We'll remain grateful, Ga'a Ajegunle laud Saliu Mustapha intervention on transformer

...as community appeals  for polling units

Ga'a Ajegunle community in Ilorin West Local Government Area of Kwara State have expressed their profound gratitude to the Senator representing Kwara Central Senatorial District at the 10th assembly, Senator Saliu Mustapha over his timely intervention to bring to an end to perennial darkness across the communities by given them 500KVA transformer.

The Chairman of the community, Mall. Sulaiman Omotosho Fatai  who is fondly called Enimagunyan stated this on Tuesday while answering questions from our reporter in his officer.

According to him, 'the 19 communities under the aegis of Ga'a Ajegunle since December last year were thrown into total darkness as a result of collapse of the transformer supplying electricity to the area, but for the intervention of the lawmaker, economic activities have been restored back to the communities.'

"Our former transformer got spoit at a point around last year December, but within three months it was restored courtesy Senator Saliu Mustapha who gave us 500KV new transformer alongside wires and poles. Initially we were sceptical perhaps our request before the senator would be swept under the carpet, but the lawmaker proved us wrong.

"On behalf of the good people of Ga'a Ajegunle, we're grateful to him. We pray Allah to continue to uphold him. His is a humanist per excellence. He has the thought of the downtrodden at heart. The Senator have empowered many people in the state. He would never be put into darkness, "Enimagunyan prayed 

The Chairman added that the residents of the affected communities cannot wait for 2027 general elections to give the senator an overwhelming votes, urging the authority of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to provide two polling units at Ga'a Ajegunle,as this would enable them to exercise their franchise with ease.

"As a grateful community, I think the better way to show our appreciation to Senator Saliu Mustapha over this gesture is for us to give him a bountiful votes any time he needs our services. We're  all set to reciprocate his act of magnanimity by voting enmass for him in their next election.

"As OliverTwist, we are using this medium to ask for more from our politicians in the state. We need Maternity and Dispensary at Ajegunle as this would afford us quick access to Primary Health Care services. The bridge connecting Ajegunle community need urgent attention of the state authority, our road need rehabilitation and we have also approached the concerned authority for establishment of secondary school at Ajegunle ," the Chairman affirmed.

Sulaiman however described his three years at the helms of affairs in the community as unprecedented, saying his tenure has heralded lots of developmental projects to the area.

"Parts of developmental strides within the few years of our leadership in the community is the presence of Korope buses plying the area aimed at easing the movement of residents along the axis. We sought for the consent of the leadership of the NURTW on this and they approved our request immediately.

"We have us approached the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for polling units at two points within the community as this will allow us to discharge our civil responsibility during election *period,"* he said.

Mahanaim FC announces Aliyu Imran transfer to SK Prostejov

Mahanaim FC has announced the transfer of striker Aliyu Imran to Czech Republic club SK Prostejov.

Imran, 19, signed a 3-year contract with the Czech second division club after an impressive familiarisation period. The 1.96m Kaduna born goal poacher is a thorough bred Mahanaim product whose ability to learn and understudy senior players of the club became a major asset.

His unique fighting spirit, pace and power, intelligence and goalscoring prowess attracted SK Prostejov to him during Mahanaim FC's 2024 annual scouting event in Abuja. He further proved himself as a great ambassador of the club during his familiarisation period in Czech Republic.

He narrated his excitement on completing his transfer to SK Prostejov from Mahanaim FC as a dream come through. 

"This is a dream come through for me. I can't describe how I feel. I thank everyone who has contributed to my development to this stage. Most especially our Sport Director, a man who is like a

GreenLock Football Academy's structure designed for success, career growth

Omowunmi Blessing Awe is an elegant and intelligent leader who serves as the Head of Operations at Green Lock FC/Academy. She is dedicated to making a significant impact in a male-dominated industry.

Awe has demonstrated a strong ability to build and lead teams, enhancing the performance of both the football club and the academy.

Green Lock FA conducts its training sessions at the Navy Town Sports Centre, which boasts excellent facilities that support both training and leisure activities. The accommodation provided ensures a safe, comfortable, and welcoming environment for players.

The launch of the Green Lock Football Academy is scheduled for August 31st in Lagos. Awe explains that the academy’s structure is designed to foster the success and career growth of its football talents.

"Green Lock Football Academy distinguishes itself in Nigeria through its comprehensive approach to player development," she states, "emphasizing technical skills, tactical understanding, physical conditioning, mental preparation, and educational support."

