Defending champions NNL All Stars in tough group as organizers release fixtures for 2023 AMAPRO Bet9ja championship

 

The 2022 Champions of AMAPRO Bet9ja Football Championship, NNL All-Stars have been handed a tough draw in the 2023 edition, which is scheduled to kickoff on Monday in Ilorin. 

NNL All-stars, who defeated NPFL All-stars 3-2 on penalties in last year's final have been placed in Group B alongside, Kwara Football Academy (KFA), Da Faria FC and AMAPRO SSA. 

Last year’s finalists, NPFL All-stars will compete in Group A against Nationwide League One, NLO side, SGFC Athletics, Laycon FA and Gateway FA. 

In Group C, 2021 Finalists, Abraysports FC will compete against Teworh Sports Club, Dickalo FA and Ajaokuta FA. 

The Pro-leaguers will battle the boys from jos, Jazzy Stars FA, HMK FC from Osogbo and Le Pass SA in Group D of the championship that is sponsored by the leading getting platform in Nigeria, Bet9ja. 

The 8th edition of the tournament kick starts on Monday, July 3rd while the final will be decided on Sunday 9th of July, 2023. 

Group A

1. NPFL All-stars

2. SGFC 

3. Gateway FA

4. Laycon FC

Group B

1. NNL All-stars

2. Amapro SSA

3. Da Faria FC

4. KFA

Group C

1. Teworh Sports Club

2. Dickalo FA

3. Abraysports FC

4. Ajaokuta FA

Group D

1. Jazzy Stars FA

2. HMK FC

3. Pro-Leaguers

4. Le Pass SA. 

Daniel Daga meets football hero, Samuel Chukwueze

 

Defensive midfielder Daniel Daga had one of his dreams come through after finally meeting 24-year-old Super Eagles and Villarreal winger Samuel Chukwueze on Friday.

The story of Daniel Daga was first celebrated when he emerged Most Valuable player at the 2022 WAFU B U20 Tournament.

Daga, 16, was one of the shinning lights for Nigeria at the 2023 FIFA U20 World Cup in Argentina. His showing has attracted interests from Liverpool and AC Milan.

Having met Samuel Chukwueze at West Itam Stadium in what he described as the biggest moment of his life, Daga said patience is indeed a virtue. 

He eulogized the skillful Villarreal man as humble and kindhearted. 

Daniel Daga, who is on the books of One Rocket presented a beautiful portrait to Samuel Chukwueze.

Samuel Chukwueze appreciated the kind gesture and urged the teenager to keep working hard.

The 24-year-old was a regular fixture in the Villareal side this term, scoring six goals and providing five assists in 37 La Liga appearances as the Yellow Submarine finished fifth.

Having graduated from the club's youth academy in September 2018, the Nigerian has gone on to play over 207 games for Villarreal, netting 37 times over a five-year period.

Monimichelle sports facilities construction Limited: the best in football pitch construction and maintenance

 

There is no doubt about the fact that good football pitch enhance good display of football 

artistry and as well improve developmental football which in turn bring out the best in players and produce good result.

Monimichelle sports facilities construction Limited who specialized

in turnkey sports facilities and construction of hybrid synthetic football pitch is one of the leading sports construction company in the world and he has proven this overtime with various pitches that he has handled and still handling among them is Enyimba International stadium,Aba, Samson Sia Sia stadium in Yenegoa Bayelsa state, Mobolaji Johnson sports arena in Lagos state and many other notable good football pitches in Nigeria are the testaments to his professionalism in the job.

His professionalism and topnotch approach in constructing and delivering quality job has given him another opportunity to construct a full size FIFA approved hybrid synthetic mini stadium at a beach in Lagos with pavilion and seating capacity of 2,000 which will cause 'marriage' between sports and tourism as the landscape of the area will change for the best.

EbiEgbe(Monimichelle)has received different trainings in and around the world  on how to improve on his craft and that have taken him to different part of the world and has well give him edge over other competing companies.

