Idah Secondary Commercial College Marks 50 Years of Excellence

 

The Alumni Association of Idah Secondary Commercial College is thrilled to invite all old and continuing students, as well as the general public, to their 50th-year anniversary celebration. 

According to a statement by the Chairman, Media Sub-Committee and PRO of the Alumni Mr Godwin Egbunu, this milestone event promises to be an unforgettable experience, filled with nostalgia, gratitude, and joy.

The celebration kicks off on Friday, December 27th, 2024, with a special Jumma’at prayer at the Idah Central Mosque, Kogi State. 

This solemn occasion will mark the beginning of the golden jubilee festivities.

On Sunday, December 29th, 2024, an interdenominational thanksgiving worship service will be held at the College Dining Hall, located on Idah-Odolu-Nsuka Road, Idah. The service will commence at 10:00 am prompt.

In the evening of the same day, exciting activities have been lined up, including a novelty football match between old and continuing students at the College Football Field, starting at 4:00 pm prompt. 

This will be followed by a “Mates & Friends Sit Out” featuring barbecue, drinks, DJ music, comedy, and more.

The grand finale of the celebration will take place on Monday, December 30th, 2024, with an Annual General Meeting (AGM) at 8:30 am prompt. 

This will be followed by a Grand Reunion Awards Luncheon, goodwill messages, photographs, and other exciting activities. Don’t miss this epoch-making event! 

Education: Kogi Governor signs law establishing CUSTECH Teaching Hospital, Okene

 

The Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has signed a bill converting the state-of-the-art Reference Hospital, Okene into the Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH) Teaching Hospital.

This was announced in Lokoja on Tuesday by the State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Mr. Kingsley Fanwo, during a press briefing.

The move aligns with the National Universities Commission’s approval of a full-time Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) program, among other medical courses, at CUSTECH. According to Mr. Fanwo, the step ensures the program begins on a solid foundation.

“This achievement is the result of months of coordinated engagement between the university, the State Ministry of Health, and the State Ministry of Education. We commend the State House of Assembly for passing the bill, which has now been signed into law by Governor Ododo,” Fanwo said.

He emphasized the administration’s prioritization of healthcare, noting that the former Reference Hospital—now the CUSTECH Teaching Hospital—is equipped with world-class medical facilities, some of which are debuting for the first time in Africa.

“With this development, CUSTECH will have cutting-edge medical technology to train outstanding healthcare professionals for Kogi State and beyond,” he added.

Fanwo further highlighted the administration’s commitment to healthcare and education, describing the signing as a significant milestone in the state’s progress. He also expressed gratitude to the State House of Assembly for their collective effort in creating this historic achievement.

With the bill now law, CUSTECH is poised to effectively commence its MBBS program.

FUBF donates soccer balls to 18 schools in Osun State

 

Family United By Football (FUBF) is a Sports Group on social media (WhatsApp) platform, and one poised for radical change in our sports, especially FOOTBALL and management in Osun State has donated soccer balls to 18 schools in Osun State.

Following the celebration of its 2024 FUBF Day, the vibrant sports advocacy group took a significant step to inspire other well-meaning individuals to support FUBF's longstanding commitment to grassroots football development.

The donation event held at the Osogbo Township Stadium was attended by several key stakeholders in Osun Sports, which includes the Senior Special Adviser to the Osun State Governor on Football Matters, Kehinde Johnson, General Manager Osun Sports Council, Rotimi Dunmoye, Director of Coaching and Training at the Osun Sports Council, Ademola Daini, Chairman Osun Players Union and Assistant Coach Osun United, Olapade Waheed, and other FUBF members. 

During the presentation of the soccer balls to randomly selected schools, FUBF founder Tunde Shamsudeen, a renowned sports journalist, football administrator, and Chairman FUBF Organizing Committee, Alhaji Olayiwola Olafiranye stated:

"We believe football has the power to unite everyone, awaken the self-worth of countless football talents in our schools, empower big dreams, and provide aspiring athletes with a reason to pursue a career in the beautiful game. 

