Nigeria Army wins 2024 Kaduna FA Cup

 

Green Beret and Gallant Queens of the Nigeria Army have emerged champions of the 2024 Kaduna State Football Association (FA) Cup in the men and women’s category respectively.

Green Beret defeated Simoiben Football Academy 2-0 goals in the men’s final while Gallant Queens humbled Kada Queens 6-0 goals in the women’s final played at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium (ABS) on Saturday.

The Acting Director of Physical Training Army  Brigadier General Abdulrahim Bello expressed delight with his side’s victory adding that the club would represent the state creditably at the national Federation Cup.

Brig Gen who admitted that Simon Ben FC gave his side the best that it was a real test for Green Beret to get prepared for the league.

He said, “I am super excited with the performance of both teams in the final; they have shown a high spirit of determination on the field. The teams are dedicating the trophies to the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja for his support in financing the teams.

“It’s an opportunity for me to be part of Green Beret and Gallant Queens; the first time Organisation winning both trophies at a time. the Nigeria Army is determined to give the necessary support to both teams in their respective leagues.

Revealing his assessment on the club’s technical crew, he commended the efforts of the technical crew while admitting the club has bounce of quality players capable of helping the club compete for honours.

He assured the coaches his best support while promising not to interfere in their selections of players but insisted he will be ready to offer technical observations to achieve good results.

Smart City beat 36 Lion to retain Jagaban Cup title

After Nail Biting Final With 'Determined' 36 Lion, Smart City Are Champions Of Jagaban Cup Again 

Smart City Harvest Jagaban Cup For The Second Time In A Row

Smart City have emerged champions of Jagaban Cup Scouting Tournament after defeating 36 Lion 5-4 via penalties at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena on Friday morning.

The result meant Smart City retained the title, having also triumphed in 2022.

In the third place match played earlier in the day, Dino SC fought gallantly from a two-goal deficit to draw 2-2 against The Charlesann at regulation time.

The penalty shootouts saw Dino SC winning 5-4.

Memuda Emmanuel delivered a sumptuous effort beyond goalkeeper Samuel Oriola to edge Smart City in front on 20 minutes. 

A beautiful strike from ex Nigeria international Wisdom Ubani came off the woodwork as 36 Lion searched for the equalizer.

36 Lion deservedly restored parity through Lawal Seun who scored on the hour mark.

The game ended 1-1 after 70 minutes at Onikan and it all went onto what would be an intense and entertaining penalty shootouts you could see.

Smart City prevailed 5-4, thus retained their title.

Meanwhile, the Exhibition game saw Team Yellow&Blue humbling Iwowo&Alasho 2-0.

Brain behind Jagaban Cup, Gafar Olawale Liameed expressed satisfaction on success of the scouting tournament. 

"We give praises to God for His mercies and protection upon us throughout this tournament," the Lagos State Football Association Chairman mused. 

Speaking on plans to make subsequent editions of the tournament better and bigger, the President of 36 Lion Investment promised to bring lots of unique and exciting features to the tournament. 

"This is the second edition. Beyond the facts that Jagaban Cup symbolises the virtues and socio-economic re-engineering ethos of President BolaTinubu, it's equally a testament to our desires to birth a progressive and beneficial football ecosystem in Lagos and Nigeria."

"Football is my life. I breath and live for the beautiful game. It is my destiny, and I shall continue to work and collaborate with other genuinely concerned football stakeholders and investors, to return the glorious days of Lagos and Nigeria football," he added.

36 Lion Investment, Diamond Sports Management Limited, Lagos Enigma and IFMM are official partners of Jagaban Cup.

36 Lion set up clash with Smart City in Jagaban Cup final

Smart City and 36 Lion have booked their tickets to the final of this year's Jagaban Cup holding in Lagos State. 

The third place match would see The Charlesann battle Dino SC. 

Defending champions, Smart City displayed gritty performance to stage a comeback and record 2-2 against Mavlon FC in the opening match of Day Three in the 2024 edition of Jagaban Cup at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena.

Mavlon raced to an early lead with brilliant finish from Emmanuel Stephen before half time. 

A thunderbolt strike from Egbeduokun Samson sailed past former Flying Eagles goalie Oremade Olawale to double the lead for Mavlon. 

The defending champions halved the deficit two minutes afterwards with Ibrahim Fuad getting to the end of a team build up initiated by Busayo Lemon. 

Ibrahim Fuad completed the comeback with his second of the game with nine minutes left on the clock. 

Both sides could have scored the winner in the closing minutes but they were undone by criminal misses.

The result saw Smart City end Group A as winners with five points from three games while Mavlon recorded two points. 

In the second match of the day, 36 Lion and Dino Sporting Club cancelled each other out with a drab goalless draw. 

The encounter produced less sparkling moments that could give either side the chance to secure victory but couldn't make it count. 

The encounter between The Charlesann and Ikorodu City ended 2-2 with the former finishing the match with 10 men. 

The Charlesann took the lead in the 11th minutes through Adebayo Joshua benefitting from a poor communication between the defenders and goal keeper of Ikorodu City.

The Oga Boys even the score seven minutes later as Sesan Emmanuel scored for his team with a great finish. 

Egeonu Collins restored the lead for The Charlesann through a sumptuous finish six minutes before half time. 

The Charlesann were reduced to 10 men after Ayinla Olayinka got his marching order for a second bookable offense. 

It didn't take Ikorodu much time to find the equalizer with Onyeme Emmanuel getting his second of the match. 

The enterprising striker went close to sealing the victory for the Oga Boys with two minutes to end the match but was denied by smart goalkeeping of Chigozie Joseph.

The result saw Charlesann finishing the group with five points but they were edged to first place by Smart City on goal difference. 

The last encounter for the day and also for the group ended 2-1 in favour of Broad City against Imperial FC. 

The first half of the match ended goalless with both teams failing to pounce on good scoring chances. 