On the holistic approach, GreenLock Football Academy is offering to player development, Awe explains in detail. 

"Green Lock FA provides a structured program that nurtures young talents while ensuring they excel both on and off the field. This includes personalized coaching, fitness training, mental toughness programs, soccer picnics, excursions, fun games, nutritious meals, and academic support, all aimed at promoting well-rounded development, including discipline."

In addition to technical skills, tactical understanding, physical conditioning, mental preparation, and educational support, Green Lock Football Academy also offers strategies for maximizing results through talent identification and development. 

"We continuously scout and nurture young talents, providing them with top-notch training facilities and coaching," Awe notes.

Player welfare and academic support are integral parts of Green Lock Football Academy. 

"We ensure the physical and mental well-being of players through quality medical support, nutrition planning, and mental health resources. 

We also offer educational programs that complement football training, ensuring players have options beyond their playing careers. For instance, every student-athlete will learn elementary French as a second language to help them adapt when they travel abroad," Awe emphasized.

It also provides competitive exposure and coaching excellence for its players alike. 

"The academy regularly participates in local and international tournaments to test players' skills against diverse competition, aiding their development and visibility. Furthermore, the academy organizes yearly tournaments in Europe for all budding student-athletes.

"GreenLock FA has invested in continuous education for coaches to keep them updated with the latest training methodologies and tactics."

Finding the right talent can be challenging, but Green Lock Football Academy has a strategic scouting network supported by robust international partnerships. 

"The academy boasts a comprehensive scouting network that extends across Nigeria, identifying promising talents in both urban and rural areas. This network is vital for discovering hidden gems and providing opportunities to players who might otherwise go unnoticed," Awe explains.

"Green Lock FA has established relationships with clubs and networks outside Nigeria, facilitating smoother transitions for top talents to reach global platforms. These partnerships expose players to different playing styles, coaching techniques, and competitive environments, enhancing their growth."

Currently, Green Lock FA partners with Antalyaspor in Turkey, FC Liria in Kosovo, and Gulf United FC in the UAE, among others, and over nine Green Lock FC players are engaged with these clubs, showcasing their talents internationally.

Regarding community engagement, Awe shares, "We have built strong relationships with local communities to create a sustainable talent pipeline and promote football at the grassroots level."

By focusing on these areas, Green Lock Football Academy effectively harnesses Nigeria's vast talent pool, producing well-rounded, skilled players ready for both local and international careers.

Gothia Cup: Mailantarki shines in a debut World Youth Cup in Sweden

 

The Abuja based high flying football club, Mailantarki Care FC have embarked on yet another brilliant international outing, having won the most recent tournament in Denmark in 2024 by emerging as the overall winners during the 2024 Dana Cup.

A resounding 6-0 victory in the Gothia Cup opener against one of the host clubs, IFK KUMLA, has sent a clear message to the rival clubs in the tournament.

With much intent and a high-pressing game, the boys in blue undid stubborn IFK Kumla, who proved to be more physical in the first 5 minutes before Ejiogu Samuel broke the jinx following his brilliant individual effort from the left flank.

The goals kept pouring in as IFK conceded further 3 goals courtesy of Apas Abel, Sadiq Ashiru, and Akiemute Godstime to round off the first half with a 4-nil comfortable lead.

However, Chukwusa Mathew bagged a brace after the restart to complete the rout on the Kumla based club.

Up next for the rising stars is German club MTV Ramelsloh on Tuesday 15th July, 2025 at the same venue of Torslandavallen, Gothenburg."

Not guilty! NFF Appeals Committee clears Seamoriow FC from match-fixing allegation

Seamoriow Football Club has been cleared of match-fixing allegations following an investigation that found no wrongdoing.

Previously, the Nationwide League One (NLO) imposed sanctions on the Lagos-based team for alleged match manipulation after their 9-2 victory against ACT Sports di Oyibo and Franceex United’s 9-0 win against Bison FC in their final season matches, which were played simultaneously to determine the Maracanna Centre winner for the playoffs.

In a decision published on Monday, the NFF Appeals Committee stated: "In the absence of sufficient evidence to demonstrate that the match between Franceex United FC and Bison FC was fixed, and considering that both teams were denied a fair hearing, the NLO's decision to cancel the results of the two matches is hereby set aside." The ruling allows for the possibility of an appeal.

Secretary Seamoriow Sports Limited, Obi Emmanuel, expressed relief at the committee's decision, stating, "At Seamoriow Football Club, we abide by the rules and maintain a zero-tolerance policy towards any manipulation that threatens the integrity of football.

