The Nation Newspaper

Category: Sports

  • Super Eagles: NFF  demands compensation from Airtel over ambush marketing

    Super Eagles: NFF  demands compensation from Airtel over ambush marketing

    The Nigeria Football Federation has threatened legal action against telecom company, Airtel Nigeria over the latter’s ambush marketing of the senior men national football, Super Eagles, currently campaigning at the 35th  Africa Cup of Nations finals in Morocco.

    In a letter submitted to the company by NFF’s solicitors, Festus Keyamo Chambers, the nation’s supreme football-governing body took particular exception to an image on Airtel Nigeria’s verified Instagram handle which had live pictures of 4 players of the Super Eagles as well as a trademarked logo of the NFF and a logo of Airtel beside each other in a single box, and containing the phrases “We are with you, Eagles!” and ‘#FeelTheConnection’ which gave the impression that there is a collaboration between the NFF and Airtel Nigeria. “Your organization has thereby engaged in passing off as the said publications are a misleading advertisement that suggests the association of your organization with the NFF and its affiliates.

    Read Also: Despite AFCON loss, BUA chairman to fulfill $500,000 pledge to Super Eagles

     “Our client holds the view that this publication was made maliciously as you are aware that the NFF has a sponsorship contract with a competing brand. The purpose of the publication was to destroy our client’s relationship with her partners and sponsors thereby depriving our client of revenue while exploiting the goodwill of the NFF brand and the success of the Super Eagles to give your business exposure.

     “Our client is dissatisfied with the foregoing action carried out by your organization and has directed us to explore all lawful means to secure redress for them.”

    The solicitors went ahead to, on behalf of the NFF, “demand immediate removal of the offending publications and all similar publications from your Instagram page and all other social media pages belonging to your organization; a cessation of any further publication in the manner of the publication complained about in this letter and; the immediate payment of the sum of N1,000,000,000,00 (One Billion Naira) only as compensation for our client’s loss of revenue, loss of reputation as general damages.”   

  • Remo Stars Stadium: Monimichelle Sports bags historic FIFA Quality Certification

    Remo Stars Stadium: Monimichelle Sports bags historic FIFA Quality Certification

    • By Inioluwa David

    Nigerian sports infrastructure has reached a historic milestone with the official FIFA Quality certification of the hybrid synthetic pitch at Remo Stars Football Club’s stadium in Ikenne, Ogun State.

     Constructed by Monimichelle Sports, the surface is the first in the country to receive this globally recognized standard, marking a major shift in the quality of athletic facilities available in West Africa.

    This certification follows an exhaustive period of laboratory and field testing to ensure the pitch meets FIFA’s most stringent specifications.

    To earn the “FIFA Quality” designation, the surface was reportedly  evaluated on critical performance metrics, including ball roll and rebound, player-to-surface interaction, durability, and impact safety. By passing these tests, the Remo Stars facility is now positioned among an elite group of international venues capable of providing world-class playing conditions for professional athletes.

    Read Also: AFCON 2025: Fans decry poor officiating in Nigeria’s loss to Morrocco

    The pitch itself is a specialized hybrid synthetic system engineered by Monimichelle Sports. It was designed to bridge the gap between high-performance professional play and the heavy-duty requirements of community usage. According to the developers, the surface combines elite-level performance with enhanced safety features intended to reduce injury risks for players.

    “This certification isn’t just a badge—it’s a confirmation that Nigerian engineering and innovation can meet the highest standards in the global game,”  Monimichelle Sports’ CEO, Ebi Egbe,  said  in a statement. “We are honoured that the Remo Stars pitch has achieved what no other in the country has, and we remain committed to elevating sports infrastructure across every region of Nigeria.”

    Based in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Monimichelle Sports has become a leader in African sports technology. This achievement at Remo Stars FC serves as a demonstration of local technical capability and international competitiveness.

    As Nigeria continues to develop its football landscape, this certified pitch sets a new benchmark for future stadium projects across the continent, ensuring that the next generation of talent has access to surfaces that meet the highest global standards for safety and performance.

