The Nation Newspaper

Category: Sports

  • Ajibade claims Africa’s first blind Sambo medal

    Ajibade claims Africa’s first blind Sambo medal

    Nigeria bags full FIAS membership

    Nigeria’s Alade Ajibade made history at the 2025 World SAMBO Championships in Bishkek, Uzbekistan, becoming the first Nigerian—and the first African—to win a medal in blind Sambo. Competing in the men’s -98kg category, Ajibade clinched a bronze medal in his debut international tournament, marking a significant milestone for adaptive sports on the continent.

    Ajibade was the sole medallist among Nigeria’s three-man contingent, and his achievement was celebrated by Sheriff Hammed, Vice President of the Sambo Associations of Nigeria. Hammed, a key advocate for Sambo and blind Sambo in Africa, hailed the moment as a breakthrough for the sport.

    “This achievement is truly historic and deeply inspiring,” Hammed said. “It reflects not only the resilience and talent of our athletes but also the growing recognition of Africa’s potential in adaptive sports like Sambo. Winning this medal is a testament to our commitment to inclusion, excellence, and development at all levels. It sends a strong message that with the right support and opportunity, our athletes—regardless of ability—can compete and excel on the world stage.”

    In another major development, Nigeria was officially admitted as a full member of the International SAMBO Federation (FIAS) during its 37th  Elective Congress. Alongside Nigeria, Togo, the Maldives, the Central African SAMBO Federation, and the SAMBO Union of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina were also granted full membership status. Delegates at the Congress voted in favour of their inclusion as a new FIAS Executive Board was constituted.

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    Hammed expressed excitement over Nigeria’s new status within FIAS.

    “Nigeria’s membership in FIAS marks a significant milestone for the growth and recognition of Sambo in our country. It means official inclusion in the global Sambo community, opening doors to international competitions, technical support, and capacity building for coaches and referees. Our athletes can now compete under the national flag with greater visibility and opportunity.”

    He added, “This membership enhances Nigeria’s credibility in the international sporting arena, promotes cultural exchange through sport, and creates pathways for youth development, talent identification, and sports diplomacy. Ultimately, it’s a major step toward institutionalizing Sambo in Nigeria and positioning the country as a leading force for the sport in Africa.”

    FIAS President Vasily Shestakov also addressed the Congress, summarizing the organization’s progress over the past year.

    Among the key achievements, he noted the successful debut of Combat SAMBO in the program of The World Games 2025 in Chengdu, the official recognition of FIAS by the International Paralympic Committee, and the inclusion of SAMBO in the calendar of the International Military Sports Council (CISM). He also emphasized the growing popularity of the discipline across all continents.

  • Lagos  backs organisers of  GOtv Boxing Night

    Lagos  backs organisers of  GOtv Boxing Night

    The Director-General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, Lekan Fatodu, has applauded the organisers of GOtv Boxing Night for their consistency in promoting boxing and nurturing local talents in Nigeria.

    Fatodu made the commendation on Friday when a delegation from Flykite Productions, organisers of GOtv Boxing Night, paid him a courtesy visit at his office at the Teslim Balogun Stadium. The visit was to formally inform the Commission of plans for the 34th edition of the event, which will hold on 26 December at Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS), Lagos.

    Speaking during the visit, Fatodu described GOtv Boxing Night as one of the most enduring private-sector initiatives in Nigerian sports, noting that it has revived public interest in boxing and provided a platform for young fighters to showcase their skills.

     “What GOtv Boxing Night has achieved over the years deserves every form of support,” he said. “It has given life back to Nigerian boxing and consistently delivered world-class entertainment to fans. As a state that prides itself on sports excellence, Lagos is proud to be associated with this initiative,” he said.

    He  assured the Flykite team of the Commission’s support for the forthcoming edition, pledging to work closely with the organisers to ensure a successful outing. He said Lagos State, under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, remains committed to fostering a vibrant sports culture and partnering with credible private promoters.

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    “Our vision is to make Lagos the sports capital of Africa, and partnerships like this help to drive that goal. “We will provide the necessary institutional backing to ensure the event continues to thrive.”