"The team has moved on from the disappointment of losing the NLO playoffs ticket on goal difference. The focus now for the players and coaching staff is to prepare for Nigeria's prestigious pre-season tournament, the Optima Energy Gold Cup, where they will compete against some of the best club sides from the three league divisions."

The fast growing Lagos team who are on the verge of signing partnership deals with some European clubs to export some of their talents and also have 3 players who have been scouted for the Nigeria u17 National team during a just concluded scouting program in Lagos by the U17 National Team handler.

In a recent development, the club president, Pastor Seyi Amos, departed for Europe last Friday to embark on a networking and football business tour.

He is currently in Spain, where he plans to sign a partnership deal with several clubs, following his earlier agreement with a club in Germany earlier in the week. After his time in Spain, Pastor Seyi Amos will travel to Slovenia for similar purposes.

GRATITUDE AND HUMILITY: MY HEARTFELT APPRECIATION

 

I am overwhelmed with gratitude and humility as I share the news of my appointment as the New Manager of Kogi United Football Club!

I want to extend my heartfelt appreciation to:

His Excellency, Alhaji Usman Ododo, the Executive Governor of Kogi State, for his unwavering passion and commitment to uplifting sports in our great state. Your trust in me is a tremendous honor, and I promise to work tirelessly to justify your confidence.

Hon. Monday Aridaojo Anyebe, Commissioner for Youth and Sports, for his innovative approach and dedication to youth empowerment and development in Kogi State. Your leadership has been a beacon of hope for our young people. This appointment is an opportunity to me and you won't be disappointed.

Hon. Abdulmalik Isah Dolly, Chairman, Kogi United and Confluence Queens, as well as Board Chairman, Kogi State Sports Council, for his unyielding discipline, tenacity, and commitment to the development of football in Kogi State. Your guidance and support mean the world to me. Thank you for entrusting me with this responsibility. I am confident that, together, we can achieve great things.

To my predecessor, Tijani Ibrahim, I salute you for the outstanding work you've done. Your legacy is a challenge to me, and I promise to build upon the foundation you've laid.

To our critical stakeholders and great personalities, I pray that God blesses and rewards you abundantly for being instruments to my appointment. I am honored to serve under your leadership and guidance.

To our great fans of Kogi united football club and lovers of sports, I appreciate you for your positive interest and support to our darling team. I will always count on your continuous support. This position holds great significance for me, both personally and professionally, and I am eager to contribute my best to the success of the team. I will be committed to working diligently, fostering a positive team environment and striving for excellence in all aspects of the role.

Thank you all, and let's work together to take Kogi United to greater heights! 

#KogiUnited #NewManager #Appreciation

Comr. Abdullahi Adamu grants scholarship, donates cash, uniforms to Primary School pupils

 

The Executive Chairman of Lokoja Local Government Area Comrade Abdullahi Adamu has received 27 pupils of public primary schools who represented Lokoja Local Government at the just concluded UBEC/Kogi State Basic Education School Sports (BESS).

Presenting the team to the Chairman, the Lokoja Local Government Education Secretary, Alhaji AD Yakubu stated that the pupils emerged victorious claiming medals in Football, Table Tennis, Ayo and Athletics.

He also announced that Master Samson Joshua of Lokongoma LGEA primary school will be representing the country in Algeria after finishing first in Table Tennis both at the State and the National Competition in Lagos.

The Council Chairman in his address congratulates the pupils and the coaching team for making the local government proud. "Sports, apart from being a very lucrative business is capable of engaging many youths, it plays a vital role in physical health, mental well-being, discipline etc"

While reiterating his commitment to the development of sports in Lokoja Local Government, Comrade Abdullahi announced a cash donations to the team, new uniforms as well as one year tuition fee for all 27 pupils.

Iliyasu Zakari 

SSA to the Executive Chairman 

(Media and Publicity)

Kogi United, Confluence Queens carry out major management, technical reshuffling

 

The management of Kogi United and Confluence Queens have announced a major shakeup in the administration and technical departments of both clubs in a bid to achieve the desired result in the coming football season. 

In a statement signed by the Chairman of the board for both teams, Mallam Abdulmalik Issa, Mr. Olachene Itodo has been announced as the new Team Manager of Kogi United replacing Mr. Ibrahim Tijani. 

Mr. Itodo was until his latest appointment the Coordinator of the club's feeder team. 