  • Senate Committee on Sports  seeks AFCON podium finish for Super Eagles

    Senate Committee on Sports  seeks AFCON podium finish for Super Eagles

    The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Sports Development, Senator Abdul Ahmed Ningi, has commended the Super Eagles and Nigerians for their resilience and patriotism following Nigeria’s narrow semi-final loss to hosts Morocco at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations.

    In a message of appreciation released yesterday, Senator Ningi praised Nigerians for their unwavering support, prayers and unity behind the national team during what he described as a gallant outing in Rabat.

    Although the Super Eagles were beaten in the tournament’s semi-final after a penalty shootout defeat, the lawmaker said the team displayed courage, discipline and national pride throughout the encounter.

     “Football, like life, has moments of triumph and moments that test our resolve, and our team has shown admirable character throughout this tournament,” Ningi stated.

    Read Also: Despite AFCON loss, BUA chairman to fulfill $500,000 pledge to Super Eagles

    Ningi  also lauded the professionalism and resilience of the players, urging them to approach the third-place match against Egypt with renewed confidence and determination.

     “As you prepare to face the Egyptian National Team, I urge you to approach the game with unity and belief. The nation stands firmly behind you and believes in your capacity to finish strong and secure a deserving podium finish for Nigeria,” he said.

    Senator Ningi concluded by encouraging Nigerians to continue supporting the Super Eagles as they seek to end their AFCON campaign on a high note.

  • Niger Delta Games: Imo mobilises for Scouting as  Edo begins trials

    Niger Delta Games: Imo mobilises for Scouting as  Edo begins trials

    Imo State and host Edo State have stepped up preparations for the 2nd  Niger Delta Games, with both states taking decisive steps to ensure strong outings at the regional multi-sport event scheduled to hold in Benin City  between February 20  and 27.

    In Imo State, the Liaison Committee for the Niger Delta Games has mobilised all 27 Local Government Areas for comprehensive screening and scouting of athletes.

    Chairman of the State Liaison Committee, Hon. Obinna Onyeocha, disclosed this while addressing journalists, stressing that the state is fully prepared and determined to surpass its performance at the maiden edition held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

    Onyeocha explained that the mobilisation drive is aimed at identifying the very best talents across the grassroots, noting that the directive was issued through the Commissioner for Sports to all Local Government Areas to ensure only top-quality athletes are registered for the state trials.

    He further revealed that the committee is working closely with the 17 accredited state sports associations and their coaches to guarantee a transparent and successful scouting process.

    Read Also: AFCON 2025: Fans decry poor officiating in Nigeria’s loss to Morrocco

     “We in the State Liaison Committee have been working with recognised sports associations, and we have appealed to all Local Government Areas to ensure the prompt registration of eligible athletes to guarantee full representation for the state,” Onyeocha told NDG Media.

    Concluding, he reaffirmed Imo State’s readiness for the Games, stating that young talents from across the state have already been identified and mobilised as part of early preparations.

    Meanwhile, in Edo State, final preparations officially began yesterday, January 15,as Team Edo commenced athletes’ trials, starting with the athletics association.

    The trials, held at the track and field arena in Benin City, saw athletes and coaches take to action in the early hours of the day.

    Events competed for  included the 100m, 200m and 400m races, long jump, triple jump, high jump, javelin, discus and hammer throw. Both newly discovered athletes and established performers participated, expressing confidence and determination to win gold medals for the host state.

    Athletes such as Emmanuel Shakamomodu (Javelin), Ibrahim Haamidu (Long Jump) and Jennifer Osemwengie (Women’s Long Jump) described their preparations as intense, adding that the involvement of the organisers and sponsors—Dunamis Icons Ltd and the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC)—serves as a major source of motivation.

    Head Coach of the Edo State Athletics Association, Thadeus Omodiale, expressed satisfaction with the trials, declaring that his association is already far ahead in preparations.

     “We are ninety percent ready for the Niger Delta Games. We started the trials today and it went well. We already know those that can deliver,” Omodiale said.

    “We know our athletes’ capacity and capability, but the trials were necessary as it will enable us to select the athletes properly. We are beginning full training on Monday as part of the final preparation for the Games.”

