Adepoju Fathia: Lanreleke Sports Academy youngster makes Nigeria squad for football tourney in China

 

Adepoju Fathia, a student of Lanreleke Sports Academy in Ileogbo, Osun State has been selected to represent Nigeria in the Secondary Schools Female Football Competition in China.

Established in 2021, the Lanreleke Sports Academy is a co-educational, fully residential and specialist Senior Secondary School. 

Fathia, a 15-year-old and exciting football prodigy was selected by the Nigeria School Sports Federation NSSF) for the 2024 International School Sport Federation (ISF) World School Cup for girls, which will hold

in Dalian from May 16 to 27.

The Project Manager of Peculiar Ultimate Concerns Limited, and Proprietor of the co-educational and sports academy, Engr. Olalekan Adeleke shared his delight as he noted. 

"We are delighted that Adepoju Fathia, an SS2 Student from Iwo, Osun State made the final selection. 

"We are also not surprised at her football career growth as she is hard-working, dedicated and has the zeal to be the best. Fathia is among the 15 players selected across the country to represent Nigeria at the tournament.

"At Lanreleke Sports Academy, we don't nurture football players, as we also develop future stars in other sports like Athletics (Track and Field), Basketball and Tennis. 

"The management is wishing her and the team the best as we urge her to be a good ambassador of the Lanreleke Sports Academy and indeed Nigeria. 

Adepoju Fathia and over 300 girls from secondary schools across the country participated in a two-day trial held inside the Main Bowl of the National Stadium, Surulere.

"Simon Cletus will return to classroom after WAFU tournament" - Mavlon Boss reveals

 

President of Mavlon FC, Barrister Kenneth Agadagba has disclosed that captain of Nigeria U17 boys national team, Simon Cletus will not be rushed into moving abroad after his participation at the ongoing WAFU B Cup Championship in Ghana. 

Bar. Agadagba said that the club is fully focused on the development of Cletus and other young talented footballers in their fold and the club is following that template.

He noted that the young player who is the captain of Golden Eaglets is still undergoing academic development and will be encouraged to complete the process.

"We at Mavlon are keenly interested in the development of our players. We are happy with the positive news coming from Cletus and his fellow Eaglets, but the essence is yet to be achieved.

"Cletus has been attracting interest from some top European clubs for almost a year now, especially after the Viarregio Cup in Italy this February. We are happy, but not in a hurry.

"He will go back to school in Lagos after WAFU B U17 tournament in Accra and our prayer is for the Golden Eaglets to excel at the tournament.

"There is no premiership club interest for him. These are mere speculations in the media. He is just 16 years old and no foreign football for him.

"We will continue to use our template for his development," he concluded.

Golden Eaglets will tackle Niger in the second game in the tournament this Sunday at 7pm Nigeria time. Cletus was voted the MVP in the goalless affair with Burkina Faso on Thursday.

NLO showcases Nimi; youngest goalscorer in 2024 season

 

The Nationwide League One has over the years provided an important platform for the best young footballers, offering more competitive games against top-quality opposition, giving players essential experience of international competition and reducing the gap between youth and first-team football.

The 2024 New Year Mega Lottery/NLO didn't end without new feats and records broken by a few special talents, from the over 10,000 players that took part in the season. 

Academy football in the world has a complex relationship with winning, it is rarely seen as a condition for player development but for 14-year-old Patrick Adeoluwanimi Akhidenor-Solanke, his celebration after becoming the youngest player to score a goal this season, demonstrates how much the feat meant to him.

Immensely gifted Nimi is a product of Provazios Sports Academy, owned by his father Segun Solanke. Regardless of his age, the boy wonder captained his team- Olumo United Football Club at the NLO Sagamu Centre and scored against Lasegski FC at the FC Ebedei Stadium. 

Segun Solanke talked about how he enrolled Nimi into the academy at the age of four years, and since then, Nimi’s young career has been enjoying tremendous growth and progress.

