Sunday 31 December 2023

See reasons that made African Boxing Confederation axe Omo-Agege

 


The African Boxing Confederation (AFBC) has suspended its Vice President, Azania Omo-Agege for blackmail and falsification of documents in becoming a Board of Director.


In a statement signed by Kalong André Basile, the Secretary General of the African Boxing Confederation, Azania Omo-Agege asked the President of AFBC, Eyassu Wossen Berhanu for the sum of $100,000 to facilitate the meeting with the Minister of Sports of Nigeria.


The statement read, “The Accused Person / AFBC Vice President Mr. Azania Omo Agege Siena is sanctioned with a Provisionary Suspension and a fine of twenty thousand (20.000,00) Swiss Francs in accordance with the provisions set out in article 25 .7 of the AFBC Constitution and the article 31.1 of the AFBC Disciplinary Code. The decision is subject to the confirmation of AFBC Ethics Committee/AFBC Disciplinary Commission and will be made public through the website of AFBC.


“On November 13, Nigeria Boxing Federation suspended Mr. Azania Omo Agege Siena for disciplinary issues including forgery and falcification. It is clear hear the NBF lost confidence with Azania Omo Agege”.


It further read, “The Nigeria Boxing Federation accuses Azania of Forgery and Falsification of documents including documents used for his nomination to become the candidate to AFBC BoD. This has disciplinary implications according the article 31.1 of the AFBC Disciplinary Code.


“During the visit of the AFBC officials including the President Eyassu Wossen Berhanu, Azania Omo Agege tried to blackmail President Eyassu asking him a hundred thousand dollars to facilitate the meeting with the Minister of Sports of Nigeria. Such a behavior collides with the high standards of conduct, reputation and integrity required for an AFBC Director as stated in the article 25.4 (a) the AFBC Constitution”.


The African Boxing Confederation urged the Nigeria Boxing Federation to remain united, focused and professional for the development of the boxing.

Tuesday 19 December 2023

Halimatu Ayinde launches maiden 'She Wins' Women Soccer tourney in Kaduna


In a groundbreaking move towards gender inclusivity in sports, Nigerian and Rosengard of Sweden midfielder, Halimatu Ayinde, proudly announced the inaugural Halimatu Ayinde 7-a-side Women's Cup, set to take place between 3rd and 4th of January, 2024, at the iconic Ahmadu Bello Stadium in Kaduna.


This tournament, meticulously crafted by Ayinde, is not just a football event but a celebration of women in sports, a platform for empowerment, and a bold step towards promoting gender equality. 


As a midfielder who has excelled on both local and international stages, Ayinde, who won three African Women's Cup of Nations and attended three Women's World Cups, understands the importance of fostering opportunities for women in football.



The Halimatu Ayinde 7-a-side Women's Cup is set to become a cornerstone in championing the achievements of female athletes, encouraging increased participation, and fostering the well-deserved recognition of women in football across the northern region.


The Kaduna Youth Sports Federation of Nigeria product and Kada 2008 gold winner invites all football enthusiasts and advocates for gender equality to witness this historic moment at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium.


Let's join hands in supporting and celebrating the triumphs of women in sports, as the Halimatu Ayinde 7-a-side Women's Cup kicks off a new era in the northern Nigeria.


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Sunday 17 December 2023

Moses Itua Boxing Academy Strikes Gold in Inaugural Training Camp, Unveil Future Champions

 





In a significant stride towards nurturing emerging talent in the world of combat sports, Itua Moses Boxing Academy successfully conducted its inaugural training camp at its permanent site in Oloparun, along Ado Odo Road, Owode Yewa, Ogun State.


Event Highlights:


The one-day training camp, a culmination of extensive scouting programs nationwide, featured young boys and girls from Ogun State and neighboring Lagos State engaging in both boxing and Taekwondo disciplines.


Educational and Energetic Session:


The training session, marked by insightful coaching, showcased the beauty of boxing and Taekwondo moves, drawing intermittent cheers from the enthralled audience. Coaches dedicatedly imparted their knowledge to the young participants, fostering a learning environment aimed at honing their skills.


Itua's Vision:


Founder and former national taekwondo fighter, Itua Moses, expressed the club's overarching goal of producing a future world champion, with emphasis on talents discovered and nurtured exclusively by Itua Moses Boxing Club.



