Ayoola Adeleke: Respected sports journalist resigns as member of Edo FA

Member of the Edo Football Association — Ovia North East Local Government, Mansa Adeleke Ayoola has resigned from his position as a member of the FA over misrepresentation, platinumnewsng.com is reporting.

The carefully thought decision was contained in a letter submitted to the Ovia North East FA Local Government Chairman, Mr Roland Inonoje, Saturday evening. 

Mansa Ayoola few minutes before tendering the resignation letter made a live broadcast on Rhythm FM's Saturday Sports show, "Sports Planet, Co-anchored by Bolaji Jokanola.

RSS as fondly called, in the letter copied by the Edo FA Chairman, Board and the State's Commissioner of Police, apologized to the FA Chairman of Ovia North East local government, Mr. Roland Inonoje, for any inconvenience his resignation may cause as he wished the FA Board good luck in it's drive to reposition Edo Football. 

Adeleke Ayoola is the publisher of the reputable Platinum News, a platform which has provided tens of Edo and Nigerian youths opportunity to hone their journalistic skills

Bendel Insurance Deserves Huge Pampering after Breaking 43 Years Jinx

 

... Learning from Nyesom Wike, Kunle Soname, Orji Uzor Kalu, others

After a staggering 43-year trophy drought from a major silverware, the team defied all odds, coming from the second division and captivating fans, the team made history by lifting the oldest trophy in Nigeria football and clinching a  continental ticket. 

Wednesday, 21st of June 2023, a glorious display of resilience and character from Bendel Insurance etched their names into the chronicles of Edo State's sporting history by clinching the Federation Cup.

It is evident that the unwavering support and visionary leadership of the state governments have played a pivotal role in the team's remarkable journey to glory. 

Governor Godwin Obaseki and Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu, true patrons of sports, have consistently demonstrated their deep commitment to restoring Edo State to where it once was as the Home of Sports. This mandate which led to the formation of the Edo Sports Commission has seen the development and success of the Benin Arsenals, which has now soared to unprecedented heights by claiming the Federation Cup in style.

Through the steadfast backing and relentless pursuit of excellence, the state government has not only transformed the fortunes of Bendel Insurance but has also breathed new life into the sporting landscape of the entire state.

While basking in the glory of this major achievement, this writer urges the state government to take a proactive stance in securing the future of our Bendel Insurance. It is crucial that the State Government recognize the indispensable role the players and coaching staff have played in our team's success. 

As they continue to shine brightly, it is only natural that they attract lucrative offers from other clubs seeking to capitalize on their exceptional talents. To ensure that the club retain her invaluable assets and maintain the cohesive unit that has brought them this far, this writer strongly advocates for a handsome rewards system.

Winning a trophy of such magnitude warrants substantial rewards for the players and the dedicated backroom staff who have toiled tirelessly behind the scenes, after such a feat; this writer believes it is time to turn their words into actions and make the boys truly happy as the state governor can seek this opportunity to crest his name in history.

It is without a doubt that rewarding players and backroom staff handsomely has always enhanced players' performances for their teams, served as a means of having the stars of the club remain despite mouth-watering deals from other teams as they will be confident that their life is valued and that could only be the main tool to get more from them. 

States to Emulate or Outdo

Sports enthusiasts around Nigeria will always remember the name of the former Rivers Governor, Nyesom Wike, the Working Governor, fondly referred to as Gburugburu of Rivers Land. His support for sports has catapulted Rivers United into the limelight not only in Nigeria but the continent where they got as far as the Quarter final of the CAF Confederations Cup.

No longer governor of the state, Wike's generosity to players ($20,000 each for making it to the continent as league winners) has left an indelible mark on the lives of the Rivers United team and their supporters, ensuring they will forever remember him as the man with the 'Capacity Doings.' It is a legacy that Governor Obaseki can aspire to exceed, elevating Bendel Insurance's place in Edo State's sporting landscape.

