Chairman House Committee on Sports celebrates godfather, Soname at 58

The Chairman House Committee on Sports in the 10th Assembly, Honourable Ekene Abubakar Adams has joined family and millions of Nigerians in pouring glowing tribute on entrepreneur, philanthropist and sports enthusiast Honourable Kunle Soname as he celebrates his 58th birthday. 

Ekene, a member representing Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency in Kaduna State, didn't hide his delight as he said. 

“I celebrate my 'God Father', Honourable Soname an energetic, vibrant and inspirational leader, whose philanthropic gesture towards humanity knows no bounds. 

"No doubt, Honourable Soname at 58, has contributed to the growth of Nigeria’s economy as well as youth development via the football platforms he has provided Remo Stars and Beyond Limit. 

"On this special day, I pray God to grant him good health, happiness, and continued success in all his endeavours. Cheers to a living lege

Ex Remo Stars' GM, Honourable Ekene Adams announced as Chairman House Committee on Sports

Honourable Ekene Abubakar Adams, a member representing Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency in Kaduna State has been named Chairman House Committee on Sports in the 10th House of Representatives. 

The House of Representatives Speaker, Tajudeen Abbas, named the committees and their chairmen on Thursday.

A delighted Honourable Ekene Adams said on Thursday, "Good evening all, I am using this medium to appreciate God Almighty and also thank you all for your prayers and best wishes. I have been appointed as the Chairman House Committee on Sports. To my boss, President of Remo Stars Football Club of Ikenne, Honourable Kunle Soname and everyone I remain loyal."

Adams, is no new face in Nigeria sports as his pedigree  is football management speaks volumes. Born in 1985, Adams is a Nigerian entrepreneur, politician,  an astute sports administrator and former professional footballer.

A few years ago, Ekene established KADA City FC, a Nigerian football club based in Kaduna, to enhance development of football within Kaduna. He was regarded as the youngest football club owner in Nigeria.

KADA City was created to promote development of football within Kaduna state. They had their official unveiling ceremony in February 2018. KADA City won the 2018 Nigeria National League promotion playoff over Bendel Insurance F.C. and made their Nigeria Premier League debut in 2019.

The sports administrator would later join Remo Stars as General Manager in 2021. During his time with the Sky Blue Stars, Honourable Ekene Adams propelled the club in gaining promotion back to the NPFL and after one season in the top flight, Remo Stars earned a CAF Confederation Cup ticket after finishing 3rd on the log behind Rivers United and Plateau United.

Ogunjobi Gold Cup salutes Remo Stars, Sporting Lagos, Beyond Limits for CAF, NPFL, NNL feats

 

Organizers of the prestigious preseason tourney for domestic league clubs in Nigeria, Ogunjobi Gold Cup have given salutes to the management and technical staff of Remo Stars, Beyond Limits, and Sporting Lagos following feats they recorded at the football season-ending playoffs.

Remo Stars, the Optima Energy Gold Cup defending champion, made history in June at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena after they picked a ticket to feature in the prestigious CAF Champions League in the 2023/24 season, just a year after playing in the CAF Confederation Cup.

The club had recorded significant success after its academy team, Beyond Limits gained promotion to the Nigeria National League (NNL) following a 4-1 playoff victory over First Bank.

Sporting Lagos, against the odds, made a bold statement on Monday as they became the first Southern Conference team to earn a promotion ticket to the Nigeria Premier League with a game to spare at the playoffs in Asaba.

Coach Paul Offor guided his team to back-to-back wins against FC One Rocket and Abeokuta Stormers, to stay top of the group after Matchday 2 on 6 points.

Tunde Shamsudeen, General Coordinator of the tourney, "Congratulations to the Remo Stars, Sporting Lagos, and Beyond Limits for the successes recorded in the 2022/23 season. 

"We are delighted to be part of their success story as the Ogunjobi Gold Cup/ Optima Energy Gold Cup was the platform they used to get in shape for the football season that's almost ending.

"The interesting aspect of it all is the three clubs are privately owned, so the feat is a reward for the huge investments. The trio clubs are now a model and reference point for intending football investors to follow. 

"I want to charge the management of the teams not to relent in its drive to make their teams a top brand in Nigeria's domestic football by aiming for more successes, good luck for the future."

Ogunjobi Gold Cup celebrates Sports philanthropist, Hon. Soname at 57

 

Organizers of the nation's prestigious pre-season club football tourney, Ogunjobi Gold Cup has felicitated with Honourable Kunle Soname on his 57th birthday celebration.

General Coordinator of the tournament, Tunde Shamsudeen on Thursday poured encomiums on the Ikenne-born businessman.

"I join family, the Nigerian football circle and indeed the many lives he has touched to celebrate Soname, a rear gem, perfect gentleman, business mogul, and philanthropist, whose generosity knows no bounds.

"A man who has set standards, that only a few who share the same life ideologies with him can match, as he has written his name on marble in many things he has laid his hands on from business, football and human development.