Participant Testimonials:


"The convener has initiated something wonderful," lauded Grand Master Kehind Salawu. 

Echoing his sentiments Boxing Coach, Adbul-Akeem Abdul Gafar commended Itua Moses for his visionary efforts in shaping the future of boxing in Nigeria: "Being part of Moses Itua Boxing Academy's first training camp was an incredible experience."


"The coaches not only taught us the art of boxing and Taekwondo but also instilled in us the values of discipline and perseverance. I am grateful to Itua Moses for this wonderful initiative that is shaping us into potential champions. The cheers from the audience fueled our determination, and I am excited about the journey ahead towards becoming a skilled athlete like myself." Idris Ibrahim, Taekwondo athlete said.



Itua Moses' Dedication:


Having transitioned from a national taekwondo fighter to his current base in London, Itua Moses remains devoted to the development of young boxers in Nigeria. His commitment to this cause underscores a passion for fostering talent and contributing to the nation's sporting legacy.

Benjamin Ikwulono: A new football gem spring up at Mavlon FC

 

Mavlon FC will continue to be a hub of football talents in Nigeria, as the modest NLO side has discovered another rare football gem in 8 years old wonder- kid, Benjamin Ikwulono.


Watching him dazzling the ball in the midst of other footballers far older than him indicates his rich knowledge and skills in the round leather game.


He was discovered by Mavlon's chief scout, Raymond Hassan in Abuja, but due to the fact he is still very young, the management of Mavlon FC decided to register the kid with Derby Football Academy of Abuja for development of the young prodigy.


He is to be in Abuja where his parents reside and be undergoing his football development with Derby Academy, but whenever schools are on break, he comes to Lagos, to and join  his team Mavlon FC to continue to learn the Mavlon philosophy 



It was part of his developmental process that made him feature for Mavlon Fc against AJ United in a friendly game that ended 10-0  in favour of his side on Saturday.


Now the cruz of the matter is not just the friendly game, but the confidence of an 8 years old playing among U-15 boys, the age gap is quite wide, but his footballing prowess outweighs his age.


It was a beauty to behold this diamond, scoring a goal and creating an assist after coming in as a second half substitute. His style of football  depicts speed, skills, and strength, very similar to  that of Kyalian Mbappe, the French football star, who plies his trade with PSG in the French Ligue 1.


Amazingly, the shouts of 'Mbappe' rings the air whenever the ball was in his possession during the friendly game. His calmness before scoring his goals and his visionary passing skills are all the hallmarks of a future football star.


It is hoped that the potential "Little Mbappe" has demonstrated will be developed and nurtured as his years roll by into teenage and adulthood. 



In less than three years, Mavlon Fc has developed some notable young football talents in Nigeria.


Golden Eaglets duo of Charles Agada and Cletus Simon, Salim Fago, Flying Eagles striker and Israel Ayuma that both plies their trade with Istra 1961 of Croatia and Shedrack Kaye of Debrecen are some of the products of Mavlon Fc.


Others are highly gifted goalkeeper Friday James Samuel, who is billed to join Charlton Athletic when he clocks 18 years old and Caleb Ochedikwu, who is on the verge of finalising a deal with another European top division club.



TCC League: Dino Sporting Club makes history with record breaking victory over Iganmu Tiger


In a stunning display of dominance, Dino Sporting Club has etched their name in the TCC League history book with an unprecedented 8-1 triumph over Iganmu Tigers at the illustrious Otunba Dipo Dina's Stadium, IjebuOde on Saturday.


This resounding victory not only secured a commaning win for Dino Sporting Club but also marked the single most significant triumph by any team throughout the entirety of this season's championship.


This achievement adds to Dino Sporting Club's remarkable season, as they previously secured the distinction of being the first team to clinch four consecutive victories at the commencement of the campaign.



Highlighting this spectacular performance was Samuel Umoh, who notched an impressive hat trick, securing his first of the season and rightfully earning the coveted Man of the Match award.


Contributing to the goal fest, Dino Sporting Club's leading scorer, Ogonna Hyacinth, showcased his prowess by finding the back of the net, alongside stellar performances from Stephen Ende and James Okpe.


Completing the ensemble of triumph, Chidubem Diji and Christian Nwachukwu sealed the emphatic victory, solidifying Dino Sporting Club's status as a force to be reckoned with in the TCC League.

