Saudi Arabia will no longer stage the inaugural Esports Olympics scheduled to be held in 2027, according to the International Olympic Committee.
The IOC and the Saudi National Olympic Committee “mutually agreed that they will end their cooperation on the Olympic Esports Games”, a statement said.
The first Esports Games was originally slated to be held this year in Riyadh but were postponed in February.
The Saudis were guaranteed the hosting of the Games for 12 years from 2025, when the agreement was first announced by the IOC in July last year.
Then-IOC president Thomas Bach had been influential in the creation of the event but has since been replaced at the helm by Kirsty Coventry.
Olympic Esports Series competitions, smaller virtual sports events run by the IOC, were held in 2021 and 2023. They were widely panned by gaming critics over the lack of traditional esports titles however.
“Recently, the two parties and the Esports World Cup Foundation sat down again and reviewed this initiative,” the IOC statement added. “They mutually agreed that they will end their cooperation on the Olympic Esports Games. At the same time, both parties are committed to pursuing their own esports ambitions on separate paths.”
The first two editions of the Esports World Cup, which includes many of the world’s most popular games, were held in 2024 and earlier this year in Riyadh. It is organised by Saudi Arabia.
“This approach will be a chance to better fit the Olympic Esports Games to the long-term ambitions of the Olympic movement and to spread the opportunities presented by the Olympic Esports Games more widely, with the objective of having the inaugural Games as soon as possible,” the IOC said.
The Esports Games will now have to start from scratch, without a host country or deadline, despite several challenges posed by trying to integrate esports into the Olympic movement.
Negotiations with game publishers, establishing national teams and anti-doping programmes have all also proved difficult.
The IOC’s “non-violence” criteria also means that many of the most popular games cannot be used.
Saudi sports events are routinely accused of being used as a distraction from human rights violations, a practice dubbed “sportswashing”.
The kingdom has invested heavily in sport over the last few years, though critics, including women’s rights groups and members of the LGBTQ community, allege it is using its Public Investment Fund (PIF) to sportswash its human rights record.
The country denies accusations of human rights abuses and says it protects its national security through its laws.
The recently concluded elections into Nigeria’s sporting federations mark a pivotal moment in the country’s sports governance journey. After years of administrative stagnation, internal wrangling and inconsistent leadership, a fresh wave of reform-minded individuals has emerged — bringing with them renewed hope professionalism, and a vision for sustainable growth. This reflects the broader reform agenda championed by the National Sports Commission (NSC) under the leadership of Mallam Shehu Dikko and Honourable Bukola Olopade, whose inclusive approach to the electoral process has been widely applauded, write MORAKINYO ABODUNRIN and TUNDE LIADI
A new breeze is blowing through Nigeria’s sports administration following the recently concluded elections into 18 national sports federations — a process widely hailed as one of the most transparent and peaceful in recent memory. Conducted by the National Sports Commission (NSC), the elections have ushered in a crop of distinguished personalities — from captains of industry to seasoned technocrats and career administrators — all promising to bring renewed hope and direction to their respective sports.
From boxing to shooting, from aquatic sports to tennis, weightlifting to wrestling, the fresh leadership landscape signals a shift towards accountability, innovation and partnership-driven growth. For many stakeholders, it is the first time in years that the governance of Nigerian sports appears to be infused with both experience and professionalism. Therefore, Saturday, 25th October 2025, will surely go down as a watershed in the annals of Nigeria’s sporting calendar as it were.
Addressing the newly elected presidents and board members at the inauguration ceremony held at the Moshood Abiola Stadium, the NSC Chairman, Mallam Dikko , challenged them to view their emergence not as a reward but as a responsibility.
“This is a call to serve, to innovate and to contribute to the nation’s economic and social development through sports,” Dikko, the erstwhile 2nd Vice-President of Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) , said. “We expect leaders who will translate investments into tangible outcomes such as competitive athletes, good governance, youth engagement, and infrastructure development.”
Echoing same sentiment, the Director General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, praised the credibility of the elections, urging the new leaders to prioritize integrity and transparency.
“Our focus has been to restore confidence in the system,” Olopade said. “These elections are a testament to our resolve to reposition Nigerian sports as a beacon of integrity and innovation.”
Indeed, many observers see this election cycle as a turning point. For years, sports governance in Nigeria was marred by internal wrangling, lack of accountability and the appointment of disinterested figures. This time, however, the NSC’s deliberately encouraged participation of heavyweight personalities in government as well as some storied professionals and philanthropists all in the bid to clean the augean stables of sports in Nigeria.