"This initiative is part of FUBF's Community Social Responsibility (CSR) aimed at developing the physical and mental well-being of our youth while also serving as a platform for them to showcase their football skills. 

"Many students cannot afford quality soccer balls; at FUBF, we aim to change that narrative by providing these resources for our secondary school talents to play or train with during their long breaks and after school.

"We distributed a total of 51 soccer balls to 18 secondary schools in Osun State."

Kehinde Johnson praised FUBF’s initiative, noting that while the state government had planned a similar program, FUBF was the first to execute such a donation. He added that this action aligns perfectly with the state government’s plans to hold school competitions like the Principal’s Cup and Headmaster’s Cup next year.

Sunday Adeloye from Methodist High School, Ilesha, speaking on behalf of the Games Masters, expressed his gratitude: "We are very surprised with this kind of programme, because this is the first of its kind,” he said. 

“We’re planning on holding a football competition, and we’ve been looking for money to buy balls, but now the group has given us balls freely.” 

He assured FUBF that the footballs would be put to good use and appealed to the Osun State Sports Council to support outstanding student-athletes. 

The recipient schools are as follows: Fakunle Comprehensive High School (Osogbo), Olufi High School (Gbongan), Methodist High School (Ilesa), Ilesa Grammar School (Ilesa), Ibokun Grammar School (Ibokun), ADC Grammar School (Apomu), and St. Charles Grammar School (Osogbo). 

Additional schools include ADS Grammar School (Ifon), B.S. Grammar School (Ola-Ejigbo), Akinorun Grammar School (Ikirun), Inisa Grammar School (Inisa), Olofa Grammar School (Ofatedo), AUD Grammar School (Iwo), Anglican High School (Edunabon), St. Paul Grammar School (Ilobu), Muslim High School (Modakeke), Ido Osun High School, and Modupeolu Model School, Owode-Ede.

"We’ve only just begun’: Omamofe reveals plans for Dino Sporting Club in 2025

 

Dino Sporting Club President, Samuel Columbus Omamofe, remains optimistic about the club's future, despite its already impressive achievements.

Founded in 2016, Dino Sporting Club has grown into one of Nigeria's premier football academies, standing alongside the likes of Beyond Limits.

“When I started Dino Sporting Club, it was an entirely new experience. I chose to establish the academy in Ogun State because I wanted a more secluded and secure environment,” Omamofe told the club's media team.

“We secured proper camping facilities in Abeokuta, and in 2016, we held an open trial and a three-day screening exercise at Legacy Pitch. We returned to Abeokuta with 50 players.”

Reflecting on the club’s early days, Omamofe admitted it wasn’t an easy journey.

“As a matter of fact, the journey hasn’t been smooth. In the early stages, I made a few mistakes, which I was able to correct over time. For instance, I realized I should have started with younger players in the U15 age range, whom we could have developed into stars over the years.”

Under Omamofe’s leadership, Dino Sporting Club has clinched several titles, including the Creative Championship League Cup and the Supremacy Cup. The club also finished as runners-up twice in the TCC League Cup and competed at the prestigious Viareggio Cup in Italy.

Additionally, Dino Sporting Club has produced several players who have gone on to excel in the Nigerian top flight and European leagues, including Ogonna Hyacinth, who signed for Belgian side Westerlo.

“We’ve enjoyed some measure of success, with about five players performing well at various European clubs. That has brought joy and revenue to the club,” he said with a smile.

Omamofe credited his achievements to divine guidance and unwavering support from his wife.

“First of all, I want to thank God. And, of course, a big thank you to my wife, who has been very supportive. There were times I had to borrow money from her to keep the football business going. She’s been steadfast in her faith and has grown alongside the vision.

“Sometimes, I have to travel for days, both within and outside Nigeria, for this business. In the end, we share the benefits of this work together.”

While 2024 has been a productive year for Dino Sporting Club, Omamofe is already setting his sights on achieving even greater milestones in 2025.

