker for me

    LINDA JOHN: Infidelity is a deal breaker for me

    Linda John has averred that infidelity is a deal breaker for her in a relationship and she won’t retaliate when cheated on.

    She said: “Infidelity in a relationship is a deal breaker for me but that is not to say I will retaliate by cheating back. Cheating back means I am only causing more harm to myself mentally and emotionally. If I cannot forgive the person, then the relationship is over.”

    On what makes her cry, the gorgeous role interpreter said  being betrayed by someone she trusts makes her cry.

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    “What brings tears to my eyes easily is being betrayed by someone I trust with my all, may be a friend or family. Such pain hurts more than anything else”.

    Going down memory lane, John said her most challenging role was when she played the role of an agent of the marine kingdom.

    “My most challenging role is playing the role of a marine agent, it was crazy because there were lots of spiritual manifestations on that movie set. I kept praying and anointing myself before I shot any scene. I made it my first and last because such spiritual roles tend to have a negative impact on the actor.”

  • Kogbagidi loves for street talents

    Kogbagidi loves for street talents

    In a bid to uplift street talents, talent manager Olasunkanmi Quadri Taoreed aka Kogbagidi has initiated a remarkable mission through the Kogbagidi Recording Academy.

    This endeavour seeks to empower aspiring artists from underprivileged backgrounds, offering them invaluable support and guidance to flourish in the music industry.

    “I’ve been in the industry for decades, and I’ve always supported talented artists by giving them money to record their songs. But then I decided to create the Kogbagidi Recording Academy. It’s going to be easier for them, and they can learn more about music because most young and talented artists out there don’t know much about music. The Academy is to pave the way and support their vision and help them go global,” said Kogbagidi.

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    Emphasising his deep connection to the streets, Kogbagidi elaborated on his personal approach in reaching out to budding talents. “I do tell people that I am a street boy, and most guys making waves now are also from the streets. I message those young boys myself and sometimes pay for their transport to come to my studio. I’ve signed two of them, but I’ve not announced it because I want organic love for them. I don’t want them to be loved because of me,” he expressed.

    Reflecting on the hardships faced by emerging artists, Kogbagidi shed light on the harsh realities many endure. “There are a lot of challenges, especially because of our current economic situation right now. Some of them don’t even have a phone. Some of them don’t even have accommodation. They can’t think very well if there’s no accommodation,” he explained.

    Through the Kogbagidi Recording Academy, he aims to empower these individuals, providing them with the tools and resources necessary to pursue their dreams and make a lasting impact in the music industry.

  • Moses Fayinka gives back

    Moses Fayinka gives back

    Hon. Moses Fayinka, member of the House of Assembly representing Mushin Constituency II, recently gave back to his immediate community.

    The highly loved lawmaker has sponsored an ICT technical hub for some months with several youths from his constituency graduating after gaining knowledge and experience in ICT.

    Some of the students of the ICT hub recently graduated and a ceremony was organised by the management to send them into the real world to impact corporate organisations.

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    Present on the occasion were Chief Kolade Roberts, the Chief Executive Officer of Apoi Investment Nigeria Limited, and Mrs Fayinka.

    Graduands and aspiring youths in the constituency have heaped praises on Moses for his dedication to the youths and other constituents he is representing at the Lagos State House of Assembly.

  • Charity Ilevbare-Adeniji breaks the ceiling

    Charity Ilevbare-Adeniji breaks the ceiling

    Amid the challenging business space in Africa, brand and marketing expert, Charity Ilevbare-Adeniji has proven to be a beacon ofinn ovation and success, pioneering transformative strategies that drive profitability and sustainability across industries.

    Recently, Ilevbare-Adeniji noted that with over a decade of experience, she has established herself as a seasoned expert, reshaping conventional approaches to marketing and brand management.

    She told those who cared to listen that her career is characterised by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a deep-rooted commitment to ethical and sustainable practices. The expert highlighted her profound understanding of consumer behaviour, market dynamics, and digital trends adding that strategic vision has enabled businesses to thrive in competitive landscapes, leveraging innovative marketing strategies to achieve organisational objectives.

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    Ilevbare-Adeniji mentioned that her contribution to the industry is evident in her leadership roles at some reputable top organisations.

    She added that as a Category Lead in Marketing, she has orchestrated the development of highly effective commercial strategies, implemented robust market activation plans, and elevated brand performance through targeted marketing campaigns.

  • Kayode Adamolekun makes list of inspirational men of 2023

    Kayode Adamolekun makes list of inspirational men of 2023

    Top mining engineer and real estate investor, Engr. Kayode Adamolekun, has made the list of top 100 Inspirational Men as curated by the Kijani Media.