Of course, there is nothing new under the earth and indeed in the twists and turns of sporting administration in Nigeria and what the Dikko-led NSC has done was to borrow a leaf from the days of late Pa Isaac Akioye-led NSC which is often regarded as the best regime Nigeria ever had.
In a file interview with our correspondent in March 2003 , the late Akioye enthused how the NSC was able to set the compass of Nigerian sports on the right course and he was of the few that an ignoramus should never be allowed in the administration of sports if there are going to be successes than failures.
“We changed the face of Nigerian sports while I was at the NSC,” Akioye said in what was his last major interview before his demise in 2007.“ During our time at the NSC, we brought credible people from outside the civil service to contribute to supports development .
“ The NSC then was able to attract a lot of good people; people like Alhaji Fashola who was the manager of Barclays Bank at Ojuelegba then. We brought the likes of late Mobolaji-Bank Anthony to support our programme.
“But how many credible people today would want to go to the ministry to identify with sports all because they have turned administration of sports to personal gains rather than services?” Offering panacea to Nigerian sporting problems and administration, the respected late technocrat who first made sporting headlines as a teacher at both Wesley College in Ibadan and Government College in Ughelli, said government should return to the old and tested route by resuscitating the NSC.
“ What I want is for government to revert to NSC than having in place the Ministry of Sports,” Akioye further said.“ A commission is an elastic administration which could accommodate credible people outside the civil service into sports administration.
“ I’ve repeatedly suggested this to government because that was what can move our sports forward.”
Indeed, Akioye’s life-long dream for a new direction for Nigerian sports was partly answered with the scrapping of the Ministry of Sports Development and resuscitating of the National Sports Commission in October 2024 by the forward-looking President Bola Ahmed Tinubu under his Renewed Hope Agenda for Sports.
In fact, One of the gains of the bold moves by President Tinubu was evidently the successful elections across 18 federations at the Indoor Hall of the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abuja last Saturday.
The ‘new kids’ on the block
Among the most talked-about winners in last Saturday’s electoral process is Commodore Mohammed Shettima (rtd.), the newly elected President of the Nigeria Shooting Sports Federation (NSSF). His victory over incumbent Captain Ayoade Bamidele was as narrow as it was symbolic — eight votes to six — ending a prolonged internal stalemate that had paralysed the federation’s activities for weeks.
Shettima wasted no time outlining his reform agenda: “As I speak to you right now, we don’t have 100 percent accurate records of our members. We need a mechanism to ensure that every member and every weapon is properly documented. That can only be achieved through a constitutional review.”
The retired Commodore also spoke passionately about expanding the sport’s visibility through corporate partnerships, particularly with the defence and security sectors.
“Every institution faces funding challenges,” he noted. “We are already engaging foreign stakeholders who are willing to come in. We expect support from companies involved in the arms and defence sector as part of their corporate social responsibility.”
Despite a tense campaign, Shettima remains magnanimous in victory, describing his opponent as a worthy challenger and pledging to reunite the federation.
“There must be people that will support A and people that will support B,” he said. “We are not divided. We only had preferred candidates.”
Edun returns with magic wand to boxing
Perhaps, the most high-profile of the new sports leaders is Mr. Wale Edun, Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, who emerged as President of the Nigeria Boxing Federation (NBF).
Mr. Edun is not new to pugilism at all . As the former Chairman of the Lagos Boxing Hall of Fame, he has championed youth empowerment through boxing. His election is seen as a strategic move to reinvigorate the sport’s finances and global competitiveness.
“The leadership of the NSC has shown professionalism in these elections,” Mr. Edun said after his victory. “It’s now our responsibility to ensure a new dawn for Nigerian boxing.”
His presence in the federation brings credibility and importantly, the potential to attract corporate investment — a resource the sport desperately needs.
Corporate minds and sporting spirit
Another prominent figure joining the fray is Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Dr. Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, now President of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation (NWF). Known for his discipline and strategic thinking, Adeniyi is expected to bring the same organizational acumen that has defined his tenure in public service. Highly regarded by stakeholders within and outside the wrestling federation, Adeniyi is regarded as one of the unseen hands behind the successful regime of his immediate predecessor, Honourable Daniel Igali.
Meanwhile in the cerebral arena of chess, Senator Ibrahim Dankwambo, former Governor of Gombe State, is now at the helms of the Nigeria Chess Federation. A chartered accountant and former Accountant-General of the Federation, Dankwambo’s background in financial prudence could help institutionalize chess development and competitions nationwide.
