FG pays cash transfer beneficiaries backlog stipends in Kogi State, introduces digitalised payment

By Stephen Adeleye

Some beneficiaries of the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) in Kogi, have expressed joy over payment of their backlog of stipends by the Federal Government from January to April 2021. 

Thew CCT is the disbursement of N5,000 monthly stipend to the poor and the vulnerable households under the Household Uplifting Programme of FG's National Social Investment Programme (NSIP).

The beneficiaries, who spoke to our Correspondent through interpreter on Tuesday in Okene, who were mostly elderly women, widows and vulnerable citizens, commended President Muhammadu Buhari for the gesture.

They also thanked the federal government for choosing Okene as one of the LGAs to test run the introduction of the Digitalised mode of payment to beneficiaries.

Halimat Usman, 75, and Ikhmat Shaibu 70 , both from Upogoro-eba community, said they felt excited receiving the money to take care of themselves and cater for their well beings.

''We are very grateful to our President Buhari, for remembering the aged and widow in the rural communities, and we are very happy with the money'', Shaibu and Usman said.

A physically challenged female beneficiary, Oke Usman, 30, from Idiche community, told NAN that she was particularly happy about the introduction of digital payment, saying, ''I can now access my stipend anywhere without stress.

''I thank the President and the Governor for considering persons living with disability even in the rural communities''.

Aishat Suleiman, 60, and Sikiratu Isiaka, 67, from Orere and Ozi-Ahache communities respectively, expressed their gratitude to the President, and prayed God to bless and reward him.

In his remarks, the State Focal Person of NSIP, Mr Abdulkareem Onyekehi, commended President Buhari for his commitment to uplifting the people of Nigeria out of poverty through the social investment programme.

Onyekehi noted that on assuming office in 2019, the CCT beneficiaries was about 11,500, saying it has grown progressively to 74,111 in the state.

He said that the programme had brought development to the people of the state, adding that the payment of the N20,000 to the poor and vulnerable was ongoing simultaneously across the 21 LGAs of the state. 

''It is a good development for us as a people, as a government and the team involved; it has really impacted the lives of the poor and vulnerable people in Kogi'', he said.

He commended His Excellency, Governor Yahaya Bello, for creating the enabling environment and supporting the full implementation of the NSIP in the state.

He noted that the Federal Government was test running 30 per cent of the payment to be digitalised, which was being practicalised in Okene, saying, ''you can see that the beneficiaries are very happy with the digitalised payment.

''But, we are still using cash payment in other LGAs, until we go into full automation and cashless payment.

''The FG decided to introduce the digitalised payment to reduce the risk involved in carrying cash about into rural communities''.

He added that the CCT was having a huge impact on the economy of Kogi State, saying the FG is paying each beneficiary 20,000 which is a backlog of N5000 for four months, from January to April 2021.

He advised the beneficiaries to take good advantage of the programme and make good use of the money to do something meaningful to their lives.

Also speaking, Mrs Falilat Abdurasaq, the Head of Kogi State CCT Unit, said a  total of 3, 632  CCT beneficiaries were captured in Okene LGA.

Abdulrasaq said that with digitalised payment, the beneficiaries would easily have access to their stipend anywhere they are without stress of queueing and waiting in the sun.

She explained that some beneficiaries who were pregnant or lactating women or have a child between zero to five years during the time of capturing were categorised under 'Top-Up' households.

She added that the top-up households were being paid N30, 000 instead of N20,000, to alleviate their burdens. 

''The program is to enable that we lift these women out of poverty; we don't want to leave them the way we met them at the beginning of this programme.

''We have built their confidence, introduced them to banking sector, and they formed themselves into cooperative groups, save their money in the bank or among themselves.

''Because of this, a lot of them have acquired assets, start businesses, farming, bought grinding machines, and canoe to transport their goods in riverine areas'', she said.

End

Hon Khamisu Mailantarki activates multi-million naira football development program in Gombe

... Hold Interactive Session With Football Coaches

... Donate N2.7m for 2021/2022 season registration fees to Nationwide and State Leagues Clubs

Praises and commendations from Gombe State football stakeholders, coaches, and enthusiasts was the order of the day as day Hon Khamisu Mailantarki unveiled a mega football development program in Gombe, the capital city of Gombe State. 

Hon Mailantarki revealed the development when he hosted an interactive session with the leaders and coaches of Nationwide and state leagues football clubs respectively at the Hajiya Amina conference hall in Gombe, while presenting his speech, the CEO of Aqua Gardens and Amazon Kayak stated out the conditions of the program which will be executed under his football academy 'Mailantarki Care Football Academy' under which the franchise deal with the European and domestic partners was sealed. 

Similarly he vividly explained to the club owners the nature of any possible deal that will involve teams if their respective players were found worthy of selection to form part of the platform under Mailantarki Care Football Academy. 

Meanwhile the platform have since made its debut by showcasing talents from the State to Russian Football Development side FDC Vista and a domestic scouts UDE Sports Management talents hunting programs in Abuja respectively, successful players from the latter exercise will participate in the next phase of the program scheduled to hold in Port Harcourt in September. 

Furthermore arrangements have concluded for the first ever regional scouting tournament under the platform, the event which is scheduled to hold in Gombe will see about 10 foreign scouts/agents in participation for possible  recruitments of talented players to various football clubs and academies in Europe

The program is a branch of Mailantarki Care Foundation which aimed at exposing talented players to foreign scouts/agents for career development, the foundation is a dedicated charity initiative for youth empowerment launched by the former federal legislator years back which have since impacting the lives of many beneficiaries across various developmental program. 