"In our sector, football, Soname represents hope for the youths as he is the biggest private investor in the beautiful game, with his multi-million naira investment on Remo Stars and Beyond Limits.

"It gives the Ogunjobi Gold Cup brand prestige to be associated with the Remo Stars President in the last 10 years, as we also celebrate him on his special day.

"Blessed with the riches of life, what I pray almighty Allah (God) for, is more years of sound health for Honourable Soname and the wisdom."

Referee Assault: 'I was breathing on Oxygen when Ref Ukah claimed I assaulted him', suspended Remo Stars GM denies allegation

 

Remo Stars General Manager, Ekene Abubakar Adams says he is yet to come to terms with while breathing with oxygen aid during the botched NPFL home game between Remo Stars and Gombe United, that he earned a ban from the Interim Management Company (IMC) on the allegation that he assaulted match referee Ndubuisi Ukah from Imo State.

The Sky Blues Stars became the third team to be docked three points and three goals by the IMC among other punishments imposed on the club.

Ukah claimed that he was assaulted in the dressing room at halftime as a result of Remo Stars' failure to provide adequate security for the match officials.

In Ukah's report, he alleged that Ekene Adams was the attacker, and the IMC wasted no time to ban him from all NPFL activities for the rest of the season. The IMC further directed Remo Stars to ensure diligent prosecution in the law court, of the club's General Manager.

Adams, now members-elect of the House of Representatives while speaking with the sporting press gave his side of the event.

"There is no iota of truth in the match's official claim. That I was alleged to have assaulted Ukah and banned temporarily from all related Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) activities without any proper investigation and fair hearing on my part from the Interim Management Company (IMC), beats my imagination and also raises questions.

"This for me is prejudice and a way to cut short the ambition of Remo Stars to finish the season among the top 3 teams and feature in the Super 6 playoff.

"How can I stoop so low, to the level of assaulting a match official? The allegation is just cheap blackmail to rubbish my character and the good pedigree that took me years to build for myself in Nigeria football.

"I did not intend to join issues with the IMC, but as a credible stakeholder in Nigeria's football family, I just want to put the fact straight.

"I have never come close to molesting nor traded punches with any match official before or after a game. 

"Owing to my health recovery status, I was breathing with the aid of oxygen on the day of the NPFL game.

"So it was my crime to go into the dressing room to ask questions that needed begging answers from the match officials, as the ref was just out there acting on a script given to him and he perfected it well.

"If it's now a crime to go the match officials' dressing room, it means many club administrators should be banned as well, as the IMC should refer to one that has not gone to the dressing room to ask questions during the match interval.

"How demeaning it was and after many appeals, the Ukah refused to continue with the game. At 8:00pm (that night) he hurriedly checked out of his hotel room in the company of a few policemen without informing the host team. Not the IMC cared to ask questions about why he did that. To make matters worse, the new official (Reserve Referee) who stood in for him to complete the game added salt to injury, as he was biased."

"I want to thank all that have shown concern regarding the issue for their love and care. The IMC has done good, telling me to have a break from football.

"Mind you, don't deviate Adams from crises as being principled, one that stands for justice and never bends the rules. Did I say I didn't go to the dressing room, I did but never assaulted ref Ukah."

Adams will represent the good people of the Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency in the 10th National Assembly after he clinched his ticket under the platform of the (Labour Party).

NPFL: Remo Stars boost squad with Junior Lokosa

 

Former Nigeria Premier Football League poster boy, Junior Lokosa on Friday completed his signing to Remo Stars ahead of the kickoff of the second stanza of 2022/23 season. 

 

A delighted Lokosa who will wear the colours of the Sky Blue Stars of Ikenne, says his top priority is to bang in goals for the club.

 "It's good to be back to the NPFL, Remo Stars is a new challenge for me, as the club has stamped itself as one of the top teams in the NPFL, and with great ambition. 

"Having qualified for the CAF Confederation Cup at the end of last season, there is a drive in the club to win trophies and also be among the top Nigerian team that features regular in the continent.

“I will be happy, to contribute my quota towards making the team finish the second part of the season among the top three teams in group B and as well pick a Super 6 playoff ticket.

" I was the top scorer of the NPFL, and I hope to score goals for Remo Stars, as that is my job as a striker."

Lokosa played for First Bank FC before moving to Kano Pillars in May 2017.

At the end of his second season with Pillars, he bagged the Eunisell Boot Award after his 19 goals placed him top of the NPFL top scorers chart, earning him N3.8 million (N200,000 for each goal).

After trials in China, he joined Espérance Sportive de Tunis in 2019, won the CAF Champions League and from there to Simba FC of Tanzania.

Ekene Adams, Remo Stars GM embarks on UAE trip for medical check-up

 

Remo Stars General Manager, Ekene Adams will travel to Abu Dhabi, capital of the United Arab Emirates (U.A.E.) for another round of his medical check-up.

