Benue FA lauds Governor Alia on Aper Aku Stadium renovation The egg-heads of Benue

 

 Benue State Football Association (BSFA)  has commended the State Governor, His Excellency Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, for approving the immediate regrassing of the pitch at Aper Aku stadium, Makurdi.

Barr. Paul Edeh, the President of Benue FA and Ratels Sports Development Foundation said, "The governor who has spent few weeks in office is already demonstrating leadership.

"With the approval to fix the Aper Aku stadium pitch, teams located within Makurdi, especially Lobi Stars, will now have a comfortable place to train and play their home matches."

Edeh also spoke of the readiness of the board to build a state-of-the-art football secretariat within the stadium when authorities approve a land space for that purpose.

Meanwhile, eight (8) upcoming coaches were given scholarships to take part in the next phase of training programme at the National Institute of Sports (NIS).

While performing an official presentation of the beneficiaries at the General Congress organised by BSFA at the weekend, Edeh, said the football association under his watch will embark on consistent training and re-training of coaches in the state.

The BSFA boss also revealed plans to organise a mega training session, in collaboration with La Liga, for many coaches drawn from the state before the end of 2023.

He then reiterated the resolve of the board to expand the frontiers of grassroots football development within the next three years.

The FA boss said part of the steps taken so far within 40 days of the board's existence was the engagement of critical stakeholders and partners including strategic visits to the Paramount Ruler of Tiv nation Prof. Ortese Ayatse Tor Tiv and that of Idoma nation, Dr. John Elaigwu Och' Idoma who are now football Grand Patron and Patron in the state.

The board also paid a courtesy visit to the President of the Nigeria Football Federation Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau and tertiary institutions in the state within the period under review.

"I want to assure everyone that this is a listening board that want to run an investment-driven football development programmes because balls are critical to the our developmental drive, we have concluded arrangement to import at least 10, 000 balls. We have also invited and met with La Liga representative for their experts to come to Benue and train our coaches.

"We will make coaches' training in an annual programme. From next year, coaches whose teams emerge tops at our various grassroots football competitions from the 23 LGAs will automatically be part of those who will be sent for more capacity building engagements at NIS and others," he said.

Responding, the Chairman of Nigeria Football Coaches Association, Benue State chapter, Coach Eugene Agabe, thanked the board for its laudable and consistent approach to football development.

Benue FA hosts inaugural Football Stakeholders Summit, as Governor's Cup returns

 

 

Executive Board of Benue State Football Association (BSFA), led by Barr. Paul Edeh recorded a milestone as it hosted a first ever football stakeholders summit at the weekend in Makurdi, the state capital.

The stakeholders summit which was held 49 days after the current BSFA board was inaugurated, witnessed the gathering of who-is-who in the state's football family.

Those who attended the summit included ex-internationals, club representatives, football administrators, coaches, referees, sports journalists among others drawn from the 23 Local Government Areas of the state.

Stakeholders, while speaking took turns to bare their minds on critical issues of importance, amidst the outpour of encomiums on the steps taken so far to show direction by the Benue FA board in less than two months.

Before then, BSFA Chairman, Barr. Paul Edeh, while recalling the various positive moves by his board, emphasised the need for peace and unity of purpose among the stakeholders.

"When we came on board, precisely 49 days ago, we took initiative on how to move football forward in order to rekindle the good old days when the various ex-internationals, some of whom are gathered here made us proud.

"I personally believe that there's no way we will make headway in developing football in the state without listening to those who have made a career from it, or are doing one thing or the other around football.

"Again, you can't grow the game when you have a divided house because a house divided against itself can't stand. We as stakeholders need to put heads together to find ways of developing football in Benue. We don't need to apply a political approach in developing football. We only need to speak and act as one.

"When an Asisat Oshoala, Francisca Ordega or Onome Ebi is playing, no one identifies them based on where they come from, so all we need to do always is to identify the things that unite us rather than distract or disunite us," said Edeh.

He emphatically enjoined Benue stakeholders to desist from "any form of pull him down syndrome, instead join hands to encourage and promote each other.

Declaring the summit open, the state Director of Sports Comrade Philip Ter Nongu announced that His Excellency Governor Hyacinth Alia has approved immediate resuscitation of the annual Governor's Cup.

He also revealed that the state number one citizen has also directed that work should resume immediately on the pitch of Aper Aku stadium in Makurdi, to enable respective teams in the state, particularly Lobi Stars return home and prosecute their matches conveniently.

On the Stakeholders' Summit, the Sports Director said, "In my 16 years as General-Secretary, I didn't witness where such a summit was organised. So this is very apt and laudable."

Vice Chairman of Lobi Stars and ex-international Dominic Iorfa as well as other former footballers - Emmanuel Abah and Abdul Sule, were among others who attended the event.

Iorfa particularly said, "Since my involvement in football in the early 80s, I have never seen football organised in this manner where all stakeholders are gathered to discuss issues."

National President, Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Mr. Isaiah Benjamin, while acknowledging the efforts and exploits of the incumbent FA board, solicited for support to trigger more successes in the state.

He assured that the sporting media will continuously support in adequate publicity of its programmes and activities.

Chairmen of the Nigeria Football Coaches Association and Nigeria Referees Council in Benue state, Mr. Eugene Agabe and Mr. Gbilekaa Anthony, as well as other stakeholders hailed the developmental strides and timely actions of BSFA.

