The Nation Newspaper

Category: Sports

  • 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.

  • SUPER EAGLES:  54-man AFCON  provisional list sparks questions than stir confidence

    SUPER EAGLES:  54-man AFCON  provisional list sparks questions than stir confidence

    In a period when Nigerian football is undergoing scrutiny, transition and the weight of unfulfilled expectations, the recently released Super Eagles’ 54-man provisional squad for AFCON 2025 has ignited nationwide debate. More than a routine announcement, it has become a mirror reflecting the state of the country’s football culture — its hopes, flaws and endless passion,  writes TUNDE LIADI.

    When Eric Chelle unveiled a 54-man provisional squad for Super Eagles for the  Africa Cup of Nations, Morocco  2025, few were surprised.

    What stunned everyone was the composition — a mixture of long-absent veterans, fringe players, youth gambles and hopefuls racing against time. With the final squad submission a few days away, the list has already done more to stir debate than to build expectation. What was intended perhaps as a safety-first approach now risks being seen as a scattergun, one that may dilute cohesion more than enhance competition.

    Perhaps the most eyebrow-raising recall is that of Francis Uzoho. Once a promising number-one goalkeeper for Nigeria, he has been absent from the setup since early 2024 after a string of poor club performances and high-profile errors. He’s been supplanted — at least in public perception — by younger, more reliable options like Stanley Nwabali, Maduka Okoye, Adebayo Adeleye and Amas Obasogie.

    Yet Chelle’s inclusion of Uzoho points to a lingering faith in experience — or perhaps a hedging strategy keeping all veteran doors open.

    At the same time, Chelle has sprinkled the roster with youthful gambles that raise eyebrows. Among them:

    Emmanuel Michael, a 19-year-old left-back whose senior experience amounts to just a handful of appearances at his Austrian club, Linz SK. There had been no public buzz about him being close to a senior call-up; his selection suggests Chelle might be casting a net far wider than many anticipated.

    Taiwo Awoniyi, whose inclusion is surprising not due to ability — but fitness. The former Liverpool forward hasn’t played for his club since early November due to a muscle injury and remains without a goal in the EPL this season.

    Tom Dele-Bashiru — once a bright teenager at the U20 World Cup — now plying his trade in Turkey, with a modest season behind him. His recall underscores that Chelle might be looking beyond the usual names in midfield.

    Read Also: Buhari names Adesina, Djeba, Seriki, 39 others as ambassadors-nominees

    These inclusions provoke legitimate questions: Is the coach prioritizing a diversity of options at the expense of clarity? Or is he simply spreading too wide a net in hopes of unearthing breakthrough talent?

    Not everyone is convinced by the logic.

    A contributor who preferred to remain anonymous did not mince words:  “I don’t know what is wrong with the NFF or is it Eric Chelle I am going to blame for this gaffe. Why didn’t they release the list on time? … releasing the list on time would whet the fans appetite … by now we would be preparing the home-based to see a few of them that can break into the team.”

    The sense of disapproval resonates — the delayed, last-minute release has deprived local fans of early excitement and denied home-based players a proper window of expectation.

    At the same time, there is optimism. 22-year-old hopeful Saliu Fago Lawal described the call-up as “a dream come true … a big privilege,” promising he will fight for a place in the final list. Veteran backup keeper Amas Obasogie echoed the sentiment: “I am very happy and excited … I do not take the opportunity for granted … I will make my fans proud.”

    From the supporters’ side, voices are mixed. 

    Former Super Eagles defender  Sam Sodje cautioned against treating AFCON as a distraction: “The AFCON is a distraction to us because it has made us forget about our inability to qualify for the World Cup. We need to fix our house.”

    He further argued the coach must resist external interference in selection — a sentiment echoed by former defender Ifeanyi Udeze, who stressed that Chelle’s technical crew must be allowed to pick the final 28 men:

     “The NFF should allow Chelle and his technical crew to do their job so as to know whom to hold responsible if the team fails or does well in Morocco.”

    Similarly,  veteran coach Duke Udi questioned the logic of inviting 54 players just weeks before the tournament — calling the move “a shameful script” and arguing that a smaller, more coherent squad makes more sense

    In the same vein, respected journalist Austin Okon Akpan asked pointedly:  “What are we doing with a preliminary list? With everything our football has been through … are we joking? Are we treating national team football like Principal Cup?”

