2023: Comrade Abdulazeez Yakasi charges youths to determine who governs Nigeria

 

Youths in Nigeria have been asked to form a formidable force towards ensuring that they determine who becomes the nation's President in 2023.

Comrade Abdulazeez Yakasi former Secretary General of the Nigeria Labour Congress gave the charge while addressing students drawn from all tertiary Institutions in Kogi State who gathered at the Kogi State Polytechnic in a program organised by the Students' Wing, Coalition of Northern Groups, Kogi State Chapter, Maitama Sule Leadership Lecture Series with the theme: Equitable Revenue Allocation: A Panacea For Agitation and Contestation in Nigeria.

The Chairman described 2023 as a defining moments for Nigerian Youths, stressed that 2023 is another time for rethink, urged the Youths to come together in love and in unity to move the country forward.

He said the bringing together of the Youths is to particularly sensitize them and urged them to put themselves together towards raising raising their consciousness as Nigerian's youths towards salvaging the country from its collective problems.

The Chairman described the revenue allocation as a vexed issue misunderstood differently by many in the country, said bringing them together became necessary so as to educate them on reasons why the skewed nature of the revenue allocation in the country has caused imbalance.

He urged the Youths to rise up, stand up, take their place as the history will not be kind to them if they allow the old Politicians to decide who governs them in 2023.

Dr. Bitrus Dangiwa, in a key note address, described late Elderstatesman, Maitama Sule as a patriot who believed in the Unity of Northern Nigeria, says towards 2023, the North is looking forward to Presenting a young Nigerian with competence and capacity to govern the country.

He reiterated his dream that come 2023 only a man who believes in Justice and equity would be allowed to lead the nation, said the time to return Nigerian dreamt by late Maitama Sule, where Unity, peace and Justice prevails would be realised.

Also Speaking, Dorathy Aken-ova, lamented that young people have been corrupted and distracted not to understand the true meaning of leadership, by allowing leaders not to be accountable.

She urged young people above 18 years of age to ensure that the get their voters card, said the time for young people to determine who rules the country is now.

She warned that it would be catastrophic if Nigeria continues to recycle the old brigade Political actors if the Youths don't have a strategic plan, get their voters card, register in Political parties, come out enmass to vote their preferred choice of a young Nigerian as President.

She said Nigeria must change her style of electing leaders, said the country cannot continue with poverty, unemployment and other issues of underdevelopment, as statistics have shown that young people are more in the poverty and unemployment bracket.

She challenged the Youths to build themselves towards reclaiming the space that is theirs, stating that the nation can no longer continue in the direction in which it is heading.

Dr. Murtala Aliyu Ibrahim PhD, a Lecturer with Baze University, Abuja, while delivering a lead paper on Equitable Revenue Allocation: A Panacea For Agitation and Contestation in Nigeria, described Nigeria as a country that is disfunctional, with things not working right because of the misgivings in revenue sharing called on the need to look at the current revenue allocation sharing formular.

Abdulazeez Suleiman, spokesman of CNG, said the for Youths to reclaim their lost glory time is now, urged the Youths in the country to tell Leaders who have continuously purparize them to take what belongs to them, insisting that the time to take the country from old Generational Leadership, always recycling themselves is now.

SportsFlames Man of the Year Award will spur me to do more, says DIG Moses Jitoboh

 

Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) in charge of South-East and South-South, Moses Jitoboh has received the Command Secondary School and SportsFlames Sports Man Of The Year Award.

Jitoboh a member of the 1987 Set received the award on Saturday in Lagos after his secondary school classmates defeated the 1984 Set (their seniors) 3-0 in a novelty football match played at the Legacy Pitch of the National Stadium in Surulere Lagos.

According to DIG Jitoboh after receiving the Award at the Legacy Pitch inside National Stadium Surulere, he expressed joy and excitement.

In his words," I'm delighted and honoured to have received this award. The only way I can show my appreciation to the organizers of this award is to do more for sports with which I have a passion.

" Anything that is done for the promotion of sports is never small. We plan to upgrade the Command Secondary School football pitch. We are working on it and at the right time, works should commence on it."

The DIG thinks that the youths can use the Police Force as a platform to achieve their dreams in Sports.

" Recall I was a former national basketball player,  I slammed and dunked at the highest level in Nigeria as I was the captain of the Police Team. Sports drives me and not just me but my family. My two kids are in the United States playing basketball. 