Benue FA floats Chairman's Cup, to reward best performing Local Council Football boss

 

Barr. Paul Edeh has revealed plans by the board of Benue State Football Association (BSFA) to organise annual FA Chairman's Cup.

The philanthropist and President of Ratels Sports Development Foundation (RSDF) who made the disclosure  during the maiden General Congress organised by the current BSFA leadership in Makurdi at the weekend, said the Chairman's Cup will be competed for teams drawn from the 23 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the state.

He also announced that at the end of the competition, the overall best team will smile home with a cash sum of a N1 million and trophy, while runners-up and third-placed sides will get N700, 000 and N300, 000 respectively.

Barr. Paul Edeh also said that before hand, there will be Board Members and Local Council Football Chairman's Cup which will take place at the various communities and constituencies' levels.

"As a board, we are not leaving any stone unturned in ensuring that every talent anywhere in the state is identified and nurtured. This is one of our major move to return the state to the glory days.

"Alongside grassroots development, we will run football as a business, because gone are the days when the game was just for fun. In the business aspect of football, everyone from the players, coaches, up to the clubs, families and communities are beneficiaries.

"All hands need to be on deck to drive the process, so that together we can achieve more," he said.

Also, BSFA boss revealed that the board will towards the end of every year reward best performing Local Government football chairman with a brand new car.

He also expressed the readiness of the FA to honour politicians and others who distinguish themselves with their contributions towards grassroots football development in Benue State.

Aside from the board hierarchy, the LGA Football Chairmen and Secretaries as well as Club Representatives and other affiliate bodies attended the General Congress. The State Director of Sports, Comrade Philip Ter Nongu was among dignitaries who graced the event.

NWFL Championship: Abdul Sule donates 500k to Honey Badgers for excellent outing in Ikenne

Chairman of Honey Badgers FC, Abdul Sule has motivated his girls with the sum of Five Hundred Thousand (500,000) to as commendation gift for their impressive performances at the just concluded Nigeria Women Football League, NWFL Championship playoffs held in Ikenne. 

The Makurdi based girls finished joint third in Group B to where Lakeside Queens picked the sole ticket to the top flight.

Abdul Sule who commended the girls for their excellent display and show of discipline through the tournament noted that the gesture was to motivate the team and also reassured them of the management's commitment to help them achieve greatness as footballers and in life.

"This is to let them know we are happy with their great performance despite not winning but the performance was massive and unbelievable.

 "We already exodus of eight players moving to the biggest club in the premier league as a result of your wonderful performance in Ikenne.

"It's necessary to encourage the players as they are young and all is not about we must win but of course if we have the opportunity we will do that, our club is established to groom talents and give them opportunities to become greats, said the former Super Eagles' utility player. 

The former Chairman of Kogi United and Confluence Queens added that through collaborative efforts of the President of Ratels Sports Development Foundation, Barrister Paul Edeh, players of the club have been given hope and assured future after football and will continue to create a career paths for them to become something special in life. 

"I am working round the clock with Barrister Paul Edeh by bringing a lot of joy to the players, we pay for the players' school and of recent send some of them abroad to play football and at the same time learn new things and good education, so after their career they can fall back to something good to do."

Och' Idoma showers royal blessings on new Benue FA Board

.. Idoma Monarch Made Football Patron 

 

The paramount ruler of Idoma land, HIS Royal Majesty, Dr. John Odogbo Elaigwu has showered special blessings and encomiums on the new Benue State Football Association (BSFA) led by Barrister Paul Edeh. 

The courtesy visit to the Och' Idoma Palace, according to the FA, was in continuation of the Board's initial consultations and partnership drive with critical stakeholders within the state as part of effort to ensure holistic engagement for sustained football development.

Barrister Edeh, who intimated the highly respected Traditional Ruler of how the new FA Board emerged and its already set blueprints in advancing the course of football development, solicited for his support and prayers.

Edeh, a legal luminary turned football administrator was emphatic that at the core of the BSFA's vision, is massive development of the round-leather game at the grassroots as means of fostering peace and unity as well as engaging the youths to focus on meaningful ventures.

He said, "In the past, most state FAs concentrate on the state capital when it comes to football development, but today Benue State FA has come to understand that, that little girl or boy in Ogbadigbo, Adigbo and other communities across the state can make it in various fields of endeavour, outside being doctors, lawyers, journalists etc.

"For instance, a football legend like Daniel Amokachi and indeed many others have made a whole lot of impacts using football. Infact, they are now models, that young ones look up to excel.

"We can restore those good old days when football use to attract so much attention in our communities and various localities and that is why we as an FA Board are very intentional in creating pathways for us to fish out talents that will make Benue and Nigeria proud.

"Therefore, we came to seek the guidance of his Royal Majesty so we can move football development forward."

Responding, the Och' Idoma while congratulating the new FA board, swiftly enjoined them to always work together and give the chairman maximum support so as to steer Benue football to higher heights.

Amidst the release of Royal blessings through fervent prayers for the FA board as well as his numerous advice, the Och' Idoma who is the Chairman Idoma Traditional Ruling Council said, "A tree cannot make a forest. You all need to work together to achieve your set goals. As you have elected your chairman with one voice, always support his leadership to do well... Whatever you do now will determine what will be spoken about you in the future.