The former KADA City boss who returned to football management this season with the Sky Blues Stars after staying away for about two years, on the advice of his doctor, has concluded plans for another medical trip as he bids for full recovery.

In a chat a few days to his departure, as he also expressed his delight after Remo Stars pipped 3SC by a lone goal on MatchDay 11 at the Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne.

"I was supposed to travel back three months after I had my first surgery, but the date elapsed after our NPFL game against Rivers United.

"But due to a slight delay in the issuance of a travel visa, I then decided to be part of the games against Kano Pillars and the Southwest Derby against our rivals Shooting Stars. Am set for another trip and I should be staying in the U.A.E for about 10 or more days," said Adams.

Speaking further, "My health has improved after the first surgery I had, as I have been active in all matches Remo Stars have prosecuted this season.

"My absence won't be felt by Remo Stars as the structure is on ground, winning mentality is in the team is much active and the togetherness in the team has kept us going.

"The success achieved by the club this far is not attributed to anyone rather It's has been a collective achievement from every Remo Stars staff, so I hope to be back on or before our game against Akwa United.

"I want to use this medium to give thanks to God Almighty for seeing me through this challenge, also my appreciation goes to the President of Remo Stars, Honourable Kunle Soname.

"Soname has been a father figure to me and my family as the money he has put to foot the bills of my surgeries can not be quantified and I pray God to give him good health and long life."

Evolution Cup: Organisers conclude draws, set sights on biggest NLO preseason tourney

 

All is now set for the maiden edition of the NLO Preseason Invitational tournament, Evolution Cup to take centre stage with the draws of the competition being decided on Saturday.

The draws which held at the Remo Stars Stadium Complex in Ikenne was witnessed by the organisers and the representatives of the participating teams.

Speaking at the brief event, Olatoye Olawale, the Project Strategist thanked the teams for embracing the tournament which aims at creating a veritable avenue for them to prepare for the league, network among themselves and develop their players.

"We need to celebrate NLO; not just as a foundational league for Elite football in the country but as a pool of talents where exceptional players are being produced for the top teams within and outside the country" said the Project Strategist

Stressing the need for maximum cooperation from the teams in a bid to achieve success, he urged them to engender an healthy rivalry and imbibe the spirit of sportsmanship, saying the tourney is not 'a do or die affair'.

The climax of the event was the unveiling of the giant trophy and presentation of souvenirs to the  teams representatives present at the draws.

For the draw proper, the ten invited teams were divided in to groups A and B and will seek to edge out each other in a thrilling and fun filled 5-days soccer fiesta.

Highlighting group A are Hammola FC and Olansile FC from Osun State; Ilaji FC from Ibadan; Ekiti based Olukismet FC and SGFC Athletic from Lagos.

Others that would be doing battle in group B are Rolly FC from Edo State, Right2Win FC of Abia State, Abraysports FC from Kwara State with Magic Stars FC and Beyond Limits FC from Lagos and Remo respectively.

For the opening game billed for Monday, February 21, it's going to be an Osun derby when Hammola FC takes on Olansile FC. And while Ilaji FC will be trading tackles with Olukismet FC, SGFC Athletic will be out of Group A schedules in the first day.

In Group B, Rolly FC and Right2Win will be rolling out their aces for maximum points while Abraysports and Magic Stars will lock horns in another encounter. Beyond Limits FC are drawn Bye in the first day.

The competition is billed for Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne from February 21-26.

Remo Stars train players, officials on on Sports Psychology

Remo Stars Football Club (RSFC) today held a seminar on the importance of Sports Psychology for the players as they prepare for the 2021/22 Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) season.

The meeting held at the Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne-Remo, Ogun State had in attendance players and officials of the club as as they were taken through the course by seasoned psychologist, Coach Kehinde Adeyemi who is a Football Psychologist and Director of Sports at the Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago Iwoye, Ogun State.

Coach Adeyemi disclosed that the seminar was focused on how different aspects of competition affect a player or team’s overall mental health, while the well-being of the athlete is also the ultimate aim.

He also notified that Sports Psychology promotes mental toughness to optimize athletes' achievement in every of their day to day sporting activities.

Speaking with RSFC Media, Kehinde Adeyemi noted that there are two basic trainings a player must undergo before they perform at their best, which are physical and mental trainings.

“The Coaches handle the physical trainings while the mental training is handled by the psychologist and you cannot see the best of these players unless they are physically and mentally ready.”

“Even when you have a player that is ninety percent ready, and not mentally ready, you cannot see the best of this player. That's to tell you that most of the Nigerian players are still in Nigeria not because they are not good enough but it's basically because they aren't ready mentally.”

“You don't see the best of these players until they get to Europe because majority of them are not mentally stable, they only go to the field to showcase their physical readiness and it usually doesn't bring out their best.”

“The truth is that we are yet to see the best of Remo Stars' players, we will work more on their psyche in ensuring that they bring out their best on and off the field and I am very confident that we will see the best of these players once the season commences.” Kehinde Adeyemi.