" I was also formerly in charge of Police Sports, if you look at the different sports in Nigeria, you will find an athlete (male or female) who is in the force and have gone ahead to win laurels for the country.

As regards the 1987 Set, who have gone four novelty matches unbeaten, "One unique thing about the 1987 Set is the camaraderie amongst ourselves and sure a few present for the novelty match have come from far as Europe and America. I flew into Lagos from Abuja and others from Port-Harcourt not just for the game but to see ourselves.

" The meeting is not just about sports, which of course is the unifying factor, life and helping ourselves to greatness."

Captain of the winning 1987 Set, Femi Barry after the game said: "Our team was and still the only side that has played in the quarter-final round of the Lagos Principals Cup, losing to MBHS at the Onikan Stadium (now Mobolaji Johnson Arena).

" The previous novelty matches we have played were against our juniors, while this is first against our seniors. We were too fit for them, Dele Awoshika, Eniola and I scored. In the second half, we were just doing the passing. I think we have to pause our play as any set that wants to play against the 87 Set must go four games unbeaten before they think of challenging us, as we are true champions.

Reacting to the 3-0 defeat, David who led the 84 Set teams out said, "I knew we will lose as when I saw them, the 87 Set team looked fit unlike us. Some of us were meeting ourselves again for over 30 or 35 years. The novelty game was fun, I used to be the captain of the school football team, did not pursue a career in football as I chose to do God's work." 

Also, Managing Partner  Sportflames Communications and Football Events Consultant to Command Secondary School Ipaja, 

Olawale Olatoye said: " It's a well-deserving award to DIG Moses Jitoboh who has contributed to sports in Nigeria as a former boss of Police Sports.

" Sportflames objectives is to always encourage and support exceptional personalities, put smiles on faces by contributing to sports Development, we love giving back to the industry by appreciating and embracing hard work with massive efforts, not in competition with anyone, just doing what we love to do."

Ex NFF President, Sani Lulu hails IHS over donatiin of Boarding Materials to Fosla Academy

 

Former NFF President Alhaji Sani Lulu Abdullahi has appreciated the management of IHS (Towers and Strength), a non governmental organization for donating boarding materials worth over N3 million to his pet project, Fosla Academy Abuja. 

An excited Lulu said the donation which is the first to the Academy since its inception 10 years ago, will serve as a motivation for him to continue to support the indigent students who are naturally endowed in the game of football to combine their career with education. 

He said that the Academy which is the first privately owned football college in Nigeria, has remained committed in sponsoring the indigent students from secondary school to University level. 

He further revealed that Fosla Academy have over 80 percent of its students on scholarship, with over 40 students studying various academic programs at the Nasarawa State University Keffi.

Lulu said the donation from IHS will go a long way in supporting the students in achieving their life ambitions.

Speaking on behalf of the donors, the Chief Operating Officer of the organization, Engineer Bala Halsey said the donation is to assist Fosla Academy in its quest in ensuring that the indigent students have the opportunities to better their lives in their chosen careers. 

He commended Alhaji Sani Lulu Abdullahi for his selfless services to humanity, promosing that his efforts will surely be well appreciated in future.  

He finally advised the students not to take the opportunity given to them by Fosla Academy for granted, as such is always hard to come by.

Items donated to the Academy includes 100 six inches mattress, 20 dinning tables, 20 dinning chairs and 63 inches LG coloured television.

Kwara United secures promotion to Volleyball Premier league

 

... Appreciates Bashorun Bankole for Unflinching Support

Kwara United Volleyball Club has qualified for the National Division One Premier league after the team finished runners up with 33 Points at the Just Concluded Playoffs in Abuja.

Kwara United who won five out of the six matches played in the second phase of the  playoffs demonstrated high sense of commitment and determination from the beginning to the climax ensure its place in the league with second place finish behind Kada Kings of Kaduna who emerged Champions with 40 points.

Reacting to the development, Coach Wale Gbadamosi saluted the zeal and renew vigour of his players for clinching Premier League ticket, noting it was a dream come true.

He applauded the Chairman of the Kwara State Volleyball Association, Bashorun Kayode Bankole for his unalloyed support throughout the playoffs, stressing that his financial and moral support greatly assisted the team in achieving the feat .

 Meanwhile, Kwara State broke record as the only state in the Country to have three Volleyball teams in the Premier after Offa Volleyball Club and Kwara United female volleyball club secured their qualifications a milestone which many  stakeholders have described as a good result of genuine investment to Sports development by the Present administration under Mallam AbdulRahaman AbdulRazaq.