The Och' Idoma also recalled his football passion while growing up, adding, "I was a footballer while growing up just as my elder brother but we didn't have anyone to train or guide us. Now, it's no longer the situation. Young people should avoid all forms of vices and queue into opportunities that sports prevents. 

"We will continue to support football development and I urge everyone to also support this worthy course."

Meanwhile His Royal Majesty, Dr. John Odogbo Elaigwu, has now become the Patron of Benue State Football Association (BSFA).

The development comes few days after the paramount ruler of Tiv Nation, His Royal Majesty, Prof. James Ayatse, was named as football Grand Patron.

Edeh who hailed the indelible impact of Och' Idoma in ensuring peace and unity of his domain, urged the Monarch to give approval for annual hosting of Och' Idoma Cup.

While recalling the dearth of football activities in the state, particularly in Otukpo, Edeh appealed to the Och' Idoma to use his revered position to urge the state government in collaboration with the 23 Local Government Areas to put the interest of football development at heart by making available land for stadiums as well as put it in place.

He said, "No doubt, Otukpo does not have a single stadium where your children can train or play any match. The only one (township stadium) we managed to have back in the decades, is no longer available after it was taken over by a federal government agency. 

"Now in Otukpo, people play their matches on few primary and secondary school pitches. We then appeal to your royal majesty to prevail on the LGA Chairmen in Zone C and the Governor to make available a land for stadium each and establish them because football is a unifying factor for peaceful coexistence.

"When we came on board, we took an initiative to institute an annual Och' Idoma Cup, just as we had pleaded with his Royal Majesty Tor Tiv as a way to spread the message of Peace and Unity."

On his part, the Och' Idoma hailed the calibre of personalities in the FA and enjoined the board to remain focused.

The Traditional Ruler said he will accept to be a Patron of the FA while Tor Tiv is the Grand Patron, adding, "Respect must be given to the Tor Tiv in his status as the Chairman of Benue State Traditional Rulers Council. We are one. As Tor Tiv leads the Traditional Council in the state, he has our full support."

The Och' Idoma however, decried the attitude of some well-to-do individuals within Idoma, but singled out Barr Edeh for high commendations due to his philanthropic gestures which led to installation of power substation transformers in parts of Otukpo as well as other developmental moves.

Highpoint of the visit was the presentation of special packages including footballs, sports track suits, jerseys and a plaque to the traditional ruler.

Benue FA Board demands return of Otukpo Township Stadium

 

Benue State Football Association (BSFA) led by its vibrant Chairman Barrister Paul Edeh has demanded the return of the ancient Township Stadium in Otukpo to the FA, to enable teams to train and host championships.

Edeh, his entire FA Executive Board Members, affiliates, and other stakeholders made the crucial demand when they stormed the then football ground in Otukpo.

Coincidentally, the youths of the area who are eager to reclaim their playing pitch which was allegedly taken over by the Nigeria Communication Commission (NCC), a federal government agency, gathered in protest.

While they protested, the FA board in unison walked around and prayed to God to grant them their heart's desire, just as they appealed to the Benue State Government for its intervention.

Speaking, a popular and former Benue State-born player, Eugene Agaigbe, expressed his sadness over the state of the pitch which has been turned into an abandoned building site.

Agaigbe who also played for Lobi Stars of Makurdi said, "I feel very bad and disappointed when I came around after many years to see that this place has been turned into another thing entirely. I played here as far back as 1988/89 and later I came back to play for Obeya Babes in 1991.

"Throughout my football career, this is where I made my name. Now that I'm a coach I feel very bad because I should have taken my team to play on this same ground."

A former Councillor in the area, Honourable Francis Ijiga, said, "This land from the early 80s was designated as the Township Stadium in Otukpo. At that time, many clubs from within and outside Otukpo used to train and play football competitions here.

"The ground produced many football stars we heard of in the past. Unfortunately, in the early 90s, the land was taken over by other people and they converted and later abandoned it as against the original plan by the government that approved it as a football pitch.

Also speaking, BSFA board member and former organizing secretary of Otukpo Local Government Area, Mr. Godwin Oyiagba revealed that NCC took over the place over two decades ago with a promise to provide an alternative venue for the Township Stadium.

"This is the only stadium we have in Idoma land where I raised a team and that same team got to the National Division One League."

A former Match Commissioner and current BSFA Vice Chairman Alex Awunah said, "I have commissioned matches here in the late 80s and early 90s. This ground is very strategic for the youth of Otukpo and Benue State in general."

On his part, the FA Chairman, Barrister Edeh said, "The bible instructed that no one should take away the ancient landmark. The takeover of the Township Stadium is a clear indication that the ancient landmark has been moved.

"Teams especially in Otukpo don't have any place to train or play. They have been relegated to use primary and secondary schools and most times they are not granted permission. 

"We have come to reclaim the land. Look at the youths roaming the streets, they want to make a name for themselves but they can't because there's no place to use for training. In fact, in the last RATELS Benue Football League which was held a few weeks ago, no team from Otukpo participated because they don't have a place to train, let alone register to participate. 