However, with a minute into restart, Broad City took the lead through Bakare Ayomide as he capitalized on a defensive gaffe in Imperial FC goal area. 

The Boys of Seyi Olofinjana equalized four minutes later as Abisuga Samuel calmly placed his effort past the goalkeeper. 

With 10 minutes to end the pulsating encounter, Broad City regained the lead as Ayomide got his brace. It ended 2-1.

Group B was topped by 36 Lion who picked seven points while Dino placed second with four points.

Day 3 Results:

Smart City 2-2 Mavlon FC

36 Lion 0-0 Dino SC 

Charlesann 2-2 Ikorodu City 

Broad City 2-1 Imperial FC 

Day 4: March 29th

Third Place

The Charlesann Vs Dino SC 7am

Final 

Smart City Vs 36 Lion 8am

Smart City, 36 Lion record big wins as Dino SC fall to Imperial in Jagaban Cup Day 2

 

Game Day 2 of Jagaban Cup was filled with surprises. Smart City humiliated Ikorodu City at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Imperial secured massive three points against highly fancied Dino SC, The Charlesann overpowered Mavlon and 36 Lion showed no mercy to Broad City. 

The day began with Nigeria National League derby.  

Hammed Adepoju's first blood was cancelled out by Adelani Shola as the first half ended all square.

Smart pierced a sharp dagger in the heart of Oga Boys during the home stretch.

Monday Emmanuel and Ibrahim Fuad delivered crushing blows, as Chibuike Prestige was unlucky to bag an own goal in an unforgettable game for his team.

Broad City faced another tough challenge in a ding dong battle with 36 Lion. Bangoura Mohammed opened the scoring just after three minutes. Badmus Ahmed equalized 26 minutes later. In the 44th minute, Oluwafemi Opeyemi tapped in from close range. Broad City stayed in the fight but Bangoura extinguished their hopes with the "Insurance Goal" for 36 Lion.

A beautiful solo goal from Emmanuel Stephen of Malvon distabilized The Charlesann in the third match of the day.

But The Charlesann dusted themselves and fought like Warriors. They got their victory thanks to goals from Egeonu Collins and Emma Chukwu.

10-man Imperial needed to make a statement after disappointment in their opener with 36 Lion. 

Dino never really got out the blocks. They had good possession and missed two penalty kicks.

Chidera and Musa Malik showed efficiency to give Imperial a two-goal cushion. James Okpe accounted for the consolatory strike in a dramatic end to the game.

Day 2 Results:

Ikorodu City 1-4 Smart City 

 Broad City 1-3 36 Lion

The Charlesann 2-1 Mavlon 

Imperial 2-1 Dino SC 

Day 3: March 28th:

Smart City Vs Mavlon 7am

36 Lion Vs Dino SC 8am

The Charlesann Vs Ikorodu City 9am

Imperial Vs Broad City 10am

Jagaban Cup is a powerful tool for societal change

 

Football has consistently served as a powerful vehicle for societal change thanks to the recognition and embracement of shared experiences which build character, teamwork, perseverance, and community.  

The game provides opportunities to confront adversity with confidence.

Football is a great unifier in times of war and peace, it has broken several social barriers.

The round leather game can teach us the importance of effective communication and sound judgment.

Jagaban Cup is a youth engagement empowerment through football, it is for the youths to show case their talents and get employment with football clubs in Nigeria and abroad. 

The competition has seen people from the different parts of Nigeria show the resilient part to be successful. The Nigerian spirit is something that makes us strong.

Football is about joy for the winner and momentary despair for the loser.

Asiwaju’s life has gone full circle with too many despairs and some joys. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu loves football, he lives his life for the youths, he is our father, as good sons and citizens of Nigeria we would always make our father happy. 

Jagaban Cup is not a celebration in any form, it is total Youth Empowerment, the previous Jagaban Cup gave young boys football employment contracts in Czech Republic, Switzerland, Spain and various clubs in Nigeria. More than Five Thousand individuals will watch the final on Friday March 29th at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena.

Dino Sporting Club kicks off Jagaban Cup campaign with victory over Broad City

 

Dino Sporting Club, commenced their Jagaban Cup campaign in stellar fashion, clinching a hard-fought victory against Broad City in a thrilling encounter at a bustling stadium in Lagos.

The match saw an electrifying start as Abubakar Ibrahim of Dino Sporting Club swiftly seized the initiative, securing a lead within the first two minutes. 

However, Broad City's resilience shone through as Jeremiah Christopher leveled the scoreline in the 57th minute, injecting a surge of suspense into the match.

Yet, Dino Sporting Club's determination proved decisive, with Amos Adzuu netting the crucial winning goal just four minutes later, securing a 2-1 triumph and igniting celebrations among their fervent supporters.

Looking ahead, Dino Sporting Club will face Imperial FC in their continued quest to lift the coveted Jagaban Cup , with anticipation building for another exhilarating showdown scheduled for Thursday.

Jagaban Cup Day 1 Wrap: Ikorodu City held by Mavlon, Dino snatch late winner

 

The Charlesann displayed impressive performance to draw 2-2 with defending champions Smart City in the opening match of 2024 Jagaban Cup at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena on Tuesday morning.

The enterprising Lemon Busayo opened the scoring for Smart City after slamming the ball home from the penalty spot on 8 minutes. 

With The Charlesann slowly settling into the game, they managed to push the Nigeria National League team into their shell on several occasions before finally breaching the defense of the Smart City to draw level through Ayinla Olayinka as first half ended 1-1.

The Charlesann stunned Smart City on the half hour mark. A beautiful long range shot from Abatan Ayodele outside the box landed in the top left corner of the post.

Smart City replied the Academy boys instantly scoring the crucial equaliser. 

Although both teams tried to flourish in their attempt to find the winning goal, neither side had the luck and hence was forced to settle for a 2-2 draw.

36 Lion started their Jagaban Cup campaign on a sweet note as goals from Bangoura Mohammed and Opeyemi Oluwafemi secured a 2-1 comeback win against Imperial. 

