Amos Ado plans to use Orumogege Football Tourney as platform to harness in Ogbomosoland

 

A former official in the Marketing Department of the Confederation of African de Football (CAF), Mr. Amos Ado has revealed that the Orumogege Football Tournament is a platform designed to harness the numerous football talents in Ogbomoso. 

Amos Ado, Head of Kinetic Sports and Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) of the football tournament, also gave ingredients that can make the beautiful round leather game in Nigeria marketable. 

"Football ball is a very marketable event. We just have to put all our facilities in good shape to attract brands. 

"The playing pitches must be of standard, making sure we televise our footballing event and the most important fans and ensuring our football venues are safe for everyone. 

The former COPA Lagos Beach football organizer and marketing expert gave an insight into how the Orumogege Football Tourney came about. 

"For a very long time, I had it in mind to do something different in football, so I met an organization called Ogbomoso Community Youth Forum (OCYF) and sold the idea of the essence of going into football development, and the rest is history. 

"Our Kabiyesi, the Soun of Ogbomoso, Ọba Ghandi Afọlábí Ọláoyè, Orumógege III, is a youth-loving Kabiyesi, and he accepted that we host the tourney.

" The goal is to discover talent during the tournament and nurture them for the future, as we intend to produce more Seyi Olofinjana (Super Eagles legend) from Ogbomoso We also really need to thank the Soun Ogbomoso, Alainsmith, and OCYF for their support. 

"We're also doing something differently in football in Ogbomoso. The Orumogege Football Tournament is free-age grade and played as knockout football at the Soun Stadium. 

"The LOC opted to make the tournament a knockout based as against the Group Phase to make it very competitive. It has attracted a lot of fans who have been kept on the edge of their seats with dazzling football skills from the 32 teams registered for the event. 

"It has also been a commercial boom for the city as a lot of market women around the stadium are making brisk business selling their commodities to fans. 

"Thankfully, the tournament powered by OCYF and Alainsmith Nigeria Limited and I am delighted to inform Ogbomoso people that our Kabiyesi, Oba Olaoye Ghandi has assured us the tournament will be held annually, following the success recorded within the few days of the kickoff."

Enugu Rangers shake hands with Green Foot Ladies to develop women's football in Nigeria

 

In a bid to encourage development of women's football in Enugu State and Nigeria, newly crowned champions of Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, Enugu Rangers have entered into partnership with Green Foot Ladies. 

In a statement released by the Flying Antelopes on Tuesday, the collaboration will also encourage giving exposure to budding talents among young female footballers in the state. 

The statement added that the relationship will also bring about more meaningful improvements to both teams. 

"We are glad to announce an exciting new technical partnership between Rangers International FC Enugu and Green Foot Ladies Enugu. 

"Through this collaboration, Rangers International FC will provide comprehensive support to Green Foot Ladies to foster the growth and development of women's football in our community. 

"This partnership underscores our commitment to promoting inclusivity, excellence, and opportunity in the sport we love. Together, we aim to nurture talent, enhance skills, and elevate the profile of women's football in Enugu and beyond.

"Stay tuned for more updates as we embark on this promising journey together!," the statement read. 

The collaboration will also help Rangers fulfill the requirements of Confederation of African Football, CAF that every participating clubs in its competition must have a women's team. 

'Lack of continuity, exodus of players are reasons for dismal performance of NPFL clubs on the continent' - Coach Bala Nikyu

 

By Dayo Awoniyi

Former coach of Nasarawa United, Bala Nikyu, has proffered solutions to the  challenges militating against Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) clubs from excelling in the CAF club engagements. 

In a chat with Deeonesports during the just concluded Bwari Football Coaches Tournament in Abuja yesterday, the tactician said"Nigeria clubs are not succeeding in the continent because the clubs lack continuity compare to their counterparts in other countries, a club side can sign thirty players at the beginning of a  season and at the of the season they will allow them to leave in which other countries are not doing it like that,so lack of continuity is one of the problems ".

He further said that  exodus of players also affect our clubs, because, other countries don't allow their players to leave like that but rather add like three or four more good players to the existing one that already understand themselves but it is no so with some of our clubs. 