“The future is bright and dazzling. It can only get better and brighter. Right now, all eyes are on Dino Sporting Club. It’s been a good story, and we thank God for that,” he concluded.

Decline in Nigerian Football: Dino SC Boss, Samuel Columbus pushes for reform, private investment

 

Omamofe’s call highlights the urgent need for reforms in Nigerian football, both at the national and grassroots levels, as the country seeks to reclaim its place among Africa’s footballing giants.

Seasoned football administrator Samuel Columbus Omamofe has called on the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to appoint a visionary coach for the Super Eagles and exercise patience in implementing long-term development plans.

The Super Eagles are currently without a head coach following the departure of Portuguese manager Jose Peseiro, who led the team to the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d'Ivoire. 

In the interim, NFF technical director Austin Eguavoen stepped in to oversee a successful qualification campaign for the 2025 AFCON. However, both Peseiro and Eguavoen have faced criticism for their playing styles.

As the crucial final phase of the FIFA World Cup qualifiers approaches, Omamofe believes the NFF must prioritize hiring a coach with a clear vision for Nigerian football.

“Football is a game of passion, and playing for Nigeria should be seen as a great honor for any player. I remember during the days of Clemens Westerhof; we had a visionary coach who knew what he wanted for Nigerian football over five years. 

"He received tremendous support from the NFF and the government. When he left, we had Bonfrere Jo and Philippe Troussier, and there was a clear transition,” Omamofe said.

“Unfortunately, in the last 10 years, the performance of the national team has declined. If I were in charge, I would appoint a coach with a 4-5 year progressive plan. Football development is like a marathon — it takes time.”

Omamofe also raised concerns about Nigerian club football, highlighting its struggles on the continental stage. 

"He pointed out that only Enyimba made it to the group phase of the CAF Confederation Cup this season. However, the team sits at the bottom of their group with no wins in three matches and faces the risk of early elimination. 

This failure could reduce Nigeria’s continental slots from four to two for the next season.

“The government and the NFF have deviated from the structures that once sustained Nigerian football,” Omamofe added. 

“We need competitions to groom players and coaches, like the Principals Cup, the Ajegunle Mock Nations Cup, and other grassroots football programs. I have always said grassroots football is the solution to Nigeria’s football challenges.”

He stressed the need for private sector involvement, lamenting the dominance of state-owned clubs in Nigeria’s domestic leagues.

“In the last 20 years, we have mainly had state-owned clubs in the Nigerian leagues. I always commend Hon. Kunle Soname for his contributions to Nigerian football. 

Football is a multi-billion-dollar business, and we need to encourage more private investors to come into the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL),” Omamofe concluded.

Dino Sporting Club president advocates financial independence to grow Nigeria football

 

Samuel Omamofe Columbus, President of Dino Sporting Club, shared his insights on Nigerian football and his experiences as a club owner in a recent interview. 

He emphasized the need for financial independence and a renewed focus on grassroots development for the growth of the sport in Nigeria.

Columbus, a former footballer whose career was cut short by injury, established Dino Sporting Club out of passion. He described the challenges of running a football club in Nigeria, including initial mistakes in player selection, which he later corrected by focusing on younger players in the U15 range. 

Despite the challenges, the club has seen some success, with several players progressing to European clubs, generating both joy and revenue.

Columbus's background includes education in Lagos State, brief studies at Lagos State University, and professional courses, including football management. 

He was also a FIFA agent but relinquished his role due to conflicts of interest with club ownership.

He believes that the decline of Nigerian teams on continental and global stages stems from a deviation from established plans and structures, particularly at the grassroots level. 

Columbus strongly advocates for reinvesting in grassroots programs like the Principals Cup and local tournaments, stating that "grassroots football is the solution to Nigerian football challenges."

Explaining the unique name of his club, Columbus revealed that his friends used to call him "Dino Baggio" during his playing days. He expressed gratitude to his wife for her unwavering support, including financial assistance during challenging times.