In a related development Mailantarki had swiftly responded to the demands of the two football forums (Nationwide and state leagues) by paying all their registration expenses for the 2021/2022 season worth N2.7m (two million and seven hundred thousand naira) in other for the clubs to focus and start an early preparation for the upcoming third tire and state leagues competitions respectively. 

In their separate response, the delighted stakeholders and coaches lauded the  philanthropic gesture as they termed it the first of its kind in the history of football in the state. 

Notable among those present at the historic and colour event were Chairman of Gombe State Sports Commission ably represented by the state Director of Sports Suleiman Jarmai, Gombe State FA Chairman Philibus Yakubu Sarma, GSFA Vice Chairman Adamu Yakubu Kupe, Chairman Nationwide League Forum Hashimu Ibrahim, Chairman State Leagues Forum Sani Yahaya, Dahiru Hassan Kera, Bala Abubakar Ajuji among others.

Senator Ogbeha offers scholarship, donates cash, foodstuffs to motherless children to mark 74th birthday

By Stephen Adeleye

Senator Tunde Ogbeha has donated foodstuffs worth millions of naira, donated cash and granted academic scholarships to some motherless children at Ministry of Mercy (MOM) Orphanage in Lokoja, Kogi State.

The scholarship offer was part of the former Military Governor of old Bendel and Akwa Ibom states’ outreach to the less privileged in Kogi to mark his 74th birthday on Sunday in Lokoja.

Represented by his wife, Mrs, Esther Tunde-Ogbeha, the retired Army General donated cash and foodstuffs worth millions of Naira for the upkeep of children at the orphanage.

Mrs Ogbeha commended the management of MOM Orphanage for their dedicated service to God and humanity. She called on well meaning Nigerians to support orphans and other less privileged in the society.

''You are always in my prayers, at all times. It is obvious the children here are doing well, thank you for taking good care of them.

“I must commend the management of this orphanage and all care givers that have made sacrifices to ensure these children are well taken care of.

 

“My husband’s birthday comes up on September 1 but we have decided to start the celebrations with these wonderful children. Thank you for your regular prayers,” she said.

The proprietor of MOM Orphanage, Dr Daniel Aduojo, thanked the Ogbehas for always reaching out to the facility, saying the children in both of their orphanages in Lokoja and Dekina Local Government Areas, were always excited with the Ogbehas’ visit.

“Every time you come here to put smiles on our faces, you are making God happy because he calls these children his brothers and sisters.

Quoting from the Bible from the book of Matthew 25:31-40, he said: ''And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me''.

The proprietor stressed whatever we do to the children especially the orphans and the less privilege ones, we are doing it unto God.

“Here in Lokoja, we have less than 100 children but in Otutulu, we have about three hundred children. They are mostly motherless. Most of their mothers died during childbirth. Others were abandoned babies.

“Worried by the maternal mortality rate, my wife and I came up with a vision to establish a medical centre where pregnant women can access.

“In the last four years, all caesarian operation in our medical centre has been free of charge to ensure our mothers deliver safely. 

''We want our mothers to live, take care of their children themselves and reap the fruits of their labour,” Aduojo said.

He prayed that God would reward the Ogbehas abundantly and grant them long life and prosperity in good health and sound mind.

The children and caregivers at the orphanage joined Mrs Ogbeha to cut the former Senator’s 74th birthday cake. They prayed that God grant him long life and enlarge his coast.

 

Items donated include: Jerricans of palm oil, many tubers of yam, 10 bags of 50kg of rice, several cartons of Honeywell Instant Noodles, bags of gari, cartons of: Infant food, detergents, biscuits, and cartons of vegetable oil.

Others were: Packs of diapers, cheese balls, and pop corn, cartons of: soaps, Honeywell spaghetti, and peak sachets, and several bags of semovita, among others. 

End

NWFL throws weight behind Flying Officers Cup

The Nigerian Women Football League (NWFL) has officially thrown it's weight behind the third edition of the biggest Women Football Pre-season Championship in Africa, the Flying Officers Cup, which will hold from the 10th to the 24th of October 2021.

In an official endorsement letter signed by the Chief Operating Officer (C.O.O) of the Organisation, Mrs Dupe Shabi, the Apex Women League body stated that the NWFL has given it's backing to this year's edition of the tournament and would give it's general support to make the competition a success. 

Ratels Sports Development Foundation have shown great commitment to the activities and development of Women's Football in Nigeria and have been sole sponsor of the Flying Officers Cup since 2019. In the final of the 2020 Edition between Nasarawa Amazons and Bayelsa Queens, NWFL Chairperson, Aisha Falode bagged a special award in recognition of her role in the development of Women's football in Nigeria and Africa as a whole. 

In the letter of endorsement, Shabi wrote: " We are pleased to confirm our endorsement of the Flying Officers Cup 2021, scheduled to hold between the 10th-24th October 2021 in Abuja. 

"The Nigeria Women Football League will give all necessary support to Ratels Sports Development Foundation to ensure an hitch free tournament". She Concluded. 

The NWFL played a pivotal role in the last edition of the Flying Officers Cup in Abuja and had the Chairperson of the League body, Aisha Falode, NFF Second Vice President, Shehu Dikko  in attendance, as special guests of honour.