"Just as His Royal Majesty said, the children who are birthed now are the ones who will reap from the legacies we will leave behind. I can assure you that nothing can be done with this abandoned building project anymore. The building is no more significant than having a football pitch here.

"There's no land that one can get for a Township Stadium that is on a strategic location, as the place is in the heart of  Otukpo."

Meanwhile, Barrister Edeh and his entourage had visited the paramount ruler of Idoma Land, HIS Royal Majesty Dr. John Odogbo Elaigwu on a courtesy call.

Benue FA Election: Barrister Edeh promises to run all-inclusive football association

A leading candidate for the chairmanship seat of the Benue State Football Association, BEFA, Barrister Paul Edeh has promised to lead the association with honesty and absolute inclusivity. 

Barrister Edeh stated this on Monday while featuring as a guest on a popular sports WhatsApp platform, Family United by Football, FUBF's Personality Interview session.

He stressed the need for every state football association to have proper synergy with the Local Football Councils to spread the development of the sports at the grassroot which he promise to do in Benue if elected. 

The distinguished legal luminary also assured that his FA would collaborate with Benue State Government to upgrade facilities and also build more for areas necessary. 

"Under my watch, I will ensure that the Local FAs are empowered and given what is due to them. The Board under my watch will advocate that each Local FA develop its framework for developing the game in their local communities. I will see how local FAs will operate with so much vigor and commitment to developing the game at the grassroots.

"We will seek to collaborate with the state government and thankfully we have a dynamic leadership in the state today that listens and wants to see how the game of football progresses. We will empower the local FAs and see that they can do as much as they can," he said. 

Barr. Edeh who has been successfully screened and cleared to contest for the top seat in Benue State Football Association election scheduled for Saturday, June 17, 2023, promised to speed up the process of making football a source of revenue-generating avenue in the state. 

An honest philanthropist and the President of Ratels Sports Development Foundation, RSDF, Barrister Edeh told the platform his plans to encapsulate the FIFA Forward Programme initiative which rests on increasing investment in football development, more impact through the achievement of football development objectives, and continued oversight to ensure that all funds are used responsibly.

He also used the medium to pay glowing tribute to the incumbent chairperson of Benue State FA, Rt. Hon. Margaret Icheen for her foresight in advancing the course of football development in the state which he promised to build on if elected as the new FA Boss. 

"What I have done by way of partnering with the FA over the years is because of the commitment and capacity of the leader of Benue for football. Hon. Margaret Icheen. She has done so much for the betterment and growth of football in Benue state "Despite lack of funds, she has led the FA to make remarkable impacts which attracted a person like me to get involved."

Paulina Ali wants total focus from Naija Ratels as NWPL resumes for final phase

 

Naija Ratels begin a crucial month for the season with the visit of Seven time NWFL Premiership Champions Pelican Stars to the Area 10 Sports Complex, Abuja on Wednesday.

The 'One Day At A Time' Ladies lost narrowly to the 'Ayade' Ladies in Calabar three weeks ago, through a late penalty kick scored by Bella Obioma.

Clearly, still reeling from that 1-0 defeat in Calabar, Naija Ratels are keen on returning to winning ways as they host the team from Calabar in what promises to be a  mouth-watering encounter.

Start striker Olamide Adugbe, who missed the last game, should be ready for this game, while the duo of Bunmi Oladeji and Motunrayo Ezekiel, who have already missed a chunk of fixtures due to national team assignment are in line to come back to the squad for Wednesday's game. 

Olowookeere's side have eight points and are third on the log of Group A, while their closest rival on the table is Confluence Queens, who would be facing table toppers Nasarawa Amazons in Lokoja at the same time.

Speaking ahead of the crucial encounter, Nigeria National U-20 Women Defender and Captain of the side Paulina Ali feels her team will triumph if they play their own game. 

"If we stay focused, confident and play our own game, then we can get the result we want." Ali told www.naijaratels.com

"This is our first season in the Premiership and usually there is this kind of pressure on us, but we have gone past that. We want to keep winning games and playing like an unbreakable team. We have to keep pulling out good performances week in week out as we have gotten to the final stage of season. 

"We are focused and more determined now. Its just what we have been working hard for." She Concluded.

Olamide Adugbe: A teenager at the forefront of Nigeria women football

Olamide Adugbe has proven to be one of the best players of her age, and is already compared with some of the best Nigerian women footballers. 

The young forward broke into the scene earlier this season, scoring important goals for NWFL Premiership side, Naija Ratels. The Edo-born striker scored one of the best goal in the league on Matchday two against Edo Queens at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium. A special goal that earned her side a precious point in Benin, wowing everyone at the Stadium. 

The former Nigeria Women National U-17, Flamingos Star, has scored four goals in just five matches in the top Women Football League in Nigeria (NWFL Premiership). She primarily plays as a striker and sometimes plays from the wing and has proven to be highly effective from both wings. 

She likes to dribble past defenders, has got a tremendous pace and takes great long shot. She gets involved in link-up play as well with fellow teammates Aminat Bello, Blessing Sunday and Motunrayo Ezekiel. 

The 18 year Old special talent also gets into good positions in attack, in order to receive threatening passes from her teammates, lays off defenders and cuts inside with short passes linking up with other attacking players.

Meanwhile, Adugbe has attributed her phenomena skill to Bayern Munich and Polish striker, Robert Lewandowski, who she described as her role model in the world of football. 