Equally notable is Rt. Hon. Victor Ochei, former Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, who now heads the Nigeria Tennis Federation. Ochei, known for his corporate background and passion for youth empowerment, pledged to align tennis development with the NSC’s broader economic vision.
“I am proud that Nigerian sports are in the hands of astute administrators,” Ochei said. “I am committed to complementing the commission’s efforts in building a sustainable sports economy through tennis.”
Yet if one federation embodies the grassroots vision of the NSC’s new era, it is the Nigeria Aquatic Federation (NAqF), where Dr. Dunkwu Chamberlain Nnamdi emerged unopposed as President.
An advocate for riverine community development, Dr. Dunkwu’s election is viewed as an opportunity to transform Nigeria’s natural water resources into a talent pipeline for aquatic sports.
“We are blessed as a nation with enormous aquatic potential — from the riverine areas of the Niger Delta to the lakes and coastlines of the North and West,” he said. “Our mission is to harness that natural advantage, nurture raw talent, and attract sponsors who share our dream of making Nigeria a continental and global force in aquatic sports.”
Stakeholders at the inauguration hailed the diversity and competence of the new board, which includes regional and institutional representatives. With an eye on international competition and infrastructure development, Dr. Dunkwu’s leadership promises to bridge talent discovery with opportunity creation.
Mixed Reactions from stakeholders
While the elections have been widely celebrated, not everyone is convinced that the inclusion of high-ranking government officials as well as ‘money bags’ can translate into effective management if the sporting landscape is still the way it is right now.
Veteran journalist and former Sports Editor of the Nigerian Tribune Newspapers, Mr. Ade Somefun, voiced scepticism.
“Haven’t we followed this kind of path before?” he asked. “Most of these top government personalities may not have the time to devote fully to sports development. The NSC should have gone for passionate technocrats who understand the sports deeply.”
Somefun feared that political appointments could side-line true sports reformers. However, he admits that time will tell whether the new crop delivers on their promises.
“I would have wished that the NSC went for people who were experienced enough and passionate about the sports they’ve been involved with over the years and I mean technocrat who can come up with good sporting policies and drive it well to get the necessary results by way of identifying local talents that abound around the country and nurturing them to stardom.
Anyway, I don’t want to cry more than the bereaved, time will tell,” he added.
Another respected voice, Honourable Frank Ilaboya, former Chairman of Owan West Local Government Area in Edo State, offered a more optimistic take.
“To me, whoever gets the opportunity to serve should do so with diligence,” he said. “We saw what Uyi Akpata did with cricket while still in corporate service. The key word is passion. What Nigerians want to see is impact, not titles?”
Ilaboya commended the NSC for conducting transparent elections, describing the process as “a big improvement from the past.”
“What Nigerians are expecting is the impact of those given the opportunity to serve, whether big government appointees or not,” offered Ilaboya, the Executive Director, Sports Business Development, Marketing & Sponsorship at the Edo Sports Commission.
“Most of the Federations that didn’t perform in the past were not led by government appointees, so the catch word here is the determination to add value.
What I would not personally want to hear is that because of government work, such federation is lagging behind or suffering.
“ I want to congratulate the National Sports Commission for conducting a fairly transparent and rancour-free elections. There were pockets of dissent here and there but the processes leading to this year’s elections are a big improvement from the past.
“It’s now left for those elected to brace for the big task ahead,” he added.
Furthermore, an Olympian and former Nigeria’s 110m Hurdle Champion, Dr. Godwin Obasogie, equally shared Ilaboya’s sentiments.
“ If anyone elected have sports knowledge, that is ok,” the US-based Obasogie stated. “But for anyone who haven’t been to any sporting arena to manage sports is taking sports back.
“It’s hard to take politics out of sports but for better results , we need sports’ knowledgeable people. One thing we found going on is appointing politicians to run sports and the politician bringing somebody who is supposed to hold that seat to work under him.
“In the past and present, we have seen former sports men and women being used by these politicians to do their job. What can a politician who knows nothing about sports contribute in the world of sports meetings?
“Look at a country like Jamaica who runs sports. Even in Senegal, see who is running the 2026 Youths Olympics. He is a former sports man. I don’t know if that will happen in Nigeria,” he noted.
The road ahead amid Renewed Hope
Beyond personalities, what distinguishes this election cycle is the NSC’s reform-oriented approach. By emphasizing good governance, financial transparency and grassroots engagement, the Commission appears determined to shift Nigerian sports from a welfare model to a performance-driven ecosystem.