    One hundred personalities were listed and Adamolekun emerged as one of the prominent figures on the list.

    The farmer, businessman, and recycler’s name shone like a bright star in the list which featured other 99 successful dignitaries worthy of emulation.

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    Adamolekun is the Founder and Chairman of the Hardams Group of Companies, a group that houses all the business activities of the Chairman.

    The Ekiti-born inspirational man of 2023 is a philanthropist who has supported various charities and projects across the Southwestern region of Nigeria. He is a firm believer in human capital development and as such has a legion of followers and protégés understudying his works and personality.

  • Marjorie Fiedler steps out for European parliament

    Marjorie Fiedler steps out for European parliament

    Driven by a desire for positive impact, Martine Marjorie  Fiedler, who has been assisting Nigerian and other African migrants in Europe has decided to run for the European Parliament elections taking place June 9th in France.

    Fiedler, who has spent considerable time in Nigeria and courted some the entertainment industry’s biggest artistes like Davido, Dakore Egbuson and others, said that her transition from entertainment to humanitarian efforts is politics-driven

    According to her she has been inspired by experiences in Nigeria and Europe to address societal issues on a larger scale.

    “Through my work in migration and humanitarian issues within Europe, I have gained firsthand insight into the challenges faced by vulnerable populations.

    “This experience fuels my unwavering dedication to bringing about positive legislative change that uplifts and includes those in need. My vision is rooted in sincerity and a deep desire to make a meaningful impact, ensuring that all members of society feel valued and interconnected,” she said.

    According to the candidate, her encounter with undocumented Africans in Paris shaped her commitment to diversity and humanitarian causes. This was further fueled by witnessing struggles and aspirations of migrants, highlighting importance of empathy.

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    “With my background in the entertainment and media industry, I am driven by a deep desire to catalyse a positive change in our society. As a candidate with Volt France in the European elections, I am committed to promote more collaborative international relations and support the development of Africa. My objective is to promote an equitable partnership between Europe and Africa, by focusing on sustainable development, human rights and social inclusion.

    “I will plead for increased diplomatic engagement with African countries, promoting open dialogue and mutually beneficial cooperation, fair and equitable economic partnerships, encouraging responsible investments and fair trade aand the strengthening of the economic capacities of African nations and increasing development aid to promote development sustainable,” Fiedler added.

    She also states that she would collaborate with international organisations to empower local communities and promote socio-economic development, the joint fight against climate change and the promotion of practices sustainable, recognizing the shared responsibility of Europe and Africa.

    Before venturing into politics, Fiedler worked as a court interpreter, Entertainment Executive, Artiste manager, and Creative director. She is aso the founder of Future Et AL which focuses on working with undocumented Africans, and highlighting the need for a human rights-centric approach to international relations

  • Dreamland Dakar: River Hoopers eye Basketball Africa League  glory

    Dreamland Dakar: River Hoopers eye Basketball Africa League  glory

    With an array of newly recruited international stars, Rivers Hoopers look to write history by being the first Nigerian side to reach the playoffs of the Basketball Africa League, OLUWAMAYOMIKUN OREKOYA reports.

    As Rivers Hoopers begin their quest for a playoffs spot of the 2024 Basketball Africa League (BAL) in Kigali, Rwanda, their international stars are confident the team would achieve their set objectives

    Five-time Nigerian Basketball League Champions, Rivers Hoopers, have been drawn in a tough Sahara Conference of the BAL, which features former BAL Champions US Monastir (Tunisia), BAL 2023 runners-up AS Douanes (Senegal), and Rwandan Champions APR.

    Hoopers will star in a tough Sahara Conference phase in Dakar, Senegal, tipping off tomorrow with a crunch tie against 2023 runners-up and host AS Douanes before facing Rwandan champions APR and former champions US Monastir.

    Rivers Hoopers forward Devine Eke has revealed that he has his sights set on putting Nigerian basketball back on the map by helping the team do well at the 2024 Basketball Africa League (BAL).

    However, Eke, who was one of the final additions to the Hoopers’ squad in preparation for the BAL 2024, thinks the KingsMen have what it takes to make progress at the tournament, as the team remains united in their desire for victory.

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    “I honestly think, looking at the little that I’ve seen in the past few days, we can go pretty far because everyone here has the same goal. We’re all trying to win; nobody is selfish here, and we’re all together. So, I feel we can go really far. I understand that this is a tough conference that we’re going into, and I’m very excited to see how we play,” he said.

    The 27-year-old, who made his national team debut with the Nigeria senior men’s basketball team, the D’Tigers, at the 2025 Afrobasket qualifiers in Tunisia in February, where he averaged 22 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 5 assists in 3 games, also reiterated his desire to win at the BAL and, in the process, put Nigerian basketball back on the map.