Kwara FA takes football gospel crusade visits to Edu LGA

 

The Kwara State Football association over the weekend made a trip to Edu local government to visit the Etsu of Lafiagi, HRH Alhaji Mohammed Kudu Kawu, and also preach football gospel.

In his address, FA boss, Malam Idris Musa Abdullahi while congratulating the emir, reaffirmef the importance of football development from the grassroots. He called on the community to participate actively in football which will assist in keeping mental wellness.

Thuraya, while accessing facilities, noted his administration will strive to improve the edifice in Lafiagi to attract clubs within the state. He single out praises on the chairman of Lafiagi Football Council, Maleek Manzuma for his unrelentless effort.

Emir of Lafiagi, Alhaji Mohammed Kudu Kawu, 

in his response, commended the giant stride of the FA and echoed the words of Malam Idris by calling on his community to embrace the benefits of football which minimum advantage is mental and physical well being.

The ruler added football activities will similarly curb social vices while promising that he will ensure the community is up  and doing.

During the meeting, the FA Entourage made of Chief Jimoh Salaudeen, Hajia Segilola Alaya, Coach Tunde Sanni and Kashim Agaka  presented  Sports Kit to the Emir and advise on using it for exercise.

Top honors for Qamar at Oduduwa University Sports Award Night

 

Adegoke Qamar an undergraduate of the Oduduwa University, Osun State has been named the Footballer of the Year and Sportsman of the Year.

Qamar stole the show after he walked away with the two prestigious awards at the varsity's Institute of Sports Awards held Friday at main auditorium of the citadel of learning in Ipetumode.

Qamar, the School team captain is a student of the Department of Economics and beat other nominees to win the Institute of Sports top gongs.

Top personalities that also receive awards at the citadel of knowledge is the Osun State Commissioner for Youth, Sports and Special Needs, Honourable Yemi Lawal, Oyo State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Asiwaju Seun Fakorede, and General Coordinator Nigeria's First Pre-Season Tournament Ogunjobi Gold Cup, Tunde Shamsudeen, among others.

ICAN set to rid quackery from profession, builds practitioners' capacity

 

By Stephen Adeleye

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) Abuja & District Society, has expressed her readiness to tackle quackery in the profession through monitoring and addressing issues peculiar to members in practice.

The District's Chairman, Alhaji Balogun Abdulrasheed, PhD, FCA, gave the assurance at the inaugural ''Partners’ Breakfast Roundtable'', organised by the Professional Practice Forum (PPF) of ICAN Abuja & District Society on Saturday.

Abdulrasheed said that the district was fully ready and committed to tackling quackery in the profession and other issues that are peculiar to practitioners, saying the forum was the first of its kind in the history of ICAN.

He noted that PPF was set up by the Executive Committee of ICAN Abuja & District Society in March 2021, and its executive committee inaugurated on April 29, 2021, to pilot the forum's affairs.

He, therefore solicited for the support of members in practice to ensure that the forum achieved its desired goals and be sustained.

''Today, we are working assiduously to ensure that the forum achieved the desired results and urge other districts to join us'' he said. 

Speaking on the journey so far, the Forum's Chairman, Mr Abel Agbo Onyeke, FCA, said the PPF was formed to complement the activities of the Institute’s Professional Practice Committee and Department in monitoring members in practice in Abuja, and to provide a platform for practitioners in the district to tackle challenges such as a rapidly changing business and regulatory environment, technological disruptions, competition, and other issues threatening their businesses.

He noted that the partners’ breakfast roundtable, which would be held quarterly, would provide an opportunity for members to meet, interact and deal with these issues. 

He stressed that the forum remained committed to five key areas: sensitization and mobilization, organization development, capacity building, partnership & networking, and regulatory compliance.

''The forum today has over 100 firms that employ over 2000 personnel and we believe that more than a quarter of these numbers are still outside, and we shall spare no efforts until everyone is in the fold” He disclosed that the forum has visited over 50 firms this year alone and assured that the Executive Committee under his leadership was determined to visit all the firms in the district.