    Also speaking, the Director of Sports Development and Operations, Pastor Osayomore Aghahowa, confirmed Edo State’s readiness, noting that athlete registration has been concluded and trials will continue into the coming week.

    With Imo State intensifying grassroots scouting and host Edo State fine-tuning its athletes through competitive trials, expectations are high that the 2nd  Niger Delta Games will showcase improved performances, fresh talents and intense competition across the participating states.

  • IGC set to host 2026 Sun Open Amateur Golf Tournament

    IGC set to host 2026 Sun Open Amateur Golf Tournament

    All is set for the second edition of the 2026 Sun Open Amateur Golf Tournament, scheduled to take place at the Ibadan Golf Club, Onireke, Ibadan.

    The three-day tournament, sponsored by the High Performance Centre and Sports Leadership Hub (HPCSLH), is expected to attract amateur golfers from across Nigeria.

    The competition will also serve as a qualifying event for the 2026 Qatar Open Golf Championship.

    Speaking at a press briefing on Wednesday at the Ibadan Golf Club, the convener of the tournament, Dr Bob Olukoya, disclosed that over 100 golfers have already registered for the event.

    Present at the briefing include, Chairman, Oyo State Golf Association, Moses Ojo, IGC Treasurer, Mike Babalola, former General Manager, Oyo State Sports Council,  Gboyega Makinde and  Dolapo Junior from Abeokuta Golf Club.

    According to Dr Olukoya, the Sun Open Amateur Golf Tournament is part of a national qualifying series that will produce Nigeria’s representative at the prestigious Qatar Open.

    “HPCSLH is the organizer of the 2026 Sun Open Golf Competition, which serves as a qualifier for the Qatar Open in 2026. The last qualifier was held at Port Harcourt Golf Club, and this year it is coming to Ibadan Golf Club,” he said.

    Read Also: Despite AFCON loss, BUA chairman to fulfill $500,000 pledge to Super Eagles

    He explained that the winner of the Ibadan tournament will represent Nigeria at the Qatar Open Golf Championship, scheduled for Qatar between April  2 and 4  where they will be competing in different handicaps.

    “We are here today to sensitize members of this prestigious club and the wider golfing community in Oyo State and Nigeria about this unique event. We have also engaged key stakeholders at the state secretariat, and we are fortunate that the Governor of Oyo State and some cabinet members are golfers. The state government is fully behind this tournament, and we are grateful for that support,” Olukoya added.

    He further commended the Ibadan Golf Club for its hospitality and preparedness, expressing confidence that the club would deliver a world-class hosting experience.

    Also speaking, the Captain of Ibadan Golf Club, Seyi Alaba, thanked the organizers for choosing Ibadan as the host venue, describing it as a significant milestone for the club and the state.

    “I want to sincerely appreciate the convener, Dr Bob Olukoya, for bringing this tournament to Ibadan Golf Club. We do not take this gesture for granted. It is a big deal for us, and it further affirms the standard of our facility, which can compete with any golf course anywhere,” Alaba said.

    He noted that the club is excited to host the tournament, stressing that it aligns with ongoing efforts to promote golf, increase awareness of the sport, and develop young talents within Oyo State.

    “We have been working over the past few weeks to ensure that our course is in top shape for this qualifying tournament. As of today, we are about 95 percent ready, with just a few finishing touches left. Our executive committee has met and deliberated extensively to ensure the course and all supporting services are fully prepared,” he added.

    Mr Alaba assured participants and spectators that the club is ready in all aspects, including course conditions, hospitality, and logistics.

    “Golf is not just about the fairways; it is also about hosting, accommodation, and creating a great experience for everyone involved. We are fully ready to support the Sun Open and make it a successful event,” he concluded.

    The 2026 Sun Open Amateur Golf Tournament is expected to further boost the profile of amateur golf in Nigeria while providing a pathway for local talents to compete on the international stage.