Captain of Remo Stars, Nduka Junior appreciated the Psychologist, the Management and the Coaches for bringing up a seminar of that kind which would help the players know more about Sports Psychology.

Ottasolo Preseason Day 3 Wrap: Smart City put Remo Stars on the brink; Lobi close in on semi-final ticket

 

Remo Stars will now depend heavily on the results of other matches if they are to qualify for the semi-final round of the on-going Ottasolo Pre-season Tournament after they lost their second consecutive game to Smart City on Wednesday at the Legacy Pitch, National Stadium, Lagos.

The Sky Blue Stars had lost to MFM on Tuesday and were hoping to stage a comeback in the tournament but Lagos based Smart City had other ideas as they plan how to negotiate their qualification to the next round, too.

Smart City narrowly lost to Sunshine Stars in their first game on Monday but they stormed back to life with a 1-0 win over NPFL new entrants, Remo Stars. Habeeb Olaitan converted the only goal of the game from the penalty spot after he slotted the ball beyond the reach of Remo Stars goalkeeper, Timi Adeyoriju in the 15th minute.

After many failed attempts by both teams, Remo Stars were reduced to 10 when substitute goalie, Salami Kelvin was penalised for a foul on Amos Okoro in the 86th minute in the 18 yard box. Smart City's Toheeb Sunkanmi missed the resultant spot kick a minute later. 

There was no chance for Gbenga Ogunbote's men to get a face saving draw and have been booted out of the tourney with no points from two games.

Earlier, the host team of the on-going Ottasolo Pre-season tournament, Ottasolo International FC forced their more illustrious opponent, Lobi Stars, to a 1-1 draw at the Legacy Pitch, National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos, in the first game of the MatchDay 3.

Ottasolo drew their first game with 36 Lions while Lobi secured a hard-fought 1-0 win over Yobo FC on Tuesday. Both teams were looking for a win that will move them closer to the semifinal stage of the maiden edition of the tournament.

Both teams came out smoking as they continue to look for the opening goal but failed to come until the 23rd minute when Ottasolo FC's Jelili Moshood put the ball beyond the reach of his goalkeeper, Korede Shodipo in his attempt to clear out  Lobi's goal-bound effort. 

The newly promoted Nigeria National League side didn’t allow the goal to weigh them down as they continued to pile on the pressure which paid off just three minutes later as Ogunjimi Samuel headed Ottasolo back into the game after he connected a lovely cross from Issah Mohammed.

While in another game also decided on Wednesday, Yobo FC put themselves in a better position to qualify for the semi-final of the pre-season tourney after a 2-1 win over 36 Lion.

Godwin Arewa put Yobo FC in the ascendancy with the opening goal of the game in the 23rd minute. It was their first goal in the tournament. Gift Nwokeke increased the goals tally in the 60th minute for Yobo FC but Raji Olamuyiwa reduced the goals deficit in the 70th minute to make for a frenetic final 20 minutes at the Legacy Pitch, National Stadium, Lagos.

On Thursday, Yobo FC and Ottasolo FC will slug it out in their final Group A game with both teams needing positive result to progress. The host, Ottasolo FC with two drawn games are under compulsion to beat Yobo FC to progress to the semi-final while Yobo FC with three points must also secure the maximum points to be certain of qualification irrespective of the result of Lobi Stars vs 36 Lion on Friday.

Smart City will also on Thursday face MFM in their third and final Group B tie. Both teams are on three points but Smart City have played a game more. Both are Lagos based clubs but Smart City will be eager to pick the maximum points that should be sufficient for a place in the semi-finals while the Olukoya Boys can't afford to lose knowing that their final group game comes up on Friday against tough Sunshine Stars.

Remo Stars with two losses are close to being bundled out of the tournament but they will trade tackles with Sunshine Stars also tomorrow with the sole aim of fighting until the end of the group stage if they could get an outside chance to qualify.

The Ottasolo pre-season tournament is in its debut edition with the owner of Ottasolo FC, Gabriel Davies as sponsor.

Ottasolo Pre-season Tournament:

Results

Ottasolo FC 0-0 36 Lion

Lobi Stars 1-0 Yobo FC

Sunshine Stars 1-0 Smart City

MFM 1-0 Remo Stars

Ottasolo FC 1-1 Lobi Stars

36 Lion 1-2 Yobo FC

Smart City 1-0 Remo Stars

Day Four (November 4) Fixtures

Yobo FC vs Ottasolo FC 9.00 am

Smart City vs MFM  2.00 pm

Remo Stars vs Sunshine Stars 4.00 pm

Ottasolo Preseason Tourney: Oyedele inspires MFM to earn bragging rights against Remo Stars

 

Remo Stars was brought down to earth on Tuesday at the ongoing Ottasolo Pre-season tournament in Lagos after suffering a 1-0 defeat against MFM of Lagos.