Ashuku Joel stunned 36 Lion against the run of play in the 20th minute, striking beyond Oriola Samuel.

Lion missed strings of chances, with the Imperial keeper twice denying Wisdom Ubani and Bangoura.

Guinean Bangoura equalised on 35 minutes, when he stabbed home from the penalty spot as Imperial finally cracked under intense Lion pressure.

The match winner arrived from a flowing move and the energetic Oluwafemi fired straight to the net.

Meanwhile, Ikorodu City endured a frustrating morning as Mavlon held on for a 0-0 draw.

The Oga Boys were kept well in check by the Via Reggio Cup semi finalists, who also proved dangerous on the break.

Substitute Amos Adzuu scored a late winner to put Dino SC in a strong position at the Jagaban Cup.

Abubakar Ibrahim drew the first blood for Dino SC after just two minutes.

Henry Maduboko was denied by goalkeeper Okeoghene Isaac from the penalty spot as Dino failed to double their slim lead. 

Broad City upped their game and were rewarded with a fine header by Jeremiah Christopher to equalise.

Adzuu, a second half substitute, powered a clinical effort beyond goalkeeper Okeoghene.

Day 1 Results

Smart City 2-2 The Charlesann 

36 Lion 2-1 Imperial

Mavlon 0-0 Ikorodu City

Dino SC 2-1 Broad City

Day 2 Fixtures: March 27th

Ikorodu City Vs Smart City 7am

Broad City Vs 36 Lion 8am

The Charlesann Vs Mavlon 9am

Imperial Vs Dino SC 10am

Revealed! Major reasons Fouad Oki was impeached as Lagos FA Chairman

 

Contrary to insinuations in some quarter that the Extraordinary General Assembly of the Lagos State Football Association acted arbitrarily in the impeachment of the former chairman of the association, Mr Fouad Oki, documents obtained by this newspaper have shown the real reasons the politician cum football administrator was sacked by the Congress on Saturday.

Early on Saturday, the Executive Committee of the LSFA met for an emergency meeting, and a resolution was passed by 10 out of 12 members of the Executive Committee to suspend Chairman Oki before the Congress.

Later on, that same Saturday, Oki was reportedly impeached and banned for life during an Extraordinary General Assembly of the LSFA where 12 out of 14 statutory members of the Assembly voted in favour of his impeachment.

However, a look at the Statutes of the LSFA shows that Found Oki might have grossly violated some of the statutes that prompted his sack. For record purposes, the below findings are the sins of the former chairman that escalated the leadership crisis in the Lagos FA and led to the impeachment of the chairman

ARTICLE 2 

(Neutrality & Non-Discrimination). The chairman, Mr. Fouad Oki has violated this section by discriminating against certain clubs affiliated to the FA. He prefers some clubs to others which is against this article. His action is punishable by suspension and expulsion.

ARTICLE 3 (Promoting Friendly Relations).

The Chairman Mr Fouad Oki does not promote friendly relations just as in Article 2, he does not promote friendly relations among members, clubs, officials, etc. For example, meeting the Director General Lagos State Sports Commission with only 5 board members without the knowledge of other board members.

ARTICLE 11 SUBSECTION E

To adopt a statutory clause specifying that any dispute requiring arbitration involving itself or one of its members and relating to the Statutes, regulations, directives and decisions of FIFA, CAF, WAFU, NFF OR LAFA shall be determined by the JUDICIAL BODIES within this Statute without recourse whatsoever to ordinary courts. The Chairman Mr. Fouad Oki has violated this Article by taking the Congress Members to Lagos High Court on the 8Th of March 2024 with suit No. LD/10997GCMW/2024.

 

ARTICLE 14 SUB SECTION 1-6  

(This highlights the suspension or Dismissal of a member, person or body). The Chairman Mr. Fouad Oki violated this article when he single-handedly suspended The BDFA Chairman. 

ARTICLE 20 STATE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION SUB-SECTION H

It shall comply with and enforce compliance with the NFF Statutes, regulations, and decisions and cooperate with the NFF in all matters. The chairman Mr. Fouad Oki has violated this section by going against NPFL/LMC over the installation of a camera at Mobolaji Johnson Arena for the 2023/2024 Coverage of matches. In addition, refusing the LSFA slot of attending the NFF Congress without recourse to the Board or Congress Members.

Sub Section K- states that it shall maintain good relations and cooperation with the NFF, other members and clubs affiliated with the NFF. The Chairman Mr. Fouad Oki also violated this section by discriminating among affiliates of LSFA vis a vis NFF (Sporting Lagos etc).

ARTICLE 24 - BODIES OF LSFA

SUBSECTION 1 states that the Congress/General Assembly is the supreme and legislative body of Football in the State.

ARTICLE 25 SUB SECTION 4 states that the Congress may appoint observers who take part in the Congress without the right to vote.

ARTICLE 28 SUBSECTION 1-3 states that a Quorum of the State General Assembly states that decisions passed by the General Assembly shall only be valid if the absolute majority (50% + 1) of the members who are entitled to vote are present.

ARTICLE 29 - Decisions of General Assembly States that a simple majority of the members entitled to vote is sufficient for a vote to be valid. A decision that requires a vote shall be reached by a show of hands or using balloting.

ARTICLE 33- STATE EXTRAORDINARY GENERAL ASSEMBLY SUBSECTION 1-5 has to do with the powers of Congress to convene if the State Executive Committee does not.

ARTICLE 34 SUBSECTION 1-6 AMENDMENTS OF THE STATUTES, The Chairman Mr. Fouad Oki did not adhere to this article. He singlehandedly wrote a Statute and forwarded it to NFF without recourse to Congress.

Creative Championship: Ikechukwu Friday's hat trick propels Dino SC back to winning ways

 

Dino Sporting Club secured their most significant victory to date in the Creative Championship League, decimating Escola FC with an astonishing 8-0 triumph.