Most recently, Remo Stars owner, Hon. Kunle Soname (OFR) rewarded players, backroom staff, media team, and supporters club handsomely (#28 million) for securing a continental ticket after finishing as runners-up in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Super Six, how much more a team that renewed the hope of the state - winning two trophies back to back, setting 21-games unbeaten record, winning the FA Cup for the first time in 43 years and returning to the continent after 28 years - I believe in the capacity of the governor and his deputy governor.

Going memory lane, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu is a man many around the world will remember for his generosity and rewards to players who gave the State glorious times. Only a few of them are of Abia State origin, but many of them have become Abia indigenes by rewards of Sen. Orji Uzor Kalu.

To truly reward the heroes of Bendel Insurance, some impactful gestures this writer will suggest is to grant each player and backroom staff member a plot of land within the state and have it named the "Bendel Insurance Estate" - have you thought of how big that will ink your name in the heart of millions? Think about it, your Excellency.

If this can't be done, these players should be handsomely rewarded financially for their feat - this is what many governors will be envious of and would have prayed to happen in their state. Your Excellency, if this is not done, heaven will not fall, but a lot would be left to say about a state that prides in success but fails to reward the actors 

This act of appreciation would not only solidify their commitment to the team but also transform them into honorary indigenes of Edo State. 

The prospect of owning a piece of Bendel Insurance Estate, a symbol of the team's legacy and a testament to their achievements, would resonate deeply with the players, their families, and the ardent supporters of Bendel Insurance. Such a gesture would undoubtedly inspire the Benin Arsenals to remain at the pinnacle of their prowess as they venture into the continental stage.

Celebrating Bendel Insurance goes beyond rewards and material tokens of appreciation. Their success signifies the unwavering spirit of Edo State, the tenacity and passion that have come to define them as the "Heartbeat of the Nation." 

As Governor Obaseki continues to solidify his legacy as the "Wake and See Governor," it is imperative that he transcends words and demonstrates his commitment to Bendel Insurance. By rewarding their triumph with tangible and heartfelt gestures, he can engrave his name in the hearts of the players, their families, and the loyal supporters who have stood by their side through thick and thin. 

The time is now for Governor Obaseki to shine the light on Bendel Insurance and ignite the flame of its continued success, as the "Heartbeat of the Nation" beats louder than ever before.

Father's Day Celebration: Philip 'Altar Boy' Shaibu Charges Nigerian Men On Diversification

 

Edo State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu Sunday joined the rest of the world in marking the 2023 Father’s Day in the house of the Lord as he admonishes Nigerian men to diversify.

Shaibu who served as Chief Mass Servant at the St. Paul Catholic Church in Benin City, urged fathers to explore every available legal means to make more money and adequately take care of their family.

He described a godly home as a home where the father can provide for the family - a phenomenon that will curb insurgency and kidnapping in the country.

According to him, the starting point of building a nation is by building homes and urged fathers to amplify things that will take care of the family.

"Fathers are not really appreciated as the mothers are appreciated which is just natural, but I think we should be respected more now. It's always important that we give ourselves respect and for me, respect should not begat respect, instead, respect cancels disrespect."

"Our country today is in dire need of role models and this time when things are not going well for us all due to the removal of the fuel subsidy which is having a toll on us all - as fathers, this is the time to think deeper, think out of the box and join our wives in praying as we go out hustling side by side."

"Palliative or no palliative, what's critical is contentment; if we can provide for our family the society will be more at peace. We need to diversify beyond our take-home - time to think outside our salaries, not to steal, but take advantage of technology to augment our living."

"My prayer is that God will continue to grant all we men the strength, knowledge and finance to take care of our family so that everything can be provided and that our children will not engage in social vices which may in the end bring unrest in the country."

Bendel Insurance vs El Kanemi: How Deputy Governor, Phillip Shaibu, Faith Irabor standstill in honour of Robert Akpenpuun

 

Chairman of the Chairmen of Benue State football council, Robert Akpenpuun was on over the weekend ceremonially " honoured" by Edo State government, and  Former Bendel Insurance striker now Deputy Governor, Comrade Phillip Shaibu for his consistent "moral uprightness" in the Nigeria football industry as he commissioned his last NPFL fixture before proceeding on Diplomatic journey, anytime soon. 