Coming on the heels of their win at the just concluded Ogunjobi Gold Cup where the newly promoted side defeated Shooting Stars 4-0 in the final, Remo Stars was expected to give MFM a run for their money and the game really lived up to expectation.  

Remo arrived Lagos with a changed team from the one that won in Ikenne, Ogun State, with the players showing that they have what it takes to be in the first team.

Adebayo Oyedele was the hero for the Olukoya Boys, scoring the only goal of the game in the 47th minute as MFM earned the South/West derby bragging rights. 

Remo Stars goalkeeper, James Faith, had failed to get a grip on Mumuni Amoo’s shot, allowing Oyedele to put the ball at the back of the net.

The first opportunity of the game came the way of MFM as early as the 5th minute of the lively encounter, as James saved Dennis Obasi shot.

The Lagos-based side continued to pile on the pressure on their opponents but Remo Stars were also resolute.

Victor Osuagwu had the chance to put Remo Stars in front in the 23rd minute but failed to score as Onyeabuchi Ifeanyi intercepted the ball.

In the 35th minute, James Faith denied Dennis Obasi the chance to score with a fine save as the first half ended goalless.

MFM however took the lead in the second minute of the second half with Oyedele’s goal.

All efforts by Remo to get the equalizer was futile as the game ended 1-0.

Day 3 of the Ottasolo Pre-season tourney will see Ottasolo FC taking on Lobi Stars in the first game by 9am with 36 Lion playing against Yobo FC by 2pm. The final game of the day will be between Remo Stars and Smart City by 4pm.

All the games will take place at the Legacy Pitch, National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.

MFM FC, Lobi Stars record morale boosting victories on Day Two of Ottasolo Preseason Tourney

 

Surulere continued to be on the spotlight as the second day of the 2021 Ottasolo Pre Season Tournament took place on Tuesday at Legacy Pitch.

It was Lobi Stars of Makurdi who faced Yobo FC in an entertaining opening match of the day at 9am.

Both sides were hoping to bag a win in the keenly contested battle.

However, Yobo FC could not contain their fast-paced opponents as they succumbed to a 1-0 loss.

Lobi Stars rested most of their key players, yet they remained a threat.

Experienced striker Daniel Jackson climbed off the bench to nod home the winner with 12 minutes left on the clock.

The win for Pride of Benue over the NLO side in the tournament takes them to top of the Group A standings with three points from one game, while Ottasolo FC and 36 Lion share one point apiece.

In the second match, coach Gbenga Ogunbote led his Remo Stars' side in search of a win over MFM FC, yet they failed to hit the ground running.

In the 23rd minute, Victor Osuagwu had the chance to put Sky Blue Stars in front but he failed to score as Onyeabuchi Ifeanyi intercepted his effort.

Remo Stars custodian James Faith denied Dennis Obasi the chance to wreck the ship with a fine save.

Adebayo Oyedele eventually got onto the score sheet in the 47th minute as the game ended 1-0 in favour of the Olukoya Boys.

The loss leaves Ogunbote and his troops with no point in Group B. Sunshine Stars and MFM FC have three points each. Smart City are also pointless. 

Meanwhile, the Remo Stars will now turn their focus to Smart City for their next clash on Wednesday whilst 36 Lion chase a win against Yobo FC on the same day. 

Ottasolo FC will be out to dim Lobi Stars in a pulsating encounter at Legacy Pitch.

Results So Far 

MatchDay 1 Monday Nov. 1

Ottasolo 0-0 36 Lion

Sunshine Stars 1-0 Smart City

MatchDay 2 Tuesday Nov. 2

Lobi Stars 1-0 Yobo FC

MFM FC 1-0 Remo Stars

MatchDay 3: Wednesday Nov. 3

9am - Ottasolo vs Lobi Stars

2pm - 36 Lion vs Yobo FC

4pm - Remo Stars vs Smart City

Organizers praise Optima Energy, clubs, others over Ogunjobi Gold Cup success

 

Organizers of the Ogunjobi Gold Cup have expressed their sincere thanks to its proud sponsor, Optima Energy, after a successful hosting of the nation's premium class pre-season tournament.

Remo Stars defeated their Southwest derby rival Shooting Stars 4-0 to become champions of the 9th edition of the tourney which was co-hosted at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne and FC Ebedei Stadium in Sagamu.

General Coordinator, Tunde Shamsudeen who expressed his delight said, "The success recorded during the Ogunjobi Gold Cup in Ikenne and Sagamu can not be overemphasized, but this could not have been achieved without the huge support from Honourable Kunle Soname, Barrister Churchill Oliseh, President FC Ebedei and a top brand like Optima Energy.

Family members of late Nigeria Football Association (NFA) Secretary-General, Taiwo Joseph Ogunjobi and other VIPs that attended the final.

"FIFA and CAF certified synthetic pitch installation firm, Alansmith Nigeria Limited for a good job done on the FC Ebedei Stadium which hosted some matches.

"Our other partners, European Football Scouting Platform based in Finland, Afripro and the duo Nigeria indigenous sportswear firms, Owu, Haggai Sportswear who were also part of our success story.