He further held that the forum ''will work with the district to liaise and engage with Departments and Agencies of Government such as FIRS, CAC and other regulators in charge of professional practices” Other activities lined up include ''supporting firms to structure, adapt, and respond effectively to industry and technological changes” and helping practitioners to develop and strengthen their skills, abilities, processes, and resources needed to succeed and thrive. Mr Onyeke concluded by appealing to all members to be actively engaged in the activities of the forum, saying that no firm should think that it is “too small to matter or too big to be bothered” 

The Guest Speaker at the event, Mr Adetoyese Fadele, Head, Professional Practice Department (PPD) of ICAN, commended the forum for the partners' breakfast roundtable initiative.

Fadele, who spoke on the topic: ''ICAN & Professional Practice Management'', said the initiative would enable ICAN to have what was obtainable globally in their local environment.

He emphasised the need to do everything possible to ensure that quackery was eliminated in the profession, saying the institute had identified that most of the challenges were from the Small and Medium Practice (SMP). 

Fadele explained that the idea of monitoring was to encourage the SMP to improve and adopt the best practice while empowering members technically.

He, therefore called for vigorous pursuit of the goals set forth in the forum’s blueprint through members’ active participation and support.

He further advised members to be knowledge driven, embrace change, invest in technology, and provide solutions that add values.

END

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

Sunday Dare hails Sports, Youth Ministry staff for commitment over landmark achievements

The Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Sunday Dare Thursday saluted the tenacity and hard-work of staff of the Ministry, stating his achievement over the past two years wouldn't have been possible without their cooperation. 

Speaking at the Town Hall meeting organised for Staff of the Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, Dare lauded the commitment of the rank and file and the steadfastness of management led by the Permanent Secretary in bringing to fruition initiatives and programmes conceptualised upon his ascendancy.

"I believe sometimes a chain is only as strong as its weakest point. So the work I'm able to achieve as a Minister is made possible because there is a cleaner somewhere, who cleans my office, religiously everyday. The Perm Sec is able to do his work because junior officers treats the file, and it comes up through the ranks, until it gets to his office". 

"As a Director, if your Assistant Director or Principal Officers under you do not do their work, you cannot direct. And as a Minister, unless I have everyone on that chain, either at the weak points or at the strong points doing their job, I cannot achieve, so it is a sum total, when it comes to leading any Ministry, moreso, the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development", Dare buttressed.

Reeling out achievements of the Ministry, the Minister listed the N75bn Nigeria Youth Investment Fund (NYIF) spanning 2020 to 2023, the re-classification of Sports from recreation to business, the devotion of N188bn for Youth and Sports Development, N60bn and N88bn respectively, in the new National Development Plan (2021-2025) as major highlights. 

In his remarks, the Ministry staff's union leader, Musa Abba expressed gratitude to the Minister for making welfare of staff a priority since his assumption of office. "Just yesterday, we got alert of bonuses, Christmas for us, indeed came early and we are grateful to the Honourable Minister for the kind gesture and innovations he has brought to bear on the Ministry, since his assumption of office". 

In recognition of Dare's giant strides, the union leader led the staff to confer an award of "The Best Minister of the Year" on the Minister, assuring him of their continued unalloyed support through his tenure.

LA Liga and CD Leganes identify with 2021 Jos Chillin’ Tourney

 

Jos Chillin’ Football tournament has been one of the leading youth football competitions in Nigeria for the past four years. And now, after a period of trying to get some global support, LaLiga Nigeria and CD Leganes will be part of this year’s edition.

The 2021 edition of the tournament will see LaLiga provide technical support as a LaLiga Fairplay Trophy will be given to the team that commits the least fouls and also providing some merchandise from during the Award night at the end of the tournament.

Also, Spanish side, CD Leganes agreed to be part of the tournament and support, as they will be providing some sporting kits for the kids, Leganés’ banner as well as other materials.

The tournament will be starting on the 27th of November and will span for a week. It will feature over 600 kids in both the U14 and U16 categories, as 20 football academies from all over the country including Plateau State will converge in the state capital to jostle for honors.

Helen Abutu, COO of Jos Chillin', said, “We’re very excited about this partnership and the opportunity to create platforms of recognition for young football players in Nigeria to develop to their full potential. More importantly is the fact that with this football support, we can contribute to building a better society for our youths.

Jos Chillin’ Football tournament, an initiative of the Jos Chillin’ brand, is a human capital development project that is changing the narrative on the Plateau and restoring its reputation as the prime entertainment, sporting, and tourism hub in northern Nigeria using sports as an enabler.