He has also met with top pitch construction experts.In his bid to add acquire more knowledge,  Ebi recently  flew to Portugal for the signing off of takers agreement with a top sports field construction company for the introduction of   FIFA approved  Monimichelle nature pure 100% natural infill and 17000Dtex  Ebiere-45 lead free synthetic grass with the revolutionary resilience technology to the European Market and world at large.

The truth that must be told is that Monimichelle sports facilities construction Limited is a trailblazer and pathfinder and any country,state or individual that want to construct and as well maintain good sports facilities need to think of no other company but Monimichelle sports facilities construction company.

'Plan your present for a better future', Hon. Ekene Adams charges Nigerian players

 

Honourable Ekene Abubakar Adams has charged Super Eagles stars and their counterparts in the Nigerian domestic league to plan for life after their peak in football.

Honourable Adams, House of Representatives member on the platform of the Labour Party (LP), representing Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency of Kaduna State gave the charge during a dinner in his honour by All Stars Football Club, Yelwa, Kaduna State Chapter.

The All Stars Football Club, Yelwa, is made up of all ex-footballers (veterans) of the beautiful round leather game, that are resident in the state.

In his thought-provoking speech, Honourable Adams while showering praises on Super Eagles winger, Simon Moses and other VIPs at the event said: "I want to express my delight in the honour given me with this dinner by the leadership and members of All Stars Football Club, Yelwa.

"I have seen it all in football, as a former player, club manager/owner and now a lawmaker in the Green Chamber, so I feel pained when I see players who made a career out of the round leather game, living in poverty after they retire.

"Many of such players during their peak in football were ignorant, had unnecessary egos, didn't invest wisely, let alone give back to society. Not knowing that, when you give to society, it will accept you with open arms when you come back.

"A few kind hearted Super Eagles stars like Moses Simon to mention a few are giving back to their society and I want other Nigerian players to emulate him in this regard.

"My new status as member representing Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency in the Green Chamber, didn't come cheap, as I believed in it, struggled and worked hard to achieve it.

"Irrespective of that, my success is all geared towards giving back to society. I have not relented and will continue serving humanity as in the last one week I have done a project worth N120 million with collecting a kobo from the government.

"However, it's sad that despite all the efforts I have put over the years in trying to make football an envy for all in Kaduna State, I am being crucified for no just cause.

"Many of you who toll that line are just being naive and used as tools by politicians who have no positive agenda for the development of football in Kaduna let alone Nigeria.

"For the fact that we don't share the same football ideologies, those crucifying me forget I have made more impact in football viz-a-viz empowering our youths in and out of Kaduna with KADA City Football Club.

"Many of you (internationals) didn't know that I coughed out N9.6 million monthly to players and staff of KADA City. 

"Without contributing anything to football development, they sit in their comfort zones trying to destroy the football ecosystem I have built in the state.

"For the game to reach it's highest pedals, we all must stop the blame game, throw away our different ideologies, and find common grounds to develop football in Kaduna and indeed Nigeria."

Senator Ohere drums support for Ododo, describe him as true Kogi Agenda

 

The people of Kogi State have been asked to see the aspiration of Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo in the forthcoming November governorship election as Kogi agenda and not one built on sentiment.

The Senator Representing Kogi Central, Sen. Engr. Abubakar Ohere made the disclosure at Ogaminana, Adavi LGA while speaking to a cross section of critical stakeholders of Kogi Central at a meeting hosted by Alhaji Ozigi Maiyaki Asema, Chairman, Adavi Critical Stakeholders.

The Senator appealed to the people of Kogi Central to join hands with Gov. Yahaya Bello in making sure that they consolidate on the gains already achieved in the State.

Sen. Ohere described Alhaji Ododo's administration as one that would consolidate on the infrastructure and development the State has witnessed, pointing out that if elected the APC Flagbearer has the capacity to consolidate on the gains already achieved.

The All Progressives Congress Governorship Candidate, Alhaji Usman Ahmed Ododo, the State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Alhaji Abdullahi Bello, assured that if elected, the APC Flagbearer would develop the tourism and waterways subsector of the State.

Similarly, Sen. Ohere assured that the APC Flagbearer has the capacity, would make policies that would impact on the exploitation of mineral resources, the education, health and other critical sectors of the State economy.