Regarding Nigeria's potential failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, Columbus emphasized the importance of passion and honor in representing the nation. 

He recalled the successful era under Clemens Westerhof, highlighting his vision, support from the NFF and government, and the smooth transitions to subsequent coaches. 

He advocated for hiring a coach with a 4-5 year development plan, emphasizing that "football is like a marathon. The development takes time."

Columbus also addressed the issue of recycling older players in Nigerian clubs. He praised Hon. Kunle Soname's contributions and called for greater private investment in the NPFL, recognizing football as a "multi-billion dollar business."

When asked about his personal preferences, Columbus mentioned Jos and Akwa Ibom in Nigeria, as well as Dubai and Belgium, as his favorite holiday spots. He expressed optimism about the future of Dino Sporting Club. If stranded in the desert, he would take his Bible, a football, and water. His favorite local teams are Remo Stars and Enugu Rangers, while he enjoys watching Manchester City and Arsenal play beautiful football, despite being a Manchester United fan.

Finally, Columbus expressed his approval of the new Lagos FA board led by Hajji Gafar Liameed, describing him as a visionary and a "thoroughbred football technocrat" who has been instrumental to his team's success. He believes Liameed is "the best thing to have happened to football in Lagos State."

The key takeaway from the interview is Columbus's strong belief that financial independence and a renewed focus on grassroots development are crucial for the resurgence of Nigerian football. He advocates for greater private investment in the league and a long-term vision for national team development.

Sporting Sun 

AGIH'S PhD DEFENCE: EPITOME OF AN UNENDING MENTORSHIP

 

Yesterday, 10th December, 2024, while I was presiding over Management meeting at the State Polytechnic, Lokoja, I received the cheering news that Agih Micah Abdul, one of our life-long mentees, had successfully defended his PhD thesis.

The news was broken to me by his supervisor.

The attainment capped the zenith of mentorship involving the trio of Professor Hassan Isah (number 1 in the picture below), then Vice-Chancellor, Kogi State University (now Prince Abubakar Audu University) Anyigba, Professor Marietu Tenuche (number 2), then Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) and current Vice-Chancellor of the University, and my humble self (number 3), then Departmental Examination Officer and now Rector, Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja.

Professor Isah appointed Professor Marietu Tenuche as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and Administration at different times) in the  University. She also became a Professor under the Vice-Chancellorship of Professor Isah.

Professor Tenuche is a Professor of Political Economy and Development Studies and a mother figure who has continued to inspire Agih (number 4) and my humble self.

Professor Isah, now a retired Professor of Chemical Pathology, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, recruited me into the University as an Assistant Lecturer in 2009. He also employed Agih into the fold of the academia as a Graduate Assistant in 2015.

The picture is, therefore, symbolic of chains of mentorship that began with the foundation laid by Professor Isah and nurtured by Professor Marietu Tenuche.

Today, that relationship has produced a young and vibrant progeny now addressed as Agih Micah Abdul, PhD.

It all started in 2011, when I was the 200 Level Adviser for the Department of Political Science of the University. It was that moment my path crossed with Agih Micah Abdul. 

The relationship started on a rough note; but that is a story for another day.

Not long after, the lack of commitment on the part of the then Class Rep for the 200 Level prompted me to facilitate a change in leadership, and Agih was unanimously elected as the new Class Rep by his mates. 

His election as Class Rep provided a platform for a relationship that has today, given me one of my biggest fulfillments in life.

As Class Rep, Agih exhibited traits of a team player and commitment to academic advancement. My conviction in his leadership qualities and personal relationship with people was further strengthened when the then SUG President, Yakubu Shaibu (Ebije) of the blessed memory, who was from the Department of Economics approached me and requested that I should assist as Level Adviser to ensure that Agih emerged as his successor. 

As fate would have it, Agih became the SUG President in the 2013/2014 session. As President, Agih's sense of administrative and academic commitment became more pronounced. In spite of that, he remained humble and loyal to those around him. 