Tokyo 2020: Ambassador Abubakar Moriki thumbs up Team Nigeria performance

Nigerian Ambassador to Japan, Alhaji Husaaini Abubakar Moriki bare his mind to www.ckdmedia.ng expressing his delight on the impressive performance of Team Nigeria at the ongoing Paralympics in Tokyo, Japan.

“I’m delighted that we have just won a Gold medal in the Paralifting and not only that but I’m happy to know that a lady set up a world record of lifting about 152kg and her second opponent had about 10kg behind. That record as far as I know, as far as the officials have been saying is a world record. So, Nigeria has set up a world record and indeed this world record is set for Nigerians, so I’m glad”.

What does this project for Nigeria and how do you feel about it?

“It means that we are really into sport, we are really into Paralympic and that we are really into winning Gold at any event of this nature. Nigeria is not a country to be taken loosely but we can compete in all International tournaments, competitions of this nature and that we’re going to win Gold, not just there to participate and come back, No. 

"In a way we normally come rehearsed, we normally come to win Gold and I’m happy that we have been winning Gold and that may not be the end of it, many more Golds are likely to come. They just concluded Olympics, we won only two, 1 Silver and 1 Gold but we came to win many but unfortunately we won only 2. To the delight, the name Nigeria was registered on the Gold medal table and the National anthem of the country was also sang and the ones who won Gold medals were secured. So this itself is a great huge success which I myself as an ambassador of Nigeria, I’m delighted for this to happen while I’m serving”.

What’s your message to the Paralympians who have made Nigeria proud?

“Like I said, I visited the Paralympians when they were at their camping hotel and I was delighted to meet them in high spirit. That time my message to them was that to go for Gold, to go for Medals and I can see how they responded. I was charging them not to go below what we used to get, 4 medals. In the previous events we used to get 4-5, so I said we expected expect atleast 4 from them and they promised that they are going to secure more than 4 and with the progress so far achieved, I have no doubt in my mind that they will be able to achieve more than 4 Golds. So let me congratulate them at least those who won the medals and let me send a message to those who are yet to compete or who are yet to finalize their competition to make sure that they win Golds, they win medals so that we can increase from the tally and the name Nigeria will be there many more times”.

Any plan for the Ambassador to host the team immediately after the tournament?

“ We hosted the just concluded Olympics and then the Honourable Minister was here and if it is necessary and we deem it fit, we have also the intention to honour them. We have been honouring participants in the Olympics and so what reason do we have not to honour the Paralympians”,

Afrobasket: Emir of Kano Ado Bayero Cheers D'Tiger in Rwanda

As part of his love, passion for the game of Basketball in the country, the Emir of Kano, His Royal Highness, Aminu Ado Bayero alongside members of the royal house was in Kigali, Rwanda on Sunday to cheer the Nigeria's men basketball team, D'Tigers at the ongoing FIBA Afrobasket. 

The traditional ruler's presence at the stadium on Sunday showed an unwavering support and affection for the game of basketball in the country.

The Emir of Kano, His Royal Highness Ado Bayero a close friend of NBBF Caretaker Chairman Engr. Musa Kida, is an ardent follower and fan of the D’Tigers, went with his entourage to cheer the team.

However, the show of love by Emir revealed that Nigeria Basketball Federation, Caretaker Committee Chairman Engr. Musa Kida is living up to expectations and has all it take to take game of Basketball to the next levels in the country .

Though, the team lost the game 68-77pts to Côte d’Ivoire in their last group C game after winning the two previous games.

All hope is not lost for a medal finish as the team led by Coach Brown is eager to see how they can bounce back from this minor setback.

LMC Boss, Shehu Dikko rates 2020/2021 NPFL season as best in history

Chairman, League Management Company (LMC), Malam Shehu Dikko has expressed satisfaction with the just concluded 2020/2021 NPFL season even as he picked it as the best ever  league in history statistically.

Dikko divulged this while speaking at Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), FCT Chapter Guest Forum  in Abuja, highlighted  the positives from the just concluded season, asserted  that the positives far outweighed the negatives people may not have noticed.

He emphasized that Nigeria league owner did so well during the pandemic saying that unlike other countries where most players took pay cut, NPFL players received their full salaries.

"The last League season recorded impressive statistic better than the previous seasons. The number of away wins recorded (36) was the highest since the NPFL took charge as owners and organisers of the Nigerian elite league.

"Technically it was the best League, not just in the NPFL history but since the start of professional football league in Nigeria."

"Commercially it was challenging, but it was the most innovative, because we have brought innovations that people thought was impossible to do before. It was challenging because funds did not come the way we thought it will come."

"Organizationally it was very challenging because of the Covid 19 and some other issues. When I say it is the best technically, we start looking at the numbers and numbers don't lie." the astute football administrator stated.

He continued "First and foremost we had 380 matches, 288 matches were won, 92 were drawn. 791 goals were scored, an average of 2.8 goals per match." 

"It is the highest statistics of goals that we have ever had in the league. "

"352 home wins where recorded, 36 away victories, the highest away victories in the history of the league."

"92 matches where drawn, it is also the highest."

"Total numbers of penalties awarded this is 81, compared to other seasons where we have over 100 it shows the referees also did well." 

Speaking earlier, FCT SWAN chairman, Bunmi Haruna emphasised the need for the LMC to involve the media more in it's activities. He also urged the league body to aim for the very best because nothing is impossible.

"We drive football development across the world, so we are partners in progress." 