He however pointed out that " We have good players and technically sound coaches but we just need to work on continue and exodus of players and we will be good".

It could be recalled that the two clubs representing Nigeria in 2023/2024 CAF Champions League, Enyimba International and Remo Stars crashed out in the first round of the competition leaving only Bendel  Insurance in CAF Confederation cup.

Ogunjobi Gold Cup salutes Remo Stars, Sporting Lagos, Beyond Limits for CAF, NPFL, NNL feats

 

Organizers of the prestigious preseason tourney for domestic league clubs in Nigeria, Ogunjobi Gold Cup have given salutes to the management and technical staff of Remo Stars, Beyond Limits, and Sporting Lagos following feats they recorded at the football season-ending playoffs.

Remo Stars, the Optima Energy Gold Cup defending champion, made history in June at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena after they picked a ticket to feature in the prestigious CAF Champions League in the 2023/24 season, just a year after playing in the CAF Confederation Cup.

The club had recorded significant success after its academy team, Beyond Limits gained promotion to the Nigeria National League (NNL) following a 4-1 playoff victory over First Bank.

Sporting Lagos, against the odds, made a bold statement on Monday as they became the first Southern Conference team to earn a promotion ticket to the Nigeria Premier League with a game to spare at the playoffs in Asaba.

Coach Paul Offor guided his team to back-to-back wins against FC One Rocket and Abeokuta Stormers, to stay top of the group after Matchday 2 on 6 points.

Tunde Shamsudeen, General Coordinator of the tourney, "Congratulations to the Remo Stars, Sporting Lagos, and Beyond Limits for the successes recorded in the 2022/23 season. 

"We are delighted to be part of their success story as the Ogunjobi Gold Cup/ Optima Energy Gold Cup was the platform they used to get in shape for the football season that's almost ending.

"The interesting aspect of it all is the three clubs are privately owned, so the feat is a reward for the huge investments. The trio clubs are now a model and reference point for intending football investors to follow. 

"I want to charge the management of the teams not to relent in its drive to make their teams a top brand in Nigeria's domestic football by aiming for more successes, good luck for the future."

Joshua Adamu: Expanding Alansmith frontiers to other African domestic leagues

 

Joshua Adamu, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of FIFA and CAF-certified synthetic pitch installation firm, Alansmith Nigeria Limited has given the main reason why they are the one-stop shop for stadium facilities.

Adamu in a chat with the press, expressed his delight as his work at the FC Ebedei Stadium is earning praises and that, about eight players have moved to Denmark to improve on their professional careers.

It two years and the FC Ebedei Stadium pitch is looking new, it says a lot about the job done and the quality of turf installed on the pitch, can you tell us more about it?

A-First of all I like to credit the team for always looking for the best, like I always say "a good product sells itself" Alansmith Nigeria LTD would give quality products, professional services and excellent after-sales service for maintenance in the long run.

During these two years, FC Ebedei has had about eight (8) of its players move to Denmark to further their football career, credit to the facility installed by Alansmith Nigeria LTD as it's part of the club's success story, so how delighted are you? 

I'm very intrigued that we have been able to bring European standards to Nigeria where there is no difference between playing abroad and on our turf which allows a smooth transition to where ever they find themselves because of the world-class facility they trained on while at home.

Teams have poured praises on your work, so how can teams in Nigeria's domestic league benefit from it?

We are accessible, we can be reached via Instagram and our website, and our motto is integrity and professionalism so teams in Nigeria who don't compromise standards and want quality jobs can rest assured that we are their one-stop shop.

Any plans to extend your work beyond the shores of Nigeria?

Yes of course, as we speak we are consulting for projects in African countries and with the COVID pandemic travel restrictions, we've been able to work with foreign partners on their projects here in Africa because we have the equipment and technical experience.

During the live streaming of matches at the FC Ebedei Stadium, comments are always made about the team and facility, how impressed are you?

I'm very impressed, the team is doing a fantastic job because the astroturf is giving the players a platform to showcase their talents and abilities and a good camera view.

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.

Ex international wants new coach to bring Westerhof playing style back to Super Eagles

 

 Former Super Eagles player, Akin Akinsheinde has call on any coach coming to handle the Super eagles to adopt the Clemens Westerhof's style.