Sen. Ohere described the aspiration of Alhaji Ododo as a Kogi agenda beyond sentiments, appealed to the people of Kogi Central to make friends with the Igalas, the Okuns, described the project as one that is about persuasion, urged them to use languages that would appeal to the sense of reasoning of the people across the divide 

While pointing out that no district in the State can produce the Governorship of the State, disclosed that it entails handshake across boarders of ethnic divide.

Sen. Ohere thanked the  Chairman, Adavi LGA Critical Stakeholders, Alhaji Ozigi Maiyaki Asema for hosting the meeting, described the APC Flagbearer as what Kogi State need after the expiration of the administration of Gov. Yahaya Bello, expressed optimism that Alh. Ododo has the capacity, competence to consolidate on building a prosperous Kogi State.

NPFL All-Stars, NNL All-Stars, Gateway FC, KFA, 12 others confirmed for 8th AMAPROBet9ja Championship as Draw Holds July 1st

 

Sixteen (16) teams have been confirmed for the 2023 edition of Amateur and Professional, AMAPRO football championship billed to kickoff on Monday 3rd July, 2023 at the Kwara Football Academy, KFA Pitch, Ilorin. 

Notable among the participating teams are regular comers, Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL All Stars, Nigeria National League, NNL All Stars, Nationwide League One side, Abraysport FC, Gateway FC from Ekiti State. 

Others are Laycon FC, AMAPRO Sporting Academy, HMK FC from Osogbo, SGFC Athletics, Dickalo Football Academy, Barrier Football Club, Kwara Football Academy, KFA and Le Pass Sporting Academy.

The eight edition that is sponsored by the leading betting platform in Nigeria, BET9JA will also have Jazzy Stars FA from Jos, Ajaokuta FA from Kogi State, Da Faria FC from Lagos, and Teworh FA from Kaduna.

In a media release by the Communication Unit of the Championship on Wednesday, the 16 teams will be group into four groups with four teams each. 

There will be prizes for the best goalkeeper, top scorer and King of the championship. 

The release disclosed that the draws ceremony where fixtures will be released will take place on Saturday 1st July, 2023 via zoom. 

The AMAPROBet9ja championship will kickoff on the 3rd July with final to be decided on Sunday 9th of July 2023.

NNL All Stars defeated NPFL All Stars 4-3 on penalties to emerge winners of the last edition.

Bendel Insurance Deserves Huge Pampering after Breaking 43 Years Jinx

 

... Learning from Nyesom Wike, Kunle Soname, Orji Uzor Kalu, others

After a staggering 43-year trophy drought from a major silverware, the team defied all odds, coming from the second division and captivating fans, the team made history by lifting the oldest trophy in Nigeria football and clinching a  continental ticket. 

Wednesday, 21st of June 2023, a glorious display of resilience and character from Bendel Insurance etched their names into the chronicles of Edo State's sporting history by clinching the Federation Cup.

It is evident that the unwavering support and visionary leadership of the state governments have played a pivotal role in the team's remarkable journey to glory. 

Governor Godwin Obaseki and Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu, true patrons of sports, have consistently demonstrated their deep commitment to restoring Edo State to where it once was as the Home of Sports. This mandate which led to the formation of the Edo Sports Commission has seen the development and success of the Benin Arsenals, which has now soared to unprecedented heights by claiming the Federation Cup in style.

Through the steadfast backing and relentless pursuit of excellence, the state government has not only transformed the fortunes of Bendel Insurance but has also breathed new life into the sporting landscape of the entire state.

While basking in the glory of this major achievement, this writer urges the state government to take a proactive stance in securing the future of our Bendel Insurance. It is crucial that the State Government recognize the indispensable role the players and coaching staff have played in our team's success. 

As they continue to shine brightly, it is only natural that they attract lucrative offers from other clubs seeking to capitalize on their exceptional talents. To ensure that the club retain her invaluable assets and maintain the cohesive unit that has brought them this far, this writer strongly advocates for a handsome rewards system.

Winning a trophy of such magnitude warrants substantial rewards for the players and the dedicated backroom staff who have toiled tirelessly behind the scenes, after such a feat; this writer believes it is time to turn their words into actions and make the boys truly happy as the state governor can seek this opportunity to crest his name in history.