The victory came as a redemption for Dino Sporting Club, who were reeling from a humiliating 5-2 loss to Imperial FC earlier in the week, spurring them on to showcase their true potential on the field.

From the onset, Dino Sporting Club asserted their dominance, swiftly netting two goals within the opening 45 minutes courtesy of Stephen Ende and Amos Adzuu.

As the game progressed, Dino Sporting Club intensified their assault, adding six more goals to their tally, leaving Escola FC in disbelief and securing a resounding victory.

Ikechukwu Friday emerged as the standout performer, delivering a remarkable hat-trick, propelling Dino Sporting Club to score eight goals for the second time in the league campaign.

Following the final whistle, Maduboko Henry was rightfully recognized as the Player of the Match, acknowledging his invaluable contributions to the team's triumph. 

This accolade marked Henry's second individual award in as many weeks, solidifying his pivotal role within the squad.

NNL: Sikiru scores as 10 man Osun United boost playoff chances with draw in Enugu

 

Osun Utd once again secures a vital point in Enugu in one of the Match-Day 15 encounters of the Nigeria National League decided at UNEC Stadium, Enugu.

Seye Ajayi rang huge changes to the personnel that secure maximum points against visiting Ikorodu City last week in what's an unfamiliar squad as Mojeed Abimbola, Afeez Buhari and Sikiru Durodoye were handed the opportunity to impress.

United hit the ground running following a keenly contested openings as the host eager to go in front but Olatubosun Afolabi and Aminu Abubakar were handy for the most part of the duel.

A chance for the host 22 minutes into first period but Sabitu Abiola made an audacious save to deny the host from point blank. Two minutes later, Dayo Agbolade headed Omoluabi Giants in front but his classical header was ruled offside following an inviting well tailored set piece from Mutiu Ganiyu.

At half hour mark, Dayo Agbolade's close range low dive was parried to safety as pint sized Afeez Buhari masterminded a whip which nearly results in goal. It's a barren draw for the two sides in the first period.

The proceeding resumes with Giant Brillars piling pressures on United but a disciplined defensive work kept the threatening forwards at bay. A wonderful moment came three minutes past the hour mark following a long bursting runs from Sikiru down the lane as he stole a howler only to put it beyond opponents goalkeeper in a vital area. Seven minutes later, he was given the marching order following an altercation as he was awkwardly stretched by the medics.

The host responded twelve minutes later through Agu Offe from the spot as a result of a clumsy blockage which Centre Referee adjudged to be a foul. Moments at the death, Agbor Paul, Chika Kelvin and Ahmed Ahmed who were introduced deep into second period were impressive, combining well to ensure a vital point as Seye Ajayi tutored side boasts of another impressive runs.

What's next for Omoluabi Giants is a semi final clash with Nationwide League One side Karamba FC in the state Federations Cup on Tuesday at Ilesha Grammar School before welcoming perennial rival, Crown FC of Ogbomoso in Match-day 16 of Nigeria National League on Saturday 30th March 2024

Super Lig Women: Besiktas Defender Glory Ogbonna Targets Victory Against Adana

Experienced Besiktas women defender, Glory Ogbonna has disclosed that the team will go all out for a win in Sunday's Turkish Women's Football Super League clash against Adana Idmanyurduspor. 

Besiktas are currently on a four match winning streak scoring thirteen goals in the process with three goals conceded. 

The Super Falcons' defender is optimistic that the team will put a good performance against the rock bottom team with 5 points from 24 matches to extend their brilliant run in the campaign. 

"This is a must win match for us, our target is nothing more than a win. 

"We are not going to underrate them, we know they are currently on a winless run so we will do our best to get the desired result." 

The former Edo Queens' captain has played 23 times this season with a goal and assist to her credit. 

Besiktas are fifth on the log with 44 points from 24 matches. 

The game is billed for Sunday, 24th March.

By: Favour Itua

2024 NLO champions to get 18 Seater Bus worth #30m from New Year Mega Lottery

The start of 2024 Nationwide League One season will offer clubs a chance for glory, as the overall winner of the NLO Division One will drive home a 18 seater bus worth ₦30m courtesy of title sponsor New Year Mega Lottery. 

Nationwide League One Chief Operating Officer (COO) Olushola Ogunnowo broke the news to the league media department while rolling out the other benefits of the multimillion naira sponsorship deal with New Year Mega Lottery. 

According to Ogunnowo: "New Year Mega Lottery will give the winner of the league a 18 Seater Bus worth #30 million Naira and that would run for four years.

"As Title Sponsor for the next four years, New Year Mega Lottery will offset 30% of the club’s expenses during the league matches, thereby NLO will not increase the participation fees to proposed ₦300, 000 and still maintain the ₦200, 000.

"The lottery firm who's licensed by the Nigeria Lottery Commission will provide five match balls for all the registered clubs in the nation's third-tier league. 

"New Year Mega Lottery will support the NLO star matches to be shown on National TV stations. The company will also provide the right sleeve badges for all the players jerseys."

Furthermore, "New Year Mega Lottery will open a window whereby club owners can be agents under the lottery company, this is another revenue stream for the clubs," Ogunnowo noted.

TCC League: Henry Madubuko steals show as Dino Sporting Club rebounds with victory

Henry Madubuko stole the spotlight as Dino Sporting Club redeemed themselves following a disappointing exit from the Ogun State FA Cup. 

The star player's standout performance earned him the Man of the Match title as Dino SC clinched a crucial 1-2 away victory over Sporting Lagos in a rescheduled Creative League match.

Despite missing their talismanic player Ogonna Hyacinth, Dino SC exhibited dominance throughout the game, ultimately sealing their triumph in a commanding fashion. 

With this win, Dino Sporting Club edges closer to the league summit, amassing a total of 36 points.

As the title race intensifies, Dino SC aims to maintain their newfound momentum, poised for a thrilling battle to secure the championship title.