Akinsheinde  said Whether foriegn or local such a coach should be given a free and not be manupipulated.

Akinsheinde added that Westerhof took his time to watch our league matches week in week out in Lagos and around the federation

 Akin Akinshiende the General Manager of seat of David football club an NLO side , who have also played for various clubs like Kaduna Rocks (Kaduna) Zamtex Guso (Zamfara) .. New Nigerian Bank (Benin).. NACB Fc (Kaduna) .. Kano Pillars (Kano).. El-Kanemi Warriors (Maiduguri) B.C.C Lions Fc (Gboko).. Zamalek Fc (Egypt).. First Vienna Fc (Austria).. Esma Vienna Fc (Austria).. Rapid Vienna (Austria).. Kwara Stars Fc Ilorin (Nigeria) Aha Al-Aly Fc (Lebanon) said a countries league is the bedrock of its football.

 Akin Akinsheinde who won Ecowas cup with super eagles and was part of the home based players westerhoof used in qualifying the Nigeria super eagles for the 1994 world cup said it is wrong for a coach to stay in a five star hotel in Abuja and be watching foriegn league matches and not move around the country to watch talented players in the league.

How many players do we have playing in top flight league in Europe,emphasis should be laid on the home base players ,young ones,whom when discover ,can possibly get big clubs in Europe.

Akinsheinde said westerhoof laid a good foundation for NIGERIA football.

"I get angry atimes when people praise Bonfere Joe because he reaped from Westerhof's labour, eighty percent of the players used by Bonfere Joe later where discovered by westerhoof.

Fosla Academy to honour Nasir E-Rufai, Ogunjobi, Sarki Karshi, others at 10th Anniversary

 

Fosla Academy, the Premier Football College in Nigeria will honour Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir E-Rufai at the 10th year anniversary and graduation ceremony holding on 11th December 2021.

Announcing this in Abuja, the Secretary of the Fosla Academy Board, Patrick Ngwaogu said the honour bestowed on the Kaduna state Governor will be in recognition of his efforts in ensuring that the dreams of establishing the Academy came into fruition while he was the FCT Minister in 2006.

Ngwaogu said that the success stories of the Academy can not be written without a mention of the then FCT Minister who gave approval for the establishment of the premier football college in the capital city, which has gradually turned out to become a reservoir of talented football players in the country.

"we have to recognize the former Minister who is today the Governor of Kaduna State, because he helped in laying the foundation of what  we are celebrating today " the scribe said.

Continuing, Ngwaogu who also combines as the Director of Fosla Football Club said other important personalities that will recognized at the event will include former NFA Secretary General Late Taiwo Ogunjobi who was a Board member of Academy before his death, the Emir of Karshi Alhaji Ismaila Mohammed, who incidentally is the Fosla Academy Board Chairman, Late Alhaji Ibrahim Abdullahi, a former Director of the Academy, NFF General Secretary, Dr Sanusi Mohammed, the Vice Chancellor of Nasarawa State University, FCT FA Chairman, Murthar Muhammed among others.

Fosla Academy was established by the former NFF President Alhaji Sani Lulu Abdullahi to provide opportunities for players who are naturally endowed to combine football with their academics. The Academy since inception has won the FCT Principals Cup from 2015 to date, won the National Principals Cup, won the silver medals of the NNPC /Shell All Nigerian Secondary Schools Football Competition, won silver and bronze medals of both Copa Coca-Cola and Etisalat U. 15 competitions among others.

The Academy has over 40 of her scholarship students running various Undergraduate programs at the Nasarawa State University, Keffi, all of whom are members of the Fosla Football Club that plays in the Nigeria League One (Division 1).

Opinion: Of Gernot Rohr’s Safety and NFF Shenanigan by Aderonke Ogunleye-Bello

Just before the Coach Scout - Gernot Rohr's exit from Nigerian Football....... 

The quote below was parts of a statement attributed to the NFF and circulated across social media some days ago. I am prompted to pen this opinion piece after waiting for the NFF for a rebuttal....it never came. 