It is without a doubt that rewarding players and backroom staff handsomely has always enhanced players' performances for their teams, served as a means of having the stars of the club remain despite mouth-watering deals from other teams as they will be confident that their life is valued and that could only be the main tool to get more from them. 

States to Emulate or Outdo

Sports enthusiasts around Nigeria will always remember the name of the former Rivers Governor, Nyesom Wike, the Working Governor, fondly referred to as Gburugburu of Rivers Land. His support for sports has catapulted Rivers United into the limelight not only in Nigeria but the continent where they got as far as the Quarter final of the CAF Confederations Cup.

No longer governor of the state, Wike's generosity to players ($20,000 each for making it to the continent as league winners) has left an indelible mark on the lives of the Rivers United team and their supporters, ensuring they will forever remember him as the man with the 'Capacity Doings.' It is a legacy that Governor Obaseki can aspire to exceed, elevating Bendel Insurance's place in Edo State's sporting landscape.

Most recently, Remo Stars owner, Hon. Kunle Soname (OFR) rewarded players, backroom staff, media team, and supporters club handsomely (#28 million) for securing a continental ticket after finishing as runners-up in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Super Six, how much more a team that renewed the hope of the state - winning two trophies back to back, setting 21-games unbeaten record, winning the FA Cup for the first time in 43 years and returning to the continent after 28 years - I believe in the capacity of the governor and his deputy governor.

Going memory lane, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu is a man many around the world will remember for his generosity and rewards to players who gave the State glorious times. Only a few of them are of Abia State origin, but many of them have become Abia indigenes by rewards of Sen. Orji Uzor Kalu.

To truly reward the heroes of Bendel Insurance, some impactful gestures this writer will suggest is to grant each player and backroom staff member a plot of land within the state and have it named the "Bendel Insurance Estate" - have you thought of how big that will ink your name in the heart of millions? Think about it, your Excellency.

If this can't be done, these players should be handsomely rewarded financially for their feat - this is what many governors will be envious of and would have prayed to happen in their state. Your Excellency, if this is not done, heaven will not fall, but a lot would be left to say about a state that prides in success but fails to reward the actors 

This act of appreciation would not only solidify their commitment to the team but also transform them into honorary indigenes of Edo State. 

The prospect of owning a piece of Bendel Insurance Estate, a symbol of the team's legacy and a testament to their achievements, would resonate deeply with the players, their families, and the ardent supporters of Bendel Insurance. Such a gesture would undoubtedly inspire the Benin Arsenals to remain at the pinnacle of their prowess as they venture into the continental stage.

Celebrating Bendel Insurance goes beyond rewards and material tokens of appreciation. Their success signifies the unwavering spirit of Edo State, the tenacity and passion that have come to define them as the "Heartbeat of the Nation." 

As Governor Obaseki continues to solidify his legacy as the "Wake and See Governor," it is imperative that he transcends words and demonstrates his commitment to Bendel Insurance. By rewarding their triumph with tangible and heartfelt gestures, he can engrave his name in the hearts of the players, their families, and the loyal supporters who have stood by their side through thick and thin. 

The time is now for Governor Obaseki to shine the light on Bendel Insurance and ignite the flame of its continued success, as the "Heartbeat of the Nation" beats louder than ever before.

PAAU PROMOTES 4 LECTURERS TO PROFESSORS AND 26 OTHERS TO READERS

 

The Governing Council of Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba, at its 65th Regular Meeting held on Friday, 23rd June, 2023, approved the promotion of four (4) academic staff members to full professors and Twenty-six (26) others to the rank of the reader. 

This elevation to the highest echelon and the last but one stratum of the academic ladder comes after a thorough internal valuation and external assessment of teaching activities, research prowess and community contribution.

Commenting on the promotion exercise, the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Marietu Ohunene Tenuche commended the new Professors and Associate Professors. According to the Vice Chancellor, the promotion was a testimony to their continued dedication, academic excellence, hard work, and discipline. 

The Vice-Chancellor further challenged the newly elevated scholars not to rest on their oars but to be more committed to producing insightful and impactful research works that would better the lot of Nigerians and the entire globe.