Monday 11 December 2023

TCC League: Dino SC dominates Matchday Seven team of the week


 

In a remarkable display of prowess, Dino Sporting Club emerged as the dominant force in the latest Creative Championships League match day seven, securing three coveted spots in the esteemed team of the week. 


This achievement is matched only by Gbagada FC.


Talisman Ogonna Hyacinth led Dino Sporting Club's notable contingent, flanked by standout performers Amos Adzuu and Hassan Agbede. 


The trio showcased their exceptional skills, earning them well-deserved recognition in the league's best eleven.


Ogonna and Hassan Agbede formed a formidable midfield trio alongside Adamu Mukhtar of Sporting Lagos, demonstrating their cohesive playmaking abilities. 


In the attacking realm, Amos Adzuu received support from the dynamic Gbagada FC duo of Segun Fagbayi and Ridwan Gbadamosi.


Despite their individual successes, Dino Sporting Club faced a challenging battle on the field last Saturday, ultimately settling for a 2-2 draw at Otunba Dipo Dina's Stadium in Ijebu Ode. 


The match proved to be a test of resilience for the team, further solidifying their reputation in the Creative Championships League.


Saturday 9 December 2023

AFCON: Can Olisa Ndah gatecrash to Jose Peseiro's plans?

 

Not only has Olisa Ndah been solid at the back this season for Orlando Pirates, he has become untouchable since his return from injury. This one could not have come at a better time for the Nigeria international.


Pirates' defensive record has been massively improved thanks to Tapelo Xoki, Thabiso Monyane and Nkosinathi Sibisi, however this season it's Ndah who has shone.


This season, with Ndah in the starting line-up, Pirates have conceded three goals in eight games, and have lost just one of these games, winning four. 


Ndah has not played for Nigeria in over a year, but most Pirates fans will agree his form this season is outstanding, and he has done what he can to prove himself to Super Eagles Manager Jose Peseiro. The latest being the win over TS Galaxy on Saturday night.



Nigeria has failed to replicate its past successes in recent years after reaching lofty heights at the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). 


Peseiro has looked to usher in a new era in Nigerian football since assuming the reins of the national team setup by keeping faith with Calvin Bassey and Semi Ajayi, but Ndah emerging as the face of the rebuild could spice up Super Eagles' quest for glory at the next AFCON.


The 25-year-old defender has regularly proven that no stage is too big for him. A right-footed, ball-playing centerback by nature, Ndah has the skill set that is in high demand across the modern game. The Delta native has become an integral piece to Pirates' setup, making the most of his wide range of passing and vision in the buildup phases. 



Standing at 1.90m, Ndah is an imposing figure at the back and has what it takes to be recalled to the Super Eagles team. 


Back to memory lane, Kenneth Omeruo gatecrashed to the Super Eagles for AFCON 2013 and turned out to be one of the driving forces who helped Nigeria win the tournament. 


AFCON 2024 success is a possibility - and with Olisa Ndah at the heart of defense - Super Eagles can afford to dream.

Tudun Wada wallops Palm Syrup 7-2 to clinch NLO Cup title, gets 18-passenger Coastal Bus

 

Tudun Wada FC emerged champions of the inaugural NLO Cup, sponsored by telecommunications giant MTN and FirstCentral Credit Bureau, after defeating Palm Syrup in a 9-goal thriller on Saturday.


The final match at the Bwari Stadium, Abuja was breath taking, full of suspense and exciting goals as Christmas came early for Tudun Wada FC, who made history in Nigeria's top grassroot football, becoming the first NLO side to win two inaugural tournaments - NLO Super Cup and NLO Cup, after putting seven (7) goals past Palm Syrup, who only managed to get two (2) goals.


After a string of brilliant play from both teams, and end-to-end football, Palm Syrup got the first goal in the 14th minute, after Christian Otu profited from a gift from a goalkeeping blunder from Tudun Wada goalkeeper Muwada Muhammad, to slice home the goal.


Three minutes after the opening goal, 

Rabiu Abdulahi missed a sitter to draw level for Tudun Wada. The equalizing goal then came in the 23rd, as Yusuf Mohammed drew level for the Kano-based team.



Palm Syrup retook the lead through Abraham David with a screaming strike, to make it 2-1 against Tudun Wada FC. 