The NSC’s promise to enforce accountability through periodic evaluations and fiscal audits has also sent a clear message that sports leadership is no longer a ceremonial title.
As the new presidents settle into their roles, expectations are sky-high. With Nigeria’s sports sector increasingly viewed as a potential driver of economic diversification, this new leadership era carries both symbolic and practical weight.
If the words of Hon. Olopade are anything to go by, the NSC intends to hold all federations accountable for measurable progress.
“We are not just inaugurating leaders; we are inaugurating a movement,” he said. “A movement that will redefine how sports are run in Nigeria — through vision, integrity and impact.”
From Commodore Shettima’s bold reforms in shooting to Dr. Dunkwu’s grassroots aquatic mission, and from Mr. Wale Edun’s financial insight in boxing to Ochei’s corporate touch in tennis, a common thread runs through this new wave of leadership: a belief that Nigerian sports can — and must — do better.
Whether these new faces will translate renewed hope into sustainable change remains to be seen. But for now, at least, optimism is back on the field — and in the pool, the ring and the courts.
The Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of GTI Asset Management and Trust Limited, Alhaji Abubakar Lawal, has called on Nigerians to take full responsibility for rebuilding the nation across all sectors, including sports, education and the economy.
Speaking during an interactive session on the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) development in Lagos, Lawal emphasized that national progress will only be achieved when Nigerians commit to improving their country rather than depending on external help.
According to him, the transformational Nigerian Football Fund (TNFF) an initiative managed by GTI is not only aimed at reviving Nigerian football but also at building national pride and economic sustainability through sports investment.
“ If we do not stand up for Nigeria, who will? Nobody will help us build this country. It is our collective responsibility as Nigerians, regardless of age, tribe or status,” Lawal stated matter-of-factly.
He lamented the poor state of infrastructure and investment across major sectors, describing it as a reflection of national complacency. He urged Nigerians, particularly those in the media, to use their platforms to re-educate, reorient, and inspire citizens toward nation building.
He continued: “You are the voices of the voiceless,” he said. “ If we all make minimal efforts individually, sub nationally, or nationally we can rebuild this country. But when people steal from Nigeria and invest abroad, it’s a shame. No foreigner is coming to build our future for us.”
Lawal also challenged the elite class, questioning the long term legacy of wealth without social impact.
“There are people far richer than us, but without impact. In two generations, who will remember them? We must think about what our lives will count for,” he said.
The investment expert further highlighted the economic potential of football, describing it as a National asset with the capacity to generate multi billion naira value if properly harnessed/Utilized.
“When we started, the asset value was near zero,” he said. “Today, with the TNFF, we have seen remarkable growth.
“ Some value it at one or two million dollars already. This shows that with consistent effort, the football economy can thrive.”
Lawal appealed to both individuals and corporations to invest in the TNFF, stressing that no investment means no expectation. He noted that GTI has shouldered much of the financial burden so far, but sustained progress requires wider participation from the private sector.
He also drew attention to challenges facing education and health sectors, noting that Nigeria’s development issues extend beyond sports.
“It’s not just football. Lecturers are going on strike because they’re being owed billions. Health workers are leaving the country. What’s happening to us as a people?” he asked.
Calling for a change of mind-set, Lawal reiterated that patriotism should drive national progress.
“We all love Nigeria in different ways, but love without action means nothing. Let’s believe in this country and run the race together. I am over sixty, but I’m not tired. I’ll keep doing my bit what about you?”
Lawal concluded by reaffirming GTI’s commitment to the NPFL and the TNFF, describing the football sector as a symbol of hope for Nigeria’s rebirth.
“If we at GTI don’t stand up for Nigerian football, who will? We are Nigerians, and no one from outside will do it for us. Let’s take the tasks upon us and baton with togetherness, we are going to win,” he stated confidently.
The vibrant city of Lagos has once again become a beehive of sporting activities as the 2nd Senator Abiru Mixed Team Table Tennis Championship serves off today at the Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall, Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere.
The three-day tournament, which runs from October 30 to November 1, features 30 teams from across Nigeria, Benin Republic and Togo, bringing together more than 150 athletes competing for a share of the ₦5.5 million prize pool, an increase from ₦4 million last year.
The championship, which is the first mixed team event of its kind in Africa, was established by Senator Tokunbo Abiru, founder of the Sail Innovation Lab and Empowerment Foundation, as part of his youth development and community impact initiative.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Senator Abiru, who represents Lagos East Senatorial District, reiterated his commitment to using sports as a tool for youth empowerment and social inclusion.