Tayo Egbaiyelo: NLO top official bags Icon of Youth Development Award

For his years of proactiveness, self-motivation and passion to resolve challenging tasks at the Nationwide League One (NLO), Tayo Egbaiyelo has been honoured with an Icon Of Youths Development Award. 

The Award of Excellence was proudly presented to Mr Tayo Egbaiyelo, (Member Of the Niger -MON) by the National Association Of Northern Nigerian Students (NANNS). 

The ICON OF YOUTH DEVELOPMENT award was in recognition of Egbaiyelo's tremendous contribution towards peacebuilding,

educational upliftment, exceptional track record of philanthropy and relentless services to the nation, the student body said. 

The Chief Administrative Officer at the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) and NLO's League Manager expressed his delight. 

Recall, that Egbaiyelo was a former Secretary of the Under 17 national men's team (Golden Eaglets). 

Egbaiyelo as Secretary of the U17 team to the World Cups in the United Arab Emirates and Chile, saw Nigeria produce the likes of Kelechi Iheanacho, Wilfred Ndidi, Isaac Success, Taiwo Awoniyi, Moses Simon and Francis Uzoho.

While Victor Osimhen, Samuel Chukwueze, Kelechi Nwakali, and Chigozie Awaziem excelled from the 2015 edition.

NLO unveils three technical partners to accelerate growth, development

 

The Nationwide League One (NLO) on Thursday announced its technical partners in Abuja, to drive referral revenue, generate quality leads, and accelerate growth in Nigeria’s third-tier domestic football division.

The Chairman of NLO, His Excellency Silas Agara, named three technical partners: Sofascore, SportsMeetTech, and Naemosports. 

Sofascore, a Croatian sports-tracking platform with over 25 million active monthly users worldwide, has partnered with NLO to assist in bringing on board all other leagues in Nigeria. This partnership is not based on any monetary value but on shared benefits in developing the league. 

SportsMeetTech, an IT firm, will develop a website and social media channels for all NLO clubs. They will also train club officials on how to manage the sites and commercialize them to generate funds to support their clubs. The revenue will be shared between NLO, clubs, and SMT.

Naemosports, a data company, will facilitate talent discovery with the use of technology. They will access NLO’s data, and the benefits will be on revenue sharing when the data are sold. NLO has a device to monitor what they do with the data.

New Year Mega Lottery splashes #964 million sponsorship on NLO

The Nationwide League One has announced a deal worth a staggering sum of N964 million as a sponsorship deal with New Year Mega Lottery. 

This sponsorship will make New Year Mega Lottery the official Title Sponsor of the third-tier domestic football league in Nigeria for the next four seasons.

The NLO signed a Memorandum Of Understanding (MoU) with New Year Mega Lottery at a special signing and unveiling event held at the Harris Hotel, Wuye in Abuja on Thursday, March 14th, in Abuja.

The announcement was made by the former Deputy Governor of Nasarawa State now NLO Chairman, His Excellency Silas Agara, during the unveiling of New Year Mega Lottery to the media.

Agara provided a detailed breakdown of the sponsorship deal, stating that the Nigerian licensed lottery company will provide an annual payment of 241 Million Naira in cash and value in kind, totalling a sum of #964,000,000 Naira for the four seasons of the sponsorship deal.

"New Year Mega Lottery is a Nigerian firm and lottery company licensed by the Nigeria Lottery Commission; they will be our Title Sponsor for the NLO. 

"The sponsorship deal will run for four seasons and of Two Hundred And Forty-One Million Naira (N241, 000, 000) annually (both Cash and Value in kind). With the annual payment totalling the sum of N964, 000, 000, 00 (Nine Hundred And Sixty-Four Million Naira).

“This sponsorship recognises NLO not just as a football body but also acknowledges our position as the league with the single-biggest football talent base in Africa.”

The collaboration between the Nationwide League One and New Year Mega Lottery is intended to effectively promote and elevate the status of grassroots football in the country, aiming to establish it as a prominent Nigerian spectacle and one of the most flourishing and appealing leagues on the continent.

In her address during the epoch-making occasion the representative of New Year Mega Lottery, Ms. Obiorah Emmanuella, Head of Corporate Communications, said it was the firm passion for football and humanitarian commitments that have compelled them to sponsor the NLO.

She also canvassed for the support of other well-meaning Nigerians to ensure grassroots football continues to flourish.

She said: “We are thrilled to enter this sponsorship deal with the Nationwide League One (NLO) and engage a large audience through our brand. It is for the love of soccer and a prioritized social responsibility in line with our humanitarian commitments, that prompted us to sponsor the NLO.

“Through this collaboration, we are also excited to connect with the future generation of football athletes at the grassroots level across Nigeria and help them grow. The company’s strong commitment to nurturing and empowering talents, fostering opportunities, and gratifying fans within its market are among the primary motivations for aligning with the NLO.

“I want to use this medium to urge other well-meaning Nigerians to get involved in the development of these laudable sports to enable the country to attain its expected height in world football,” she said.

By sponsoring the NLO until 2027, New Year Mega Lottery is building on its rich history as a frontline provider of job creation and empowerment through sports and education in Nigeria.

NPFL: Abubakar Bala resigns as Katsina United Head Coach

 

Bala Abubakar has resigned from his position as Head Coach at Katsina United after their Nigeria Premier Football League Match Day 25 game against Sunshine Stars on Wednesday. 

The former Kwara United coach decided to walk away due to a lack of a conducive atmosphere and the non-fulfilment of his contractual agreement by Katsina United. 

It has been reported that Bala has not received his monthly salary since joining the club four months ago.

Furthermore, he was twice attacked by irate Katsina United fans, with no efforts made by the interim management to intervene. On one occasion, he was rescued by heavily armed security men. 

In his resignation letter, Bala stated, "I humbly wish to resign my position as the Head Coach of Katsina United. This is a result of the lack of a conducive atmosphere and the non-fulfilment of my contract agreements.