It was indeed a memorable day for the chairman of Vandeikya football council, Robert Akpenpuun seeing the new Head of  Nigeria Referees Appointment Committee of NFF, Faith Irabor  who equally joined the Sports- loving Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu as a mark of respect while 

players of both teams, Bendel Insurance and El Kanemi Warriors created an atmosphere best described as " Military Guard of Honour" to celebrate the highly "valor" Benue State football administrator,  Akpenpuun whilst passing through the aisle. 

Comrade Phillip Shaibu and Faith Iraboh in their remarks, spoke glowingly of the seasoned Match Commissioner, Robert Terlumun Akpenpuun publicly;

" I have known Robert Akpenpuun for years and he has always demonstrated uncompromising attitude whenever his duty calls in this industry. He is very diligent, focused, and ever ready  to give his best as a football administrator; and I am using this opportunity to bid him farewell on his journey out of Nigeria as a career diplomat. " Shaibu remarked with verve

Meanwhile, according to Faith Irabor;

" Robert Akpenpuun is not just one of the rare personalities with good track records in our football system but a brother, who exude qualities of a good leader; one of the major reasons he is wearing different caps aside from being a responsible 

Commissioner. When I got the hints about his promotion, I was very elated knowing that, it is a genuine sign of hard work and Grace; because he is moving on with his career paths and I believe the sky would be the starting point for him." Irabor enthused

Robert Akpenpuun as a senior figure amongst the Nigeria football federation (NFF) Protocol committee members had seamlessly ushered in major Drivers of football globally into the country, ie; FIFA President, Giovanni Vincenzo "Gianni" Infantino,

, Former CAF president, Ahmad Ahmad and Atletico Madrid Head Coach, Diego Simone amongst other international personalities in the football circle. He is also highly ranked with ( Star badges) as a staff of Nigerian Immigration Service.

Countdown to Access Bank Lagos City Marathon: Shaibu to run alongside Sanwo-Olu in February

 

The sports-loving Deputy-Governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu will add to his huge sports resume on February 12, 2022.

He will be joining the Governor of Lagos State and host of the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon Babajide Sanwo-Olu to participate in the 2022 edition.

Speaking while signing the entry form over the weekend Shaibu said he has been a distance admirer of the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon.

“I congratulate the good people of Lagos State, especially the Executive Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for putting together the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, the biggest one-day sports event in Africa and one of the top ten marathons in the world in terms of prize money and participants. 

“Having participated in the highly competitive Okpekpe 10km Road Race on a tough terrain because it is hilly, it will be a great joy to experience the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon alongside my brother Governor Sanwo-Olu. It will be fun to run in Lagos because the course is flat”. 

An avid golfer, Shaibu is also a passionate footballer. He etched his name in sports history when he led the Team Edo football team to win the male football gold medal at the 20th National Sports Festival (NSF) in Benin.

In the match, Edo bounced back from a two-goal deficit to defeat the Lagos team 3-2 in the final at the main bowl of the University of Benin Stadium Complex.

Apart from organizing the best NSF ever despite the challenge of Covid-19, Shaibu the man in charge of sports in Edo State is leaving a legacy of giving Edo State world-class sports facilities and equipment including building the best gymnasium in Africa.

Yussuf Alli General Manager Access Bank Lagos City Marathon urges politicians and celebrities to emulate Shaibu, “being active in sports cure many illness and diseases. Our leaders and celebrities that the masses emulate should join Shaibu by embracing sports culture. This will translate mass participation in sports leading to a healthier workforce and less spending on healthcare by the government”.

Ogba pays tribute to father of football in Mid-West, Late Etemike

 

The Vice-President of Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) Solomon Ogba over the weekend paid glowing tribute to the father of football in Mid-Western state, and one of the fathers of football in Nigeria late Godwin Etemike who died recently.