“We told him that based on the conditions on ground, we can no longer guarantee his safety. We have given him a choice to take. Are you ready to work under such hostile environment or you want to walk away?” 

How unethical, a blatant dereliction of duty by the NFF. How unethical! ...a downright threat to human life....

Basically putting a gun to his head so to speak. Has Nigeria now gotten so bad that insecurity is what you should be using as factor to discuss a football contract? Subtle Threats? 

I am not a fan of Gernot Rohr, a stand that I have made known since his resumption, based on his poor records and dislike for home based footballers. 

In Nigeria, we have better indigenous coaches with better records and experiences. Rohr as we know is too inexperienced to coach the Super Eagles, he only got lucky, though he might have done well as coach for the Flying Eagles or Dream Team.

That said, how could the NFF say they cannot guarantee his safety? Such an unfair thoughts to process, or even say.

With this statement, they are exposing Rohr to imminent dangers. It means Rohr, 'you are on your own' whatever happens to you, deal with it!

While we impatiently await the sacking of Gernot Rohr as Super Eagles Coach, nothing must happen to Rohr. His absolute safety in Nigeria is NFF's responsibility and by all means necessary, they must ensure that he is safe while the contract lasts. No evil must befall Gernot Rohr. 

_As a matter of fact, if Rohr wants to play dirty, he could sue the NFF for that statement_

Is the atmosphere not hostile already? You guys are now throwing him to the lions, to be devoured? What if he was physically attacked by his perceived enemies or those that have been unhappy with his results as Super Eagles Coach, following your statements?

Whatever dealings you are having with the coach, he is representing our great Nation and, we must be honorable enough to ensure his safety. 

If the coach abides by the contract rules and he hasn't defaulted, the honorable thing to do is go back to the contract, pay him off, let him go, and not threaten him with insecurity. So insensitive! 

If you do not have money for now, both parties could sit at the table, make an offer, and negotiate. Hey Rohr, we only have 50% for now, we will pay at a later date. Very gentlemanly. 

This is the right time to employ someone you believe in. It is that straightforward, stop already with the play of insecurity cards. 

 

You cannot run away from your duties because there is a contract in place, Rohr has not breached it but Nigerians want him out! I want him out of the Super Eagles as well! 

I ask again, what is so special about Rohr, why does he seem so untouchable? If Rohr was an indigenous coach, would he have lasted this long? As we all know, he would have been disgraced and sacked long ago.

I will conclude by saying there is yet another crisis brewing and on the horizon for the NFF and if they want to make good plans ahead of the Nations/World Cup campaign, this is the time to fix it!!!

NFF, wake up!

_Aderonke Ogunleye-Bello is an award-winning Nigerian Journalist. Author. Gender Advocate and Sports Governance analyst. She writes from Abuja, Nigeria._

Aderonkeogunleye@gmail.com

Behold! Serbian coach tipped to replace Gernot Rohr as Super Eagles Coach

 

There seems to be clear indications as regards the future of Super Eagles coach Gernot Rohr.

The Franco/German tactician looked to have handled his last game for Nigeria after the latest information from sources close to NFF disclosed that a new coach may soon be announced for Super Eagles.

On Saturday, this reporter confirmed the sack of Super Eagles chief coach Gernot Rohr. The Nigeria football federation finally reached an agreement with the Franco/German to terminate his contract which was was expected to run to December, 2022, on mutual grounds. 

The NFF also agreed with Gernot Rohr's representatives to pay all his outstanding salaries and his total severance package on installmental basis. 

Now there is a good news. The Nigeria football federation have concluded plans to employ 47 year old former Serbian National team coach Mladen Krstajić as new coach of the Super Eagles.

NFF president Amaju Mekvin Pinnick will arrive London on Monday to seal the deal. 

Krstajic led Serbia to the 2018 world cup in Russia where they failed to proceed beyond the group stage of the competition 

After Tuesday's 1-1 draw with Cape Verde that saw the Super Eagles sail through to the final round of the world cup qualifiers, NFF president Amaju Melvin Pinnick and other board members met in the room of one of the Vice presidents. 

Also at that meeting was Super Eagles chief coach Gernot Rohr and Tunde Adelakun his representative. 