    Earlier, Mr. Bamidele Johnson, Chief Operating Officer of Flykite Productions, expressed appreciation to the Commission for its continued support over the years. He noted that Lagos has remained the home of GOtv Boxing Night since inception because of the state’s hospitality, facilities, and enthusiastic sports fans.

    Johnson disclosed that the December edition, themed Jam Festiva will feature top Nigerian boxers across various weight categories, live musical performances by top acts and a sprinkle of comedy to deliver a marriage of top-tier sports and entertainment.

     “We are excited to be back at TBS, the iconic venue where Lagosians have witnessed many memorable editions of the show, which is a marriage of boxing and music. This edition will be bigger and better and we are grateful for the support the Commission has promised,” he said.

    GOtv Boxing Night 34 will be broadcast live on SuperSport.

  • WAFU B U20 Girls Cup: Falconets beat Benin to secure second win

    WAFU B U20 Girls Cup: Falconets beat Benin to secure second win

    Janet Akekoromowei and Ramotalahi Kareem have steered Nigeria’s U20 girls, Falconets towards eventual triumph in the ongoing WAFU B U20 Girls Cup tournament in Bénin Republic, each netting a brace in the matches against Ghana and hosts Bénin Republic respectively.

    On Saturday morning, against Ghana, Akekoromowei netted twice while Favour Nkwocha scored the other goal as the Falconets crushed the bitter rivals in their first game of the tournament.

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    On Sunday, Kareem was on song on the quarter-hour and the hour-mark, before Precious Oscar added a third in the dying minutes against the hosts.

    With only three teams participating, it means the teams will have to play each other twice. On Tuesday, the Falconets, soar-away leaders with six points and plus five goals difference, will take on the Black Princesses, before another session with the hosts on Wednesday.

  • Impressive Lawal  grabs three Gold at Solidarity Games in Riyadh

    Impressive Lawal  grabs three Gold at Solidarity Games in Riyadh

    Team Nigeria’s Rafiatu Lawal clinched three gold medals in the women’s 58kg category in the weightlifting  event  at the ongoing 6th Islamic Solidarity Games in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia to once again display her prowess on the global stage.

    Lawal delivered a commanding performance on Sunday, sweeping all available gold medals in the snatch, clean and jerk, and total categories. She outclassed her rivals with remarkable precision and strength, finishing ahead of Niogora Abdullaeva of Uzbekistan, who took silver, and Noura Essam of Egypt, who claimed bronze.

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    Lawal reaffirmed her position as one of Africa’s most formidable weightlifters.

    Her triumph in Riyadh comes just months after she won three silver medals at the World Weightlifting Championships, a feat that showcased her consistency and relentless drive for excellence.

  • Abia derby ends in stalemate as Nasarawa remain on top

    Abia derby ends in stalemate as Nasarawa remain on top

    Abia Warriors missed a golden opportunity to return to the summit of the Nigeria Premier Football League table after being held to a 1-1 draw by Enyimba in a fiercely contested Abia derby at the Umuahia Township Stadium yesterday.

    Despite Nasarawa United’s failure to secure all three points in their North Central derby clash against Kwara United in Lafia, the Umuchineke Boys could not capitalize on home advantage against their neighbours, the People’s Elephant.

    Imama Amapakabo’s men remain second on the log with 22 points, while Enyimba, who played under pressure with head coach Stanley Eguma’s second game ultimatum in the encounter, stay sixth with 17 points.

    Elsewhere, Ikorodu City continued their impressive run with a 2-0 away win over Warri Wolves in Ozoro. Goals from Tomisin Adebayo and Goodluck Anuba in the 18th and 45th  minutes sealed the victory, keeping Ikorodu City in third place with 21 points. Wolves dropped to fourth with 18 points.

    In Bauchi, Wikki Tourists snatched a dramatic late win over Niger Tornadoes thanks to Nasiru Jibrin’s 87th-minute strike, while in Lafia, Nasarawa United were held 1-1 by Kwara United. Anas Yusuf gave the hosts an early lead in the second minute, but Aule Johnmark’s equalizer in the 36th minute ended Nasarawa’s perfect home record this season. Despite the setback, the Solid Miners remain top with 23 points.