"Not forgetting also, the participating clubs and their coaches, 2017 champion Niger Tornadoes, MFM FC, FC Ebedei, FC Yobo and Beyond Limits, who used the platform to showcase the football talents we have in the three tiers of our domestic leagues and prepare their teams for the new Nigerian football season.

"We also want to thank the board of Ogun State Football Association lead by Alhaji Ganiyu Majekodunmi for giving the Ogunjobi Gold Cup brand the enabling environment to thrive.

"Also the beautiful game of football can not be complete without match officials, we want to thank as they were professional in their duties all through the tournament.

"Furthermore, I want to thank members of the Sporting media in Nigeria for professionalism and delivery of contents of the pre-season tournament."

The country's first pre-season tournament is also proudly supported by Taiwo Joseph Ogunjobi Foundation, Naija League Magazine, Matchroom, Sports, 11th Media Global Concept, Phreestyle Sports, Renewed Hope, Kao Concept, Seyi Akinwunmi Charity Foundation, Dejavu Communication, Olansile Football Club, TSI Football Academy and ITS Football Management.

Ottasolo Preseason: MFM, Remo, Sunshine in 'Group of Death' as 36 Lion open tourney with Ottasolo FC

 

It will be a battle between the host team of the maiden edition of the Ottasolo Pre-season tournament,  Ottasolo Int. FC and Lagos-based Football Club, 36 Lion, as the championship kickoff on Monday at the Legacy Pitch, National Stadium,  Surulere, Lagos.

In a draw conducted at the Havannah Hotel, Egbeda on Sunday, Ottasolo Int. FC seeded in Group A was joined by 36 Lion, Lobi Stars and Yobo FC.

The opening game is scheduled to take place by 9am as the teams prepare to be the maiden winner of the championship. 

Group B is arguably the Group of Death with Lagos-based Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) side, MFM FC seeded in the group alongside newly promoted side, Remo Stars, Sunshine Stars and Smart City.

Coming from winning the first recognised Pre-season tournament in the country, the Ogunjobi Gold Cup, Remo Stars already showed that they are ready for the season and they will be the team to beat in the group.

Two games will be played on Monday with Sunshine Stars taking on Smart City by 3pm at the same venue.

Speaking during the draws ceremony witnessed by top administrators, the Coordinator of the Pre-season, Bashir Badawiy, appreciated all the clubs that made it to Lagos while also assuring them of a level playing ground and a good time in Lagos.

Present at the draws were the CEO of the host team and the sponsor of the competition,  Otunba Gabriel Davies, Football Director of ABS, Ilorin, Chief Alloy Chukwuemeka, CEO of 36 Lion, Alhaji Liameed Gafar, Coach Henry Makinwa, among others.

The Pre-season is taking place at the Legacy Pitch, National Stadium, Surulere, from November 1 to 7.

Club Owners scribe hails Remo Stars Stadium as huge investment to boost football development in Nigeria

 

The ongoing construction of a multi- billion naira Remo Stars international stadium in Ikenne Ogun State South-west Nigeria has been described as a major boost to the growth and development of football in Nigeria. 

Speaking with Sports Writers on arrival at the stadium project in Ikenne Saturday,  Executive Secretary of the NPFL Club Owners Association Chief Alloy Chukwuemeka described the state of the art facility as a massive investment in the football industry.

Chukwuemeka who was a guest at the final of the Ogunjobi Goldcup preseason tournament took a guided tour of the facility through many standard pitches and commended the Owner of Remo Stars FC for adding value to football and youths development in the country. 

According to him " Critical infrastructure development remains key to rapid growth of football, this facility is massive and a huge investment to develop football, he said.

" Iam very sure that if governments at all levels can replicate such a structure in the 774 local governments areas in Nigeria, then we are good to go, so we must commend Hon. Kunle Soname for this huge investment coming from the private sector to boost football ",he concluded.

Remo Stars maul Shooting Stars to lift Ogunjobi Gold Cup

 

Remo Stars have been crowned champions of the 9th edition of the Ogunjobi Gold Cup after they defeated their Southwest derby rivals 4-0 in the final hosted on Saturday at the Remo Stars Stadium Stadium in Ikenne.

A hat-trick from unsung hero Andy Okpe and one from former Oluyole Warrior striker David Ojukwu was enough for the Sky Blues Stars to humiliate 3SC and win the nation's premium class pre-season tournament after breaking their seventh-time semi-final jinx.

Shooting Stars goalie Detan Ogundare gifted Remo Stars an easy chance to score three out of the four goals the team conceded within 15 minutes owing to his carelessness with his passes to his defensive line.

At the half-hour mark of the game, Remo Stars were the better side in the contest, as they kept the pressuring on Shooting Stars for an opener.

The first chance at goal came in the 26th minute after Tolulope Ojo low drive shoot at Detan Ogundare went off target.