Ministry of Works, Housing ejects unauthorized developers from Lagos National Stadium Complex, concludes verification exercise

 

The Federal Ministry of Works and Housing has ejected some unauthorized developers putting up building projects on some parts of the land acquired by the Federal Government for the construction of the National Stadium Complex in Surulere, Lagos.

The Ministry has also closed down the construction sites of these developers and sealed off their operations.

Making this known in his office in Abuja, during the presentation of the 'Report On Field Verification Exercise/Acquisition Of National Stadium Complex, Surulere, Lagos' on Tuesday, the Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Raji Fashola said these decisions became necessary to protect Government land and assets.

His words: "The Ministry of Works and Housing is the custodian of Government land and assets and so when we were briefed about the encroachment on part of the land acquired by the Federal Government for the construction of the National Stadium in Lagos many years ago, in 1960 and 1973, we had to follow it up.

"The Ministry put together a very strong team to investigate the matter immediately and thoroughly. I also visited the sites personally to have first hand knowledge and see things for myself.

"Once our investigative team was able to establish the facts about Government ownership of the land and that those developers were unauthorized, we invited the Lagos Police Command to close down their  construction sites and seal off their operations. All these were done on behalf of the Ministry of Sports because this land falls directly under your jurisdiction."

Before clamping down on the builders and developers, surveyors and land experts in the Ministry of Works and Housing also went through many official documents and gazettes to ascertain the scale of the acquisition of the land by Government in 1960 and 1973.

Mrs Angela Great-Edereka, the Director of Lands, Federal Ministry of Works and Housing, confirmed that official documents show the land was legally acquired by Government in 1960 and 1973.

In his remarks, the Sports Minister Sunday Dare thanked his counterpart in the Works and Housing Ministry for the professional handling of the matter.

Dare then called for collaboration on the best way to put the recovered land to use.

 "We will continue to seek your professional inputs and guidance on how best to use this land to prevent illegal occupants and unauthorized persons from taking them over," Dare concluded.

Ekiti Sports Commissioner Bags Broadcasting Merit Award

Ekiti State Commissioner for Sports, Hon. Michael Awopetu has bagged the Broadcasting Service of Ekiti State, BSES sports merit award for his various achievement recorded in the sports sector in the State on Tuesday morning.

The award ceremony was held at the broadcasting house headquarters in Ado-Ekiti.

Hon. Michael Awopetu was presented the award of excellence in recognition for his gaint stride in developing and changing the face of sports in the State under the the leadership of Governor Kayode Fayemi.

The elated commissioner while recieving the award praised the BSES for the recognition with a promise to keep supporting sports and youth initiatives of the broadcasting outfit including the forthcoming BSES KIDDIES FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP for primary school pupils.

“I find this as an honour and call to duty and serve more diligently,” said Awopetu.

“My sincere thankfulness to the entire family of BSES led by the General Manager, Olurotimi Popoola for a job Weldon. We’ll continue to support sports from the grassroots as you have been doing with the BSES Kiddied Football Championship.”

V/ball Division 1 League: Kada Kings maintaun winning streak

 

Kada Kings continued their unbeaten run at the ongoing 2021 National Volleyball Division 1 League with an emphatic three straight sets victory over Wikki Spikers of Bauchi. 

Kada Kings thrashed Wikki Spikers of Bauchi 3-0 (25-19, 25-18, 25-22) to recored their ten straight games win at the indoor sports hall of Moshood Abiola Stadium, Package B in Abuja on Monday.

The Head Coach of Kada Kings, Jonathan Thaj while speaking to newsmen after the game, expressed satisfaction over the performance of his team against the formidable Wikki Spikers of Bauchi state.

Thaj also revealed that his side is physically and technically better than his opponent adding that his team played according to instructions given to them before the game.

He said, "I feel satisfied with the victory because the boys are good, they training a lot and I am happy their training is manifesting in the second phase of the 2021 National Division 1 League. I believe that anytime or anywhere we meet Wikki Spikers, they will definitely lose to us because our boys are playing systematic Volleyball.

"When you compare my boys individuals, they are better than Wikki Spikers that was why I remain calm on the bench because they took instructions before the game."

Thaj further noted that Kada Kings will know their fate when they lock horns against Caliphate Spikers of Bauchi on Thursday.

He said, "For now, Kada Kings have taken the trophy already; I am going to celebrate my trophy immediately we beat Caliphate Spikers of Sokoto State. The win over Wikki Spikers of Bauchi has given us the edge against all the teams here; it is left for others to fight for second position."