    Rangers International edged Shooting Stars 1-0 in Enugu courtesy of Chidozie Iwundu’s first-half goal, lifting them to mid-table with 16 points. Kano Pillars’ struggles persisted as they were held to a goalless draw by Bayelsa United in Katsina.

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    Meanwhile, Katsina United were earlier forced to a 1-1 draw by Barau FC on Saturday, a match marred by unruly fan behaviour from the home supporters.

    Matchday 12 concludes today with three fixtures: Kun Khalifat will host Rivers United in Owerri, Remo Stars face El Kanemi Warriors in Abeokuta, and Plateau United square off against Bendel Insurance in Jos.

    NPFL MATCHDAY 12 RESULTS

    Rangers 1-0 3SC

    Wikki 1-0 Tornadoes

    Abia Warriors 0-0 Enyimba

    Wolves 0-2 Ikorodu City

    Nasarawa United  1-1 Kwara United 

    Kano Pillars 0-0 Bayelsa United 

    Katsina United 1-1 Barau FC

  • Fatodu hails  organisers on decade –old Lagos Women Run

    Fatodu hails  organisers on decade –old Lagos Women Run

    The Director General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, Lekan Fatodu, has commended the organisers of the Lagos Women Run over what he described as a decade of a remarkable journey.

    At the Mobolaji Johnson Arena Finish point of the 2025 event, the 10th  in the series, Aminat Alabi made history as the first Lagos-based athlete to win the race.

    Lekan Fatodu, the Director-General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, praised the organisers for a decade of consistency.

    The DG, who joined the organisers in the preparatory stage of the event said: “It’s been a remarkable journey. A decade of experiences, exploits, and opportunities, building community cohesion and promoting sporting development.

     “We must commend the organisers for their resilience and for consistently producing new talent and stars in athletics.”

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    Fatodu added that Alabi’s victory reflects the bright sporting future of Lagos State.

    He said: “This win gives us insight into the opportunities that lie ahead.

     “It complements our recent success at the National Youth Games, where a 14-year-old boy from Lagos won the 200m event.

     “I assure you that Lagos State will continue using platforms like this to discover more young athletes.”

    The Coordinator of the Lagos Women Run, Temitope Popoola, said the event had provided life-changing opportunities for women.

    She  said: “The race has empowered many women, promoting well-being, creating networking opportunities, and encouraging economic and social growth.

     “We also encourage women to prioritize their health, because we believe a healthy woman builds healthy families and a healthy nation.”

  • Winners emerge at Elizabeth Wuraola Ojo Toyota Golf Tournament

    Winners emerge at Elizabeth Wuraola Ojo Toyota Golf Tournament

    Smokin Hills Golf Club’s golden boy, Ojo Tope Ilesanmi and Ikeja Golf Club’s Opawunmi Afolasade have emerged winners in this year’s Men’s and Ladies’ categories of the Elizabeth Wuraola Ojo Toyota Golf Tournament.

    Ondo State Governor, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, graced the Gala Night that climaxed the 2025 tourney at Smokin Hills Golf Resort, Ilara Mokin.

    Ilesanmi, who started his golfing career as a caddy before progressing to a full-time amateur player with a handicap of 16, posted a Gross of 85 and a Net of 69 to clinch his first title in the tournament. His Ladies counterpart, Afolasade, playing with a handicap of 14, Grossed 82 with a Net of 68.

    An elated Ilesanmi said it was a dream come true:  “I started as a caddy for someone here in this golf course before I began playing as an amateur, and today I am a winner.

    “I am very happy and excited to turn my dream into reality. It was very challenging when I started, and I want to give big thanks to Mr. Muyiwa Adegbenro, playing with a handicap of 15; he was there for me, pushing and encouraging me.

    “Today, coming from being a caddy to becoming the champion, and now the reigning amateur champion, is a dream comes true. I went from a handicap of 28 to 16, and it has been a gradual journey. By God’s grace, maybe next year I might turn professional, or I might still be the winner of this tournament. I am very grateful to God.”

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    The second place in the Men’s category went to Ojuolade Olatunji, handicap 7, who made a Gross of 77 and a Net of 70, while third place went to Balogun Ayodeji, handicap 22, with a Gross of 92 and a Net of 70.