Mr. Tijani has now been appointed as the Coordinator for both Kogi United and Confluence Queens.

The management has also confirmed the appointment of Mr. Joseph Oboh as the substantive Secretary of Confluence Queens. Mr. Oboh has been on acting capacity since last season. 

In the technical department, Coach Musa Abubakar has been drafted to Confluence Queens where he will be assisting the Technical Adviser, Sabo Okala.

Former Super Falcons' defender, Ester Micheal will act as the Assistant and Trainer for the Queens with Jimoh Abdulazeez coming as the new Goalkeeper trainer for the Queens.

Moving in the opposite direction is Bestman Ossai as the new Goalkeeper trainer for Kogi United. 

In another development, Coach Muhammed Yusuf has been elevated to the post of Head Coach of Kogi United. 

He will be in charge of the club pending a new Technical Adviser be appointed for the Confluence State club. 

He will be assisted by Abdul Bello who has been deployed from Confluence Queens. 

Veteran women's football specialist, Mr. Moses Bako has been engaged as the consultant for Confluence Queens while Mr. Aranka Timothy will head the Scouting unit of the club. 

Mallam Issa congratulated the new appointees and the redeployed officials just as he charged them to bring their wealth of experience to bear for the clubs to achieve greater successes in the coming season. 

Kogi United missed out on promotion to the Nigeria National League, NNL last season while Confluence Queens finished in an undesirable position in the last Nigeria Women's Football League, NWFL season.

Kogi United appoints Itodo as new Team Manager

The management of Kogi United have appointed Micheal Olachene Itodo as the new Team Manager of the club.

Itodo's appointment was confirmed on Thursday by the Chairman of the club, Mallam Abdulmalik Issa.

Itodo will be replacing Ibrahim Tijani who has been acted in the capacity for the past three seasons

Mallam Issa said Itodo's appointment was as a result of his track record of professionalism and dedication to achieve success and instilling discipline in the team.

While congratulating Itodo on his new role, Mallam Issa assured him of the management's support and encouragement to succeed with the club. 

Itodo until his latest appointment was the Coordinator of United'a tou6h team. 

He led the club to win several domestic laurels within state and also performed creditably at the Nationwide League One NLO playoffs.

Alansmith delivers FIFA 2-star pitch for Imperial Football Academy

 

Alansmith Nigeria Limited has once again delivered a world-class sports facility to one of its clients, Imperial Football Academy, located in Odogbolu, Ogun State. 

This achievement reinforces its status as a leading player in the construction of sports facilities in West Africa.

Joshua Adamu, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chairman of Alansmith Nigeria Limited, shared insights into the project, which was completed in record time. 

"The Imperial Football Academy sports facility boasts a 9,200 sqm pitch made of 60mm double-colour monofilament grass with a shock pad, rated FIFA 2-star," Adamu informed. 

"This makes it one of the largest privately owned pitches of this standard, as Alansmith Nigeria Limited is dedicated to sports development."

Adamu, a seasoned construction expert who has successfully established Alansmith Nigeria Limited as a prominent brand in sports facility construction, further remarked. 

"I remember when the project began; the site was in a remote location. We planned, budgeted, designed, and executed the entire project from start to finish, thus strengthening our reputation as the one-stop shop for a sports construction firm."

Coaching the Coaches: NPLCMA/AMAPRO’s Ikenne Training Elevates Tactical Standards

 

The serene town of Ikenne in Ogun State played host to an impactful gathering of elite football minds as the Nigeria Premier League Club Managers Association, NPLCMA held its Advanced Technical and Tactical Training/Workshop between June 25th and 28th, 2025. 

The event attracted top football coaches from clubs across the country, seeking to refresh their tactical understanding and embrace new dimensions in modern football coaching.

Jointly packaged by AMAPRO and Phreestyle Sport Limited, the three-day intensive training session featured renowned resource persons who brought with them a wealth of knowledge and experience. 

The sessions were designed to expose participants to global best practices and the evolving methodologies in the art and science of coaching.

The event was a grand affair, graced by top dignitaries in Nigerian football. Among them were the President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau; his Vice President, Honourable Gbenga Elegbeleye; and the Head of Technical at the NFF, Augustine Eguavoen. 

Also present were football investor and philanthropist, Honourable Kunle Soname, President of NPLCMA, Coach Gbenga Ogunbote, as well as other key stakeholders.