Two minutes interval, Tudun Wada restored parity through Rabiu Abdulahi after a school boy defending on the part of Palm Syrup to make it 2-2.


Tudun Wada in the 38th minute took the lead from Palm Syrup, as Yusuf Mohammed was involved again after Rabiu dribbled past his makers, then set up Yusuf, who wasted no time to score his brace and handed his team a one goal cushion going into half time.



It was a one-sided second 45 minutes as Tudun Wada showed dominance, putting the icing on the cake in the 67th minute, with Rabiu Abdulahi grabbing his brace and his seventh goal in the NLO Cup.  


They still had time to score three more goals in the 77th and added time via the duo of Ashiru Ibrahim and Mubarak Sani who got a brace.


For their brilliance winning the championship unbeaten, Tudun Wada FC went home with a 18 Seater Coastal Bus, runner-up Palm Syrup FC was awarded the sum of One Million naira (#1m) while third-placed Green Lock gets Five Hundred Thousand naira (500,000) courtesy of sponsors MTN.

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


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


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


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


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


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

Friday 8 December 2023

Palm Syrup aiming to beat Tudun Wada to NLO Cup title


The wait is over, as it has finally come down to the epic day of the NLO Cup, sponsored by telecommunications giant MTN and FirstCentral Credit Bureau, as an impressive Palm Syrup will aim to spoil Tudun Wada's party at the Bwari Stadium, Abuja.


Before Saturday's grand finale, the nation's third-tier league will be having its Congress, where the roadmap to the new season will be discussed by the NLO Board and clubs.


Sixteen (16) best grassroot teams were selected to showcase the beautiful brand of NLO football, as they dared to dream of lifting the trophy at the end of the tourney, when the group stage began from November 24th to December 9 at two centres, the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kano and Uyo Township Stadium, Uyo.


Only Tudun Wada FC, who were winners of the inaugural NLO Super Cup at the Uboma Secondary School Stadium Complex, Imo State and Palm Syrup are left standing ahead of this weekend’s final. 


The path to the final for both clubs: 

This game brings together a clash of styles, though it is going to be a familiar territory for Tudun Wada FC, as they go into the final as the overwhelming favourite.


They are yet to lose a single game, and were very clinical in front of goal, scoring nine (9) and defensively conceding three (3).


Tudun Wada had a slow start to their campaign in lone goal wins against 

Barau/Murtala and Like Minds FC, but fired the burner beating FC  Zeal Minds FC 4-2 to set-up a semi-final clash against Green Lock, whom they dispatched 3-1.


For Palm Syrup, they shouldn’t be taken lightly, as they are though and with a good mental strength. No easy for a team that lost it's final group game to RORO FC to go past Kun Kalifah FC 6-5 in a nail biting penalty shootout in the semi-final.


They were not a too scoring side but they pulled surprises having the job done at the Uyo Centre. Palm Syrup edged both Krane FC and Jaguar FC 2-0 lost to RORO FC a lone goal, to go top of Group 2 (B) and set-up a titanic clash with free flowing and scoring Kun Khalifa.


After a tough 90minutes, both teams needed the lottery of penalties to book a ticket to Abuja. Palm Syrup turned the disadvantage to an advantage after missing their third spot kick, only for Kun Khalifa to miss their third and fourth kick, to win the thrilling 16 penalty kicks on 6-5, to zoom into the final.


Meanwhile, Tudun Wada FC are one game away from making history in Nigeria's top grassroot football. Should they win on Saturday, the Kano-based  team will become the first NLO side to win two inaugural tournaments - NLO Super Cup and NLO Cup.


For anxious fans of the Nationwide League One football brand, they can get to catch a glimpse of the third-place game, Kun Kalifah FC versus Green Lock and the final on the NLO TV App or on the NLO YouTube Channel, as both matches will be live streamed.



Group Stage

Krane FC 0-2 Palm Syrup

Palm Syrup FC 2-0 Jaguar FC

RORO FC 0-1 Palm Syrup


SEMI-FINAL

Palm Syrup 0-0 Kun Khalifa FC (6-5 on penalties)



Group Stage

Barau/Murtala 0-1 Tudun Wada

Tudun Wada FC 1-0 Like Minds FC

Tudun Wada FC 4-2 Zeal Minds FC


SEMI-FINAL

Tudun Wada 3-1 Green Lock


FINAL

Palm Syrup vs Tudun Wada