This further convinced me to draw the attention of the then Vice-Chancellor on the need to engage Agih as Graduate Assistant, having graduated with Second Class (Upper Division). 

I made the case for his appointment because, as his undergraduate project supervisor, I knew what he would bring to the table by way of academic prowess, and a value addition to the Department.

 Immediately after his appointment, I encouraged him to enroll for his M.Sc programme in the Department. Agih did not disappoint as he enrolled for the programme and successfully completed in record time under my supervision. At the time he completed his M.Sc programme, I was already the Head of Department, after I had served as departmental Assistant Examination Officer and later Examination Officer.

The next charge I gave was for him to proceed for a PhD programme, but outside PAAU. As he was about enrolling for the programme at Nsukka, I received the news of my appointment as Rector of Kogi State Polytechnic, the same time Professor Tenuche was appointed as Vice-Chancellor, PAAU.

Within the period, I encouraged him to marry, and he did. When the opportunity came, we engaged the service of his wife in the Polytechnic.

Today, I am proud to congratulate Agih Micah Abdul for a successful defence of his PhD thesis. 

I am more than fulfilled because he has chosen Political Economy and Development Studies, the field where our mother Professor Tenuche has excelled as a Professor; the same field of my recent professorial attainment.

No doubt, Dr. Agih has stayed true to the cause. While he has continued to demonstrate loyalty and commitment beyond words, he has also proved that his intellect and resourcefulness are undoubtedly strong. 

My Dear Agih Micah Abdul, PhD, as I welcome you to the club of the revered terminal degree, my charge to you is that you should not allow the river of lifting others to dry. Hold the touch firmly and hand it on to those younger ones looking up to you today.

Today, Professor Isah the then Vice-Chancellor has retired meritoriously from active service, Professor Tenuche is a Vice-Chancellor, I am a Rector of a Polytechnic, and you just bagged your PhD, which is symbolic of epitome of mentorship that should not end.

Congratulations, and welcome aboard, my brother.

Professor Salisu Ogbo Usman 

Rector, Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja

TCC League: Dino SC ends winless run with smart win over Imperial FC

 

Dino Sporting Club snapped their streak of disappointing results in the Creative Championship, TCC League with a 2-1 victory over Imperial Football Club in a Matchday 11 showdown at the Otunba Dipo Dina Stadium, Ijebu Ode on Saturday.

The tightly contested game saw few chances in the first half, with both teams heading into the break deadlocked. 

Dino SC, however, stepped up in the second half, scoring two brilliant goals to take control of the match. 

Despite Imperial FC pulling one back late on, the Lions held firm to secure a much-needed win.

The victory comes as a relief for Dino SC, lifting spirits ahead of the festive season and boosting their position in the league standings.

Lai Mohammed endorses Tinubu's grassroots appointment for Adeyinka

Former minister of information Alhaji Lai Mohammed has praised President Tinubu's appointment of Adeboye Adeyinka as Senior Special Assistant on grassroots sports development.

Reacting to the recent appointment of Adeyinka by President Tinubu as SSA grassroots sports development, when the later paid him a courtesy visit, Lai Mohammed who also worked as Chief of Staff for Tinubu when he was governor of Lagos State, enjoined Adeyinka popularly known as 'Zulu' to work with stakeholders in the sports sector in order to succeed, amongst others things.

"You are someone who is well knowledgeable and grounded in Sports so, I am confident you would succeed base on your experiences so far in the sector. 

Grassroots is the foundation of all good talents, so, you have a lot of things to put together to achieve bringing out real and raw talents from the nooks and crannies of Nigeria, even though, Sports is very expensive"

Zulu just Lai Mohammed had worked with different governors after Tinubu's reign, before working as Special Assistant to the immediate past sports minister John Enoh. 

Prior to the President appointment, Zulu had carve a niche for himself in the upstream sector of sports as one of the best heads.