"It is our desire that our league should be self sustaining, that our clubs win CAF competition glories and have financial breakthrough."

"We want our league to attract he best players cross the world, we want a Cristiano Ronaldo to one day decide he has to play in the NPFL."

"These things might look impossible right now, but if we put in efforts, impossible is nothing." Bunmi enthused.

Dikko promised to have  quarterly Interactive session with the media henceforth.

Kogi Assembly threatens warrant of arrest against Finance Commissioner, Asiwaju Asiru Idris

 

The Kogi State House of Assembly has threatened to issue a warrant of arrest against the State Commissioner for Finance Asiru Idris if he fails to appear before members of the house next week Thursday.

The position of the lawmakers  followed a motion by the Chairman House Special Committee on Public Account, Hilarion Collins Musa on the need to compel the commissioner to appear before the house.

Musa, who is the lawmaker representing Igalamela Odolu Constituency in the hallow chamber 

said that the commissioner (Asiru Idris) has constantly disregarded the call of the house and if he failed to appear a warrant of arrest be issued on him.

Continuing, the lawmaker said "The Committee had invited the Commissioner, the invitation duly served, but refused without a word to the Committee to appear before the Committee. In return, he invited the Committee to a meeting at the Revenue House and, thereon, the Committee made demands of specific evidences pursuant to its consideration of the Report by the State Auditor General on the Audited. Accounts of the State.

"The Rt. Hon. Speaker and distinguished Hon Colleagues, it is now over 6 months, the Commissioner has neither replied nor availed the Committee with the evidences required for further consideration of the Report by the State Auditor General.

"I, therefore, move that the Hon. Commissioner, by the powers confers on this State House of Assembly, be compelled firstly by the Resolution of this House to appear before the Committee and secondly upon his failure to act accordingly, be compelled through the issuance of Warrant in line with Section 129 (1) (d) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 as amended to appear accordingly".

In a unanimous support by the lawmakers, the commissioner’s decision not to honour the invitation of the committee is an affront to the house.

The speaker, Prince Matthew Kolawole in his ruling said the house has the right in accordance with the law to invite anyone and as such the commissioner is not exempted from those the house can not invite.

Kolawole however directed the clerk to communicate the commissioner to appear before the house in its next legislative sitting.

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".

Flying Officers Cup, perfect preparation for us ahead of CAFWCL - Hasaacas Ladies Coach

Hasaacas Ladies Head Coach, Yusif Basigi believes the Flying Officers Cup Will give his side the perfect preparation ahead of their TotalEnergies CAF Women Champions League Campaign in Egypt later this year. 

The CAFWCL (WAFU 'B') Champions will battle for supremacy with some of the top teams in Nigeria when the Flying Officers Cup kick-start on October 10th at the Federal Capital Territory, FCT.

The Ladies from Takoradi would go into the Pre-season Championship, hoping to continue from where they stopped, having won three trophies, The League title, The Ghanaian Women F.A Cup and the CAFWCL WAFU 'B' Qualifiers Cup in Ivory coast some weeks ago.

The experienced Gaffer, who is also the Head Coach of the Ghanaian Women U-20 Side, the Black Princesses said he is confident that his team will do well and also use the biggest Women Football Pre-season Championship to prepare for the challenges ahead. 

"We are getting prepared for the Flying Officers Cup in Nigeria." Batigi said from his base in Takoradi.

"This is the first time we are getting an invitation for a Club side Pre-season Championship. This is unprecedented and we can't wait to be in Nigeria and play in a different environment. 

"Our aim is to do well in the tournament, because if we do well, it's going to breed our confidence and propel us for the TotalEnergies CAF Women Champions League in Egypt and also the start of the new season in Ghana. 

The experienced Gaffer continue "Success builds momentum, which we are hoping to take to Egypt. We need to keep fit, stay together as a team and try to achieve more success. 

This year's edition of the Flying Officers Cup is the third edition and will see sixteen teams from Nigeria, Ghana and Benin Republic compete for prize and honour in Abuja from October 10th to 24th.

Osun Apex League Gets September 4 Kickoff Date

 

 

The much publicized maiden edition of Osun Apex Football League have been scheduled to kick start in first week of September.

With thirteen (13) teams divided into two groups, the top two teams in each group would be qualified for Super 4 to determine the eventual winner.

In his remark, the state of Osun FA supremo Otunba Rasaq Ishola Mustapha RIM., who declared open the fixtures proceedings remarked;

"We want to acknowledge the doggedness of the participants of this year's 'Apex League'. The league is aimed at preparing and exposing business minded teams for greater exploits in a way that will benefit the participating teams economically.

We have so much in stock for football to thrive in the state.

"Despite the pandemic and inadequacies of resources, the board is up and doing with football matters in the state. 

"I therefore enjoin the club officials to make the league attractive, through upright behaviors. The rule book given to each team should be digested thoroughly. There won't be rooms for misbehaving in whatsoever means. Some reputable agents have been scheduled to monitor our proceedings." Hon. Sulaimon Adio who is the vice chairman explained.

Osun Apex League is packaged and financed by Osun FA under the distinguished sports financier Alhaji Rasaq lshola Mustapha RIM. The Grand Prize of 120, 000 and 100, 000 have been earmarked for the eventual winner and runner's up. 

A lot of incentives are on ground for participating teams and individual awards will be presented when the tournament climax. In attendance are all board members.