Lewandowski is widely regarded as one of the best strikers in the world, and is even considered by many to be one of the greatest centre-forwards of all time. An accurate and efficient finisher with his head and both feet, Lewandowski is a prolific goalscorer and Olamide feels she just want to be like him. 

The young forward also noted that her parents gave her the full supports, from childhood, especially her dad, who was always gifting her soccer balls to play with right inside their living room.

"I started playing football right from when I was a kid." She said.  

"My Dad played a huge role in my career, from when I started kicking the ball. He always gifts me the soccer ball and played it with me. It was kind of weird for some people, because in Africa, the girl-child isn't expected to play football. 

"Then when I started growing up, I started watching Robert Lewandowski. Learnt alot from him, his aura for goals and the way he positions himself on the pitch of play. One day I hope to be as popular as he is." 

Adugbe also hailed her present team Naija Ratels and the Club's President, Barrister Paul Edeh, who have been so supportive since she arrived at the Abuja based club. 

"He (Edeh) has been a  father figure to me and all the players in the team. He regards us as his daughters and that says alot. It is one of the reasons we always put all our efforts whenever we wear the yellow and green shirt of the Ratels."

Adugbe is no doubt, one of the most sought out players in the NWFL Premiership and surely do have a bright future ahead of her.

Olowookeere, Omokwo receive NWPL December Manager, Player of the Month Awards

 

Naija Ratels FC Manager, Bankole Olowookeere and Confluence Queens forward Mercy Omokwo both received their Naija Women Football League Awards for the best Coach and player for the month of December. 

The duo picked up their awards on Wednesday at the Ilorin Township Stadium, just before the NWFL Premiership Week Five game between Confluence Queens and Naija Ratels. 

Mercy Omokwo in the first week of January was nominated for the NWFL Premiership Player for the month of December alongside Abigail Sunday of Nasarawa Amazons and Olamide Adugbe of Naija Ratels. 

The in-form striker scored four goals in December, including a hat-trick against Pelican Stars in week one of the NWFL Premiership and went on to gain over 70% of votes from Women Football experts, thus becoming the first recipients of the prestigious Award for the 2022 NWFL Premiership season. 

Olowookeere won two matches, including a 2-2 draw against Edo Queens at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin. The former Dreamstar Ladies Coach got the accolades ahead of Liadi Bashiru of Confluence Queens and Christopher Danjuma of Nasarawa Amazons. 

Mercy Omokwo after receiving the awards, hailed her teammates and everyone involved in the team for giving her the platform and supports needed to excel. 

"This is the first time I am winning the player of the month award and for me, it is something special. Hopefully I can win more in the future. I am indeed grateful to all my teammates for their great supports and also to the technical crew and management as a whole. I will continue to give my best to Confluence Queens.

Pleased to be recognized, Bankole Olowookeere was also eager to give credit to his players, technical assistants, backroom staff and Club President, Barrister Paul Edeh for their help in allowing the team to perform to a top level. 

"I am just grateful to be part of this wonderful team," he said after receiving the award. " There are no egos in the squad, no cliques, everyone is really a tight unit and that definitely helps us on the pitch. He concluded.

Naija Ratels FC hails NFF, NWFL over FIFA’s COVID-19 Palliative

 

Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Premiership side, Naija Ratels FC President, Barrister Paul Edeh yesterday commended the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) for the release of the FIFA COVID-19 Relief funds to Championship and Nationwide clubs. 

The astute Football Administrator lauded the Amaju Pinnick led NFF and NWFL supremo Aisha Falode for fulfilling the promise made on the relief funds. The Legal Luminary also noted that the FIFA funds came just in time for the club which is now engaged in the ongoing NWFL Premiership 2022 Season.

The Abuja based NWFL Premiership club in a statement through its Media Officer Amarachi Mira Emereonye acknowledged the receipt of funds from the NFF by the club on Wednesday. 

According to the statement, the club will ensure that the COVID-19 Palliative is well utilized for it’s main purpose. 

“Without exception, the spread of the coronavirus seriously affected football around the world, leading to suspension of leagues, postponement or cancelation. 

“It is no doubt that the fund is recieved as a major boost in Women’s football in Nigeria and would equally encourage more development in women’s football at the grassroot level. 

“It is on this notion that we truly want to appreciate the NFF and NWFL for this massive boost to clubs in the Championship and Nationwide. This would go a long way in helping all the benefitting clubs  Nationwide in continuation and further preparation for the League Season.

“Naija Ratels FC strongly identifies with the transparent manner in which the NFF and the NWFL distributed the funds to the various clubs in the second and third tiers of the League. 

“We will judiciously utilize the funds, by using it for it’s main purpose and urge other clubs to do the same too.”

In a spirit of unity, solidarity and mutual understanding, FIFA released funds to various Football Associations in the world to distribute across to football clubs and other related bodies in their federation, mainly to cushion the effect the virus had on football.

Bar. Paul Edeh, Masai Ujiri, Shina Phillips to receive 2021 Sportivation Media Awards

All is set for the 2021 edition of Sportivation Media Awards which is billed to hold in Nigeria's entertainment and showbiz capital, Lagos, on Saturday, December 18, 2021.