    In the Ladies category, Osmond Diana of Ikeja Golf Club, playing handicap 11, Grossed 82 with a Net of 71 to win second place, while Alamu Chichi, also of Ikeja Golf Club with handicap 11, Grossed 82 and Net 71 to secure third position.

    The Special Award for Most Amiable Woman of the tournament was won by Mrs. Taiwo Ade-Ojo of Smokin Hills Golf Club, Ilara Mokin. Adebisi Abdulrasheed of Ikeja Golf Club, with a Gross of 86 and handicap 14, won the Men’s Longest Drive, while the Captain of Smokin Hills, Adegbenro Gboye, claimed the Nearest to the Pin. The Veteran first position went to Iyare Feceers, with Adebayo Kunle also recognized.

    The Ladies’ Longest Drive was won by Osmond Diana of Ikeja Golf Club, while Yusuf Grace of Ekiti, handicap 9, Gross 88, and Oluwadare Aminat of Cross Creek took the nearest to the Pin honours.

  • Anambra  edge holders Kebbi Fishers to emerge Beach Soccer champions

    Anambra  edge holders Kebbi Fishers to emerge Beach Soccer champions

    Anambra Beach Soccer Warriors are the new king of beach soccer in Nigeria, following a nail-biting penalty shootout defeat of Cup holders Kebbi Fishers in Sunday’s well-attended final at the Jabi Lake Resort, Abuja. Regulation time had ended in a pulsating 3-3 draw.

    President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau , NFF General Secretary Dr Mohammed Sanusi  and NFF Executive Member and Chairman, Beach Soccer and Futsal Committee, Rt. Hon. (Dr) Nse Udofot Essien were among dignitaries who showed up at the exciting finale. There were also Chief of Staff to the Chairman, National Sports Commission (Mallam Salihu Abubakar), NFF Technical Director, Coach Augustine Eguavoen, NFF Director of Media & Communications, Dr Ademola Olajire, special assistant to NFF President Abubakar Danladi Umar,  and former FIFA referee Alex Mana.

    The Warriors secured the title following a 5-3 penalty shootout victory over three-time champions, Kebbi Fishers BSC.

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    The Cup holders came from 1-3 down to showcase commendable resilience and force the game into penalties. For the Kebbi-based team, goals were scored by Hassan Abdullahi, Taiwo Adams, and Hassan Muhammed. The Nnewi-based Warriors saw contributions from Ekunjimi Eganosi, Peter Prosper, and Stanley Ekwo. This victory marks the first league title for Anambra Beach Soccer Warriors, bringing them level with Kada BSC, who were crowned champions in 2022.

    In his remarks, Gusau praised all participating teams for their sportsmanship and unwavering dedication to the sport, saying: “This year’s league has been a remarkable display of exceptional talent and competitive spirit, underscoring the growth of beach soccer in Nigeria. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the Anambra Beach Soccer Warriors on their historic triumph and encourage all the other teams to continue striving for excellence going forward.”

    Meanwhile, Kebbi Fishers BSC remains the most decorated team in league history with three titles. In addition to the championship, several individual accolades were awarded:

    * Highest Goal Scorer: Frank Dozie (Kada BSC) – 14 goals

    * Best Goalkeeper: Segun Basorun (Anambra Beach Soccer Warriors)

    * Rising Star: Uwana Aniete (Ibom BSC)

    * Most Valuable Player: Stanley Ekwo (Anambra Beach Soccer Warriors)

    This year’s league highlighted exceptional talent and competitive spirit, reflecting the growth of beach soccer in Nigeria.

  • Imo shines  as South East Taekwondo Championships end in style

    Imo shines  as South East Taekwondo Championships end in style

    The just-concluded South East Taekwondo Championships at the Dan Anyiam Stadium Indoor Sports Hall, Owerri, showcased the region’s growing grassroots talent as 74 athletes from four south-eastern states competed for top honours between November 7 and 9.

    Hosts Imo State dominated the medals table with an impressive 41 medals—comprising 13 gold, 15 silver, and 13 bronze—to emerge overall winners. Abia State followed closely with 28 medals (12 gold, 11 silver, and 5 bronze), while Ebonyi and Enugu finished with 8 medals (4 gold, 3 silver, 1 bronze) and 4 medals (2 gold, 1 silver, 1 bronze) respectively.