Kickoff: Saturday 4th Sept. 2021

Olansile vs Ayedire 1pm

Hammola lnt'l FC vs Otin Babes 3pm

Group A

Akoment FC Ede

Hammola Int'l FC

Victory Police FC

H. M. K FC Osogbo

Osun Civil Defense FT

Otin Babes FC Okuku

Group B

Fehinty FC Osogbo

Orolu LG FC Ifon Osun

Timi Giants FC Ede

Ayedire United Ileogbo

AUD All Stars Osogbo

Hadji Hammed FC Osogbo

Olansile FC Osogbo

Full fixtures coming up...

KGSHIA Enrolls 31,491 Vulnerable Residents, Seeks Partnership With CSOs, NGOs, Others

 

By Stephen Adeleye

The Kogi State Health Insurance Agency (KGSHIA), said it had enrolled 31,491 vulnerable residents under its Vulnerable Group Health Insurance Programme (VGHIP) across the 21 local government areas of the state.

Dr. Adekunle Aledare, the Executive Secretary of KGSHIA, made the disclosure at the maiden Media Parley of the agency with journalists on Wednesday in Lokoja.

Aledare noted that in the last one year and five months, the agency have been able to develop health programmes to rapidly scale up the health insurance coverage of the residents of Kogi state.

''Under the vulnerable group health insurance programme, we have enrolled 31,391 persons (131 per ward) across the 21 LGAs awaiting access to care, following the training of providers next month'', he said.

He noted that another 120 pregnant women have been enrolled under the Senator Smart Adeyemi Care, in the Kogi West senatorial districts of the state.

According to him, the vulnerable group include: pregnant women, children under five years of age, people with disability, poorest of the poor and elderly.

He said that in recent time, there was a global target to achieve Universal Health Coverage by 2030 which means all people should have access to the needed healthcare services of good quality at an affordable cost without suffering financial hardships while paying for these services.

He added that the National Council on Health in 2015 charged states to establish state social health insurance agency to enable the country achieve Universal Health Coverage.

He noted that the bill establishing the agency was passed into law in November 18, 2018 and the State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello assented to the law on April 24, 2019.

He explained that the agency provides equitable access to quality and affordable healthcare services for all residents of Kogi State irrespective of socioeconomic status to ensure universal healthcare coverage 2030.

He said that the State Government was committed politically and financially to the agency evidenced by the befitting office space, releases for capacity building of the staff, study tour, and accreditation of facilities.

He added that the State Government had also developed Operation Guidelines for the agency, training of accredited service providers and sensitisation of relevant stakeholders.

He, therefore, urged CSOs, NGOs, individuals, groups, associations, families, philanthropists and well meaning Nigerians to key into the programmes and register their loved ones.

Also speaking, Dr Yetunde Oyeyemi, Head Operations, Standard and Quality Assurance, said that the agency's core values include: Quality, Transparency, Responsiveness, Accountability, Commitment, Client Satisfaction and Equity.

According to Oyeyemi, the agency is established to regulate, supervise, and ensure the effective administration of Kogi state health insurance scheme.

She highlighted the services of the agency to include general consultants, ante-natal and post-nata care, deliveries, paediatric care, surgeries, ENT & eye care, and dental care services services.

Other are: Emergency care, ultrasound scan, X-ray & laboratory services, orthopaedic care, physiotherapy, skin care services, primary mental care, internal medicine, among others.

In his closing remarks, Mr Adeiza Momoh Jimoh, the Chairman Nigerian Union of Journalist (NUJ), Kogi chapter, commended the State Government for the establishment of the insurance scheme, while calling for adequate funding and commitment to ensure sustainability.

He further called on the people of the state to take advantage of the health programme, and assured that NUJ would support and ensure adequate media coverage for the agency's programmes and activities.

End

Rite Foods unveiled as headline sponsor for Great Abeokuta 10km Race

Nilayo Sports Management Limited, organizers of the Great Abeokuta 10KM Race has announced Rite Foods Limited as the headline sponsor of the race.

Mr. Bukola Olopade, the Chief Executive Officer of Nilayo Sports Management Limited said "We are delighted to announce Rite Foods Limited as Headline sponsor of the second edition of Great Abeokuta 10KM Race.

This partnership also perfectly coincides with the concept of this edition which is to be ran solely by Nigerians".

"All runners will have the ultimate dollar prize to contest for, this event will mark itself as Nilayo Sports will be organising a road race without foreign runners for the very first time."

"We felt that it is important to push the Nigerian narrative, that is why we also themed this year's race "Naija, race for homeland; it's necessary to showcase the dynamism of our strength as a nation of great people who are committed to excellence in all human endeavors".

Boluwatife Adedugbe, Assistant Brand Manager, Rite Foods LTD. Said "The event is going to be extremely memorable; attendees are going to be treated to a refreshing experience with the fantastically array of quality products strategically positioned at all race points in following through with an experience like never before.

"This strategic partnership with Nilayo Sports fits perfectly with promoting the proudly Nigerian narrative with Rite Foods being a pioneer of the "Proudly Nigerian and Truly World Class Narrative" in the FMCG industry which is significant to the event essence".

The Big Abeokuta 10KM Race is scheduled for 13th of November 2021, the route starts at Ake Palace and ends at the M.K.O Abiola International stadium, the event will feature a 10KM Race and a Wheelchair category.

The race is greatly supported by the Ogun State government, other sponsors include Access Bank, Kenya Airways, Suzuki, Ecogas and IBD Hotels.