Organised by Sportivation Media, a sports media, events and broadcast outfit, the award recognises and celebrates sports personalities in Nigeria and beyond for their spectacular and exceptional performance in chosen sporting endeavour and contributions to the sport.

The CEO of Sportivation Media International, Mr. Taiwo Ibrahim leads the young and enterprising company with a team of enthusiastic and creative sports journalists, broadcasters, and professionals.

This year's edition will honour six remarkable individuals who have left footnotes in the sporting world with different award categories: Sports Personality of the Year Award, Diaspora Award, Administrator of the Year Award, Special Recognition Award for Innovation, Special Recognition Award for Service to Women Football, Special Recognition Award for Contribution to Sports and Youth Development.

Masai Ujiri, the first African-born general manager of a professional sports team in America (Denver Nuggets, NBA, 2013) and first president of an NBA Team (Toronto Raports) to be born by African parents, will be presented with the Sports Personality of the Year.

Also to be awarded is Barrister Paul Edeh, the President of Ratels Sports Development Foundation, a foundation that has used sports in empowering the girl-child over the years. The RSDF is also the sole sponsor of the biggest Women Football Pre-season Championship in the whole of Africa (The Flying Officers Cup). 

Mr Shina Philips, is the Chairman of Matchmakers Consult Group, an organisation that has been hosting the biggest Sports Award in Nigeria (The Pitch Awards) since 2013. 

 Mr Marcellinus Anyanwu, a former Arsenal Soccer School Coach in Dubai, He has also helped Nigerian players with scholarship opportunities abroad. 

Mr Chika Valentine, a Nigerian Coach based in India and highly recommended for his contribution to football in the east Asian nation. 

Samuel Dosunmu, is being rewarded for his uprightness and great support to the brand (Sportivation Media). 

Speaking on the 2021 award, the Organiser, Taiwo Ibrahim said: "the Sportivation Media Awards is aimed at rewarding excellence in the sports sector, we have diligently selected the recipients based on their contributions to youth development through sports.

"The choice of Masai Ujiri was easy because of his feat in basketball in Nigeria and Africa where he is currently on a mission to build 100 basketball courts across the continent through his 'Giants of Africa' NGO.

"Barrister Paul Edeh, has also contributed a lot to the development of women football in Nigeria; a staunch supporter of the girl child.

"Mr Shina Philips has continued to defy the odds by organising the Nigerian Ptich Awards since 2013.

"Mr Marcellinus Anyanwu, a former Arsenal Soccer School Coach in Dubai, has been flying Nigeria's flag very high in the oil rich country; he has also helped Nigerian players with scholarship opportunities.

"Mr Chika Valentine, a Nigerian coach based in India, is highly commended for his contributions to football in the east Asian nation and also gives opportunities to Nigerian players to study and play football in the country."

The prestigious event will hold at the SWAN hall, National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos on Saturday, the 18th of December 2021.

NWPL: Barrister Edeh hails Naija Ratels' determined performance

 

Naija Ratels President Barrister Paul Edeh has hailed his side's dogged spirit after playing out a 2-2 draw against Premiership giant Edo Queens at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin on Wednesday evening. 

The 'One Day At A Time' Ladies boss expressed his delight following his side's impressive performance and tasked them to keep improving game by game. 

The Abuja based team fought back from 2-0 down to secure a crucial draw against the Wemimo Mathew tutored side Edo Queens in Benin. 

Bankole Sofiat and Olamide Audugbe, who bagged a goal each in the game, were introduced into the match in the second half by Bankole Olowookeere. 

An elated Barrister Paul Edeh who was present at the Stadium admitted his side started the game on an unimpressive note, but is pleased that they improved on their performance in the second half. 

"Its a good result away from home, especially coming to the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, which the Technical Crew and Players knew it was going to be very difficult, but we were so determined from the onset. ,"

"We had alot of respect for them in the first half. We showed them a lot of respect and that was why we had to come out stronger later in the second half.

"I don't think Edo Queens underrated us, but we upped our game later on, created alot of chances, and deservedly earned a rare draw in Benin.

"We also understand that the league is a journey and hopefully, we learn from every game and improve on our weaknesses. 

Naija Ratels are third on the log of Group A and  will face Adamawa Queens on Matchday three of the NWFL Premiership at the Area 10 Sports Complex.

Flying Officers Cup 2021: Lawal, Georgewill, Okah swoop individual awards

 

Flying Officers Cup 2021 is finally in the books after FC Robo Queens were crowned Champions for the first time, defeating 2019 winners Edo Queens by a lone goal. Some individual footballers did fantastically well and were celebrated at the end of the tournament. 

Player Of the Tournament (Taiwo Lawal, FC Robo Queens)

The FC Robo Queens forward was superb all through the tournament and was one of the reasons her team became eventual winners of the 2021 Flying Officers Cup. She was always pushing forward and was a nightmare for every defenders she faced. 

The Bar. Seyi Akinwunmi' Award For Highest Goalscorer - Ibinabo Georgewill, Confluence Queens -3 Goals 1 Assist) 

Ibinabo Georgewill of Confluence Queens edged out Emem Essien to win the tournament's Golden boot award. Ibinabo scored three goals, same as Emem, but had one assist ahead. Unfortunately, Emem Essien's goal against Confluence Queens in the Semi-finals was taken off board after a video review showed that Confluence Queens defender, Micheal Joy actually headed the ball and not the Edo Queens forward. 