    He lamented the absence of clear planning from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) — recalling that despite good performances at the previous AFCON, the team failed to qualify for the World Cup just over a year later.

    On a more hopeful note, former midfielder Nosa Igiebor urged the squad to harness collective spirit and ambition:

     “I expect them to bring back that trophy. We won it in 2013 and lost in the final of the last edition … I hope by the grace of God they can do it this term.”

    And the NFF General Secretary,  Mohammed Sanusi reminded the Technical Department of its duty: ensure the best players make the final cut — and do so on time to avoid fines and logistical complications.

    Meanwhile, pundit and former player Olufemi Ebenezer Ajilore emphasized the scale of the task ahead: “The pressure and expectations ahead of the forthcoming Africa Cup of Nations is at its feverish peak like it has never been witnessed before. … The players must come all out … arrive camp early and ensure proper preparation is in place … with the hope of giving their best in Morocco.”

    Putting together a provisional list of 54 players is not inherently problematic. National teams often call broad squads to give coaches flexibility in case of injuries, loss of form, or last-minute withdrawals. But in the case of Nigeria, the timing, leaks, and the nearly arbitrary inclusion of injured or inactive players raise concerns — not least that this may be more about politics, appeasement, or optics than about building a competitive squad.

    The recall of long-absent veterans like Uzoho — despite recent poor form — signals either hope for experienced continuity, or a fall-back in the absence of better alternatives.

    The inclusion of young, untested players might pay dividends in the future — especially if older members struggle — but it also means counting on maturity under pressure.

    Leaving injured players on the list, or those unlikely to be ready by tournament time, suggests a lack of medical certainty or perhaps procedural hurriedness.

    And with a final cut down to 28 looming, there’s a risk the final list will lack cohesion: players may not have time to gel, or some may arrive to camp underprepared.

    More broadly, the episode underscores a recurring problem in Nigerian football: planning often takes a back seat to reaction. As the anonymous contributors lamented, “fire-brigade approach” — delayed releases, last-minute decisions, heavy-handed selections — seems to have become the norm.

    But there is still time — for scrutiny, for pushback, and for clarity. If Chelle and the NFF use these remaining days wisely, they could transform what many fear is chaos into a measured final squad.

    The 54-man provisional squad for AFCON 2025 certainly casts a wide net — but so far, it has trapped more doubt than optimism. Whether this ends up as a smart, brave selection or a confused, ill-prepared gamble will depend on what happens between now and the final cut. For now, Nigerian fans have more questions than cheers — and they deserve answers.

  • Saddam, System trade punches ahead of GOtv Boxing Night 34

    Saddam, System trade punches ahead of GOtv Boxing Night 34

    As anticipation builds for GOtv Boxing Night 34, rising lightweight star Saddam “Baby Boxer” Oladipupo has issued a fiery warning to opponent Imole “System” Oloyede, declaring that he will not last beyond the second round of their national title bout on 26 December at Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos.

    Speaking ahead of the blockbuster Christmas-season event, Saddam said he is coming in “sharper and meaner,” promising fans “a brutal lesson in disciplined boxing.”

    But Oloyede, never one to shy away from a verbal exchange, fired back with a colourful comparison.

     “I remember how Saddam Hussein was hiding when the US dealt with him. My opponent will be hiding in dark corners of Tafawa Balewa Square, like his namesake did, when I finish with him,” he retorted, boasting that he is a far superior boxer to anyone Saddam has ever faced.

    Their showdown is tipped to be one of the standout bouts on a richly packed card that blends boxing, music and comedy into a festive spectacle. And the supporting fights are just as enticing.

    Top among them is the national super bantamweight title bout between the skilful and flamboyant Sodiq “Happy Boy” Adeleke and the compact, rugged, hard-hitting champion, Durotimi “Tiny” Agboola. With a national belt at stake, the clash promises pure fireworks.

    Fans will also witness an international lightweight encounter pitting Nigeria’s Rasheed “ID Buster” Idowu against Ghana’s Nii Offei Dodoo, adding a spicy West African rivalry to the night.