About Rite Foods: Rite Foods Limited is a truly world class, proudly Nigerian Foods and Beverages manufacturing company which began food production in March 2008, Rite Foods is a major player in the sausage segment of the food industry and is gradually gaining market share in the soft drinks and energy drinks' segment of the beverage industry in Nigeria.

Rite Foods Limited manufactures under high ethical standards and hygienic conditions to produce quality products that are fit for consumption.

About Nilayo Sports Management Limited: Nilayo Sports Management Limited is a sports management and marketing company based in Lagos, Nigeria, Nilayo has worked with some of the biggest names in the world of sports including World Athletics, Confederation of African Athletics and Athletics Federation of Nigeria.

Nilayo organises several sporting events across the country, which include Access Bank Lagos City Marathon which is the biggest Marathon in Africa and elite labelled by World Athletics, Great Abeokuta 10KM Race, Africa's foremost Ultra Race, the Valuejet IAU African Championship, a 50KM Ultra Race held in Remo, Ogun State among others.

President Buhari hails outstanding achievement of Nigeria's U20 athletes

 

President Muhammadu Buhari congratulates Nigerian athletes on their outstanding achievements at the just concluded World Athletics U20 Championships in Nairobi, Kenya.

 

The President commends the team and their handlers for showcasing to the world that Nigeria is blessed with some of the best talents in the world of sport who by dint of hardwork and perseverance can dazzle anytime and anywhere.

 

With four gold and three bronze medals to finish third on the final medals table, the President believes that our sports ambassadors in Nairobi and the entire contingent have every reason to celebrate their well-deserved laurels, while putting the track and field world on notice of their intentions to surpass their achievements in the nearest future.

 

President Buhari thanks the victorious athletes for flying the country’s flag high at the competition, breaking new records from personal bests and national records all the way to championship record.

The President joins all Nigerians in celebrating our patriots for reinforcing the can-do and resilient spirit of the Nigerian at the Championships.

Femi Adesina

Special Adviser to the President  

(Media & Publicity)

August 23, 2021

Organisers Announce Shift In Flying Officers Cup Kick-Off Date

 

The Planning Committee of the 2021 Flying Officers Cup has announced the postponement of the third edition of the Biggest Women Football Pre-season Championship in Africa, to show solidarity for the Betsy Obaseki Cup which will come up from the 24th of September to the 3rd of October in Benin City.

Originally scheduled to hold from the 22nd of September to the 1st of October in Abuja, the Flying Officers Cup has now been rescheduled to hold from 10-24th of October 2021 amid concerns of clash in date with the maiden edition of the Betsy Obaseki  Tournament in Edo. 

President, Ratels Sports Development Foundation, Barrister Paul Edeh expressed his regret over the announcement of the new date, but thought it is necessary to move the prestigious competition to a later date in the spirit of sportsmanship. 

"It is obviously not good news for us, but we feel it is the most prudent decision considering the present circumstances. 

"The decision to postpone wasn't in our plans at all, but we had to do it, so as to give teams that are interested in participating in both Tournament the opportunity to do so. The reality is that the Betsy  Obaseki Tournament is in line with our vision, hence the present decision. 

"All the teams that will participate in the Flying Officers Cup have been officially informed about this latest development and we wish to let them know that the shift in date won't have any effect on the quality and policies of the tournament, as we even believe that the Postponement will give them the ample time to prepare better for the Pre-season Championship.

Sixteen teams have officially confirmed their participation in this year's edition of the Flying Officers Cup and the last team to send in their letter of participation is the newly crowned Benin Republic first division Women Football Champions Espoir FC.

Naija Ratels boss, Barrister Paul Edeh reveals push for women's football

The Proprietor of Naija Ratel FC of Abuja Paul Edeh has revealed that his desire to support the girl child and give them a voice motivated him into Football.

Barrister Paul Edeh who spoke as a Guest on the virtual Personality Interview Segment of the FCT Football Updates Platform said his desire to ensure that the girl child has a means of livelihood and be able to exhibit their talents in the game of football remains a force that has propelled him so far.

"it's my quest to give back to the girl child, and that has continued to inspire me, and I am not giving up on that dream. I am building a legacy for the next generation. I would want Naija Ratels, Honey Baggers and everything that I am doing around sports to be a reference point. To be something that people in future can understand and know how it can be done better,  and how football can be used as a tool to support the girl child in education and a means of livelihood. To support the girl child grow higher. It's my desire that in future people will be able to say that this man did not give up on his dream ".

He said that he started Naija Ratels to build a community based team that every Nigerian would be proud of, and has a culture that resonate the African tradition." that is the reason in the choice of our name, we decided to blend a pidgin English name of Nigeria to Naija and I am expecting that in a couple of years, when you look back at club ownership, you will be able to say indeed club ownership should belong to private ownership as we have in Europe, where it is private sector driven " he concluded.

Naija Ratels president wants organizers to sustain Aisha Buhari Cup

 

The Proprietor of the Naija Ratels FC of Abuja, a current wave in Nigeria Women Football Barrister Paul Edeh has called on the organizers of the Aisha Buhari Cup to ensure that they sustain the tournament after the first lady must have left office.

Barrister Edeh who was the Guest on FCT Football Updates Personality Interview Segment on Sunday said the tournament is the best thing that will happen to Women Football not only in Nigeria, but in the whole of Africa.