In 2023, Nimi told The Nation in an interview: "I want to win the Balon d’Or. My dad told me George Weah of Liberia is the only African footballer to have won the Ballon d’Or."

“Like my idols Messi and Ronaldo, I believe that with more hard work, discipline, perseverance, dedication and focus, I can bring home the honour in the near future,” 

The youngster has matched his words with action with the wonder strike against Lasegski FC. 

For Nimi's father, Segun, he's full of optimism about his prodigy. "In the next five years, we believe he would have become the youngest Nigerian to play for the Super Eagles and also, be playing in one of the top-flight leagues around the world. And particularly, playing for Real Madrid, as the wonder boy from Nigeria.”

Meanwhile, the management of the third-tier domestic football league has expressed their happiness at Nimi's remarkable achievement. They believe it is a testament to their plans to develop Nigerian football by encouraging younger footballers to grow their careers and in the end, earn a good living from it.

"Second FC Ebedei stadium will be world-class" - Joshua Adamu

FIFA and CAF-certified sports facility expert and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Alan Smith, Joshua Adamu has informed plans to deliver another world-class stadium for FC Ebedei.

Joshua Adamu gave the hint of the plan while in a media chat with Family United By Football (FUBF) an informative sports group on a social media platform- WhatsApp. 

According to the Innovative and energy-driven sports facility manager of repute, "The FC Ebedei Stadium is three years old and still counting and it's still looking new. This is because quality was not compromised, and the core expert was used.

"Interestingly, the stadium is about the only pitch in Nigeria presently running fully on the French drain. You don't see any open drainage on the pitch.

"All drainages are underground and it's also one of the few pitches in Nigeria on full shock pads, not the usual underlays.

"So that gives the pitch extra cushion effects, and the players will be able to enjoy it and that's why experts and scouts that have visited the pitch have been commending the work done there. 

"By the grace of God, this year, FC Ebedei will be having its second stadium ready. That will be coming with a better quality and new look. They say the reward for good work is more work. 

"We are proudly associated with that pitch and we intend to build on it. What you see there is simple quality and no compromise."

Demilade Akanbi: Teenage swimming sensation steals show at 7th Ikoyi Club 1938 Inter School Sports Swim Meet

Demilade Akanbi emerged as the star of the show at the recently concluded 7th Zenith Bank/Ikoyi Club 1938 Inter School Sports Swim Meet. 

The event, held on Saturday, May 11th, featured a staggering 165 students from ten schools, vying for top honors across 36 thrilling events.

Representing the IC Marlins Swimming Team, Demilade Akanbi captivated spectators with her exceptional swimming skills, clinching an impressive haul of six gold medals for her team. 

Among her notable victories were the 100M butterfly girls race and the girls champion of champions races, solidifying her status as a standout performer in the competition.

Earning the title of girls Most Valuable Swimmer, Akanbi's stellar performance didn't go unnoticed. 

She secured this accolade after dominating all four of her individual races and contributing to two relay race victories, showcasing her versatility and competitive spirit.

This isn't the first time the 13-year-old prodigy has made waves in the swimming world. 

In a remarkable display of talent and determination, Akanbi previously claimed three gold medals at Nigeria's National Youth Games in Asaba in 2023. 

Representing Lagos State, she triumphed in the 50-meter backstroke, 100-meter butterfly, and 4x50-meter mixed medley relay events, etching her name in the annals of Nigerian swimming history.

Undeterred by challenges, Demilade Akanbi's unwavering commitment to her sport shines through. With her sights set on representing Nigeria at the Olympics, she continues to push the boundaries of excellence, driven by a passion to break records and inspire future generations of athletes.

Ibrahim Babangida: Hon Ekene Adams offers condolences to Babangida family over tragic death of former Nigeria international

 

The Chairman House Committee on Sports, Hon Ekene Abubakar Adams, has expressed his condolences to the Babangida family following the tragic accident that involved the two former Nigeria football Internationals Ibrahim Babangida and Tijani Babangida.