Elebuibon Boyz unveils new kits with OTUAGASA FOUNDATION as partners

 

Elebuibon Boyz Football Club unveiled its new kits for the 2025 Nationwide League One, NLO season to the delight of their growing fans. 

The Elebuibon Boyz new jersey now has OTUAGASA FOUNDATION as its partner on its front-of-shirt. 

Giving an insight into the partnership, the CEO of OTUAGASA FOUNDATION, Ogundeji Ifadamitan Elebuibon noted. 

"The prowess of Elebuibon Boyz within a few years of its founding was the reason behind the partnership. 

"It's also on record that their talent hunting is top-notch, as they're the only team in Osun State that prioritizes young and quality players, whom they groom to make it to the next level of their careers."

The kits produced by Nigeria's top-rated brand Owu Sports Wears were made from quality materials with a cutting-edge design inspired by the classic blue and white stripes to aid visibility on the pitch. 

The design is a mix of tradition and innovation, simple and evokes the club's sexy brand of football, and completed with a seasonal round neck, with a visible club crest and Owu's logo.

According to the Club President, Honourable Ifashina Elebuibon, he enthused; “Both blue and white colours of the fresh classic and iconic jerseys are fundamental to Elebuibon Boyz DNA.

"Crafted for performance and to stand our player out on the pitch, the new shirts provide the needed confidence to play under pressure and achieve results."

Salim Fargo Lawal: Sensational Nigerian striker makes team of the week in Croatian league

The scintillating performance of Nigerian striker, Salim Fago Lawal in the colours or NK Istra against NK Lomotiva in Croatian top- flight league game on Sunday has earned him a slot in the team of the week in Croatia.

Lawal scored in the 45th minute of the game to put his team in a commanding 2-0 advantage going into the break and he had a commanding presence all through the game that later ended 2-1 in favour of the visitors from Istra.

Lawal was indeed a tormentor against the defenders of NK Lomotiva all through the time he lasted on the pitch before he suffered a knock that made him to be replaced in the 58th min, but his display was good enough to be voted into the team of the week in Croatia.

The former Flying Eagles striker has continued to develop his game after joining the club in August, 2023 and this latest feat in Croatia will definitely propel him to continue to work harder and the reward will come.

Lawal has been on the radar of some clubs in Europe due to the great quality of his game for NK Istra.

FUBF felicitates with Oliseh, FC Ebedei on Onuachu's FIFA award nomination

 

Barrister Churchill Oliseh and his club, FC Ebedei one of Nigeria's premier professionally-run football academies have received commendations from Family United By Football (FUBF) following the nomination of Super Eagles forward Ebere Paul Onuachu MON for the FIFA Puskás Award, which honors the year's best goal.

Last week, FIFA released a video showcasing the goals of all the nominees for the 2024 Puskás Award, and among them was the talented player from FC Ebedei.

Onuachu's remarkable acrobatic backheel finish during a match against Konyaspor last season, which contributed to Trabzonspor's 2-1 victory in the Turkish Super Lig, has made it to the list of 11 stunning goals competing for the prestigious prize.

FUBF, a vibrant sports advocacy group on WhatsApp, expressed their accolades while highlighting Barrister Oliseh and FC Ebedei's contributions to grassroots football development in Nigeria and beyond.

FC Ebedei is notable not only for being the only football academy and team in Nigeria to have three of its graduates—Paul Onuachu, Frank Onyeka, and Raphael Onyedika—selected for the Super Eagles' silver-winning squad in the recent AFCON held in Ivory Coast, but also for being the first club in sub-Saharan Africa to have a player nominated for this FIFA accolade named after the legendary Hungarian striker Ferenc Puskás, celebrated for his remarkable individual goals.

As one of Africa's most respected football teams, FC Ebedei consistently produces top-quality players and stands out as one of Nigeria's best-managed football academies.

Through FC Ebedei, Barrister Churchill Oliseh has been instrumental in the careers of five Members of the Order of the Niger (MON): Sunday Oliseh, Dosu Joseph, Paul Onuachu, Frank Onyeka, and Raphael Onyedika.