According to him, the tournament will give the Super Falcons and other participating countries the opportunity to have robust competitions among themselves "this tournament is going to be the best thing to happen to our Women Football in Africa, I have endorsed the tournament, and I am very confident that the organizers will do more in ensuring that it's sustained".

The philanthropist who rated the Board of the Nigeria Women Football League high, said the body should work in synergy with the NFF to better the welfare of women football clubs in the country.

Kwara Basketball Association to train 150 kids at Summer Clinic

 

About one hundred and fifty (150) kids are expected to attend the basketball summer clinic organized by the Kwara State Basketball Association.

Beginning from the 23rd to the 28th August 2021, Coaches, referees and technical officials will converge at the outdoor court of the Kwara state stadium complex, ilorin for the five days event.

According to the working committee of the state basketball association, Bolaji Lawal disclosed the clinic is meant to teach and train kids on the rudiment of the game and as well laid a foundation for grassroots development.

It added that registration  is free while certificates have also been earmarked for all participants that falls within the age bracket 9-15.

The Basketball summer clinic program will feature morning and evening session daily including music, funfare and other side attractions.

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Bolaji Lawal

Kwara State Basketball Association

'Use sports to curb insecurity - Pillar of Sports urges traditional rulers

Nigeria Pillar Of Sports Chief Donatus Agu Ejidike has urged Traditional Rulers across the country to use Sports as a veritable tool to fight against the growing rate of insecurity in the Country.

Speaking when he paid a courtesy call on the Traditional ruler of Nanka kingdom in Anambra His Royal Highness Igwe Godwin Ogochukwu Ezeilo ( Obu Nanka) , Chief Ejidike said Sports remain a platform to meaningfully engage the Youths .

According to him "Nigeria today is no longer safe, simply because vast majority of our young Youths are not gainfully engaged and employed, Sports remain a veritable platform to accommodate these teeming youths" , he said.

The Pillar Of Sports added that " I feel tremendously happy that a Traditional Rulers like Igwe Nanka has shown the way by sponsoring the inaugural edition of YSFON/Igwe Nanka U-17 tournament  , I therefore urged other Traditional Rulers to emulate him and use Sports to engage the Youths in their various domain"

He assured that the office of the Nigeria Pillar Of Sports is ever ready to partner with Traditional institutions, corporate bodies and well meaning Nigerians who wish to promote Youths and Sports Development. 

Chief Ejidike was the special guest of honour at the grand finale of the Igwe Nanka football tournament at NEROS stadium in Nanka organised by YSFON in Anambra state.

Ado Odo/Ota Council boss meets MAN, seeks harmonious relationship to foster development

By Ajisafe Kayode

The Local Government Chairman of Ado-Odo/Ota, Honourable Sherif Musa has reiterated his commitment to partner with the private sector in delivering quality service to his people. 

The Council Boss was a guest at the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) monthly stakeholders meeting in Ota.

The meeting which was presided by Mr Chris Uzoalu had in attendance representatives of manufacturing companies in Ado-Odo/Ota, security agencies and other relevant stakeholders. 

The Chairman while giving his remark appealed to the companies within the council area to support his administration and give it the needed push to succeed.

 "We want you to trust us in finding lasting solutions to the problems in the Local Government Area, as we can not do without you," he said. 

Musa also charged the security agencies to continue to provide security for lives and properties within the area while urging both commercial and individual residents to equip their premises with fire fighting equipment.

Uzoalu who presided over the meeting commended Honourable Sherif Musa for attending the meeting and doing so with his Vice-Chairman, an act he regarded as unprecedented and a signal that the Chairman is set to do things differently.

"We don't fight the Government, rather we engage the Government," he said. 

He further highlighted some of the challenges business owners face in the local government which include bad roads, multiple taxation and harassment of companies by some so-called Council Revenue Consultants.

Kida hails support from foundations to grow Basketball in Nigeria

 

The Chairman of  the Nigeria Basketball Federation Engineer Ahmadu Musa Kida, has commended the efforts of the various basketball foundations for organizing different basketball programmes in the country.

Kida, who was the Guest of the FCT Football Updates virtual Personality Interview Segment applauded the Adamu Yola and Jordan Nworah Foundation for organizing clinics in various parts of the country. 

Kida said the Federation under his leadership supported such foundations by giving them enabling environment, technical and administrative support in ensuring the programs succeed.

He said that though the Federation did not come out to sponsor one in a practical way,  because of paucity of funds, but all such programmes  needed all the supports in conformity with the set standards and objectives were supported. 

Kida boasted that his efforts as the Chairman of Rivers State Basketball Association has seen the consistently winning the gold in three National Sports Festivals, "this didn't come by accident for winning gold in the both male and female events, but by having a youth programme that we encouraged. We  have a few academies and foundations that we were operating especially the AMK Foundation which is my Foundation and reputed for been the very first in  development of the game in West Africa."

Kida gives date for new Basketball Premier League

 

Caretaker Committee Chairman of the Nigeria Basketball Federation, Engineer Ahmadu Musa Kida, has commended his Board at the Basketball Federation, while expressing optimism that the Nigeria Basketball Premier League will return to action in September .

Kida, who dropped the hint while answering questions as the Guest on the FCT Football Update Personality Interview Segment said they are working very hard to ensure that the League returns in September. He said that the Federation will pull its resources together to ensure the commencement of the League while establishing contacts with identified sponsors, many of whom got fatigued due to the past  unfolding events in the Federation. 