The University Community, therefore, congratulates the new Professors and Readers and challenges them to blaze the trail in higher quality service to the nation and humanity. 

The list of the elevated scholars is as follows:

PROSEFFORS

Professor Owoyemi, Julius Olugbenga          Sociology

Professor  Adediran, Samson Adewale        Accounting

Professor Egwemi, Oja Paul                            Theatre Arts

Professor Alaba, Obaje Anthony                    English and Literary Studies 

READERS

Dr. Ogwu, Chris Attah Mass Communication

Dr. Ude, Alexander Onyebuchi Accounting

Dr. Saad, Murtala Arabic, and Islamic Studies

Dr. Abubakar, N. Muhammed Human Kinetics and Health Education

Dr. Akogu, Simon Peterside Onuche Obstetrics and Gynecology

Dr. Ekpa, Shedrack Jurisprudence and International Law

Dr. Ibrahim Muhammed Kabiru Agric Econs and Extension

Dr. Atanu, Francis Atanu Biochemistry

Dr. Usman, Salisu Ogbo Political Science

Dr. Ujah, John Sule Public Administration

Dr. Achimugwu, Lawrence Science Education (Chemistry)

Dr. Gommet, I. Thomas Sociology

Dr. Anum, Victoria Mass communication

Dr. Ujah, Ofunu Mariam Commercial and Industrial Law

Dr. Adejoh, Patrick Agric Econs and extension

Dr. Owolabi, Joseph Ayodele Physics

Dr. Tanko, U. Musa Crop Production

Dr. Ochala, Isaiah Physics

Dr. Kabo, Sarinus Ettor Public Law

Dr. Sani, Idris Ahmed Economics

Dr. (Mrs) Onimisi, Meriyamoh Mero Fishery and Aquaculture

Dr. Sale, John Friday Pure and Industrial Chemistry

Dr. Okpe, Ameh Alfa Animal Production

Dr. Achimugu, Hassan Public Administration

Dr. Okpanachi, Anthony Idoko Philosophy

Dr. Adah, Obe Christopher Agric Econs and Extension.

AMAPROBet9ja2023: Organizers Announce Drizleen as Kit Partners

 

Ahead of kickoff of the 8th edition of Bet9ja AMAPRO Football championship, organisers have announced Osun State based kit brand DRIZLEEN as the official kits partner. 

Drizleen who is the kit  partners of notable clubs in Osun State and South West including Osun United, Igbajo United, H.M.K FC, City Roller FC,  Whykay Warrior Iragbiji, Gbeja FC and Y.S.F FC among others will kit the officials at the AmaproBet9ja Championship.

The CEO Abioye Idris reacting to this development expressed delight to be part of the project supporting talents from the street through AMAPRO and to  showcase the Drizleen brand to the public.

"We are very happy to partner with AMAPRO and looking forward to support talent from the street through AMAPRO and to network our brand to the public", he said.

BrainBehind Bet9ja AMAPRO Championship, Shogo Shodunnke told newsmen that the motive of the competition was in tandem with what Drizleen stand for which is given grassroots teams opportunities to be seen in a unique ways. 

The Bet9ja AMAPRO Championship will kickoff from the 3rd July and last till 9th July, 2023 at the KFA Pitch in Ilorin.

Kogi AGILE Project Committee commends SOCU, seeks partnership

Kogi State Project Coordinator of Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment, AGILE, Dr. Abdulhakeem Bello has commended the Kogi State Coordinating and Operation Unit, SOCU, a Defunct of the state Youth Employment and Social Support Operation (YESSO) for a thorough job done with the Single Register.

Dr. Bello gave the commendation during a courtesy visit with his team to the office of the SOCU Coordinator in Lokoja.

The AGILE PC stressed that the Single Register which was done by YESSO has now become a veritable launch pad for effective and result-oriented empowerment programs with a robust database of poor, unemployed, and vulnerable persons in the state.

He introduced AGILE as a Federal Government World Bank-sponsored project geared to improve secondary education opportunities among girls in targeted areas in participating states.