  • Nigeria set stage for Davis Cup showdown against Uzbekistan

    Nigeria set stage for Davis Cup showdown against Uzbekistan

    All is now set for the Davis Cup World Group II tie between Nigeria and Uzbekistan, slated  for Lagos between February 7 and 8, with organisers confirming full technical, security and logistical readiness for the international men’s team tennis fixture.

    The confirmation was given at a joint media briefing by the Nigeria Tennis Federation and the Lagos Lawn Tennis Club 1895, where the federation’s President, Victor Ochei, described the hosting rights as a significant statement of Nigeria’s growing stature in global tennis.

     “This hosting opportunity reflects Nigeria’s steady rise in international tennis following consistent performances in recent years,” Ochei said. “It also demonstrates the confidence of the International Tennis Federation in our organisational capacity, infrastructure and security arrangements.”

    The Davis Cup, the world’s leading international men’s team tennis competition organised by the ITF, is structured across multiple tiers. World Group II represents a highly competitive level, with nations contesting promotion to World Group I.

    The Lagos tie will be played over two days and consist of five rubbers—four singles and one doubles match.

    Practice courts will open on February 2, allowing both teams adequate preparation ahead of competition.

    Ochei said hosting the tie goes beyond on-court action, noting that it is expected to stimulate sports tourism, economic activity and youth development, while further strengthening Nigeria’s reputation as a reliable destination for major international sporting events.

    Read Also: AFCON 2025: Fans decry poor officiating in Nigeria’s loss to Morrocco

    To ensure seamless execution, the federation has constituted a 15-member Central Planning Committee chaired by Victor Hembah, working in collaboration with the ITF, the National Sports Commission, the Lagos State Government, security agencies and the host club.

    Hembah emphasised the role of media visibility in driving fan engagement and turnout.

     “Media and publicity are critical to the success of this event,” he said. “We are deploying robust, real-time coverage across mainstream broadcast platforms and digital media to ensure widespread visibility and strong spectator presence.”

    On venue readiness, the President of the Lagos Lawn Tennis Club 1895, Dr Adeyinka Adewusi, assured that the historic club is fully prepared to host the tie.

     “Lagos Lawn Tennis Club 1895 is very ready to host this Davis Cup World Group II play-off,” Adewusi said. “We have some of the best tennis facilities in Africa, and our guests will experience a secure environment, world-class courts and the hospitality for which this club is known.”

    He added that the club, which recently marked 130 years of existence, has a long tradition of hosting international competitions and is committed to deploying all necessary resources to deliver a world-class event.

  • Morocco, Senegal AFCON final ‘a 50-50 tie’, says Regragui

    Morocco, Senegal AFCON final ‘a 50-50 tie’, says Regragui

    After beating Nigeria to reach Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final on home soil, Morocco coach Walid Regragui shifted focus to the final against Senegal saying it will be a superb match-up when they face off on Sunday.

    Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou emerged the hero as the Atlas Lions booked their place in the final for the first time in 21 years, edging out Nigeria 4-2 on penalties after a 0-0 semi-final contest in Rabat on Wednesday at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.

    Bounou, who plays for Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal, produced decisive saves to deny Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi and propel the Atlas Lions one step closer to continental glory.

    Youssef En-Nesyri took the decisive kick for Morocco after Bounou had stopped Onyemaechi’s effort. Neil El Aynaoui and Paul Onuachu converted the first penalties for Morocco and Nigeria, respectively, before Stanley Nwabali saved Hamza Igamane’s effort, to give Nigeria the upper hand.

    Read Also: Despite AFCON loss, BUA chairman to fulfill $500,000 pledge to Super Eagles

    However, Bounou stepped up to deny Chukwueze, before Eliesse Ben Seghir and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru scored for either side. Achraf Hakimi then stepped up to make it 3-2. Bounou then turned the hero after he saved Onyemaechi’s kick.

    En-Nesyri was left with the honours of taking Morocco to the final, and he did it with a superbly taken penalty sending Nwabali the wrong way.

    Speaking after the game, Regragui touched on their final meeting against the Lions of Teranga, who reached the stage after defeating Egypt 1-0 in their other quarter-final fixture at the Grand Stade of Tangier.