“Our youth development philosophy goes beyond classrooms and computer labs. The discipline, focus, and teamwork that make great innovators are the same traits that define great athletes,” Abiru said.
“It was on this belief that we launched this championship to celebrate excellence, inclusion, and community spirit through sports. This year’s edition marks an exciting leap forward as the total prize money has been increased from ₦4 million to ₦5.5 million to reward excellence and encourage professionalism.”
The senator also revealed plans to integrate technology and entrepreneurship training into the tournament framework, allowing participants to benefit from opportunities available through the Sail Innovation Lab in Ikorodu, a centre dedicated to equipping young Nigerians with digital, creative, and entrepreneurial skills.
“Whether it’s a racket or a keyboard, excellence is possible,” Abiru added. “This initiative is designed to build a generation that combines sportsmanship, creativity, and resilience to thrive in today’s world.”
President of the African Table Tennis Federation (ITTF Africa), Wahid Enitan Oshodi, praised the senator’s consistency in promoting youth development and supporting grassroots sports in Nigeria.
“The mixed team idea is fantastic. It gives us a platform to prepare for the next Olympics,” Oshodi said. “Any talent without opportunity is a waste, and what Senator Abiru has done is to create opportunities for young players to develop themselves.”
Also speaking, the President of the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation (NTTF), Adesoji Adetayo, described the championship as a bold and innovative project that has elevated Nigeria’s standing in African table tennis.
“Nigeria became the first African nation to host this event last year, and this year we are witnessing its evolution into an international competition,” Adetayo said.
“Countries like Benin Republic and Togo, who attended last year as observers, are now competing. This shows how far we’ve come in developing the sport regionally.”
Lagos State Sports Commission Director-General, Lekan Fatodu, commended the initiative as a reflection of Lagos’ strong commitment to grassroots sports and youth development.
“This event aligns perfectly with our vision to discover and nurture young talents,” Fatodu said. “It’s not just about competition; it’s about building sustainability, investment in youth, and community development. I urge every athlete to give their best and represent their community with pride.”
The event, organised in partnership with ITTF Africa and the NTTF, is expected to climax with the grand finale on Saturday, where winners will emerge and receive both monetary rewards and mentorship opportunities through the Sail Innovation platform.
The Secretary-General of the NTTF, Ilesanmi Akanni, gave the vote of thanks, appreciating the sponsors, athletes, and the media for their commitment to promoting the sport’s growth in Nigeria and beyond.
Another sporting history beckons as the Federal Capital City, Abuja, bubble ahead of the maiden international African Chovken championship billed to hold between November 5 and 8.
Chairman of the African Region of the International Chovken Federation (ICF), Nura Sani Kangiwa , stated that Nigeria has been selected to host the maiden regional continental championship-a milestone event expected to attract teams from across the continent and spotlight the country’s equestrian sports capabilities.
Kangiwa listed continental sporting power houses like Egypt, Morocco, South Africa and Ghana as the other countries expected to vie for honours during the four days African festival in Nigeria.
He also confirmed that the sporting fiesta would hold at the foremost Guards Polo Resort in Abuja, stating that choice of Nigeria as first ever African host of the glamorous event, follows the country’s sterling performance at the maiden International Chovken Championship held in Baku, Azerbaijan last year, where Nigeria finished third in pool of 10 countries from across the world.
“Hosting this championship will not only boost Nigeria’s image internationally but also stimulate interest and investment in equestrian sports across the country,” Kangiwa said. “Countries like Kenya, and several others have already expressed readiness to participate.
“We are working with private and public stakeholders to ensure a seamless hosting experience. This is a legacy project that could redefine equestrian sports in Nigeria and indeed Africa,” he added.
Kangiwa pointed out that since the game of Chovken resonates with Nigeria’s globally revered rich cultural and heritage, the organizers would be devoting a whole day during the event as Cultural Day where all the participants, invited dignitaries ICF officials and thousands of enthusiasts and tourists would witness the best of Nigerian cultural displays.
The proprietor of NSK Polo Ranch who recently led a delegation on a courtesy call to the leadership of the National Sports Committee (NSC) as part of the build up to this continental event, said championship will bring together the finest riders and teams from across the continent and beyond, showcasing the pinnacle of equestrian excellence.
NSC Chairman, Alhaji Dikko who received the delegation pledged the commission’s support, noting that hosting such an event aligns with the federal government’s goal of expanding the country’s sporting portfolio beyond mainstream events.