    “I want to win. I want to win the championship. I want to go to Rwanda, and I want to do big things. Like I said before, putting Nigerian basketball back where it’s supposed to be is the big thing I want to do,” he stated.

    The former Zunder Palencia (Spain) forward, who also played for Acadêmica Efapel (Portugal), Zeeuw & Zeeuw Feyenoord (The Netherlands), and OKK Sloboda Tuzla (Bosnia), is excited to play in his first BAL tournament and believes that Rivers Hoopers will have a good outing at BAL season 4 if the team continues to do the right things.

    “This is just another step in the right direction to put Nigerian basketball back where it’s supposed to be. At the end of the day, we’re all trying to win; we’re all here for one goal, and if we continue to practice the right way, I think everything will be good,” he submitted.

    Meanwhile,  French-American centre, John Walter Wilkins admitted that the level of competition in Dakar has improved yet  the 34-year-old has backed his team to surprise naysayers in the tournament.

    Wilkins, son of former NBA player Jeff Wilkins, is no stranger to African basketball, having played for Moroccan sides AS Sale (2015-2016) and Ittihad Tangier (2017-2019), before leading Stade Malien to a third-place finish at BAL 2023.

     “It’s a really high level, a great competition; [it’s] one of the best I have played in since I have been in Africa. But we don’t need to be scared. We need to just attack the moment, be there, be present, and I think if we are confident in our abilities, we can surprise people,” he said.

    Nigerian teams have appeared twice at the BAL since its maiden edition in 2021, with Rivers Hoopers playing in the inaugural edition and Kwara Falcons featuring at BAL 2023. However both teams have failed to reach the playoff on both occasions.

    Yet, Wilkins believes this time around,  the quality of players recruited ahead of the tournament will make the team more competitive in Dakar.

     “I’m really optimistic. I know that those past years the teams from Nigeria didn’t do well, but I think with me, Kelvin [Amayo], Will [Perry], and the other guys, I think we can show the way, have some wins, and be more competitive,” he said.

    For Hoopers point guard, Will Perry, helping the King’s men become the first Nigerian side to reach the BAL Playoffs in Kigali, Rwanda is his main target for coming to Nigeria.

    The North Carolina native is a veteran in BAL, having stints with Mozambican team Ferroviário da Beira Rwanda Patriots and Titans. However it was at Titans, also in Rwanda, he became the joint record holder for most points scored (41) in a single game at the tournament.

     “We will try to take the Rivers Hoopers to the playoffs in Rwanda, and then anything can happen from there, but that is the first goal, because obviously Nigeria hasn’t had that kind of success [in the BAL], so I see it as a challenge [for us] to change the culture of Nigeria Basketball in the BAL.”

    The 29-year-old added that the winning mentality and leadership qualities he brings with him would help the team improve.

     “It’s true I have the (joint record for most points in a BAL game, but I like to play a pure point guard style, get the guys involved, and make everybody better. I think I am a winning player. I am here to help the team win, so I am bringing leadership, and a winning attitude,” he said.

  • Super Eagles : Patrons, mates unite behind Finidi George

    Super Eagles : Patrons, mates unite behind Finidi George

    Despite  the ovation that  greeted the appointment of former Nigeria International  Finidi George  as the Head Coach of the Super Eagles , football stakeholders have yet counselled  the former Ajax Amsterdam winger on what to do   to excel in charge of the men’s  senior  national team,  writes TUNDE LIADI

    As  countdown towards next month’s 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers against South Africa and Benin Republic get underway, football stakeholders continue  to chart the way forward for the newly employed Super Eagles  Head coach Finidi George

    The Super Eagles are third place in Group C with just two points from two games following drawn games at home to Lesotho and Zimbabwe behind Rwanda (four points) and South Africa (three points). The Eagles must secure maximum points in both games in George’s first acid test as coach.

    Former Super Eagles winger, Dimeji Lawal, has counselled Finidi to hit the ground running in the upcoming FIFA World Cup Qualifiers to stamp his imprint in charge of the team.

    Lawal who was in the Golden Eaglets squad to the Canada 1987 FIFA U-17 World Cup and the FIFA U20 World Cup two years later in Saudi Arabia, said he was delighted that  Finidi  was named as the substantive head coach of the Super Eagles.

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    He  enjoined  Finidi to run an open door policy in which all shades of opinions  welcomed from the other members of  the  technical team  for the good of the team.

    The current General Manager of Shooting Stars Sports Club listed the antecedents of Finidi, adding that his choice as head coach was good  and the answer to the call that Nigeria has quality coaches that can steer the ship of senior national team with adequate support as well as the right working environment.