"I'm sincerely grateful for the opportunity and support given to me during my brief stay with the club and wish the team the best of the season."

Bala took over as Katsina United's Head Coach on MatchDay 13 when they were in the 15th position with 14 points, just one point above the relegation zone. 

He played 12 matches, recording 6 home wins, 2 away draws, 1 home draw, and 3 away losses, accumulating a total of 21 points from a possible 36 points.

Coach Adedeji Adeyemi: An expert in talent's grooming, development

 

Coach Adedeji Anthony Adeyemi is an Nigerian who is plying his trade in the Swiss league.

During his playing days, Adedeji Adeyemi won Oba Cup with Stationery stores.

He hails from Ondo state but was born and bred in Lagos State.

Coach Adedeji Adeyemi's passion for Nigerian National teams is unparalleled and unmatched.

Coach Adedeji Anthony Adeyemi was a regular caller on Brilla FM Sports program, also pundit of Afrosport during FIFA Women's World Cup, African Cup of Nations, AFCON and World Cup qualifiers with Afrosport, pundit on Jordan FM Lagos during Nation's cup, Sportsville program on Channels TV.

Coach Adedeji Anthony Adeyemi in a recent chat with Sportsgister Nigeria talked about his Coach sojourn in Europe and penchant for youth development.

" I have heard people saying that l have no experience when it comes to coaching"

"I started coaching job, January 2009, when the professional team I was playing for then, the team U-16 female side was about to go on relegation and the president sacked the coach of the team and asked me to take over because I was training U-7 youth team then, I took over for 6 months and rescued the team from relegation".

"June 2009 , I went to a club called FC Dübendorf, I coached youth teams for 6 years, started with U14 ( in June 2009 to June 2010) then I was promoted to U16 (in June 2010-2016) won best Coca Cola Youth League and runner's in FA Cup, lost in FA Cup in semi finals both lost were penalty shootouts".

"June 2016) l went to FC Rüti U23, I was there for 2 years. I left in 2018 after winning the U23 League for them. 

"June 2018) a club called FC Kloten ZH came for my service, they were playing second professional league. I coached them for a year, brought them to 4th position, that's team that's always finished in 8th & 9th position".

"June 2019, I joined another professional club called FC Winterthur U16 I took them to FA Cup final we couldn't play the final due to COVID 19 in June 2020".

"January 2021, I joined a regional team called FC Gossau ZH playing regional Liga 2.

They are also always in 9th and 10th position in table and when I took over, I brought them to second position and went to playoff, but we lost through penalties shootout. Then I left them after 2 years".

"I later joined FC Witikon 2 Liga in 2023 as first assistant coach and promoted to head coach 2024 January".

"I have spent most of my coaching times with youth teams, I am so passionate about grooming and developing the youth," he said. 

Coach Adedeji Adeyemi is a patriotic and passionate Nigerian who believes in rendering selfless service to the nation.

He holds UEFA License B Coaching Certificate with many other certificates in coaching and football philosophy.

Coach Adedeji Adeyemi has joined other Nigerian coaches who have applied for the vacant Super Eagles and Golden Eaglets' coaching jobs.

SportsGister wishes him the best in his bid to develop our football talents at the national team levels.

UK Pro licenced Nigerian coach indicates interest for Super Eagles top job

After the exit of Jose Peseiro as the Head coach of the Super Eagles and the Nigeria Football Federation ( NFF) declaring the position vacant, a United Kingdom professional licenced coach, Donald Malomo-Paris has declared interest for the job, reports www.totorinews.com. 

In an exclusive chat with www.totorinews.com, Malomo-Paris said that it is time for a Nigerian coach to tinker the affairs of the Super Eagles and it will be honour to serve the most populous black nation in the world in that capacity.

He noted that Alhaji Ibrahim Gusua -led board of the NFF have made giant strides with the Super Eagles as witnessed at the last AFCON tournament in Ivory Coast and he hopes that the best candidate will be appointed to lead senior national team.

"There is no doubt that the NFF led by Ibrahim Gusau is doing well. At least there is sincerity of purpose. The Super Eagles is a national asset, a big football brand in the world, not just in Africa and i think a Nigerian is worth leading the team," Donald Malomo-Paris said.

"As a qualified Nigerian coach with a UK professional licenced coach, it is my desire to offer my service to the motherland.

 I have sent in my application to the NFF for the Super Eagles job.

"After Jose Peseiro, Nigeria have to look inwards for the Head Coach of the Super Eagles. Ideally, he should be a Nigerian, a professional licenced coach.

"The big question is who is the best Nigerian candidate? He asked and he also answered the question.

"There should be highly qualified Nigerian football coaches, both within and outside that should be assembled by the NFF and put through a robust interview process leading to the selection of the best candidate that will improve the fortunes of the national team.

"Nigerians want to see improvement of the Super Eagles, in terms of style of play, strong winning mentality, high sense of patriotism and raising the standards to the highest elite level, which our players are used to in the various European clubs," he said.

Adeleke confirms four years sponsorship of Osun School Sports Governors Cup

 

Project Manager Peculiar Ultimate Concerns Limited, Engr. Olalekan Adeleke says funds committed to the Osun School Sports Governors Cup programme will be for four years, as they also plan to accommodate other sports. 

Speaking with the media as the maiden Osun School Sports Governors Cup enters its grand finale on Monday next week, Adeleke talked about his firm's vision for sports development in the state with a priority on grassroot. 

"We have been involved in sports development for several years. As a company, we aim to touch the lives of our youths and scout raw talents at the grassroots level. 

"This is why we are sponsoring the Osun School Sports Governors Cup. We are glad that the State Government has shown interest in sports, and we are collaborating with them by committing our funds to the event. 

"Our sponsorship will run for four years, and the Osun School Sports Governors Cup will be an annual event.

"As the main actors of the tournament are secondary school students, we will consult with the Osun State Ministry of Education regarding the school calendar. We plan to stage the Osun School Sports Governors Cup during the second term of every session.