Then, the real chance came in the 42nd minute after Andy Okpe capitalize on Detan's poor clearance pass to his teammate to poke into the net the first goal of the game.

Five minutes into the second half, Ojukwu punished his former team as he made it 2-0 for Remo Stars.

Mercurial midfielder Dayo Ojo take advantage of Detan's poor pass again, to give Ojukwu a pass and the striker made no mistake than to shoot the ball into the net.

Okpe, in the 57th minute then bagged his brace putting the icing on the cake for the Sky Blues Stars nodding in the empty net from Tolulope Ojo's cross to make it 3-0.

As the game near 10 minutes to end the derby, Okpe then scored a brilliant goal with his head to bagge his hat-trick, as he made it 4-0 for the Sky Blues Stars to put the game beyond the reach of the Oluyole Warriors, and took home the match ball.

Victorious Remo Stars then took home the sum of Five Hundred Thousand Naira (N500, 000) while 3SC got Three hundred thousand Naira (N300, 000) as runners-up.

The country's first pre-Season tournament is sponsored by Optima Energy, and its proudly supported by Alansmith Nigeria Limited, Taiwo Joseph Ogunjobi Foundation, Nigeria leading sportswear firms, Owu, Haggai Sportswear, Afripro, Naija League Magazine, Matchroom, Sports, 11th Media Global Concept, Freestyle Sports, Renewed Hope, Kao Concept, Seyi Akinwunmi Charity Foundation, Dejavu Communication, Olansile Football Academy, TSI Football Academy and ITS Football Management.

Ogunbote wants Ogunjobi Gold Cup title to boost Remo Stars' pedigree

Gbenga Ogunbote says he has no special plans for Shooting Stars in the Ogunjobi Gold Cup final, that he could name an unchanged team as the aim is win the trophy on Saturday at the Remo Stars Stadium.

The Oracle who won the tourney as Sharks FC of Port-Harcourt gaffer said, "That we have defeated a former defending champion of the pre-season, Tornadoes is gain saying that Remo Stars deserve to be champions too.

"However, meeting Shooting Stars in the final makes it a difficult one but Remo Stars will go into the the game like it has done in the other games it has played."

Asked if he would name a different team against the Oluyole Warriors, like he did against Tornadoes.

"I have made use of 28 players in the tournament, I may decide to or not to rotate my starting team against 3SC."

Regarding his team's hard fought victory over Tornadoes in Thursday's semi-final, "Forget about our result against Tornadoes, they were a worthy opponents against us in the semi-finals.

"Am looking at the strength of my team, so we played against an NPFL side and you can see the quality they gave to Remo Stars. It's a good one for my players and it's going to boost their confidence level as we go into the new domestic league season.

"We are not going to be carried away by the victories he have recorded in the Ogunjobi Gold Cup, the loop holes we noticed in the course of our matches, I want to assure that we will also proffer solutions to them."

Recall ABS FC of Ilorin are the defending champions after they stung Gombe United 3-2 at the last edition in Ilorin.

The country's first pre-Season tournament is sponsored by Optima Energy, and its proudly supported by Alansmith Nigeria Limited, Taiwo Joseph Ogunjobi Foundation, Nigeria leading sportswear firms, Owu, Haggai Sportswear, Afripro, Naija League Magazine, Matchroom, Sports, 11th Media Global Concept, Freestyle Sports, Renewed Hope, Kao Concept, Seyi Akinwunmi Charity Foundation, Dejavu Communication, Olansile Football Academy, TSI Football Academy and ITS Football Management.

Detan Ogundare trusts Shooting Stars credentials to win Ogunjobi Gold Cup

The Oluyole Warriors host their Southwest derby rivals Remo Stars in the climax of the 9th edition of the prestigious pre-season tournament at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne.

Detan, a former Flying Eagles shot stopper said after his saves in the penalty shoot-out against MFM FC propelled Shooting Stars to their first Ogunjobi Gold Cup final.

"'It's another final game for us, and a tough one as both teams are rivals and want to win the Ogunjobi Gold Cup for pride and for fans.

"For any team can win but 3SC has the edge going into Saturday's final. Recall Remo Stars forced us to a draw in the NNL Super 8 Promotion play-off in Enugu and we did beat them recently via penalties in one of the pre-season games. This time around, they can't escape it will be Shooting Stars at the end of 90 minutes." 

His thoughts after he replaced his goalkeeping partner Charles Tembe on the dot of 90 minutes after scores stood at 0-0.

"Not much of a feeling as I knew it was my turn to make an impact in the game and I had the confidence that my team would steal the evening.

"I was so delighted that my coaches believed in me after they introduced me into the game against MFM FC for the penalty shoot-out. 

"They know it's one of my specialty and glad I didn't disappoint after I stopped two of MFM spot kicks."

ABS FC of Ilorin is the defending champions after they stung Gombe United in a 5-goal thriller at the last edition in Ilorin.