    Another crowd-puller is the national lightweight challenge between Segun “Odi” Gbobaniyi and the slippery, unpredictable Tobiloba “Smiling Assassin” Ijomoni, a bout analysts predict will be a tactical chess match with no shortage of danger.

    Read Also: Buhari names Adesina, Djeba, Seriki, 39 others as ambassadors-nominees

    The national light welterweight division also delivers a thriller, as Sodiq “Smart Lion” Suleimon squares up against Emmanuel “Ability” Abimbola over eight explosive rounds. Both fighters favour high-pressure, all-action styles, making this a strong contender for the night’s most relentless contest.

    Rounding off the undercard is the national bantamweight challenge featuring Ezekiel “Touch” Seun against the iron-lunged Toheeb “Full Tank” Hassan, a matchup almost guaranteed to deliver eight rounds of blistering exchanges.

    GOtv Boxing Night 34, organised by Flykite Productions, is supported by MultiChoice, Zetaweb, Lagos State Sports Commission and TheCable.

  • Abuja Carnival Polo Tournament:  Battle royale as STL, Malcomines, others target  President Cup 

    Abuja Carnival Polo Tournament:  Battle royale as STL, Malcomines, others target  President Cup 

    As the on-going 2025 Abuja Carnival polo tournament moves into higher gears, former champions, Abuja Rubicon  and Jos Malcomines, alongside two ambitious sides, STL polo team and Mangal Cement team have been confirmed as the  top contenders for the event’s biggest Prize, the President Cup.

    The  top prize has traditionally provided the electricity that drives the event since its inception and the 2025 challenge looks particularly dicey and may be  heading  to a photo finish as both STL that missed the title by the whisker last year, and debutante Mangal Cement, have everything at their disposals to rock the boats of their more illustrious rivals.

    The Tournament Manager Ahmed Aminu  and Polo Captain Abba Kangiwa are excited about the way the tournament has attracted a record number of teams since inauguration and they have both promised corporate  sponsors, individual partners and the teeming polo  enthusiasts across the world, an unforgettable and a memorable experience at this year’s event.

    Both Jos Malcomines and the Abuja-based Rubicon have the experience and the needed exposure to rule the international fiesta this year as past proud winners of the glittering President Cup .But it would take more than wishes and prayers for the title to follow them homes as the newcomers have already stake a huge claim to the title.

    Patron of STL Polo team, Seyi Tinubu (left), trails the ball during the finals of the 2024 Abuja Carnival polo tournament.

    Pundits who spoke ahead of what is expected to be one of the most contested President Cup in years, believe while the former champions hold slide advantages due to their known pedigree in Carnival polo warfare, they  warned that both Abuja based Rubicon and the Jos based miners would pay dearly should they underrate the resolves of STL and Mangal Cement.

    The prestigious event that galloped off  with fanfare on Monday, December 1st  at the serene Guards Polo Resort in Abuja, has already attracted thousands of polo buffs and tourists to the Center of Unity and more are expected as the grand event enters its grand finale stage between  December 9 and 14.

    The opening week featured over thirty teams jostling for low-goal cup,  Legislative Shield and Guards Challenge Cup, will  climax this weekend where proud winners will emerge in two major cups  categories, while subsidiary winners and individuals would also be awarded for their contributions to the successes of  the tournament over the years.

    President of Gourds Polo Resort, Senator Dauda Halliru Jika who thanked the sponsors of the-annual event for their immense support, declared that the tournament is expected to draw more  families, professionals, and polo enthusiasts in order  to  maintain  its reputation as a major cultural and sporting event in the capital City.

     “The Carnival Polo Tournament blends tradition with modernity, offering an environment where excellence and creativity thrive. It’s also a platform for our partners to share in this vision,” Senator Jika pointed out.

    Major sponsors of the event include Jaiz Bank, Mangal Cement, Moniepoint, FSDH, Niger Foods, Kabba Doors, Vento Furniture, Nexim, KSH Foundation, STL, Pop Cola, Noella Foundation, Afdin Petroleum, Abab Nigeria Limited, Max Air, and Samu, among others.