    He said any other coach could have been picked but Finidi also deserves the appointment from his track records and the fact that he was next in command when former Super Eagles handler, Jose Peseiro was at the helms.

     “Best of luck Finito,” the former Real Madrid Castilla player said, adding  other Nigerians are solidly behind the new  coach who paid his dues as a national team  player.“ He conquered as a reputable baller. He won the NPFL in his first stint as a gaffer, and worked with Peseiro as they took us to AFCON finals.

     “He served this country diligently during his playing days. He was a strong member of our first World Cup appearance, was privileged to win UEFA champions league with Ajax, and played in some of the best leagues in the world. Here is Finidi George, the new Super Eagles Manager.

     “We are all solidly behind you. Though it could have been any other choice, the truth is you all deserve it. I personally pray for God’s guidance and protection as you embark on this journey,” he noted.

    Finidi,  a member of the technical crew when the Super Eagles finished as runners-up at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Cote d’Ivoire, already has his work cut out  with the  immediate task  to qualify the Super Eagles for the 2025 AFCON and the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

    Meanwhile, former Nigeria international Mutiu Adepoju has urged  Nigerians to rally round Finidi  so that  he can succeed.

    The ex-Real Madrid Castilla midfielder  said all hands must be on deck for Finidi  to ensure  that  Nigeria  get good results against South Africa and Benin Republic in next month’s 2026 FIFA World Cup  qualifying matches.

     “Congratulations to my brother, Finidi George for getting the final nod as Super Eagles head coach. Let’s join hands and wish him the best of success,” Adepoju noted  in  a tweet on his  X account.

    Similarly, another  Nigeria international  striker , Daniel Amokachi  who is being touted as a possible assistant to Finidi,   believes that his ex-teammate has the  knowledge and charisma will help him to succeed on his new job.

    Adepoju, Amokachi and George were members of the historic Super Eagles team that played in the country’s maiden World Cup appearance in 1994 and they were also together at the 1998 World Cup.

    However, another  former  Super Eagles player and a member of  the Nigeria Football Federation(NFF)  Technical & Development Committee,   Victor Ikpeba,  has shed light on the  decision-making process behind appointment of George as the new Super Eagles coach.

    The Super Eagles’ managerial position became vacant following the departure of Jose Peseiro, whose contract with the NFF ended in February.

    The NFF advertised the vacant position and invited interested coaches to apply. While several managers, both expatriates and locals, were linked with the job, it was George who ultimately secured the role.

    George is familiar with the role, having served as one of Peseiro’s assistants during the Super Eagles’ second-place finish in the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations.

    He was also assigned the responsibility of leading the Super Eagles in March’s international friendlies with Ghana and Mali.

    The 53-year-old supervised the Super Eagles’ victory against the Black Stars of Ghana and their defeat to the Eagles of Mali.

    “Firstly, I want to congratulate Finidi George on his appointment as the Super Eagles coach,” Ikpeba began on the popular Monday Night Football on Super Sports. “However, it was a difficult task because we initially wanted a foreign manager. However, we settled for Finidi because of the finance. It’s not like we don’t have confidence in our own coaches back home. We thought there should be continuity in the way Peseiro took the team to the final of the 2023 AFCON.

     “So, eventually, we were guided by the NFF President to look inward. It’s not that we can’t afford a foreign manager, but Nigerians back home want a Nigerian coach, and that is what we have now.”

    Speaking in the same vein, former Nigeria international  defender Tajudeen Disu has admonished Finidi to be in full charge of the team and not allow himself to become a puppet to the NFF.

     “I wish him all the best; he should be himself and take control of the team. He should not be a stooge to NFF officials, otherwise he will have himself to blame. He has to be in control of the team and work with assistant coaches,” he said.  “I hope the NFF bigwigs will allow him; if they don’t let him work, he should not hesitate to say it out, regardless of what will happen.”

    Finidi George’s immediate challenge  would be leading  the Super Eagles to success in two crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against South Africa and Benin Republic.

    These matches will take place in Uyo and Abidjan, respectively, in just over five weeks. The Super Eagles find themselves in a must-win situation, currently trailing in third place in Group C of the African campaign, behind both Rwanda and South Africa.

    The Super Eagles will host South Africa on June 3 and play as guests of Benin a week later.

    The appointment of Finidi George as the head coach of Enyimba F.C. in September 2021 marked a significant milestone in his coaching career.

    Transitioning from his illustrious playing days to the demanding role of a coach, George embarked on a journey filled with challenges and opportunities.

    But he  has  achieved his first triumph as a coach, winning the Nigeria Premier League title for Enyimba on June 11, 2023 in a thrilling match at the iconic Mobolaji Johnson Arena Stadium in Lagos.

    Whether he would land such hurray with the Super  Eagles yet remains to be seen