"we are very determined that we are going to have a Premier League competition this year. So I am really very happy to announce to you that  we have already written letters to the clubs, and in that light, despite the fact that we don't have a sponsor yet , we are going  to dig into personal means in terms of hosting the Premier League for this year, starting with the conference eliminations on September 7. By beginning of October,  we'll be able to conclude with the finals in Lagos. With that we'll be able to have a league champion that can represent Nigeria, in the continental FIBA Africa, tournament."

Speaking on the efforts made to improve basketball at the local level, Kida said: for the first time in the history of basketball in the country, we had a title sponsorship for the Divisions One and Two Leagues, which were religiously carried out every year. We had an initial sponsorship by Total for two years running, 2018/2019 following the achievements made by the Federation and then signed off for another five years, which is unprecedented. While noting that the Div Two could easily key into the youth programme of the Federation's Developmental programmes".

" For me, that's one of the huge achievements of the Federation  though it did not accessed the media visibility it deserves. The Federation have also conducted training for referees, table officials and games supervisors and maintained it regularly on its calendar and that has produced officials that can be relied upon without the need for officials from other countries for international tournaments. Clinics and Media seminars were also organized for our journalists on the best way to reporting the game of basketball". 

Kida insisted that in major international competitions like the Olympics and World Basketball Championship, every country appears with their best, and that there is nothing special if Nigeria attended such events with players based in diaspora "there is no mistake there, so there is nothing to correct. What  is there and I will also be very direct is that, at that level of play, what we want is for Nigeria to put its best foot forward. My quest as the NBBF president, is to look for the best Nigerians that I can find globally to represent Nigeria in the best way. 

My intention is to have the poll-up syndrome where the local based players will aspire to play above the Nigerian Premier League and play in the professional leagues in Europe and the NBA and hoping that in the next few years when we're able to develop, we would have a league within the country that would be compared with those abroad and we would retain all our athletes in the country." Kida said.

Hon. Musa Commissions Dominion Primary Health Center, Receives Clergyman

Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Executive Chairman Honourable Sheriff Adewale Musa (SAM20) has commissioned the Dominion Primary Health Center.

The Primary Health Center which was constructed and equipped by Bells/Egushi/Igboloye/Arobieye ACDC, was chaired by Chief Sunday Abeleboja.

The Executive Chairman while commissioning the project appreciated the good gesture of the community in constructing the Primary Health Center for the use by residents in the community. 

He also lauded the council HOLGA Dr. Daniel Adesanya for his administrational support in making the project a reality. 

Honourable Musa then charged the community to make use of the Primary Health Center as the local government have taken over, and also made provision for qualified Matron and Nurses. And promise that the local government will continue with the maintenance of the facility.

In attendance was the royal guest His Royal Highness (HRH) Oba Maroof Alagbe, The Elegushi-Ota.

Meanwhile, the Ado-Odo/Ota boss also received in audience the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Ado Odo Ota Local Government Chapter.

The clergymen were led to the headquarters of the Gateway of Ogun State by Senior Apostle Idowole.

Snr. Apostle Idowole, the Ogun West Coordinator, congratulated the Executive Chairman on his victory at the last polls and made the plights of CAN known during the courtesy visit. 

A delighted Honourable Sheriff Adewale Musa (SAM20) appreciated the Christian body for their visit as he discussed extensively with CAN Ado Odo Ota Local Government as regards their request and promise to have a quarterly review of all their deliberations.

Recall Honourable Musa (SAM20) of the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) in the local government elections of Ogun State that was held last month scored a total of 78,727 to be returned elected as Ado-Odo/Ota Local government boss.

Aisha Buhari Cup: Barrister Paul Edeh gives ringing endorsement of LOC

 

The President of Ratels Sports Development Foundation (RSDF), Barrister Paul Edeh has strongly commended the work of the Local Organizing Committee of the upcoming 6-team African Women Championship (Aisha Buhari Cup) billed to begin on the 13th to the 21st of September 2021 in Lagos.

The legal Luminary is said he is full of confidence that the LOC, headed by NFF First Vice President, Barrister Seyi Akinwunmi and Aisha Falode (Director Of Organisation) have all it takes to give Nigerians and Africans a fantastic tournament. 

The Chairman Of NWFL Premiership side, Naija Ratels FC gave a ringing endorsement of the Local Organizing Committee during an interview with Journalists in Abuja on Wednesday, hours after the official draws of the tournament. 

"From the standpoint of organization, a high level has already been set. I would like to commend the Local Organizing Committee of the Competition," Said Edeh. 

"It is glaring from all angles that we are going to have a great tournament. At the same time, I would also point out that the tournament shouldn't be a one-off, but should come up from time to time. 

"The Chairman of the LOC and everyone involved are people who have great experience in the women's football cycle. The Chairman is a great Football Administrator, who have over the years brought a lot of innovations to Nigerian Football as Vice President of the NFF,  The Director of Organization, Aisha Falode is well known as an astute administrator with decades of experience in Women's Football and one who has turned around the fortune of the Nigeria Women Football League since she resumed office as Chairperson.

"Undoubtedly, the quality of today's draws shows that a lot of work has gone into this project and certainly more work is required to make this project a huge success. All hands must be on deck to support the LOC to achieve there goals."

The Dr Aisha Buhari Invitational Women’s Football Tournament, otherwise known as Aisha Buhari Cup, is an African Mini-Football tournament for six women National teams namely, Nigeria, Cameroon, Ghana, South-Africa, Morocco and Mali.