     “It’s a superb final with the best African teams of the last three years. A fantastic team and a golden people, brothers of Morocco. It’s a superb match-up,” said Regragui. “We have three days to recover. It’s a fifty-to-fifty tie. It’s the first time we’ve faced them in a final.”

    Discussing their victory against Nigeria, he said: “They’re an athletic team, they ran a lot. But they had two shots, one of which was on target. It just goes to show, we’ve been talking about the defense for three years now.”

    He added: “We closed down the angles of positioning, the transitions. It was tough, I won’t lie. What interests me is self-esteem. It can be perceived as arrogance. I don’t expect people to give me anything.

     “No one can erase what I’ve done before. The most important thing is that Morocco is in the final. I need to focus on bringing it home together.”

    Regragui continued: “What matters to us is celebrating tonight, but we’re preparing for Sunday starting tomorrow. Well done to the medical staff who never stop. Today is a victory for everyone. Recovery will begin so that we are ready mentally and physically.”

    Regragui, however, admitted Morocco must improve in some areas if they are to be crowned AFCON champions on Sunday.

    “We came up against a very solid team. We still have room for improvement. We have a fighting spirit, a desire to play for the jersey. It has always been my objective to instil that,” explained Regragui.

    He concluded: “We need to change our DNA. We need to get used to playing in the semifinals. The more consistent we are, the more titles we can win.”

    The final against the Super Eagles will be played at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, in Rabat, on Sunday.

  • Sinner to meet Gaston in Australian Open first round

    Sinner to meet Gaston in Australian Open first round

    • Sabalenka to play French wildcard

    Defending champion Jannik Sinner will meet French world number 94 Hugo Gaston in the first round of the Australian Open in his bid for a third straight title at Melbourne Park, while women’s top seed Aryna Sabalenka takes on French wildcard Tiantsoa Rakotomanga.

    Men’s top seed Carlos Alcaraz will play 79th -ranked Australian Adam Walton in the Spaniard’s quest for a first Australian Open crown to become the youngest man to complete the career Grand Slam.

    At the draw ceremony at Melbourne Park, 10-times champion Novak Djokovic, the fourth seed, was bracketed next to 71st -ranked Spaniard Pedro Martinez for the opening round of the Grand Slam starting on Sunday.

    Serb Djokovic, who is gunning for an all-time record 25th  Grand Slam title to break clear of a tie with Margaret Court, could face rising Italian Lorenzo Musetti, the fifth seed, in the quarter-finals before a possible semi-final against Sinner.

    Italian Sinner has a smooth first week but fans will hope it includes a third round match-up with 28th-seeded Brazilian Joao Fonseca should the exciting, 19-year-old talent prove fit following recent back problems.

     “The draw is very difficult, it doesn’t matter who you play,” said Sinner at the draw ceremony. “We are the best players in the world and the way is very, very long.”

    Alcaraz has home hero Alex de Minaur in his quarter of the draw but the Australian sixth seed must pass a tricky first test against Italian Matteo Berrettini, the Wimbledon runner-up in 2021.

    Read Also: AFCON 2025: Fans decry poor officiating in Nigeria’s loss to Morrocco

    Twice champion Sabalenka has few threats in her quarter of the draw before a potential semi-final against third seed Coco Gauff, who opens against 55th -ranked Uzbek Kamilla Rakhimova.

    Women’s second seed Iga Swiatek will meet a qualifier in the first round but her path to a first Australian Open title and seventh Grand Slam crown overall could mean a crunch quarter-final against the resurgent Kazakh Elena Rybakina.

    Former Wimbledon champion Rybakina, the fifth seed, looms as a dangerous proposition after clinching her maiden WTA Finals trophy in November in a major return to form.

    Defending champion Madison Keys will face unseeded Ukrainian Oleksandra Oliynykova but the American ninth seed has a tough road to the title.

    Keys could meet sixth-seeded compatriot Jessica Pegula in the fourth round before a potential quarter-final against another American in fourth seed Amanda Anisimova.

    Home favourite Thanasi Kokkinakis, who had a protected ranking for the Australian Open due to injury, pulled out of the men’s draw on Thursday after suffering a shoulder injury at the Adelaide International.