“We are pleased to see a traditional and culturally rich sport like Chovken gaining ground in Nigeria,” the NSC boss said. “This championship is not just a sporting event—it’s an opportunity to showcase our hospitality, talent, and readiness to engage with global sporting communities.”
Chovken is an equestrian team sport with historical roots and striking resemblance to the popular Polo sport. The game is played by two teams of four horse riders who drive a small leather ball into an opponent’s goal using curved wooden mallets.
It is a fast-paced, strategic equestrian team sport with ancient roots —and a legacy that predates and inspired modern Polo.
While Polo became globally known through colonial expansion, Chovken evolved organically in the Caucasus and Central Asia, preserving its authenticity, ceremonial richness and deeper cultural resonance.
A typical Chovken match features two teams of four horse riders competing to score goals with a small leather ball and curved wooden mallets. It is played in two 15-minute halves. The sport was recently added to UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list, further elevating its global profile.
What distinguishes Chovken from Polo is its allowance for closer physical contact, open-field freedom, and more cultural expression in play, offering a sport that is both athletic and ceremonial.
Get ready for an unforgettable celebration of speed, skill, and tradition as the Nigerian team perfect strategies to conquer the continent and write country’s name on the sands of times as the first ever winner of the inaugural Chovken African championship
Manchester United legend Paul Scholes has revealed that he has stepped away from television punditry in order to care for his 20-year-old autistic son Aiden.
Scholes, who won 25 trophies during his 20-year playing career with United before retiring in 2013, had been a regular pundit for TNT Sports but has not featured for the broadcaster since the Europa League final in May.
The former England midfielder, who split with his wife Claire in 2020 after 27 years together, says he has stepped back from his television work in order to help provide around-the-clock care for Aiden, who was diagnosed as having non-verbal autism when he was a young child.
“I just made the decision this year because of Aiden, obviously with his special needs and stuff, all the work I do now is just around his routines, because he has quite a strict routine every single day, so I just decided everything I’m going to do, it is around Aiden,” Scholes said on The Overlap.
“Well, me and Claire are obviously not together any more. We have him three nights each and Claire’s mum has him on a Friday night but we’ll always do the same things with him.
“He doesn’t know what day of the week it is or time. But he’ll know from what we’re doing what day it is.
“I pick him up every Tuesday from his day-care place he goes to for four hours and we go swimming. Loves swimming, then we get his pizza on the way home. Thursday pick him up, we’ll go for something to eat, go home.
“Sunday, I pick him up from Claire’s house and we go to Tesco where he buys a trolley full of chocolate. So, he doesn’t know what day or time the is, he knows from what we’re doing what day it is. He’ll be 21 in December.
“He’s non-verbal, when I say he can’t speak, I think he understands a lot more than we think, if you says something to him he will understand.
“He has sounds, but it’s only people that are close to him that will know what he’s saying.”
Scholes rarely shared details of his private life during his playing career at United but now regularly updates his 1.1 million followers on Instagram with his moments alongside Aiden.
“I did it one or two times, I only show the good bits, obviously there are some bits that aren’t great, and it was just the response I had from people, parents who had the same, that’s why I carried on doing it,” Scholes said.
“I will reply to people on Instagram because it’s hard, especially when they’re young because there’s the harm, the attacking people, I only put the nice stuff on.
“I do sometimes think about putting stuff on where he’s not too happy, when he might go for you, try to bite you, I do think about it but think that’s probably not the right thing to do.”
Scholes also revealed that he struggled to balance his playing career alongside caring for Aiden.
“You never got a break from it,” Scholes said.
“It was very hard in those days, it feels like it was years ago, I don’t think they diagnosed it until they were two-and-a-half [years old]. But you knew early something was wrong but then you get the diagnosis of autism, and I’d never heard of it. Then all of a sudden you start seeing everything, I don’t know if it just consciously happens, I don’t know.
“I remember the first time after we were playing Derby away and I just didn’t want to be there. I remember the manager [Sir Alex Ferguson] dropped me the week after actually, and I hadn’t told anyone, I ended up telling them a few weeks later, I think as it was quite hard.’
Scholes also recalled a moment last year when he struggled to understand that Aiden had been suffering from a toothache.
“Don’t get me wrong, he can be so happy it’s untrue, and it gives you great pleasure and joy, it’s not all bad,’ Scholes said. “There was a time last year I took him away and he kept feeling his mouth and not sleeping and I had no idea what was wrong with him.