    Speaking during the medal presentation ceremony, Hon. Obinna Onyeocha, Imo State Commissioner for Sports, lauded the organizers for staging what he described as a platform for nurturing future champions.

     “I applaud this event that promotes grassroots development and gives our youths exposure,” Onyeocha said. “It should be sustained so that, in the coming years, it can produce national and international champions who will bring pride to the region and the state.”

    Olympic medallist Chika Chukwumerije, who returned to active Taekwondo management after a four-year break, coordinated the event. He emphasized the importance of such regional competitions in building strong sports foundation.

     “I’m thrilled to see stakeholders come together for grassroots development. Our youths deserve this exposure—it’s how we build champions, one brick at a time,” Chukwumerije remarked.

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    Thirteen-year-old Ikechukwu Chidiebere from Abia State, who clinched gold in the Cadet -49kg category, expressed delight at his performance.

     “This competition helped me correct mistakes from the National Youth Games, where I only managed bronze. Winning gold here has boosted my confidence,” he said.

    For Enugu State Assistant Coach Musa Enakheme, the championship provided valuable preparation ahead of the National Sports Festival.

    “As hosts of the National Sports Festival, this event was an eye-opener. It has shown us the areas where we need to work harder,” Enakheme noted.

    The next edition of the South East Regional Taekwondo Championships is scheduled for February 20–21, 2026, in Umuahia, Abia State.

  • W’ Cup Play-Offs: Aubameyang fires Eagles warning as Gabon’s coach optimistic

    W’ Cup Play-Offs: Aubameyang fires Eagles warning as Gabon’s coach optimistic

    By Olamilekan Israel.

    Former Arsenal striker and Gabon captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has sent a strong warning to Nigeria’s Super Eagles ahead of their crucial 2026 World Cup playoff clash, as his national team coach, Thierry Mouyouma, remains confident about the Panthers’  chances of reaching the final qualification stage.

    The Super Eagles will face the Panthers of Gabon on November 13 at the Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat, Morocco, in the semi-final stage of the African playoff series. The winner will advance to the final round to face either Cameroon or Congo DR for a spot in the FIFA World Cup to be co-hosted by Mexico, the United States, and Canada in 2026.

    Aubameyang, who continues to shine in France’s Ligue 1, was on the score sheet for Olympique Marseille in their 3-0 win over Brest on Saturday, firing a warning shot to Nigeria with his current form. The 34-year old late goal sealed victory for Marseille, who reclaimed top spot in the league.

    Speaking after the match, Marseille coach Roberto De Zerbi hailed Aubameyang’s performance, saying: “We played a very good match today. There’s no reason right now for any of our players to be worried. Aubameyang is leading by example and showing courage and confidence.

    The in-form forward is expected to play a key role for Gabon in Rabat as the Panthers aim to upset Nigeria, who recently impressed with their collective performance against Benin.

    Meanwhile, Gabon’s head coach Thierry Mouyouma has defended his controversial decision to include suspended defender Mick Onfia in his 26-man squad for the Nigeria clash, describing it as a strategic move.

     “Regarding Mick, yes, he is suspended due to two yellow cards,” Mouyouma explained in a press briefing on Thursday.

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     “But if you look closely, we are playing a semi-final against Nigeria, and if we qualify, we have a final to play. We have not lost our mind that’s just what we did.”

    Analysts believe Mouyouma’s confidence and Aubameyang’s fine form could make Gabon a difficult opponent for Nigeria, especially as several key players from Gabon’s golden generation including Ecuele Manga, who captained the team during the 2012 AFCON remain active and influential in the squad.

    However, Nigeria’s depth and experience remain a major threat. The Super Eagles boast one of the strongest squads in Africa, and many observers believe that if they maintain their recent teamwork and discipline, they can overcome Gabon and progress to the final playoff round.

    The Panthers, who reached the quarterfinals of the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations, are now seeking to make their first-ever World Cup appearance a dream Aubameyang says is “still alive.”

    With both teams showing ambition and confidence, all eyes will be on Rabat on November 13, as the clash between Nigeria and Gabon promises to deliver high drama and be one of Africa’s most anticipated routes to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.