Young Player Of The Tournament - (Rukayat Shobowale, FC Robo Queens) - 

The young football maestro started all six games as the 'Lagos Landladies' went all the way to lift the coveted title. She was everywhere on the pitch, ensuring that her team never loses focus upfront. 

The Bar. Seyi Akinwunmi Award For Best Goalkeeper (Nkiruka Obindinma, Edo Queens)

 - The 2019 NWFL Premiership goalkeeper of the year was voted as the best safe hands at the 2021 Flying Officers Cup. The Former Osun Babes goalie, conceded only one goal in 5 games that she participated in. She made some good saves too, yo help her side get to the final of the competition for the second time. 

Fair Play Award (Naija Ratels FC) -

 Naija Ratels weren't at their best in the Competition, but the players showed class and discipline all through the competition. The 'Ratels' exhibited exemplary behavior that promoted the spirit of fairplay despite going down against Royal Queens and FC Robo Queens in the competition. 

Goal Of The Tournament (Adaobi Okah, Edo Queens Vs Sunshine Queens) - 

The best goal of the 2021 Flying Officers Cup was scored by Edo Queens Adaobi Okah of Edo Queens against her former side, Sunshine Queens in the third quarter final encounter of the competition. 

Her extraordinary, strike from a far-right acute angle against Sunshine Queens was the cream of the crop.

Most Entertaining Team- (Ghana Police Ladies FC)-

 Even though they crashed out in the first round, the Ghanaian team won the hearts of fans with their style and should be credited for producing some fine moments of football. Juanita Aguadze, Jane Ayayiem, Ivy Kolli and others were on top of their game and never let loose guards at all.

AIT, Radio Nigeria to beam Flying Officers Cup 2021 final live

 

Africa Independent Television (AIT) and Radio Nigeria Network Service will beam live the final of the 2021 Flying Officers Cup, between Edo Queens and FC Robo Queens, scheduled to hold Sunday, the 24th of October at the Area 10 Sports Complex, Abuja. 

This was revealed by the Ratels Sports Development Foundation President, Barrister Paul Edeh on Friday evening after the end of the two Semi-final games. 

Ratels Sports Development Foundation (RSDF), main sponsors of the pre-season championship in build up to the competition partnered with AIT as official broadcast partners for the Flying Officer’s Cup at a meeting held between the management team of the largest privately operated terrestrial television network, led by Anegbe Anthony Akiotu, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Group Managing Director (GMD) and Ratels Sports Development Foundation, led by the President Barrister Paul Edeh.

Edo Queens set a record by being the first club to qualify for two finals of the Flying Officers Cup. The 'Obaseki Ladies' were champions in 2019 and will be seeking to be Champions again, when they face FC Robo Queens in the final on Sunday.

FC Robo Queens on the other hand are participating at the tournament for the first time and would want to prove a point on sunday too.

Closing ceremony of the competition will start by 1pm, while the kick off for the final match will start by 3pm. Sixteen teams started the journey on the 10th of October.

House Of Reps member hails organisers of Flying Officers Cup

Member Federal House of Representatives committee on Sports, Hon. Lawrence Ayeni has hailed the organisers of the biggest Women Football Pre-season Championship in Africa, the Flying Officers Cup. 

Lawrence Ayeni who presently represents the Ilesha Federal Constituency 1(Osun State) in the Federal House Of Representative was present at the Area 10 Sports Complex, Abuja on wednesday, was impressed at what he saw, in terms of organisation of the tournament. 

The former Chairman, Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Sports, said that the feat achieved by the Organisers in successfully organising the tournament was timely and would help spring out more development in women's football in Nigeria.

"I am really impressed with what I saw at the Area 10 Sports Complex. It is very difficult to see a Nigerian put so much into the development of women's football. 

"As a lover of football myself and one who have invested into the game, I know how far the Organisers must have gone in bringing about 16 teams to participate, including a team from Ghana. This is massive and I encourage more people to take a cue from what Ratels Sports Development Foundation have been doing.

Reacting, the General Coordinator of the 2021 Flying Officers Cup, Dr. Victoria Nlemigbo thanked Hon. Lawrence Ayeni for coming down to show support to the Flying Officers Cup and his home team, Osun Babes FC. She described him as an ardent lover of sports and one who could be described as a Sports ambassador. 

The Flying Officers Cup is in its third edition and is solely sponsored by Ratels Sports Development Foundation, founded by Ambassador Barrister Paul Edeh. 

Flying Officers Cup 2021: NFF First Vice-President Barrister Seyi Akinwunmi to present prize money to Highest Goalscorer, Best Goalkeeper

 

Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) First Vice President, Barrister Seyi Akinwunmi has reiterated his commitment to continue giving maximum supports to women's football in Nigeria and beyond. 

The Legal Luminary on Monday promised to give a cash prize of N100,000 each to the best goalkeeper and highest goalscorer of the ongoing Flying Officers Cup 2021.

Barrister Seyi Akinwunmi who has been the sponsor of the Referee of the month Awards in the NWFL Premiership for the past three years disclosed that the highest goalscorer and Best Goalkeeper cash prize award is his little way of supporting and encouraging young women footballers to do more as they progress in their career.