Day 3 results of the second phase of the 2021 National Division 1 League in Abuja:

ABM of Katsina v Kwara United VC 0-3 (22-25, 14-25, 28-30)

Caliphate Spikers of Sokoto v Spartans VC of Yola 0-3 (22-25, 24-26, 12-25)

Kada Kings v Wikki Spikers of Bauchi 3-0 (25-19, 25-18, 25-22)

Day 4 Fixtures:

Oluyole Spikers of Oyo v Caliphate Spikers of Sokoto (2pm)

Spartans VC of Yola v ABM of Kastina (4pm)

Wikki Spikers of Bauchi v Kwara United VC (6pm)

Kogi State First Lady Drums Support for GYB Youth Basketball Empowerment Tourney

 

By Akin Bolarinwa 

The wife of Kogi State Governor, Hajia Rashida Bello, has thrown her weight behind the much anticipated GYB youth empowerment basketball tournament due to hold in Lokoja in December. 

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony of the renovated basketball court and the hosting of the GYB Youth empowerment competition schedule to hold inside the newly renovated facility at the Federal University of Technology, Lokoja, the Kogi first lady appreciated the gesture of Sam Oguche Foundation for coming back to give back to the youth.

"I appreciate the efforts of Sam Oguche and his foundation, he is making statements with the development of basketball in Kogi"

Hajia Rashida Yahaya Bello stated further that, the youth are the future of the nation hence the state is committed to supporting more initiatives like this from young people in the state.

"The Sam Oguche foundation is offering us a lot through sports and entertainment. This is in tandem with the present administration initiative and we want to appreciate him with our supports. 

The founder of the foundation, Mr Samuel Oguche says the Kogi state first lady is a source of inspiration and motivation for young people across Nigeria. Oguche is thankful to Hajia Rashida Bello for making time for the commissioning of the newly basketball court in Lokoja. 

The GYB Youth Empowerment Basketball Competitions is expected to kick off this December.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

NFF, wake up!

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

Aderonkeogunleye@gmail.com

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Adewale Ajayi

Sam Oguche explains how Mutari Bello inspire him to build a Basketball Court

 

By Akin Bolarinwa 

Foremost basketball exponent, Samuel Oguche says he was inspired to refurbish and renovate the Lokoja basketball court by an amazing gentleman called Mutari Bello.

Murtari Bello, a philanthropist and respected gentleman, has been one of the major stakeholders in Kogi state basketball. 

  

Oguche told news men that Mutari has kind of paved the way for this generation to do what they know how to do best.

"He kinda gave me the encouragement to keep doing what I’m doing and he inspired me to build and renovate basketball courts across the state".

Oguche shares how his collaboration with the iconic Mutari came to be and how the relationship with his basketball youth camps continues to evolve.

"The game of basketball is evolving and necessary steps are needed to fast track the development of the game. Mutari made himself available for the sport to thrive and he's doing his best to assist private investors like us".

He stated further that Mutari Bello inspired him to reach higher for his own brand and to the service of humanity. 

"He is passionate about sports not just basketball and always there to help people grow".

The Governor Yahaya Bello  youth basketball  tournament comes up this December in the city of Lokoja .

6th Adamu Yola Gombe South Unity Cup: Eddy-x to charge up fans, players, dignitaries

Up and coming Nigerian artist jibrin bappa wayas also known as eddy-x, is set to energize the atmosphere at the opening/kick off ceremony of the 6th adamu yola gombe south unity cup today,  billed for the olusegun obasanjo stadium, at 3:00pm in kaltungo.

eddy-x, is a hip-hop/r n b singer; a native of kaltungo lga and a final year sociology student of university of maiduguri, borno state.

eddy-x joined the entertainment industry as a choreographer, but later switched gears to a performing music artist in 2015, dropping mind blowinging songs like "hoping for good" the same year 2015 and the hit song "arewa" that punched the beat collaboration ihm awards in 2016, with so much recognition in the state and beyond.

there's no doubt, the atmosphere at olusegun obasanjo stadium, kaltungo, this afternoon will be full of energy laced with action.

Sports Ministry mourns fallen Paralympian Paul Kehinde

The Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports Development is saddened to learn of the passing of our Paralympic champion Paul Kehinde.