“The Mid-West, indeed Nigeria has lost a genuine lover of football who gave his all for the beautiful. He was selfless, patriotic and empathic. As a Super Eagles star, he was ready to die for the jersey on the field of play, as one of the coaches that ensure we won the Afcon in 1980 the late Etemike endured sleepless nights to ensure we succeeded, we have lost a great Nigerian” said Ogba.  

He recalled that it was Etemike assembled the team that gave Nigeria her first continental title in 1980.

“It was Etemike that took Christian Chukwu and others to Brazil a few months to the 1980 Afcon before Otto Glory was appointed to take over of the team.”

Ogba recalled Etemike playing career in the colours of Stationery Stores FC of Lagos and then WNDC which later changed to IICC Shooting Stars FC of Ibadan, now 3SC and Plateau X1, and his days in the Super Eagles alongside greats like Eto Amaechina, Amusa Shittu, and Thunder Balogun. 

“He was one of our best and he played alongside the best players in Nigeria in his days. If he had been playing today he would have played for the best clubs in the world.”

His coaching career was no less illustrious according to Ogba.

He was the first Chief Coach of Mid-West Director of Sports, he led Bendel Insurance FC as chief coach to win the 1972 FA Cup against Mighty Jets of Jos with great players like Sebastian Broderick, Tony Ottah, Sam Ikeji, Victor Oduah, Peter Egharevba.”

Others clubs he coached are NNPC Warri, Sharks of Port Harcourt, Asaba Textiles Ethiope FC, Ika Rangers and NNB FC.

“Nigeria has lost a great man, his death is a huge blow to the Mid-West and indeed the sports family in Nigeria,” said Ogba

Great Organization, Magnificent Facility; Alexander Otasowie Praises Gymnastics Federation, Philip Shaibu

 

As part of its manifesto in repositioning Nigeria Gymnastics sphere, the Gymnastics Federation of Nigeria under the leadership of Prince Kelvin Erhunwmunse is currently on Day 5 of its week training, exposure of athletes, coaches and judges of the game as well as Gymnastics camp for West Africa countries ongoing at the ultra-modern gymnastics gym of the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City of Edo State.

The week-long camp, the first of its kind in West Africa, has seen the presence of FYG experts from Egypt train coaches, judges and technical instructors from about seven countries in Africa.

Amongst participants at the week-long camp is a former gymnast and an administrator, Alexander Otasowie who couldn't hide but registers his excitement on this landmark.

"I started gymnastics from this State and I'm happy to be here not just for the fact that I'm a gymnast, but for the fact that my state is pioneering this for the country and this is something I take pleasure in."

"I also want to thank the president of the Gymnastics Federation of Nigeria who since he came on board as president has changed things. Himself being a gymnast is aiming to improve coaches, athletes and judges in the just concluded Level 1 course, a move to have a proper database to push the entire Gymnastics Federation forward."

"Nobody has ever believed this can happen in Nigeria, even the west African countries are amazed at what they have seen."

The excited Otasowie however heap praises on the Edo state government for putting in place the world-class gymnastics suspended gym.

"For the facility, this is the best we have in central West Africa and one of the best in another part of Africa. I'm a member of the UOG, the highest body for Africa and Edo state is pulling the whole of Africa and the whole world is monitoring. I'm amazed that this is happening in Nigeria."

"Now we are having this for the first time, bringing together the entire zone in West Africa. A big appreciation to the Government-Governor Obaseki and Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu for putting in place this structure to help raise more gymnasts who train with modern facilities."

"More completions, more games would be coming and now that the international bodies have seen it, it's a clear indication that we can stage as many competitions here."

"The very recent commissioning we had in the world was in Germany, 2019, this is exactly what's there-suspended gymnastics gym-which look impossible, which means that way happened in Germany is happening here. Not only Edo is benefiting from this or the whole country, but West Africa is also benefiting from it and Africa is happy to showcase this as one of the best they have."

"For Edo state, it's good and as a federation, we can see that it's one of the best and we are happy to have the best. This is the best place you can have the national team train, no other place in Nigeria has this facility," Otasowie added.