Barrister Oliseh’s success stories with Nigerian players are extensive, including his pivotal roles in the careers of Super Eagles legends Dosu Joseph and Sunday Oliseh. He provided the career pathway for Sunday Oliseh when he signed him to his first football team, JAMB FC, and helped Dosu transition to Europe from Julius Berger.

Before the 1996 Atalanta Olympics, Barrister Oliseh arranged for Dosu to join the Dream Team by purchasing a flight ticket from Italy, a cost he covered, which remains unpaid to this day.

Gallant Dino Sporting Club surrenders Lagos Supremacy Cup title to Beyond Limits

 

In a dramatic final at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos, Beyond Limits overcame Dino Sporting Club to win the Lagos Supremacy Cup on Saturday. 

Despite Dino remaining unbeaten in regulation time, Beyond Limits triumphed 6-5 in a tense penalty shootout after the match ended 1-1.

The clash reignited the fierce rivalry between the two sides, who showcased their quality and determination throughout the tournament.

Dino Sporting Club had a chance to take an early lead in the sixth minute when Hassan Agbede stepped up for a penalty. 

However, Beyond Limits goalkeeper Daniel Aiyenugba produced a crucial save to deny him.

The defending champions nearly broke the deadlock again in the 23rd minute, but Ilechukwu Friday’s effort was cleared off the line by Rawa Muhammed.

Against the run of play, Beyond Limits took the lead in the 27th minute through Daniel Arierhi, who capitalized on a defensive lapse to score with a tame shot.

Dino equalized in the 39th minute after Zakari Haruna was penalized for a handball in the box. Friday confidently converted the penalty, restoring parity.

Both sides pushed for a winner in the second half but failed to capitalize on their chances, resulting in a penalty shootout.

In the decisive shootout, Aiyenugba emerged as the hero, saving Pascal Okoli’s penalty. Meliga Promise then sealed the victory for Beyond Limits, sending Dino’s goalkeeper the wrong way with a composed final spot kick.

While Dino Sporting Club maintained their unbeaten record in regulation time, it was Beyond Limits who claimed the coveted title, ending the tournament on a high note with a well-earned victory.

Beyond Limits dethrone Dino Sporting Club as Lagos Supremacy Cup champions

A wave of elation swept through Beyond Limits Football Academy as they claimed the title by defeating Dino SC in the 2024 Lagos Supremacy Cup.

The 19th edition of the tournament concluded at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena on Saturday morning.

Following a gripping penalty shootout, Beyond Limits emerged as champions. Goalkeeper Daniel Aiyenugba made a crucial save against Pascal Okoli's attempt, with the match finishing 1-1 and Beyond Limits winning 5-4 on penalties.

With a storied rivalry between them, the 2023 champions Dino SC and Beyond Limits Football Academy were eager to secure the latest bragging rights, providing fans with an exhilarating match.

Daniel, son of former Super Eagles goalkeeper Dele Aiyenugba, made a remarkable save, diving full stretch to deny Hassan Agbede's penalty kick just six minutes into the game.

Beyond Limits increased their intensity and created two significant opportunities to take the lead. Abass Olasunkanmi narrowly missed an easy chance, while Isaac Chukwudi hit the post.

The match was a thrilling back-and-forth contest. Dino SC's Ikechukwu Friday unleashed a long-range shot that left Aiyenugba vulnerable, but defender Rawa Muhammed executed a vital goal-line clearance.

The opening goal was inevitable in this captivating encounter. In the 27th minute, Daniel Arierhi found himself in the right position to score for the reigning Viareggio Cup champions.

As the teams headed into halftime, Beyond Limits Football Academy held a 1-0 lead, setting the stage for an intense second half as Dino SC sought to mount a comeback.

Their determination was ultimately rewarded when Ikechukwu Friday equalized for his team with a well-executed penalty kick.