The NFF did not mince words as they told Rohr that his services are no longer needed. According to an insider, both parties agreed to terminate his contract immediately while they work out modalities to pay his severance package which is reported to be around 600,000 USD. 

Rohr has since returned to his base in France while the NFF are moving ahead with getting a replacement in good time ahead of the 2021 Nations cup which is just over 40 days away.

By Adewale Ajayi

NFF member, Ahmed Fresh okays reinstatement of Salisu Yusuf as Super Eagles' coach

 

Nigeria Football Federation(NFF) Executive Member and Chairman Technical and Development Committee, Ahmed Yusuf Fresh has told OwoSports.com that Coach Salisu Yusuf reinstatement to the Super Eagles was for the interest of the game.

The Kano Pillars Coach will return to his duties as Assistant Coach of the Super Eagles and Head Coach of the Super Eagles B team, with effect from 1st November 2021 was based on the recommendation of the NFF Technical Department.

According to Fresh when interviewed at the Ogunjobi Gold Cup pre-season game between Shooting Stars and FC Ebedei in Sagamu, the Niger State Football Association chairman said.

"We discussed at the NFF Executive Committee level even before then, the Technical Department met and came out with this proposal which was forwarded to the Executive Committee.

"But before all of these were made, we had met with Gernot Rohr on the matter and the Franco-German said he needed his assistant, Salisu Yusuf.

"Salisu, Rohr said is a good man and coach as 

 his match –reading ability, calmness and proficiency is of quality, and that was why we decided for the good of the game and interest of the country."

Asked if Joseph Yobo would remain as an assistant now that Salisu Yusuf is back.

"Nothing happens to Yobo as he is still an assistant coach of the Super Eagles," Fresh stressed.

Recall the NFF banned Yusuf for one-year from all football-related activities and was also told to pay a fine of $5,000 to the Federation within three months after he was caught on video accepting a bribe. 

The ban was later reduced after the NFF sent him to be acting Technical Adviser of Rangers during their campaign in the CAF inter-club championship two seasons ago.

Yusuf’s return to the Super Eagles coincides with the closing stages of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 qualifying second round phase and the commencement of preparations for the 33rd Africa Cup of Nations finals taking place in Cameroon early next year.

CAFCC: 'Computer' aims big for Bayelsa United against CS Sfaxien

 

By Hananeel Jackson

Coach of reigning Aiteo Cup Champions,  Bayelsa United , Diepreye Teibowei says last weekend's victory over Nigeria Professional Football League side Abia Warriors, will spur the team ahead of sunday's CAF Confederation Cup clash with CS Sfaxien of Tunisia.

The Prosperity Boys beat Abia Warriors 2-0 on  Saturday at the Samson Siasia Stadium, Yenagoa with two late goals from Okardi Inikurogha on 87 minutes and Hassan Oladimeji on 90 minutes.

Bayelsa United smacked AS Ashanti Golden Boys of Guinea 4-2 in the first preliminary round fixture in the CAF Confederation Cup to secure a place in second round while the Tunisian Cup Champions were drawn bye.

Reacting to the outcome, Teibowei who is popularly known as 'Computer' said he is targeting a big win in Nigeria before traveling to Tunisia for the second leg, adding that the friendly was timely due to the importance of the game.

The former West Ham Feeders coach explained that he was expecting a similar approach from his lads by scoring high without conceding a goal, stating that he was optimistic of going through CS Sfaxien with a resounding victory against the Juventus El Arab as the Tunisians are fondly called.

Apparently not satisfied with his side's first half  performance against the Umuahia  side, the former Calabar Rovers star asserted that he expected a more attacking style but commended the lads show of dexterity in the second half.

When asked about the availability of forward Victory Beniangba the coach confirmed that the  speedy winger would be available against CS Sfaxien on Sunday.

The gaffer assured Bayelsans that the Prosperity Boys would progress  to the next round ahead of their Tunisian opponents.

Air Peace Airline Boss, Onyema doles out N20million to Falcons

President of Air Peace Airline, Barrister Allen Onyema was not dismayed by the lashing received by the Super Falcons in the hands of South Africa’s Banyana Banyana at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena on Tuesday.