Aged Thirty three(33), Kehinde who is the current World Record holder in the men's 65kg para powerlifting category, passed on in Lagos on Thursday.

The Ministry commiserates with his family, friends, colleagues and the entire Paralympic sports community over the loss.

Signed

Media Department of the Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports Development.

 

I will work with key stakeholders to achieve NPFL goal - Coach Folley

 

By Bishop Aturu 

The newly appointed Technical Adviser of Kogi United Football Club, Coach Folabi Ojekunle has expressed his resolve to work will all critical stakeholders in the state to ensure unity of purpose and NPFL goal.

Coach Foley as popularly called made this known to members of Kogi State Chapter of Sport Writers Association Of Nigeria, (SWAN) during a familiarization visit at the Club's training ground.

The meeting which was at the instance of the experienced tactician was part of his determination to ensure that football stakeholders in the state gets involved in the task of ensuring an improved and better Kogi United during his reign.

In his words, " I am a fulfilled man today after meeting with the Sport Writers body because they are critical stakeholders in the sports sector,  which without their prompt and concise reportage, the society and indeed the world will not get first hand and detailed information about happenings in the world of Sports".

The Tottenham-trained coach thanked the Sport Writers for honouring his invitation and promised that henceforth, familiarization meetings and interactions like this with the body will be consistent and steady during his reign.

"The partnership with you guys is absolutely necessary because the mandate given to me by the Governor Alhaji Yahaya Bello at my unveiling is to secure promotion for Kogi United to the Nigeria Professional Football League at the end of the forthcoming  NNL season and there is no way this can be achieved without the contributions,input and support of the major stakeholders which SWAN is also an integral part of"

Coach folabi said he had an extensive and fruitful discussion with the executive Governor of the state during his unveiling on steps and measures to be taken if the mandate to take the club to the top tier is to be achieved which the Number one citizen promised are being looked into. 

Chairman of SWAN in Kogi State Mr Bishop Aturu who spoke unbehalf of the group thanked the coach for deeming it fit to draw the body close.

He said the group as the body of Sport Writers in the state consist of individuals who are versatile and good in what they do and are ready to harmonize and partner with Kogi United in the area of  publicity and also ensure a good working relationship.

According to Mr Aturu, "we have in our rank and file practising sport  journalists who are good at what they do and as such we can harmonize our strenght to ensure a very good publicity for the club.We also look forward to more meetings and interactions like this"

"We are also looking at having a press conference with you so as to know more about your plans and programmes for the club as soon as you are successfully through with the screening exercise"

A veteran journalist who is the correspondent of the Leadership Newspaper in Kogi State and Ex-Officio of SWAN, Elder Sam Egwu applauded the tactician for the bold step taken to have a good rapport with the Association in the state saying it will also give Kogi United's activities more coverage and publicity.

The Meeting with the Sport Writers Association Of Nigeria Kogi State Chapter is one a series of Familiarizatiin meetings and interactions the former Udala fc handler has been having with football stakeholders in the state since he assume his new position as Technical Adviser of the Nigeria National League campaigners.

Coach Folabi Ojekunle has also met with the Kogi State Football Association, State Referees Council, Supporters of Kogi United fc in a bid to ensure that everybody is involved in the task of Making the Club a force to reckon with when the New Season gets underway.

FG's School Feeding Programme Achieving its Objectives in Kogi - Focal Person

By Stephen Adeleye

The Kogi State Focal Person of the Federal Government's National Social Investment Programme (NSIP), Hon Abdulkareem Suleiman Onyekehi, has said that national Home Grown School Feeding Programme (HGSFP) was achieving its key goals and objectives in the state.

Onyekehi disclosed this in an interview with NAN at the sideline of the flag off of the distribution of Feeding Utensils to the beneficiaries of the HGSFP in Kogi, at Saint Luke Primary School, Lokoja.

According to Onyekehi, the aimed at delivering feeding to public schools' pupils from  primary 1 to 3, was achieving its purpose and objectives in Kogi State.

Onyekehi said that the NHGSFP covered about 1800 schools, and 177,000 pupils out of the total of 258,000 that had been captured were benefitting from the program. 

He added that efforts were on top gear to capture all pupils in public primary schools from class 1-3 as they progressed. 

He emphasised that the HGSFP had geometrically increased school enrollment in Kogi according to pupils' population statistics from 115,000 to 258,000 pupils.