Both teams pressed forward in search of a decisive goal, but it was the tense penalty shootout that would determine the champions of the 2024 Lagos Supremacy Cup.

Beyond Limits triumphed, relying on the outstanding performance of Daniel Aiyenugba to secure a 5-4 victory in the penalty shootout.

In the third-place match, the Charlesann team rose to the occasion against 36 Lion.

Just two minutes into the game, they struck first with a dangerous attack, resulting in a goal from Ajofoba Olashile.

The Lion club regrouped and sought to regain control, with Samson Akinyoola, a familiar name in the tournament, scoring his fourth goal thanks to a precise assist from Cisse Mamady.

A penalty awarded to Charlesann was successfully converted by Sunday Jones, who outsmarted goalkeeper Samuel Oriola.

Akinyoola inspired his teammates and took a shot that was deflected into the path of Isah Mohammed, who capitalized on the opportunity.

Israel Archibong nearly secured a late winner with a powerful shot, but his effort struck the crossbar.

In the end, Charlesann emerged victorious in the shootout, winning 5-4.

Dino SC, Beyond Limits rekindle rivalries at Lagos Supremacy Cup final

 

The 2024 Lagos Supremacy Cup final will feature the reigning champions Dino SC going head-to-head with the Viareggio Cup victors Beyond Limits at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena on Saturday morning. Kickoff is 9:50am Nigerian time.

In the third-place playoff, Charlesann will challenge 36 Lion. The match underway at 8am.

Teams competed fiercely on Friday, aiming to impress the scouts in attendance.

Here’s a recap of Day 3:

Dino SC 3-2 Ikorodu City

Despite a brace from Wisdom Ubani, Ikorodu City fell short, losing 3-2 to Dino SC. Dino SC finished at the top of Group A with 10 points out of a possible 12.

Seamoriow 1-1 FC Bethel

FC Bethel initially took the lead with a goal from Ojo Jordan, but Seamoriow equalized through Quadri Adewuyi, who found the far left corner.

Broad City 1-0 Real Sapphire

A 5th-minute goal from Terhide David was sufficient for Broad City to secure a narrow victory over Real Sapphire.

MS Success 0-3 Charlesann

Charlesann capitalized on a poor defensive performance from MS Success, with goals from Sunday Jones, Uche Jones, and Akolawole Lateef leading to a 3-0 triumph. With six points and a goal difference of +3, Charlesann awaited the outcome of the Beyond Limits vs FC Bethel match to determine their fate in Group B.

36 Lion 1-1 Ikorodu City 

Samson Akinyoola's late goal secured a well-deserved point for 36 Lion in their match against Ikorodu City. Ahmed Malik opened the scoring in the 45th minute, capitalizing on a rebound after goalkeeper Samuel Oriola saved his initial penalty attempt. This result allowed 36 Lion, in second place, to secure a playoff spot for third place with a total of seven points from four matches.

Beyond Limits Football Academy 1-1 FC Bethel 

In another thrilling encounter, Beyond Limits managed to draw 3-3 with FC Bethel, thanks to Abiodun Toheeb's equalizer in the 52nd minute. The match was action-packed from the start, with Akinsipe Amos scoring in the 18th minute. 

Ojo Jordan seemed to give Bethel the upper hand by scoring after a rebound from goalkeeper Daniel Aiyenugba. Toheeb's goal reignited hope for Beyond Limits, but Uchenna Marizu restored Bethel's two-goal lead shortly after. 

However, in a dramatic finish, Ogunniyi Oluwaseyi and Toheeb scored to level the match. The result was disappointing for FC Bethel, who finished third with six points (+2), while Beyond Limits topped the group with eight points from four matches.

Day 3 Results:

Dino SC 3-2 Ikorodu City

Seamoriow 1-1 FC Bethel

Broad City 1-0 Real Sapphire

MS Success 0-3 Charlesann

36 Lion 1-1 Ikorodu City

Beyond Limits Football Academy 3-3 FC Bethel