Dr. Bello disclosed that the AGILE project proposes to use a comprehensive approach to address critical binding constraints adolescent girls face that limit their ability to complete secondary school, by using the school, family, and community platforms to empower adolescent girls.

This approach, he said, will consist of interventions aimed at keeping girls in schools and providing opportunities for them to acquire critical life skills thus empowering them to enroll, stay, and complete schooling. 

Part of the ways of empowering adolescent girls through their parents is via the Conditional Cash Transfer which is targeted those in the transiting class of Primary 6 to Jss 1 and Jss 3 to SSS 1. 

Dr. Bello further stressed that all this requires accurate data, carefully and transparently done by agencies with high reputations like that of YESSO - SOCU.

He however seeks partnerships as implementing partners to enable the AGILE project to succeed in the state.

In his response, the State Coordinator of SOCU, Dr. Noah Alilu welcomed the AGILE team to his office while lauding the initiative.

According to him, the reward for their hard work is when they see bodies coming to access their database to reach out to the poor, as poverty he said was real at the grassroots.

He assured that their database which has now become a national reference base will be made available when needed with caution and on how to go about using those information.

Dr. Noah, who extolled the robust nature of the Single Register (SR) built by his office, said the World Bank and the Federal Government are very proud of Kogi SR so much that they have showcased it as a template to a delegation from the Democratic Republic of Congo to understudy the process of building the Register for her social investment program.

Dr. Noah noted that several poor households within the state benefited from the Conditional Cash Transfer program of the previous government of President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration as a direct result of their socioeconomic conditions as captured in the Register while adding that several youths across the state benefited from the Public Warfare Component of YESSO and youths enrolled into the Skill for Job Development (S4J) of the project.

Dr. Noah assured AGILE of his office's cooperation and support in ensuring that the objectives of AGILE are achieved in the state.

Signed:

Bishop Aturu

Communication Officer, Kogi AGILE

PAAU confirms promotion of Dr. Salisu Ogbo Usman, 25 others to rank of Associate Professor

 

... Four others bag Professor rank

The Governing Council of the Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba, PAAU has approved the promotion of 26 academic staff to the rank of associate professor at the 64 senate regular meeting held on 21 – 23rd June, 2023.

The Council also approved the promotion of 4 academic staff to the rank of professor. They are;  Dr. Owoyemi, Julius Olugbenga of the Department Of Sociology,  Dr. Adediran, Samson Adewale of the Department Of Accounting, Dr. Egwemi, Oja Paul of the Department Of Theater Arts, and Dr. Alaba, Obaje Anthony of Department of English and Literary Studies.

The breakdown of the 26 academic staff promoted to the rank of associate professor cut across several disciplines which include 2 staff in Mass Communication; Accounting; 1, Arabic and Islamic Studies;1, Human Kinetics and Health Education; 1, Obstetrics and Gynecology;1, Jurisprudence and International Law; 1, Agric Econs and Extension;3, Biochemistry;1, Political Science;1, Public Administration; 2, Science Education (Chemistry); 1,  Sociology; 1, Commercial and Industrial Law;1, Physics;2, Crop Production;1, Public Law;1, Economics;1, Fishery and Aquaculture;1 Pure and Industrial Chemistry;1, Animal Production;1, and 1 Philosophy.

The names are; Dr Salisu Usman Ogbo,  Dr. Ogwu, Chris Attah,  Dr. Ude Alexander Onyebuchi, Dr. Abubakar, N. Muhammed, Dr. Saad, Murtala, Dr. Akogu, Simon Peterside Onuche,  Dr. Ekpa, Shedrack, Dr. Ibrahim Muhammed Kabiru, Dr. Atanu, Francis Atanu, Dr. Ujah, John Sule, Dr. Achimugwu, Lawrence, Dr. Gommet, I. Thomas, Dr. Anum, Victoria, Dr. Ujah, Ofunu Mariam, Dr. Adejoh, Patrick, Dr. Owolabi, Joseph Ayodele, Dr. Tanko, U. Musa,  Dr. Ochala, Isaiah, Dr. Kabo, Sarinus Ettor Dr. Sani, ldris Ahmed, Dr. (Mrs) Onimisi, Meriyamoh Mero,  Dr. Sale, John Friday,  Dr. Okpe, Ameh Alfa, Dr. Achimugu, Hassan, Dr. Okpanachi Anthony ldoko and Dr. Adah Obe Christopher.