  • Eto’o  incurs CAF’s wrath over AFCON conduct

    Eto’o  incurs CAF’s wrath over AFCON conduct

    Cameroon Football Federation (FECAFOOT) President Samuel Eto’o has been handed a four-match ban for alleged misconduct during the team’s 2-0 defeat by hosts Morocco at the Africa Cup of Nations last Friday, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) said in a statement.

    Eto’o was reportedly seen making an angry gesture over refereeing decisions in the presence of CAF President Patrice Motsepe.

    Players from both sides also jostled each other, and CAF said on Sunday it had opened investigations into violent confrontations during AFCON matches.

    Read Also: Despite AFCON loss, BUA chairman to fulfill $500,000 pledge to Super Eagles

    CAF’s disciplinary board fined Eto’o $20,000, a decision FECAFOOT said “lacks any explicit justification”.

    “The expedited procedure leading to this decision raises serious concerns regarding the fundamental requirements of a fair process,” FECAFOOT said on Thursday, adding it would appeal.

    “FECAFOOT reaffirms its support for its president and its commitment to respecting the principles governing credible disciplinary justice,” it added.

    Hosts Morocco will play Senegal in the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on Sunday.

  • AFCON 2025: Fans decry poor officiating in Nigeria’s loss to Morrocco

    AFCON 2025: Fans decry poor officiating in Nigeria’s loss to Morrocco

    Some football fans have berated the Confederation of African Football (CAF) over poor officiating in Nigeria’s 2-4 loss on penalties to hosts Morocco in the semifinals of the 2025 African Cup of Nations (AFCON).

    The fans took to social media to criticise Ghanian referee Daniel Nii Laryea, who took charge of proceedings on the day, alleging that his decisions were biased.

    At the Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium on Wednesday, Morrocco put a dent to Nigeria’s unscathed run in the tournament as both teams could not find the back of the net in120 minutes.

    After the game, Super Eagles right-back, Bright Osayi-Samuel, while interviewed by journalists, noted that the referee made numerous unfair calls.

    “It was very painful to lose. I think we played well. The back four was amazing and I am proud of the team.

    “The manager and board members came down to say they are proud of the team. It is painful that we lost on penalties—which is about luck.

    “One thing I would say is that the referee was appalling. I am not saying that is the reason we lost, but (he) was making very wrong decisions.

    “It is painful to see that we have such referee in big games like today. However, I wish Morrocco all the best,’’ Osayi-Sameul added.

    Nigerian actor, Pere Egbi, on his X account, lambasted referees in AFCON, alleging unprofessionalism while urging CAF to henceforth invite officials outside the continent.

    “AFCON should never have referees from Africa officiating its games again.

    “Bring in European or American referees who would referee a game with fairness and zero prejudice.

    “You can’t tell me that the refereeing in this AFCON has been fair! Referees now come in the pitch to play games as well now.

    “This is my take, I don’t care if you like it or not,’’ he said.

    A Nigerian journalist, Sulaiman Adebayor, who is in Morrocco, on his X account noted that poor officiating could have affected Super Eagles mentally.

    Read Also: BREAKING: AFCON 2025: Morocco beat Nigeria on penalties to book final date with Senegal

    “I can understand people saying we shouldn’t blame the officiating alone but if you understand football & how it works, biased officiating could knock you off psychologically.

    “All the niggles & inconsistent calls affected flow of the game and mental state as well.

    “Imagine, a Moroccan player kicked the ball away to prevent play from commencing immediately and the referee warned him instead of issuing a card.

    “Although, we didn’t play to our level. Substitutions were late and we need to take our penalty sessions seriously in training,’’ Adebayor noted.

    Another Nigerian journalist, Osasu Obayiuwana, said he had no words for the center referee.

    “…But for @DanielLaryea3, the Ghanaian referee that handled this #MARNGA #AFCON2025 semi-final, I have no good words for him’’.

    The loss means Nigeria will face Egypt for the third-place finish on Saturday while hosts Morrocco will take on Senegal in the final game on Sunday.

    (NAN)