    Apart from the high-stake President Cup, winners will emerge in the event’s second most wanted prize, the FCT Minister  Cup, Legislative Shield, and Low Cup categories while a  handful of subsidiary laurels such as the COAS Cup, Argentine Ambassador’s Cup, Dawule Baba Memorial Cup and El-Amin Cup will also be contested for and won during the 2025 fiesta.

    The  Abuja Carnival Polo Tournament was  inaugurated in 2009 to complement the Abuja City Carnival-a celebration of Nigeria’s cultural diversity that features sporting events, parades and cultural displays.

  • 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.

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    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.

  • AFCON  2025: Faé tips Cote d’Ivoire  to stop Nigeria, others in defence of title

    AFCON  2025: Faé tips Cote d’Ivoire  to stop Nigeria, others in defence of title

    • By Joshua Osinowo

    Côte d’Ivoire coach Emerse Faé has set the tone ahead of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025, making it clear that the reigning champions are fully prepared to defend their crown and defeat any team that challenges them including Nigeria.

     His remarks, rich in confidence and competitive intent, come as the Elephants  are set for a title defence shaped by the memory of their 2–1 victory over the Super Eagles in the 2024 final.

    “We’ll go into the AFCON as holders, which mean every team will be desperate to knock us off our perch. We’ll have to hand the trophy back at the start, and we want to reclaim it by the end,” Faé said in an  interview with FIFA  ahead of  tomorrow’s 2006 World Cup Draw at the  Kennedy Centre in the US. 

    Responding  to a specific  question about preparing simultaneously for  both the World Cup and AFCON which begins on December 21 in Morocco, Faé added :“We’re competitors and we set ourselves a series of targets after the AFCON last year: first to reach the 2025 tournament and then to book our ticket to the World Cup.

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    “We’ve achieved them, but our ambitions can’t stop there. We aren’t going to the World Cup for a holiday. Our mind-set is to show that Côte d’Ivoire can make history at a global tournament.”

    Faé also referenced Morocco’s historic 2022 World Cup run as a continental turning point, saying the Elephants  are looking forward  to a great Mundial :“Morocco did exceptionally well last time out. What they achieved laid down a marker for Africa, and we’ve got to take our cue from it and dream big. I don’t just mean saying, ‘We’d like to do what Morocco did.’ I mean, ‘We’re going to emulate what Morocco accomplished.’”

    Reflecting on the emotional turbulence of their 2024 triumph on home , he continued: “There were so many factors making that tournament truly special, so I’m not expecting to go through the same emotional rollercoaster. Emotions always run high in football, but it won’t be comparable to what we lived through on home turf last time round. We’ll certainly do our utmost to ensure it’s a positive experience.”

    Ahead of the 35th AFCON in Morocco, Côte d’Ivoire will finalise their preparations with a 10-day camp in Marbella, Spain, between  December  10 and 20.

     FIF president Yacine Idriss Diallo confirmed the arrangements after the federation’s general assembly, adding the Elephants will play two friendly matches — one possibly against DR Congo — before travelling to Marrakech on 20 December, just a day before the tournament begins.

    The champions face Mozambique, Cameroon and Gabon in a challenging Group F.

    Incidentally, while the Ivorians speak with the authority of champions, Nigeria enter the tournament with renewed hunger and belief.

    Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong said the team’s motivation has grown since their defeat in the last final.

    “The team is excited,” he said. “Last AFCON left a lasting impression for all of us. Looking back, Côte d’Ivoire were the better team on the day, but we gained experience  some of our players were in a first major final.”

    Asked whether Nigeria can go further this time, he responded: “That’s the only goal. We want to use that experience, reach the latter stages and know what to do to go all the way, hopefully.”

    Similarly, Super Eagles’ Head coach, Eric Sekou  Chelle, has  also emphasised Nigeria’s ambition and mentality.

    “In national-team football, mentality is everything because time on the grass is limited,” Chelle told CAFOnline in a recent interview. “It’s not only tactics or technique; it’s about values. And this team is starting to identify with those values.”

    He described the pressure of leading Nigeria as a responsibility he embraces.

    “When you coach Nigeria, you have to win everything. Of course we want to win it. Personally, I want to win AFCON.”

    On Nigeria’s growing resilience, Chelle concluded with the headline he hopes to see: “Nigeria, champions of Africa.”

  • 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.

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    “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.