 

He presented the sum of N10 million to the Super Falcons’ class of 1999 that reached the quarter finals of the FIFA Women’s Cup in USA and were honoured by the NFF at a special Awards ceremony in Lagos on Monday, and also gifted the present bunch the sum of N10 million.

 

It would be recalled that Barrister Onyema, whose company became the Official Airline of the Nigeria National Teams following a contract agreement signed earlier this month, motivated the Super Eagles with the sum of N20million to win their FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 qualifier against Cape Verde in Mindelo. He promptly redeemed the pledge on the team’s arrival after their victory.

 

The Super Falcons lost the final match of the Aisha Buhari Invitational Tournament 2-4 to South Africa’s Banyana Banyana, but it was a good lesson for Nigeria to set store by her young brood.

Aisha Buhari Cup: Tagnaout strikes late to see Morocco win battle of Lionesses against Cameroon

A brilliant goal by Fatima Tagnaout 13 minutes from time separated Cameroon and Morocco in the second match of the maiden edition of Aisha Buhari Invitational Women’s Tournament at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos.

 

Both Lionesses were matched in all aspects for large swathes of the game, with the North Africans showing both power and athleticism on similar scale as can be found in sub-Saharan teams.

 

Goalkeeper Khadija Errmichi and defenders Zineb Redouani, Nahla Nakkach and Sabah Seghir stood firmly between the France 2019 World Cup finalists and any goal, before the nimble-footed Tagnaout showed much calmness in picking her spot on a counter attack to put the more experienced Lionesses to the sword.

 

Cameroon reached the final of the Women African Cup of Nations the country hosted in 2016 (losing the trophy to Nigeria) and featured at the FIFA World Cup finals in France, but that did not matter to the Moroccan girls as they went tackle-for-tackle in the evening sun.

 

Bella Rose, who plays for Malabo King in Equatorial Guinea, brought the crowd to its feet after the quarter-hour when she targeted the near post after beating two opponents on the edge of the penalty box. The ball rocked the crossbar and went out.

 

Tagnaout, Ghizlane Chebbak, Chhri Ghizlane, Redouani and Salma Amani all showed flashes of brilliance in a match officiated by Zouwaira Souley Sani from Niger Republic.

 

On Friday, Ghana’s Black Queens and the Banyana Banyana of South Africa will square up on Day 3 of the tournament at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena.

This is unarguably the best pitch I have played on here in Nigeria" - Ellis

South Africa head coach, Desiree Ellis is confident that her team are ready to fire on all cylinders at the Aisha Buhari Cup after having a feel of the Mobolaji Johnson Stadium turf laid by Monimichelle Sports Facility Construction Ltd.

Banyana Banyana are one of the participating teams at the prestigious competition currently hold in the commercial City of Lagos.

 

The charismatic Ellis tinker her team the Black Queens of Ghana (Friday) in what would be their first game of the competition. 

The ex Spurs Ladies gaffer who spoke ahead of the cracker was full of praise for organizers of the #AishaBuhariCup for providing top class facilities.

The 58-year-old tactician stated that the Mobolaji Johnson Stadium turf is something she has fallen in love with, while declaring that her wards would relish playing on the Hybrid Synthetic Pitch.

"The facilities here are top class, the grass is so beautiful. This is unarguably the best pitch I have played on in here in Nigeria…so I am very excited about this. We have enjoyed ourselves since arriving Lagos and we hope to have a good tournament," the former Athlone Celtic, Wynberg St Johns, Joyces United, St. Albans City and Spurs Ladies star mused.

It would be recalled that Monimichelle Sports Facility Construction Ltd which laid the Mobolaji Stadium turf constructed the Enyimba Stadium in Aba where Enyimba has in the last couple of years been playing their continental games.

The Chief Executive Officer of the well regarded firm, Ebi Egbe has always made it clear that the vision of his company is to eradicate bad football pitches in Nigeria and Africa as well as change the face of stadium facilities in the continent.

Monimichelle Sports Facility Construction Ltd. also put in place the facilities at Mohammodu Dikko Stadium and Samson Siasia Stadium.