Shaibu is an excellent choice for Sports Personality of the Year - Yussuf Alli

 

 

The General Manager Access Bank Lagos City Marathon Yussuf Alli on Monday described the award of the Sports Personality of the Year (2020) bestowed on Comrade Philip Shaibu, the Edo State Deputy Governor by The Sun Newspapers as a perfect fit.

 The Sun Newspaper on Saturday named Shaibu as the Sports Personality of 2020.

“It is a perfect fit. In the last five years, Shaibu’s contributions to sports at the local, state, national and international levels has been huge, the award is a perfect recognition for a man who worked with sports-loving Governor, Godwin Obaseki, to reposition sports in Edo state and Nigeria.’’

Alli posits that today Shaibu is more synonymous with sports than activism, “he is not just a sports administrator par excellence, he is also a participant, he is the first governor or deputy governor to register and play in the Nigeria Football League. He is also first major political office holder to win a football gold medal at the National Sports Festival, after leading Team Edo to a 3-2 win over Team Lagos in the final of the men’s football event at the festival.”

Alli said supporters of Edo Insurance Football Club of Benin will remain grateful to him for the role in reviving the club while players and staff of  Edo Queens will not forget that he ensured they earn equal salaries and allowances with their male counterparts, the players of Edo Insurance FC”.

 Alli recalled that as head of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) of the Edo 2020 National Sports Festival hosted by Edo state, Shaibu did an excellent job,

“ With the support of his Governor, Shaibu worked tirelessly to ensure that Edo put world-class sports facilities and equipment in place, the organization was seamless despite enormous challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.’’

The General Manager of Access Bank Lagos City Marathon also recalled the contribution of Shaibu to the meteoric rise of sprint sensation Enoch Adegoke cumulating in his making the final of the men's 100m at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.

“At a stage in his career when few believed in Adegoke, Shaibu invested his time and money in the sprinter, the result was his specular showing in Tokyo where he became the first Nigerian to make the Olympics 100m final in 25 years”.

Alli also commended the management of The Sun Newspapers for giving honour to whom it is due.

NBBF Elective Congress now to hold October 30 in Benin

 

The Congress of the Nigeria Basketball Federation has approved Saturday, 30^th of October for elections into the Executive board of the federation.

At its extraordinary congress held on Saturday, 9^th of October in Abuja, the congress ratified Benin as the host city while also adopting the proposed Electoral Committee to be chaired by Dr. Lanre Glover.

Glover will be deputized by Alh. Mohammed Sani Fema with Dr. Femi Olugbile, Hauwa Kulu-Akinyemi as members while Emmanuel Okibe will act as Secretary of the committee.

With all the 36 states and Federal Capital Territory Basketball Chairmen and Secretaries in attendance, the congress also approved the appointment of Mrs. Ize Matebese as Chairman of the 2021 NBBF Electoral Appeals Committee alongside General David Lubo (rtd.)  (Member) and Emmanuel Zira as Secretary.

At the congress chaired by the Caretaker Chairman of the Nigeria Basketball Federation, Engr Musa Kida, all stakeholders were requested to submit any observations for addition or amendment to the constitution for process according the Article 38 of NBBF approved Constitution.

This was unanimously agreed as part of the ongoing process to amend the constitutions which was described as a continuous exercise as enshrined in the constitution.

In attendance was the Honourable Minister of Sports, Chief Sunday Dare who was represented by the Permanent Secretary Ismaila Abubakar who was also present in his own personal capacity.

Engr. Ishaku Tikon represented the Nigeria Olympic Committee President, Engr Habu Gumel, Dr. Simon Ebhojiaye, Acting Director (FEAD) was also on ground alongside Prof. Florence Adeyanju, Member, Caretaker Committee, NBBF.

Akhiwu Eugene elected into Nigeria Chess Federation Board

Akhiwu Eugene has been elected as the Arbiters/Coaches representative on the board of the Nigeria Chess Federation, NCF.

Akhiwu in the election was unopposed and had 16 votes to his name to emerge as the winner and will now be representing the Coaches and Arbiters on the NCF board.