In his welcome address, Coach Gbenga Ogunbote expressed profound appreciation to members of the Association for taking time out of their schedules to attend the training. 

He emphasized the importance of continuous learning, stating that the workshop was not only a refresher but also a platform to align with new vistas and innovations in coaching.

In his remarks, NFF President Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau commended the NPLCMA for the initiative, describing the workshop as timely and progressive. 

He assured the Association of the Federation’s willingness to support similar future initiatives aimed at raising coaching standards in the country.

NFF Vice President and Chairman of Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL board, Honourable Gbenga Elegbeleye, also praised the organizers and called for synergy between the NPFL and the NPLCMA. 

Honourable Kunle Soname encouraged the continuity of such capacity-building efforts, noting that coaching development is key to achieving football excellence at both club and national levels.

The first day of the workshop featured engaging presentations that sparked vibrant discussions. 

Mohammed ElBadary kicked things off with a lecture on "Scientific Approaches to Coaching,” challenging participants to embrace data and evidence-based strategies. 

Augustine Eguavoen followed with a rousing presentation on "Leadership and Our National Philosophy," highlighting the need for identity and direction in coaching Nigerian teams.

Coach Monday Odigie delivered a well-received session on the concepts of GRIP and GAG—modern acronyms in coaching circles—explaining how they align with player management and tactical discipline. 

The day concluded with an open-floor technical exchange session, allowing coaches to share experiences and learn from one another.

Day Two continued in the same rich vein, Shogo Shodunnke, Director of AMAPRO and Phreestyle Sport Limited, gave an insightful talk on "Communication and Relationship in Modern Coaching," where he emphasized emotional intelligence, media handling, and team cohesion. The day was rounded off with practical sessions and another round of technical exchanges.

The final day brought a highlight moment as the newly appointed Head Coach of the Super Eagles, Eric Chelle, took participants through a deep dive into "Modernized Coaching Tactics and Adaptation of Training." 

His session was interactive and forward-looking, providing attendees with tactical insights from elite-level football.

The workshop ended on a high note, with participants leaving Ikenne inspired and better equipped to face the tactical demands of modern football. 

The success of the event reinforces the NPLCMA’s commitment to excellence and sets a new benchmark for coaching development programs in Nigeria.

Remarkable First Year Anniversary: Kogi Poly Rector Congratulates Elulu of Mopa

 

... Felicitates with Secretary to the Government of Kogi State on her Coronation as Yeye Oba of Mopa Land

The Rector of Kogi State Polytechnic, Professor Salisu Ogbo Usman has on behalf of the Management, Academic Board, staff, and students of Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja, congratulated His Royal Majesty, Oba Dr. Muyiwa Ibeun, Elulu of Mopa and Chairman, Mopamuro Traditional Council, on a remarkable first year anniversary on the throne.

Professor Usman said that since ascending the throne of his forebears, the chiefdom has witnessed an unprecedented level of peace, prosperity, growth and progress worthy of celebration.

The Rector appreciated the exemplary leadership style of the monarch, describing it as a source of inspiration to the youth who aspire to be leaders in the future. 

He prayed Almighty God in his infinite mercy to grant him long life to continue to rule Mopa land to a more enviable height to the benefit of all. 

In a similarly development, the Rector has felicitate with Dr. (Mrs) Folashade Arike Ayoade, Secretary to the Government of Kogi State, on her coronation as Yeye Oba of Mopa Land by His Royal Majesty, Oba Dr. Muyiwa Ibeun, Elulu of Mopa and Chairman, Mopamuro Traditional Council as part of the activities to mark the Elulu's one year anniversary on the throne.

Professor Usman described the honour as a clear recognition of her dedication and outstanding service to the people of Kogi State. It also reflects the high value her community places on her support, compassion, and tireless efforts toward the peace, unity, and development of the Land.

He said being conferred with the title of Yeye Oba is a significant achievement and a strong expression of the trust and respect she has earned over the years, as well as her deep-rooted connection to her people and culture.

The Rector is  confident that she will continue to promote unity, uphold cultural heritage, and contribute meaningfully to the progress of Mopa Land, Kogi State and beyond. 

Once again, accept the heartfelt congratulations of Kogi State Polytechnic and the personal best wishes of the Rector as you carry this new responsibility with grace and honour ma. 

Professor Usman joined other Government functionaries, traditional rulers, family, friends and well wishers to grace the occasion of the one year anniversary on the throne and the coronation ceremony at the Elulu's residence at Mopa on Saturday 17th May, 2025.