In a statement made available, the vice chancellor of the institution, Professor Marietu Tenuche was quoted to have said, the Staff promotion was a testimony to their continued dedication, academic excellence, hard work, and discipline. Adding that, the state university governing council is determined to ensure that every staff gets promoted as and when due.

The vice chancellor congratulated the staff who have been promoted by Council at its 65 Regular meetings. Noting that, it's a demonstration of hard work, diligence and determination on their part. 

Kogi Govt inaugurates project steering committee for AGILE initiative

 

The Kogi Commissioner for Education Science and Technology, Hon. Wemi Jones (FCIB), has inaugurated the Kogi State Project Steering Committee, (SPSC) for Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment.

In his opening remarks, the Commissioner disclosed that AGILE is a Federal Government World Bank-sponsored project that is expected to use secondary schools as a platform to empower girls through education, life skills, health education, gender-based violence awareness and prevention, and digital literacy skills. 

He disclosed that the World Bank haven seen the success of the project with the initial seven states that kick off the project, they recently approved 11 additional states which Kogi is part of the first six enlisted states to commence. 

He commended Kogi State Governor Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello for approving the project and making available all requirements needed to make the project fully operational in the state. 

Hon. Wemi further stressed that if the project is well executed and managed, the state stands a chance of being able to renovate public schools across the various Local Government in Kogi State and train young girls to be digitally sound, self-dependent through skills acquisition, and empowered via Conditional Cash Transfer.

While officially inaugurating the committee, the commissioner admonished all the SPSC members to bring their wealth of experience to bear while ensuring that supervision and all necessary support are given to the State Project Implementing Unit (SPIU). 

He further disclosed that the SPSC will be meeting  quarterly for oversight functions to achieve the Project Development Objective (PDO).

The commissioner further congratulated the State Project Coordinator, Dr. Bello Abdulhakeem, and all other members of the SPIU, urging them to put in all efforts and expertise to ensure that the project succeeds in the state. 

Earlier in her remark, the Executive Chairman, Kogi State Science, Technical Education and Teaching Service Commission (STETSCOM), , Mrs. Cecilia Cook commended Governor Bello for the approval of the project and Hon. Wemi Jones for the proactive measures taken so far in ensuring the success recorded so far.

She expressed her joy towards the benefits that the project will bring especially to the Adolescent Girls across the 21 Local Government Areas, adding that she will be readily available through her office and as a member of the SPSC.

Similarly, the Executive Chairman of State Universal Basic Education Board, (SUBEB), Abdullahi Ndalayi Suleiman stressed that the project calls for sacrifice from both the State Project Steering Committee and the State Project Implementing Unit.

He advised that the project must be driven by the passion and desire to help change the narrative about girl child education, get those out of school back to school, and help create a safe and conducive environment for learning for both the girl and the male child.

Members of the committee into the SPSC are; the Commissioner for Education, Science, and Technology, Hon. Wemi Jones, (Chairman) Director EPRS, Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Dr. Ahman Animoku, (Secretary), Permanent Secretaries of, Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Ministry of Finance, Budget and Economic Planning, Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, Ministry of Information and Communication, Ministry of Health,  Executive Chairman, STETCOM, and the Executive Chairman, SUBEB.

Federation Cup final: Barrister Green motivates Rivers Angels to beat Bayelsa Queens to trophy

 

Rivers State's Commissioner for Sports, Barrister Christopher Green has charged players of Rivers Angels to defeat Bayelsa Queens in Wednesday's Federation Cup final and be rewarded greatly by the Executive Governor of the State.

Honorable Green who was representing the State Governor, His Excellency Governor Siminalayi Fubara (GSSRS) told the team that the Governor has promised to handsomely reward the team should they win the Federation Cup.

According to the Commissioner, the Federation Cup is simply for pride but the State will ensure the team get rewarded so they must ensure they give in their all in Wednesday's game. 