The September 16th election which took place online started at 10am with nomination of candidates and nomination closed by 11am, leading into the publishing Akhiwu Eugene as the successful candidate for the position. Voting in line with the NSF electoral guidelines commenced at 12 noon as voters dropped their votes to designated numbers until 1pm, the voting closing time. 

Results of the voting which was announced by IA Ogbonnaya Obinna, the election returning officer at 2pm declared Mr Akhiwu Eugene as the winner of the election.

In his victory and result acceptance speech, Akhiwu Eugene said he was happy for the victory and he will use the mandate given to him by Coaches and Arbiters to drive the sports to it's preferred destination, in his own capacity.

"I want to appreciate all members of the family of Chess Arbiters and Coaches for expressing their confidence in my representation through my nomination and result of the ballot box."

"I undertake today to bring the best I can offer to the table in my representation of our family of Arbiters and Coaches on the Board of the Nigeria Chess Federation."

"I want to thank you all once again for your trust and believe in me, so help me God."

NCF Elections: Edo Chess Association frowns at selection of Austin Apemiye as representative

As the sports federation election draws nigh, controversies have began to show their ugly faces across the country as aspiration for top position of sports federation in the country garners more heat. 

A bit of this showed itself in Edo State Chess Association as the representative on the federation level, earlier endorsed by the association, Akhiwu Eugene deprived the right to be the State's representative as against the earlier endorsement.

According to a reliable source, the Association had earlier endorsed the aspiration of Akhiwu Eugene to vie for the post of the President of the federation, and that endorsement was sent to  the relevant authorities (Chairman Sports Commission, the Director of Sports etc) were duly copied; but that was ruled out by an ambiguous ruling which started from nomination forms signing.

Investigation confirmed that the nomination form of Akhiwu Eugene on the ploy to have him ruled out was signed but had no official stamp on it as against Austin Apemiye's form which carried both. The Plan to impose Apemiye Austin was  successfully concluded at the government house moments before the final endorsement of all prospective representatives of the State at the Government house. 

However further reliable source confirmed that Austin Apemiye is not resident in Edo State as he is based outside of Nigeria. He is not a member of the Edo State Chess Association board and has neither made any reasonable contribution to the development of Chess in the state.

The source also confirmed that this development did not go down well with the chairman of the Edo State Chess Association, Mr. Ehiozuwa Isaac who frowned at the manner at which the whole process unfolds.

10 Reasons Akhiwu Eugene Should Preside over Edo State Chess Association

In a season when reputable individuals who can come to the fore and put to place their skills, experience and exposure to play in raising the bar of Chess in Edo State becomes a scarce commodity, Akhiwu Eugene is the solution to the situation and the sustainance to any set policy, program or agenda for the Chess Association in Edo State.

Beyond being a man of wider exposure and understanding the game of Ches, both as a player, coach and Administrator, Akhiwu Eugene is the kind of soul everyone who prays for progressiveness in Edo Chess will want to associate with.

Here are TEN reasons Eugene should be considered as the best option to lead Edo State Chess Association to the Promise land

1: Ehidiamhen Eugene AKHIWU is an International Chess Arbiter, an International Chess Organiser, a National/Developmental Chess Instructor, and has a Diploma in the Administration of a Chess Federation all of which were awarded by FIDE, the World Chess Federation. 

2: He is also the Technical Director of the Edo State Chess Association (ESCA).

3: As a Chess Administrator, Ehidiamhen has been more recently involved with taking the Chess in Schools Program of the World Chess Federation FIDE to the nook and crannies of Edo State through his organization; the Chess Knights; a registered entity with Corporate Affairs Commission. He has also been collaborating with the Life and Chess Club run by Princess Omonyemwen Adeyinka-Afolabi in inculcating the inherent advantages of learning and playing chess in the people of Edo State especially our children and adolescents.

4: In 2013, Collaborating with Life and Chess Club, the Benin Chess Tournament Also Known as Oba's Cup was successfully organized which was the first FIDE rated chess tournament in Edo State and it is in its 5th Edition this year 2021. It is also important to note that the Chess Sequence which started in 2010 with the support of Ehidiamhen has been organized 22 times and the 23rd edition will be organized in September, 2021. 