“He kept doing it and doing it, so I put numbing gel on his lips because he can’t tell you what’s wrong or got pain anywhere and he won’t go to a dentist. He won’t sit there and have someone open his mouth, he just can’t do it.
“We got him to a special needs dentist and they had to put him to sleep with gas. He had to have a filling and all sorts then had an operation because his mouth was a mess. But he can’t tell you what pain he’s in. That must have been going on eight-to-nine months, imagine having toothache for nine months?”
Nigeria International and African Footballer of the Year, Ademola Lookman, has expressed his ongoing struggle to find his scoring form with Atalanta, despite recently netting his first goal of the season during a 1-1 draw against AC Milan.
Although he played a crucial role by scoring the equalizer after AC Milan took an early lead through Samuele Ricci., Lookman admitted that he has not yet rediscovered his best form both physically and in front of goal.
The match at the New Balance Arena in Bergamo marked Lookman’s fifth appearance in Serie A this season. Following a summer transfer saga involving a failed move to Inter Milan, he clarified that he prefers not to dwell on past events and is focused on contributing to his team’s success.
In an interview with DAZN Italia, Lookman emphasized his commitment to helping the team and expressed optimism about improving his performance in future games.
“It’s important to be available for the team, to help the team,” Lookman told DAZN Italia as per Football Italia. “I’ve not been able to find form yet, physically or in front of goal, but I’ll get there eventually and this was a step forward in the right direction. Hopefully in the coming games we’ll be able to get some wins.”
He further made it abundantly clear he does not want to talk about the past or what happened in recent months when pressed if scoring his first goal of the season had brought back his happiness with Atalanta.
“I think that when I’m on the pitch, the most important thing is to try to help the team win. We want to keep climbing up the table and that’s the most important thing, to win football games,” he noted
Meanwhile, Atalanta’s coach, Ivan Juric, praised Lookman, calling him a “spectacular player” while highlighting his determination to succeed.
Juric noted that their training approach aimed to enhance Lookman’s match fitness and that he expects more goals to come as the forward continues to perform well in training.
“I think we pushed him to play more than perhaps he should’ve done because we wanted him to achieve match fitness,” Juric equally told DAZN. “He is a special type of player — in training and on the pitch, he is a sight to behold. A winner with incredible determination, and I am very happy for him.
“We were only talking yesterday, and he said if he keeps training like this, the goal will come — and today, it did.”
As Atalanta aims to climb higher on the Serie A table, Lookman’s contributions will be crucial as he looks to regain his scoring touch.
Integrated multi-energy firm extends CAF partnership till 2028
The journey of the prestigious TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) trophy began in earnest with Lagos as the first stop of the 2025 Trophy Tour yesterday , October 29th, with pomp and ceremony.
In partnership with the Confederation of African Football (CAF), TotalEnergies launched the continental tour to share the excitement with stakeholders and fans ahead of the 35th edition of the biennial competition holding in Morocco between December 21 and January 18, 2026.
The initiative will see the iconic trophy on tour of five African countries including Nigeria, Angola, South Africa, Côte d’Ivoire and Morocco—allowing millions of fans to connect with the symbol of African football glory.
Speaking at the Lagos flag-off, Managing Director of TotalEnergies Marketing Nigeria Plc, Dr. Samba Seye, expressed pride in Nigeria’s role as the starting point of the tour, affirming the company’s deep-rooted commitment to African football.
“We are delighted to host the first stage of the Trophy Tour here in Lagos, Nigeria and kick off the 2025 tournament. Being the partner of African football is a great source of pride. Football is a universal, federating sport that is synonymous with joy, enthusiasm and, of course, energy,” he said.
Similarly, Alhaji Abdullahi Umar, General Manager, Retail & Cards, TotalEnergies Marketing Nigeria Plc, the enduring spirit of African excellence by confirming the extension of the partnership between TotalEnergies and CAF till 2028.
“Our partnership with the Confederation of African Football has been a cornerstone of how we engage with communities across Africa,” Umar said. “This partnership, which has now been extended to 2028, goes beyond sponsorship — it is a shared vision built on unity, empowerment, and the celebration of African excellence through sport.”
He further stated that football is not just about the competition but the unity and shared goal that drives the sport.
He added: “Football is not just about competition, it’s about community, resilience, and the power of shared dreams. At TotalEnergies, we believe in that power — the power that unites, inspires, and drives Africa forward.”