Source: Vanguard News

NFF Boss, Amaju Pinnick sees Infantino, Motsepe’s visit as a boost for girl-child advocacy

 

President of the Nigeria Football Federation and FIFA Council Member, Mr Amaju Melvin Pinnick says that the presence of President of world –governing body FIFA, Mr Gianni Infantino and CAF President, Dr Patrice Motsepe at the opening ceremony of the maiden Aisha Buhari Invitational Tournament in Lagos on Wednesday is a huge fillip to the push for more interest and attention to the challenges confronting the girl-child all over the African continent.

 

“I feel very happy that Mr Infantino and Dr Motsepe were able to grace the opening ceremony of this special tournament. It is a bonus and a boost for the girl-child advocacy. It shows there is genuine desire and keen interest of football leaders to not only improve the standard and visibility of the women’s game, but to also scale up the lot of the girl-player economically and ensure she can earn as well as the boy-player.

 

“Already, we can see that desire and interest manifest with the increase in the participating teams at the FIFA Women’s World Cup to 32 – the same number as the men’s finals – as from the next competition in 2023. On the African front, the Confederation of African Football has put in place a CAF Women Champions League which finals will hold in November. All these are key building blocks to improving the lot of the girl-player.”

 

Infantino and billionaire businessman Motsepe who took reins of the African football –ruling body six months ago landed in the City of Lagos on Wednesday, hours before the commencement of a tournament staged in honour of the name and Office of the First Lady of the Federal Republic, Dr (Mrs) Aisha Buhari and with the instrumental theme, Playing for Good. It also dovetails with the key objectives of the First Lady’s Future Assured Programme (under the Aisha Buhari Foundation), which is concerned with the health, education and economic empowerment of women and the girl-child.

 

The two prominent figures in the global game shared the presidential box of the remodeled Mobolaji Johnson Arena on Lagos Island with top –ranking political figures such as Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos, his wife Ibijoke, Youth and Sports Development Minister Sunday Dare and the Minister of Women Affairs, Dame Pauline Tallen.

 

There were also FA presidents from other African nations, including Ghana FA President Kurt Okraku (who is also president of the WAFU B) and the president of Mali FA, Mamoutou Toure.

 

Infantino and Motsepe were then treated to a blue-riband dinner at the Sky Lounge of the Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, where they mingled with the best of Nigeria corporates that included billionaire businessman Aliko Dangote, Central Bank Governor Godwin Emefiele and chief executive officers of NFF’s partner and sponsor-companies.

 

On Thursday morning, both eminent men flew to the nation’s Federal Capital, Abuja where they met with President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR at the Presidential Villa.

SESC Boss, Okumagba lauds Aisha Buhari Cup, celebrates Super Falcons bright start

President of the Super Eagles Supporters Club Prince Vincent Okumagba has congratulated the Super Falcons of Nigeria for beginning the Aisha Buhari Cup on a good note after they defeated Mali 2 nil at the Mobolaji Johnson Stadium, Onikan, Lagos. 

Prince Okumagba, speaking immediately after the match praised the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), organizing committee for putting up this massive project. 

" It was indeed a nice atmosphere today, the last time we had something like this in Africa was the African Women Cup of Nations in Ghana, 2018. 

Once again, the NFF has shown how passionate they are for the development of Women Football in Nigeria, this will indeed go a long way in preparing the Super Falcons for the AWCON Qualifiers next month". 

The astute administrator lauded Chief Executive Officer, Monimichelle Sports Facility Construction Limited, Ebi Egbe for his top notch job on the Mobolaji Johnson pitch.  

"The pitch is lovely, you can see how the ball move freely on it. 

I want to commend Ebi Egbe, aka Monimichelle for showcasing Lagos and Nigeria at large to the world. 

 I hope the Lagos State Government will ensure it is maintained regularly". 

Prince Okumagba hinted that there will be continuous support from the Super Eagles Supporters Club until the end of the event. 

Meanwhile, matches continue tomorrow at the Mobolaji Johnson Stadium as Cameroon takes on Morroco by 4pm.