5: The Ehidiamhem Childrens Day Classics also saw its maiden edition on the 27th of May, 2021. Testaments of these events can be found online.

6: His training, experience, qualifications and certifications cut across all the areas of chess play and administration.

7: The University of Lagos (Sociology) graduate is *Intelligent, Resourceful, and Capable, possessing excellent oral and written communication skills, with a creative approach in engaging people.* He's an individual who is personally driven to succeed, he demonstrates the ability to lead and attain new levels of success in a highly competitive environment.

8: From 1983 till date, Mr Eugene has held as many roles as any Chess legend would have across the world. From being an Arbiter at the _B & H International Chess Grand Prix, Lagos- 1983_

_IBB Chess masters International Grand Prix Abuja- 1983_

_World Chess Olympiad, Calvia, Spain- 2004_

_World Chess Olympiad, Istanbul, Turkey- 2012_

A Deputy Chief Arbiter in competition across the continent from zonal championship, Afican Junior Championship, All African games to Individual games  between late 90s, early 2000 and 2010.

What more Edo will benefit, should Eugene be supported to lead them?

9

Give priority to the development of the Chess masses, mainly youth, putting foremost the socio-educational virtues of the game.

Modify the rules and organisation of tournaments according to our priority of mass development

Make the management of the Nigerian Chess Federation exemplary, based on real democracy and transparency.

Increase the living standard of all Chess professionals, just to mention but a few what a man of deep understanding of the sport can offer if allowed to steer the paddle of Edo Chess canoe.

10

A man without goal will only get to position with nothing to offer; Eugene however is not a farmer who goes to farm without hoe. Here are highlights of his goals as an administrator

*Establishing closer links amongst local Chess players in order to form regular Chess Clubs and increase tournament participation within State Chess Associations.*

*Develop closer links between these Chess players and the Nigeria Chess Community.*

*Provide Equipment and Technical Assistance to increase the level of regular Chess activity.*

*Foster a greater sense of Community Spirit amongst Chess players of all ages.*

*Identify talented Chess players and Organisers, and develop their skills for the future.*

Though there have been some wall talks about an alien to the game who to want to make his way through the back doors, but without mincing words, a man like Akhiwu Eugene is all Edo State Chess Association need to become a world power house in Chess game.

Sports firm to honour Gov. Bello, Philip Shaibu at Football Legendary Sports Award event

 By Aturu Bishop

Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory of Nigeria will this weekend take the center stage as the Nigeria Football Legendary Sports Award organized by Success Tiyu Int’l in conjunction with the Kogi State Football Association will honour personalities of note that have made their marks in the Sporting arena.

The ceremony which is scheduled to hold on Saturday, July 24th, 2021 at the Green Minds Hotel Utako Abuja is expected to be graced by sports icons, sports administrators, Ex-football players and friends of the game.

In a chat with Sports journalists in Lokoja on Thursday, the organizer of the award, Abubakar Musa, an ex-footballer,  noted that the ceremony would be the first of its kind in the history of sports activities in the country.  

According to him, the event will be honouring His Excellencies,  Gov. Yahaya Bello of Kogi,  and the Edo state Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu for their youth friendliness and contributions to the growth of sports in the country. 

He added that Gov Yahaya Bello has been nominated to be honoured as the “Youth trend setter of the century”. 

This he disclosed was due to his youth friendliness and as a fore runner of Nigeria youths in the forth coming 2023 presidential election; knowing quite true that sports is associated with youthfulness.

Musa further added that the Deputy Governor of Edo state will be honoured as the best sporting deputy governor Nigeria 2021. 

The event he stressed, will also embrace other awards to those that have distinguished themselves at one international tournament or the other like the 1983 Flying Eagles set that first qualified Nigeria for a FIFA organised tournament.

While calling for partnership from relevant sports stakeholders in the country and the world at large, Musa stressed that the event will commence at 10am.