The country's first pre-Season tournament is sponsored by Optima Energy, and its proudly supported by Alansmith Nigeria Limited, Taiwo Joseph Ogunjobi Foundation, Nigeria leading sportswear firms, Owu, Haggai Sportswear, Afripro, Naija League Magazine, Matchroom, Sports, 11th Media Global Concept, Freestyle Sports, Renewed Hope, Kao Concept, Seyi Akinwunmi Charity Foundation, Dejavu Communication, Olansile Football Academy, TSI Football Academy and ITS Football Management.

Ogunjobi's family, Optima Energy Rep, Osun FA Boss, NPFL Club Owners Scribe for Ogunjobi Gold Cup Final

 

Family members of late Nigeria Football Association (NFA) Secretary-General, Taiwo Joseph Ogunjobi, representative of Optima Energy, Chairman Osun FA and some big-wigs in Nigeria's football circle will be guests at the final of the 9th edition of the Ogunjobi Gold Cup on Saturday.

Shooting Stars of Ibadan host its Southwest derby rivals Remo Stars in a clash of stars at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne.

According to the General Coordinator of the nation's premium class pre-season tournament, Tunde Shamsudeen the widow of the late astute football administrator, Chief Mrs Oluwabukola Ogunjobi in the company of her son, Lanre and younger brother of late Ogunjobi, Rotimi Michael will be at the final slated for 3pm.

Expected too is CFO Optima Energy, Mr Lanre Sotunde who are proud sponsors of the 2021 Ogunjobi Gold Cup Pre-Season Tournament.

Chairman Osun Football Association, 

Otunba Rasaq Ishola Mustapha, Secretary Osun FA Amoo Abayomi and other members of the board will also storm Ikenne to honour the late legend, who was one-time chairman of the state FA.

Secretary of the Club Owners Association of Nigeria (NPFL), Alloy Chukwuemeka is also among the VIP guest that will watch the epic grand finale.

Astute administrators Tony Rafua, Mojeed Adegbindin, Lekan Kelani, Tunde Fabiyi and host of others have also confirmed to me that they will be in attendance at the final match.

Recall thrice the Ogunjobi Gold Cup was hosted in Ilorin, Chukwuemeka played an important role in ensuring a hitch-free hosting of the tournament.

Apart from the Director of Football providing the needed logistics, his club ABS FC of Ilorin are the defending champions after they stung Gombe United 3-2  at the last edition in Ilorin.

The country's first pre-Season tournament is sponsored by Optima Energy, and its proudly supported by Alansmith Nigeria Limited, Taiwo Joseph Ogunjobi Foundation, Nigeria leading sportswear firms, Owu, Haggai Sportswear, Afripro, Naija League Magazine, Matchroom, Sports, 11th Media Global Concept, Freestyle Sports, Renewed Hope, Kao Concept, Seyi Akinwunmi Charity Foundation, Dejavu Communication, Olansile Football Academy, TSI Football Academy and ITS Football Management.

Shooting Stars set up Ogunjobi Gold Cup final clash with Remo Stars

Shooting Stars will go head-to-head with Remo Stars in the final of the 9th edition of the Ogunjobi Gold Cup, after they defeated MFM FC 3-2 on penalties in the second semi-final match of the preseason tournament at the FC Ebedei Stadium, Sagamu.

3SC two goalkeepers, Tambe Charles and Detan Ogundare were the unsung heroes in regulation time and during the spot kicks, as their brilliant saves shot the Oluyole Warriors to their first ever final at first attempt.

It was drab first half as both teams failed to create any clear cut chances as the first 45 minutes ended 0-0.

The game got to life in the second half, as in the 63rd minute Alabi Oladayo's shot at goal from a free kick from 30 yards was punched away by Tambe to keep a clean sheet.

Shooting Stars had the chance to win the game from the first touch of substitute Elijah Okigbo, but the midfielder put his striker from Gafar Olafimihan's pass up the woodwork for a goal kick to MFM FC.

The Cameroon shot stopper was called to the rescue again late in the game to deny the Olukoya Boys what could have been the winning goal.

As the clock got to 90 minutes, and with spots kicks to decide the team that will meet Remo Stars in the final, Shooting Stars coach then introduced their penalty specialist goalkeeper Detan Ogundare into the game.

Detan, a former Flying Eagles shot stopper made no mistake in the shoot out as he stopped two MFM FC penalties to send 3SC to the final.

The Southwest Derby battle of stars will ignite the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne on fire on Saturday.

The country's first pre-Season tournament is sponsored by Optima Energy, and its proudly supported by Alansmith Nigeria Limited, Taiwo Joseph Ogunjobi Foundation, Nigeria leading sportswear firms, Owu, Haggai Sportswear, Afripro, Naija League Magazine, Matchroom, Sports, 11th Media Global Concept, Freestyle Sports, Renewed Hope, Kao Concept, Seyi Akinwunmi Charity Foundation, Dejavu Communication, Olansile Football Academy, TSI Football Academy and ITS Football Management.