Onyekehi, who doubles as the Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Projects, stressed that the feeding programme had also drastically reduced malnutrition among the pupils while alleviating the suffering of their parents and guardians.

He added the other components of NSIP such as the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) the NPower,  the Government Enterprise and Empowerment program (GEEP), had impacted posively in the lives of the beneficiaries as well as the economy of the state.

He said that number of CCT beneficiaries in Kogi for the poor and vulnerable citizens, had increased steadily from about 11,000 to 74,111 in 2021 describing it as a huge success.

He reiterated that the NSIP remained the most impactful social intervention programmes any government had ever initiated in this country in terms of poverty alleviation, entrepreneurial and job creation. 

Onyekehi further said that, the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs is currently carryout pupils  enumeration exercise in the state to digitize and authenticate the data. The Ministry has also  engaged independent monitors across the 21 LGAs for the monitoring of National Social Investment Programme in the state. 

He said that the school feeding component of the NSIP has the widest value chain. The program creates empowerment for women as cooks, it boost the income of local  farmers, industries and traders. 

He commended the Minister for the distribution of the feeding utensils, while appreciating President Muhamadu Buhari for the initiative.

He eulogised the governor for his unalloyed support for the programme, saying, ''we are grateful to our amiable and pragmatic Governor for taking the lead as far as the NSIP is concerned in Nigeria.

NAN reports that the distribution of the utensils was launched by the Secretary to Kogi State Government, Dr Afolashade Ayoade on behalf of the Governor, after they were handed over to the state by the Minister's representative, Mallam Sule Aliyu Chogudo, a Deputy Director of Social Welfare in the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development.

End

NMA hails Ekiti Sports Commissioner, Hon. Awopetu as a true partner in progress

 

Ekiti State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Michael Awopetu has been described as a “true partner” in progress by the Nigeria Medical Association, NMA Ekiti State Branch.

The NMA chairman, Dr Kayode Ariyibi who met with the Sports Commissioner in his office to solicit support towards the forthcoming NMA Sports Championship to be hosted by Ekiti State said Hon. Awopetu was very supportive as he had magnanimously supported the Association where necessary.

Aribiyi said the Local Organizing Committee for the NMA Sports holding between Thursday 25th and Sunday 28th, November 2021 at the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium in Ado-Ekiti was prepared for a glamorous and hitch free tournament.

Coordinator of the NMA Southwest Zone, Dr. Maroof Yusuf who was in company of the chairman said all necessary logistics were being put in place preparatory to the Nigeria Medical Association sports.

He also applauded Hon. Awopetu for his hospitality and finding time out of his busy schedule to host them.

The chairman Local Organizing Committee, LOC for the third edition of the Southwest Zonal Games tagged FOUNTAIN GAMES 2021, Dr Tola Obajolowo said the Nigeria Medical Association Southwest Games will feature games like Volleyball, Basketball, Football, Athletics, Tennis, Badminton, Table Tennis, Scrabble, Ludo, Ayo olopon, Draft and Golf.

Expect best of volleyball at Division One League – Hon Daunemigha

 

The Chairman Media and Publicity of Nigeria Volleyball Federation, Hon Famous Daunemigha has told Nigerians to expect the best of volleyball at the 2nd phase of the 2021 National Division One League.

The 2nd phase of the National Division One League will take place at Moshood Abiola Stadium, Abuja from 18th to 28th November, 2021.

Hon  Daunemigha said the League Management Committee (LMC) led by Controller of Immigration (CIS), Monica Ezugwu has put in modalities to make the Division One a success.

He revealed that 10 teams consisting of 8 men and 2 women will participate at the final phase of the Division One League.

He said, “As the National Division One League serves today, Nigerians should be expecting the best of volleyball during this championship. During the 2019 Division One League, we witnessed the unbelievable as smaller teams shocked the bigger teams. As we stand, there are no weak teams in the league; they have what it takes to beat themselves.

 “The League Management Committee (LMC) led by Controller of Immigration (CIS), Monica Ezugwu are working round the clock to ensure this year’s Division One league because this is the first official assignment of the new board.”

“Kada Kings, Bauchi Spikers, Kwara United ABM of Kastina, Team Oyo, Spartans Spikers of Yola, Caliphate Spikers of Sokoto and Equity Spikers of Kebbi are the men’s team while Kwara United and Zamfara Babes are the only women’s teams”, Hon Daunemigha.

He said COVID-19 guidelines will be strictly adhered to during the league.