Aisha Buhari Cup will boost Lagos State economic strength, says Kola Daniel

As preparations are building up to host the much anticipated Aisha Buhari Invitational Tournament, the CEO of CKDMedia (www.ckdmedia.ng), Kola Daniel had an exclusive interview session with the African Independent Television (AIT) Correspondent in Lagos.

According to Mr. Kọla Daniel, while shedding light on the build-up to the maiden edition of Aisha Buhari Competition, he said, 

"The city of Lagos and vicinity of Eko Hotel is full of excitement as the build-up to the mouthwatering tournament continues. There is no doubt, Aisha Buhari Cup will boost the economic activities of the entire State, for the time being. He posited.

As a member of the Local Organising Committee of Aishatu Buhari Competition, Mr Kọla Daniel affirmed that the 

"The Super Falcons of Nigeria are also much around, the likes of Barcelona forward, Asisat Oshoala arrived at the early hours of today to join her team mates and i can tell you that they are ready to make the country proud.

"The invited teams have also arrived, the Malian, Ghanian, Morroccan Teams are fully on ground to grace the tournament. He affirmed

Kola Daniel, who is also the Media Aide to the Honourable Minister of Youth and Sports Development, spoke about the pedigree of the tournament, as FIFA approved.

He gave kudos to the President of the Nigerian Football Federation, Mr. Amanju Pinnick, for making it a reality.

While also thanking the Lagos State Government, for hosting the event.

The young and vibrant media practitioner concluded by thanking the Honourable Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Mr. Sunday Dare, for giving the go ahead and necessary support to ensure that the competition is given a benefitting standard.

The Aisha Buhari Invitational  Competition will commence Wednesday 15th day of September in Lagos.

Aisha Buhari tournament coincides with 30th anniversary of women's football in Nigeria - Barrister Seyi Akinwunmi

By Akin Bolarinwa 

The Chairman organising committee of the Aisha Buhari Cup competition, Barrister Seyi Akinwunmi has stated that the Aisha Buhari tournament is to commemorate the 30th year anniversary of the development of women's football in the country. 

www.ckdmedia.ng gathered that the Nigeria Football Federation is using the tournament to celebrate 3 decades of women's football development.

"We deliberated on what to do for women's football at 30 and that also coincide with the project we want to do with the 1st lady".

Barrister Akinwunmi who is the 1st vice president of the NFF declared that massive celebrations will herald the Aisha Buhari cup.

"We have a lot of people behind this project with their own individual strengths pulled together to ensure a better tournament for the nation".

The Lagos state football boss, also affirmed that the Aisha Buhari women football project is to generate discussions concerning women issues around the world.

"The discussion is also centred around the girls child, we want to give them identity, using football as the message carrier".

CAFWCL: Naija Ratels hail Rivers Angels' 'important win' over Hasaacas Ladies

 

Newly promoted NWFL Premiership side, Naija Ratels FC have commended Nigeria's representative at the CAF Women Champions League (WAFU B) Qualifiers Rivers Angels for winning their opening game against Ghanaian Women Football League Champions, Hasaacas Ladies on Saturday at the Stade Robert Champroux Stadium, Abidjan.

Burgeoning midfielder Deborah Abiodun and Player of the match Maryan Ezeanagu scored in the 17th and 54th minute respectively to give the NWFL Premiership Champions a 2-0 victory over their opponent. 

The win on Saturday means Rivers Angels will sit ontop of the log after one game and face AS Police Ladies of Niger Republic on Tuesday evening at the same venue. 

President of Naija Ratels, Barrister Paul Edeh In a congratulatory message  hailed the team for keeping concentration all through the match to earn a massive three points in the game. He urged them to keep pushing hard and get one of the tickets for the Champions League proper later this year.

"It is with great pleasure that I Congratulate Rivers Angels on their victory over Hasaacas Ladies. I am particularly delighted at the confidence, discipline, team-work and indomitable spirit displayed by the players in Abidjan.

"We at Naija Ratels urge them to keep believing in themselves and give their best in the remaining matches. 

Rivers Angels will battle AS Police of Niger Republic on Tuesday and a victory for them will ensure qualification for the Semi-final of the WAFU B Qualifiers for the maiden edition of the  CAF Women Champions League.