Engr. Adeleke

"In Season 2, we plan to add other sports such as athletics, basketball, tennis, volleyball, and table tennis to the event. Nigeria has enough talent in these other sports, and we can organize such events in Osun State.

"We have been highly impressed with the talents we have seen at the ongoing maiden Osun School Sports Governors Cup. We have seen quality football and good talents with bright futures. Our utmost desire is to see youths at the grassroots level develop to the top level of their careers.

"Finally, I appeal to corporate Nigeria to sponsor laudable programmes like this. The more we are, the merrier it is for the sports development of our youths."

Organisers reveal why Ife Anglican Grammar School was expelled from Osun School Sports Governors Cup final

 

Ife Anglican Grammar School has been expelled from the Osun School Sports Governors Cup final on allegations of cheating.

The Local Organizing Committee received a protest claiming that Ife Anglican Grammar School used six non-school players in their semi-final match against Lanre Leke Sports Academy, Ile Ogbo.

Upon investigation, it was discovered that the players in question had left the school three years ago, which violated the tournament's rules.

The Local Organizing Committee, led by Yomi Elijah, conducted a thorough investigation that involved verifying the players' registration forms with the Ministry of Education in Osogbo.

The forms were found to have been doctored, and the committee concluded that Ife Anglican Grammar School had indeed used ineligible players. As a result, the school was disqualified from participating in the final.

"From our findings, we discovered that Ife Anglican Grammar School used players that have left the school 3 years ago.

"I recall before the kick-off of the tournament, we had a meeting with all the Zonal Heads in Osogbo where rules were spelt out to all the participating schools. One of such rules was to use players who were no longer students of such schools.

"We got a hint of this abnormality from Ife Anglican Grammar School in the quarter-finals and we to go verify the players in question from the Ministry of Education in Osogbo. A contact person based in Ife was provided for us.

"At the end, we got their registration forms for the tourney and behold, there were abnormalities as it was well doctored. They came with the same set of players for the semi-final which they won but from the records obtained from the database of the Osun State Ministry of Education, the players in question were found to have left the school.

"The non-school players Ife Anglican Grammar School used are Oyinloye Khalid, Oyesunbola Iyanu, Salam Abdulmuhameen, Olakanmi Lekan, Badejo Damilare and Akinlabi Yusuf.

"In lieu of this, Ife Anglican Grammar School has been disqualified from taking part in the final."

The Osun School Sports Governors Cup is sponsored by Peculiar Ultimate Concerns, and other partners include Olafiranye Sports Foundation, the Osun State Ministry of Education, Ministry of Sports, Osun State Sports Council, and Kidzfoot Nigeria.

TCC League: Dino Sporting stretch winning momentum with victory over Real Sapphire

Dino Sporting Club secured another resounding victory, overpowering Real Sapphire 4-1 in their rescheduled Creative Champions League match on Wednesday.

This triumph comes on the heels of their dominating 3-1 win against Valiant FC at the Onikan Stadium in Lagos.

The first half concluded with both teams scoring a goal each, setting the stage for an intense second half where Dino Sporting escalated their performance, unleashing three unanswered goals.

The driving force behind this formidable onslaught was Patrick John, whose hat-trick significantly contributed to the memorable away win.

With this latest triumph, Dino Sporting Club now sits just one point behind the league leaders, Beyond Limits, at the pinnacle of the table.

Alkali showers encomium on Ogunnowo on birthday anniversary

Erstwhile Chairman of the Nationwide League One, Mohammed Alkali has poured glowing tributes on the Chief Operating Officer of the nation's third-tier domestic football league Olushola Ogunnowo on his birthday celebration.

Ogunnowo celebrates his birthday today Tuesday March 5, and Alkali, a former Executive Member of the Nigeria Football Federation, joined his family and friends to celebrate the brilliant football administrator.

Alkali congratulated Ogunnowo and expressed his delight, saying that he was celebrating with him, his family, friends, Nigeria's football family, and the over 300 NLO Clubs and Football Academies. 

He described Ogunowo as a thoroughbred football administrator whose years of experience, work ethic, and output in seeing Nigeria's grassroots football development are second to none. 

Alkali also expressed his appreciation for the good working relationship they had during his time as the head of NLO and noted that the league has achieved different success stories since he left under Ogunnowo's leadership.

Finally, Alkali wished Ogunnowo good health and challenged him to keep up the good work to ensure that the NLO remains a brand not just in Nigeria but also in the outside world.

NLO seals multi-million naira sponsorship deal

 

The Nationwide League One (NLO) is set to seal it biggest sponsorship deal worth multi-million naira and also announce partnership with two foreign service providers. 

The sponsorship deal which will run for four (4) years, is record-breaking and a breakthrough for grassroot football development in Nigeria. 

NLO Chairman and ex-Deputy Governor of Nasarawa State His Excellency Silas Agara, shared more light on the deal.

"We are happy with the several brands that has shown interest in the NLO in the last few months, as we want the NLO to grow to become a global phenomenon as the most successful grassroot football league across Africa, as challenged by NFF President, Alh. Ibrahim Musa Gusau 

"One of our partners, is a lottery company licensed by the Nigeria Lottery Commission; they will be NLO Title Sponsors. We have agreed on a four year sponsorship deal. And we shall unveil them on Thursday March 14, 2024.

Twenty-four hours later, precisely Friday March 15, the NLO will unveil four of its prospective partners. 

"One of them is a service provider- a Croatian based sports tracking platform with over 25 million active monthly users worldwide. This is very good for our clubs. They have also mandated the NLO to assist them in bringing on board other leagues in Nigeria.

"No monetary value involved, but on share benefits on developing our league, and we have agreed to work with them.

However, there is another IT firm that has accepted to develop websites for all the NLO clubs, they will as well open social media channels for all the clubs as well.