"I believe this is my little way of encouraging young women footballers to excel in their chosen careers. The cash prize isn't much, but am sure it's going to be a memorable one for them. 

"The Flying Officers Cup has been consistent. This is the third year and it means the organisers are doing something special. In the last three years or so, I have been sponsoring the award for the Best Referee in the NWFL Premiership every month, this is something I feel will steadily encourage people to do more in their area of specialization. 

"The award I heard has helped officiating in the league, because everybody wants to be decorated and celebrated, which is good for the league and everyone."

The Flying Officers Cup is an annual Women Football Pre-season Championship for football clubs in Africa.

The first edition was held in Makurdi, where Edo Queens emerged winners, the second edition in Abuja was won by Bayelsa Queens. The ongoing third edition has gotten to the Semi-finals stage.  

The past winners of the best goalkeeper awards are Christy Ohiaeriaku of Edo Queens in 2019 and Oyinyechi Okeke of Bayelsa Queens in 2020, while the highest goalscorer in 2019 was Taibat Odueke of Edo Queens (4goals) and Joy Omewa of Confluence Queens (7goals).

8 Year old Cherish Edeh inspires guests with 'Girl-Child Education' Speech 2021 Flying Officers Cup

Eight years old Cherish Edeh, the daughter of the Founder and President of Ratels Sports Development Foundation (RSDF) gave an inspiring speech on girl-child education during the opening ceremony of the 2021 Flying Officers Cup to mark the international day of girl-child.

Young Cherish started her speech by saluting people at the event and thanked her father Barrister Paul Edeh for granting her the opportunity to speak in respect for his intend love, support and encouragement of girl child.

Despite being just a kid, Cherish have always had passion for the girl-child education. In 2020, she joined her dad and his friends to organize a charity football match, where money was raised for scholarships of over 30 young girls who were out of school because they couldn't afford to pay their school fees. 

"Nigeria accounts for more than one in five out-of-school children anywhere in the world. Although primary education is officially free and compulsory, only 67 percentage of eligible children take up a place in primary school," she said.

She continued, "It is true that Girls suffer more than boys in terms of missing out on education. In the North-East and North-West for instance, only 41% and 47% respectively of eligible girls get primary education.

"Hence, this has increased the vulnerability of the girl child especially in the northern part of Nigeria.

"Sports at large and football in particular, has been a tool or an escape route for some of these girls to have a good life and build a career for themselves, even with little or no education.

"It is for this reason that my father, in his magnanimity and passion for promoting the course of the girl child, established Ratels Sports Development Foundation (RSDF), which begets Naija Ratels Football Club." 

She added that she has had the opportunity of interacting with the 11-year-old Naija Ratels new signing Mirabel, and draw the conclusion that there are many Mirabels' out there who may not be fortunate to get a scholarship from her father. 

"My conversation with her opened my eyes to the hidden potentials innate in alot of young girls on the street who neither have the privilege to go to school nor build a career in sports. We meet them in our everyday life; they are on the streets hawking and doing other menial jobs. Some are even abused and dehumanized daily.

"Like I said earlier, offering young girls an opportunity to build a sporting career is the reason why Ratels Sports Foundation was established. But then, I strongly believe, just as it is in the developed countries, formal education is necessary for every child.

"For this reason, I asked my father to offer Mirabel scholarship up to the university level, which he obliged."

Every year since 2012, International Day of the Girl is celebrated on Oct. 11 to recognize how hard being a girl can be. The United Nations (UN) created the holiday to celebrate the potential of girls in different cultures around the world, and to highlight the threats, discrimination and issues facing their well-being

The theme of this year’s observance is ‘Ending Child Marriage.’ The UN called for an end to child marriage and stressed that education is a strategic background for protecting girls against this harmful practice and to recognize girls’ rights and highlight the unique challenges girls face worldwide.

Girls worldwide deserve better: better education, better survival rates, better protection from child marriage and sexual assault, better access to resources, better health outcomes and a better future. It’s a very tall order considering some of the challenges ahead but the UN and others are hopeful that Oct. 11 can be a rallying cry with which to empower girls worldwide.

“Education for girls is one of the best strategies for protecting girls against child marriage”, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said in his message for the Day. “When they are able to stay in school and avoid being married early, girls can build a foundation for a better life for themselves and their families."

Putting into contest, Cherish implores the general public to be more like her father in providing help to the vulnerable girls around them to build a sustainable society for all to thrive.

"I plead with you today (well meaning Nigerians) just like I pleaded with my father, to look out for these other Mirabels' you might come across and extend a hand of fellowship to them. Early education is very important and we must all unite to make it a staple in the growth and development of every child.

"This way you would have contributed your quota in curbing social vices that could have emanated from having these kids on the streets. Hence making Nigeria safer for all of us.

"Finally, it is pertinent to crave the indulgence of our parents/guardians to allow their girl child or wards pursue career paths of their choice, especially in sports. Yes! Sports!. Football in particular might seem to be masculine –though due to its physicality– and so, many parents (especially the elites) disuade their girls from actively enjoying  and participating in the round leather game.

"The reality remains that your children are better off living their dreams. May I also intimate us with the fact that most of the influential women in the world today are sports people. If you doubt me, please google it." She Concluded.

Making the world better for girls makes the world a better place.