Attended by various stakeholders from TotalEnergies, the Lagos event attracted football enthusiasts, corporate partners, and members of the media, who gathered to witness the gleaming AFCON trophy up close—a golden emblem representing not just victory, but unity, resilience, and the dreams of millions across the continent.
The Lagos leg of the Trophy Tour began with a press conference at Eko Tower 2, Victoria Island, before moving to a vibrant public viewing event at Marcellina’s Place, GRA Ikeja, where excited fans turned out in large numbers to take photos with the iconic trophy and celebrate Nigeria’s proud place in the history of African football excellence.
The tour now proceeds to its next destination, continuing its journey across Africa as the continent counts down to the grand football festival in December.
President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, has expressed strong confidence that the Super Eagles will be fully prepared to secure a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as the team officially opens camp on Sunday, November 9, in Rabat, Morocco.
The three-time African champions will lock horns with Gabon’s Panthers in the semi-final of the CAF Play-offs on Thursday, November 13, while the other semi-final pits Cameroon against the Democratic Republic of Congo. The winners of both fixtures will face off in the final on Sunday, November 16, with the victor booking a place in the Intercontinental Play-Offs for next year’s global showpiece, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Speaking via an official NFF statement, Gusau said meticulous preparations are already underway in partnership with the National Sports Commission (NSC) to ensure the team is in top form for the decisive encounters.
“Everything is being done by the NSC and the NFF to ensure that nothing is left to chance. No stone will be left unturned,” the NFF President said. “That special Nigerian spirit which saw the team score the four goals they needed against Benin Republic on the final day of the qualifiers will propel them to victory in the play-offs.”
He emphasized that the players and technical crew are in close communication and share a collective determination to deliver success for the nation.
“We are already speaking to the players, and everyone is on the same page,” Gusau continued. “Every preparation required to see the team soar to victory is being made. The players are additionally motivated by that universal dream of every footballer — to feature at the FIFA World Cup finals.”
The Super Eagles’ play-off fixtures will be staged at either the 18,000-capacity El-Barid Stadium or the 22,000-capacity Prince Moulay El Hassan Sports Complex in Rabat, while the final will hold at the Stade Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan.
Meanwhile, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced that a draw will be held on Thursday, October 30, to determine which of the semi-final ties will be played in each of the Rabat venues.
With the weight of expectation from millions of Nigerians and the federation’s promise of total support, all eyes will be on Rabat as the Super Eagles chase another shot at World Cup glory.
John Obi Mikel believes Arsenal are capable of winning both the Premier League and the Champions League this season and claims Mikel Arteta has the best squad in Europe at his disposal.
Arsenal currently sit four points clear at the top of the Premier League and already hold a seven-point advantage over reigning champions Liverpool.
Arteta’s side have also made an impressive start to their Champions League campaign as they have beaten Athletic Bilbao, Olympiacos and Atletico Madrid without conceding a goal.
Obi Mikel, who won two league titles during his career with Chelsea, feels Arsenal are the standout candidates to win the Premier League this season and says the options Arteta has in his squad are ‘frightening’.
“This season I think it’s Arsenal’s to lose,” Obi Mikel said on The Obi One Podcast. “If Arsenal and Mikel Arteta don’t win the Premier League… the squad, the depth they have, is frightening.
“They have the best squad not just in the Premier League, not just in England, in world football right now. I bet you there’s no better squad depth than Arsenal’s.
“Not just talking about the eleven who start, what you have on the bench who come in and win games, Arsenal, there’s no better.
“Sometimes it’s not the starting eleven that wins you games, it’s who you bring off the bench, and we’ve seen Arsenal. Martinelli coming off the bench to win them games, Eze, Merino, Havertz is injured.
“It’s frightening and Mikel Arteta knows that, this is Arsenal’s title to lose. Deep down they know it’s the truth, this is the season for Arsenal to win the Premier League. City are not there, Liverpool are struggling, we [Chelsea] don’t have the experience to go and win the Premier League.
“We’re talking about the Premier League, I think they can go on to win the Champions League, this is how good Arsenal are.
“It’s scary, I’m telling you, the squad they have, the players they have, the way they are playing, and I can see a little bit of a mental shift, I think right now they believe, there’s something there, I can feel it now, finally Arsenal are ready.”
Arsenal have faced criticism over their playing style having scored just five of their 16 Premier League goals from open play this season.
But Obi Mikel believes Arteta has enough attacking options to not only rely on set-pieces.
“It doesn’t matter how you score, it doesn’t matter how you win games, it doesn’t matter how you win the title, just win,” Obi Mikel said.