"They will train club officials on how to manage the sites and then commercialize the website and the social media handles to enable the clubs generate funds to support their clubs.

"The NLO sees this as a good avenue for club development and another source of revenue stream for the clubs in NLO."

Honourable Silas Agara hinted further, 

"Two other technical partners will join the NLO, as they will help to facilitate talent discovery with the use of technology. 

"The nation's third-tier domestic football league sees them as Development Partner and we have agreed to allow them access to our data. The benefits to NLO is on revenue sharing when the data are being sold, we have a device to monitor what they do with our data."

In a separate development, to expand it's reach to a larger audience and passionate followers of the league, the NLO has lunched it's two (2) channels on Blend TV.

UK based Nigerian coach urges stakeholders to support Gusau for sustained development momentum

With Nigeria Football bubbling after the silver-medal podium finish of the Super Eagles at the AFCON 2023 tournament in Ivory Coast last month, a Nigerian UEFA/IFA Pro licenced coach, Donald Malomo- Paris has charged every Nigerian football stakeholder to support Ibrahim Gusau -led NFF board to maintain the momentum, reports www.totorinews.com. 

The UK based football coach also appealed to some aggrieved football stakeholders in the country to bury the hatchet, sheath the sword and allow a peacefully atmosphere to permeate Nigeria Football, as he noted that the signs are there that Nigeria Football will flourish tremendously under the leadership of Gusau.

"One word that is often used in football is momentum and I feel the Super Eagles now have the momentum and the challenge now is maintaining it," Donald Malomo-Paris told www.totorinews.com exclusively.

"The silver medal at AFCON is a huge positive. The most important thing in maintaining the momentum is to give support to NFF President Ibrahim Gusau, his board members and officials of the NFF.

"I am particularly amazed by the leadership style of Gusau. I feel deeply that he has a good heart and the strong will to move Nigeria football forward. The positive signs are there for every sincere football stakeholder to see.

While speaking on the issue of court case against NFF, he informed that litigation does not create the environment for football to thrive in Nigeria.

"As far as I can remember, there has always been litigation hanging over the NFF. This is not conducive for the focus required to manage the affairs of a football federation.

"There is never such distractions in the best run football federation around the world. Our grievances can be settled amicably within the confine of football rules and regulations, not at the court.

"In my opinion, I believe now is the time to bury the hatchet, and give our full support to NFF President Gusau and his team in his quest to improve the fortunes of our football," he said.

Malomo-Paris is a member of the technical crew of Larne FC, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom. 

Lanre Vigo reveals future plans on Inter Lagos FC project

 

Lanre Vigo, the co-founder and CEO of Inter Lagos, has stated that the club's primary objective is to become the best team in Africa. 

Vigo, who used to be a semi-professional footballer in England, revealed this after Inter Lagos lost to Osun United by a line goal in a Nigerian National League fixture. 

Although the defeat was disappointing, Vigo expressed confidence in his team and stated that they would bounce back in their next match. 

He also discussed how Inter Lagos managed to go unbeaten for seven matches after a shaky start to the season. 

According to Vigo, "Inter Lagos is a new team that needed time to find its rhythm. However, once the team started winning, their critics began to take them seriously."

Vigo and the other co-founders have invested heavily in the club, and they have received support from a few investors who believe in their vision. 

"The club's long-term goal is to become the number one team in Africa, and they have a 10-year plan to achieve this. 

"As part of this plan, they intend to build their stadium, which will help them settle down better."

He summed up how their player recruitment works, which adds up to why an average Inter Lagos player has a physical presence on the pitch. 

"When you watch a football game, it's about 11 versus 11 regardless of the sizes of the players, for Inter Lagos, is more of the ability.  It just so happened that our players are of certain sizes,  so when scouting if any player is good enough, he can play for the club."

Vigo also believes that there is a lack of connection between clubs and fans in Nigeria, which is why Inter Lagos is focusing on engagement to attract more fans to their matches. 

He draws from his experience playing semi-professional football in England, where he was part of a team that attracted over a thousand fans to every home game.

"We felt that there was no connection between clubs and fans in Nigeria, as nothing was attracting them to games. So we thought using the media/social media in engaging with the fans, which has also helped our marketing."

Felix Samuel Agba: Nigerian striker happy with new found form in Lebanese league

 

Nigerian striker Samuel Felix Agba, has been causing ripples in Lebanon, emerging as one of the standout players in the league and vying for the prestigious title of Best Foreign Player of the Year in the Lebanese second division.

Having previously showcased his talent with clubs like Rangers of Enugu and Coton Sport Garoua, Agba embarked on a remarkable journey in his debut season in the Lebanese second division after signing for Al Mabarrah in August 2023.

The 30-year-old Kaduna-born striker wasted no time in making his mark, swiftly adapting to the rigors of Lebanese football and making significant contributions to his team. 

Throughout the season, Agba featured in 18 out of 20 games for Al Mabarrah, netting an impressive 11 goals and providing five crucial assists, solidifying his reputation as a force to be reckoned with in Lebanon.

His stellar performances didn't go unnoticed, earning him two Man of the Match awards and helping Al Mabarrah secure a commendable third-place finish in the league standings. 

Agba's form has also attracted interest from several top-tier clubs, eager to secure his services even before the culmination of the championship play-offs.

Reflecting on his achievements, Agba expressed his satisfaction with his performance and adaptation to a new environment. 

"It is always a good feeling to come to a new club, settle in, and score goals to help your team," Agba stated. 

"Settling in can be challenging due to language and cultural differences, but with dedication and hard work, along with the support of my teammates, I was able to integrate quickly."

Looking ahead, the determined striker remains focused on furthering his success and repaying the faith of his coaches. 

"There is still a lot to achieve and a lot more to come from me," Agba emphasized. "I want to continue to deliver goals and strong performances, regardless of where my future lies."

As numerous suitors queue up for his signature, Sam Agba is poised for an even brighter future, aiming for continued success and excellence in the seasons to come.