The fatal accident that occurred along the Zaria/Kaduna Expressway took the life of Ibrahim Babangida who has since been buried according to Islamic rites.

Honourable Ekene who is currently not in the country said it was very sad to hear that Ibrahim Tijani lost his life and he is still in very big shock over the news. He promised to go visit the family the moment he returns to the country while urging Nigerians to keep on praying for the Babangida family.

According to the lawmaker representing Chikun/Kajuru Federal constituency, the Babangida family needs the prayers of every Nigerian at this time because of the nature of the accident that involved the two brothers and other family members.

"This is a very difficult time for the Babangida family and I want every Nigerian to put them in their prayers because they need all our support now more than ever."

"The Babangida family have been a good servant to our country producing great football brothers like Tijani, Haruna and the late Ibrahim Babangida who had represented Nigeria at major tournaments like the World cup and Africa Cup of Nations.

"The Death of Ibrahim Babangida is not just a loss to the Country but a major loss to us in Kaduna because himself and his brother Tijani have been very key to developing young talents and grassroot development in the state for many years."

Honourable Ekene said on behalf of the Speaker of the House of Representatives Hon Tajudeen Abbas, who is also very sad with the news and the House Committee on Sports, the National Assembly will do her best to support the family and be by their side in this critical time.

Signed 

Media , House Committee on Sports Chairman

LATE AMBASSADOR PAUL BABATUNDE FADUMIYO: A Life of Integrity, Courage, and Compassion

 

Amb. Paul Babatunde Fadumiyo. His life was a testament to the values of diplomacy, service, and leadership. 

Indeed, Ambassador Fadumiyo's contributions to the diplomatic community, as well as to the nations and people he served, will not be forgotten. 

His wisdom, experience, and dedication to his craft will continue to be a source of inspiration for current and future generations.

Being former elected President of Okun Development Association (ODA) speaks to the level of trust and respect Ambassador Fadumiyo garnered from his origin as an okun man.

It's clear that he not only made a significant impact on the international stage but also contributed to the well-being and development of his own okun nation. 

His work with the ODA also demonstrates his commitment to grassroots development, recognizing that positive change begins at home. 

His commitment to the Okun Development Association was part of a larger pattern of service and leadership throughout his lifetime. 

His leadership and vision will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the Okun nation will be remembered as an inspiration for generations to come.

Ambassador Fadumiyo's dedication to his faith and to the Methodist Church,

his role as the "Babaijo" of the Methodist Church Igbagun community not only showed his strong faith but also his desire to contribute to the spiritual growth and well-being of others. 

Ambassador Fadumiyo's roots in Igbagun, a town in Nigeria's Kogi State, undoubtedly played a significant role in shaping his identity, values, and dedication to the Okun nation. 

Growing up in Igbagun likely instilled in him a deep appreciation for his culture, history, and traditions, and inspired him to work tirelessly to improve the lives of his fellow Okun people.

Even as he traveled the world and dedicated himself to serving his country on the international stage, Ambassador Fadumiyo never forgot his roots in Igbagun.

The title of Ambassador Fadumiyo's book, "Igbagun: The Melting Pot of Yagbaland," speaks to his passion for and commitment to preserving the history and heritage of his community. 

By authoring this book, he not only chronicled the rich history and traditions of Igbagun but also emphasized its role as a cultural hub within the larger Yagba community. 

Ambassador Fadumiyo's 

scholarship in this area was undoubtedly driven by a deep love for his hometown and a desire to share its story with the wider world.

We offer our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues. May the memory of his life and legacy inspire others to continue in his footsteps and make a positive impact on the world. 

May his soul rest in peace. 

May God Condole Igbagun community. 

Signed. 

Comrade sikiru olusegun

Golden Eaglets is intact, news of failed MRI test is false alarm

The news that first team members of Golden Eaglets failed MRI test is not correct. The team is intact.

Football fans in the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Abuja and it's environs that have been watching the training sessions friendly matches of the Golden Eaglets can bear witness that the team is taking shape and remained intact. 