"His Excellency said I should tell you all that if you win tomorrow's game against Bayelsa Queens, the reward you will receive will be beyond your imaginations. You will be honored by the state and good people of Rivers State.

"If our Grandfather, the immediate past Governor could give out rewards to a team without having a second thought, be rest assured that his son will do more than what the father did.

"You girls are at the point of making history for yourselves and the state. Go out there and bring the trophy home and receive your reward from the Governor," he added.

A win for Rivers Angels on Wednesday will be a record ninth Cup title for the Jewel of Rivers but they must do that while beating Bayelsa Queens for the first time at the fourth attempt this season.

The match is slated to kick-off on Wednesday, June 21, 2023 by 2pm inside the mainbowl of the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba.

Nigeria Rugby Team departs for Mauritius Ahead of 2024 Olympic qualifiers

 

By Tolulope Oguntimehin

Nigeria's senior men national  rugby team, the Stallions have departed the shores of the country for Mauritius venue of the Paris 2024 pre Olympic qualifiers.

The team which left via Ethiopian airlines on Tuesday is led by the President of the federation, Dr Ademola Are in company of the federation's  General Manager, Azeez Ladipo and  Secretary, Sani Muhammed and  two home based players.

The contingent will link up with other players who are arriving from Europe and the United States of America for the showpiece which will see Nigeria  face Ghana, Burundi and DR Congo in pool A of the qualifier.

Mauritania, Botswana, Lesotho and Algeria are in pool B of the competition while Pool C houses Senegal, Cameroon, Egypt and Cote D’ivoire

Top three teams will qualify to compete in the Africa Cup Sevens in Zimbabwe later in September.

Nigeria Rugby Team Squad

1. Aniebonam David Kosisochukwu – (Wimbledon RFC)

2. Awobowale Olukolade Mobolaji – (Stallions RFC)

3. Esiri Aaron - Asher Chinedu – (Bournvile RFC)

4. Etim Gabriel John – (Barewa RFC, Kano)

5. Goualin Pierre Henri – (Old Priorians RFC)

6. Henrry-Ajudua Chukwuyem Frederick – (Atlanta Major League Rugby)

7. Ilube Matthew Maurice – (Old Priorians RFC)

8. Jatto Onoru-Oyiza – (Cowrie RFC, Lagos)

9. Lipede Adenekan Jojoola – (Old Colfeians RFC)

10. Nwachukwu Declan Chinedu – (Horsham RFC)

11. Odunlami Oluwadara Olufewa – (University of Bath RFC)

12. Onyeahasi Alexander George – (Clifton RFC)

 

Staff

Lewis Stephen John - Head Coach

Sani Mohammed - SG

Azeez Ladipo - GM

African Beach Games HAMMAMET 2023: Nigeria Teqball contingent departs for Tunisia

The Nigeria Teqball contingent to the African Beach Games Hammamet 2023 made up of three Athletes and a Coach departed the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja on board Asky to Lome-Accra and Turkish Airlines to Istanbul-Tunis.

The delegation which is led by the Head of Technical & Education of the Federation Mr. Abdul Bajeh is estimated to arrive Tunis by 9:20am on Wednesday 21st June 2023.

World number 31, African number 2 and Nigerian number 1 Victor Ademoye OYEMADE will compete for a slot for the Men’s Single in the next World Beach Games slated for Bali, Indonesia, from the 5th to 12th of August 2023. 

Oyemade will also partner with Funsho Funto SAMSON to compete for the Men’s Doubles event.

Samson on the other hand will also partner with Rashidat Bukola SALAU to compete for the Mixed Doubles event. 

Experienced and versatile Abdul Bajeh will be deploying his vast knowledge of the game to ensure that the Nigerian team does not only win medals but also qualify for the World Beach Games, Bali 2023.

The President of the Federation, Engr. Habu Ahmed Gumel wishes the Athletes the very best of the championship noting that Nigeria is a very strong force in the continent when it comes to Teqball. 

Worthy of note is that Nigeria finished 2nd in the last African Beach Games held in Sal, Cape Verde in 2019.

Promise Uwaeme

Head, Competitions, Communications & ICT