Please if you live in Abuja, feel free to come and watch the Eaglets train at the FIFA Goal Project, Abuja stadium. You can find out.

The MRI test conducted by the NFF found few players on grade 5 and these players are out. 

The pass grade is from grades 1 - 5, but the policy of NFF is that players on grade 5 will not be taken to the competition venue because they may fall into grade 6 when CAF conduct their own MRI test due to the fact that the borderline between grade 5 and 6 is very little.

In order to avoid that risk, the NFF insists that only players from grade 1 - 4 will represent Nigeria at the International tournament.

The team played another friendly game today and defeated Turbo touch academy 2-0.

Salim Fago Lawal: Nigerian youth international scores in Istra's humbling of Rudes

Nigeria youth International, Salim Fago Lawal was in terrific form for his club, Istra 1961, as he scored one of the goals in their 3-1 away win against Rudes, www.totorinews.com

It was yet another masterpiece for Istra 1961 in the Croatian top flight condemning Rudes home defeat. 

Lawal, the former Mavlon FC striker, who featured for the Flying Eagles of Nigeria at the last FIFA U20 World Cup in Argentina hit the back of the net in the 16th min to make a strong statement that Istra 1961 came for the three points at stake.

But the joy of Istra 1961 travelling fans was short-lived when Riad Masala restored parity for Rudes three minutes later.

It was a ding- dong affair for both teams going into the break.

Second half completely belonged to Lawal and his teammates, as their efforts yielded fruits when substitutes Mario Cuic and Mateo Lisica scored in quick successions on the 73rd and 75th respectively to put the game beyond the reach of struggling Rudes.

Lawal played for 64 minutes before he was substituted.

Fouad Oki drags LSFA Board to Lagos State Police Command

 

Former Chairman of Lagos State Football Association (LSFA), Ogboni Fouad Oki in another futile attempt to stop football administration and its development, has dragged congress members of the LSFA to the Lagos State Police Command, Ikeja, on several spurious allegations.

Chairman of LSFA, Hajji Gafar Liameed, Friday morning, led other congress members on invitation of the Lagos State Deputy Commissioner, Operations, DCP Fatai Tijani, to defend the petition written against the congress. 

Oki had alleged in his petition to the Police that he was physically attacked and severely injured by over 30 officers from the DSS, on the orders of the LSFA Chairman, Gafar.

However, the petitioner, Fouad Oki, refused to show up at the Police Command. 

It would be recalled that he (Oki) had earlier charged members of the congress to a civil court, which is contrary to the statutes governing the game globally. 

NLO1: Five Star Ogonna Okoro inspires Dino Sporting Club to crumble Olumo

Dino Sporting Club delivered a resounding 12-0 victory over Olumo United in their recent clash in the Nationwide LeagueOne, NLO1 playoffs on Wednesday.

Led by the stellar performance of Ogonna Hyacinth, who netted an impressive five goals, Dino Sporting Club showcased their prowess on the field, securing their third win of the campaign.

Solomon Etim set the tone with a well-executed goal, followed swiftly by Ogonna Hyacinth's close-range strike to double the lead. 

Henry Madubuku extended the advantage with a successful penalty kick, while Zakari Haruna sealed the first half with a fourth goal just before halftime.

Returning from the break, Ogonna Hyacinth wasted no time in adding to the tally, securing his second goal of the game. 

The onslaught continued as Stephen Ende notched the sixth goal, before Ogonna Hyacinth completed his hat-trick in dazzling fashion just minutes later.

Undeterred, Ogonna Hyacinth continued his scoring spree, notching his fourth and fifth goals of the match with remarkable ease, further solidifying Dino Sporting Club's commanding lead. 

Jibril Mohammed then capped off the remarkable victory with a hat-trick of his own, completing the emphatic 12-0 triumph.

With this stunning win, Dino Sporting Club has firmly established their dominance in the NLO1 league, having won three out of their four games and securing a draw in the remaining fixture. 

Their formidable performance sends a clear message to their competitors as they aim for continued success in the league.