NNL expels Gateway, Malumfashi from 2023/2024 participation

Gateway  FC and Malumfåshi FC has loose their Status as a professional  team with the NNL. 

This according to the Chief Operating Officer of the League Dr Ayo Abdulraham is in line with article 3.5 01 of the NNL rule book.

 The Scribe said the Board of the Nigeria National League  noted with huge concern the inability of the teams to meet their financial obligations to the NNL, and fulfill other club licensing conditions for the 2023/2024 league season.

" This was after our several waiver Via our circulars on the subject on conditions  participation" 

The Scribe said the compulsory payment of registration was agreed upon at the NNL Annual General Meeting held  in Jos, Plateau State. 

This he said is in accordance with circulars 265, 267,  270 on  conditions for participation, and the NNL rule book as cardinal pre requisite for participation in the Nigeria National League. 

"Regrettably, after the expiration of the official grace period, and subsequent telephone reminders Malumfashi FC of Katsina and Gateway Utd FC of Ogun State have failed to comply with registration requirements, which indicate their Inability to participate after league has commenced.

In view of the foregoing and in line with the provisions of the NNL rule book articles 2.1. the Ieague body hereby invokes its articles on

Gateway Utd FC and Malumfashi FC from  participating in the  League". 

He said that they  however  have the right to appeal to the Disciplinary   Committee of the Nigeria Football Federation within 48 hours on receipt of the letter.

Semi finalists emerge in 2023 Lagos Supremacy Cup

 

36 Lion picked their third win of the Lagos Supremacy Cup on Thursday morning as they conquered SGFC Athletics 2-1, while Dino SC beat Broad City 3-1 to join Lion in the semi-final.

Imperial had a taste of victory, beating Dosu Joseph Football Club 4-0 in the early kick-off.

23 goals was scored in Day 3 of the Lagos Supremacy Cup. Below is how events unfolded at the Campus Mini Stadium......

Three-star Agada marvellous for Mavlon 

In-form Charles Agada was ruthless with three goals for Mavlon who humbled Corinthians 3-1.

Jacob Emmanuel banged the only goal for Corinthians.

With the result, Mavlon picked their spot in the semi-final with six points from three games. They placed second with goal difference of +2.

Elsewhere, Imperial annihilated Dosu Joseph Football Club 4-0 while FC Bethel drew 2-2 against DN10.

City fall short 

Despite a brace from Oyedokun Tosin, Ikorodu City drew 2-2 with Tripple 44 and crashed out of the tournament.

Adewale Adekunle and Oladeji Israel found the back of net for Tripple 44.

Both teams finished with five points but Tripple 44 qualified for the semi-final thanks to a superior goal difference of +2. 

City had +1 and couldn't pick the spot for best second placed team as they were edged out by Mavlon.

Dino SC join the semi-final train

Dino SC condemned Broad City to a 3-1 defeat. An early goal from Stephen Ende and Ogonna Okoro's brace disorganized Broad City.

Oladele Razaq scored a face saving goal for Broad City who weren't at their fluid best.

In Thursday's last game, 36 Lion beat SGFC Athletics 2-1 to finish the pool on top with nine points.

Azuka Alanta and Seun Lawal registered 36 Lion's goals. Adeshina Akande was the goalscorer for SGFC Athletics.

What next 

Tripple 44, Dino SC, Mavlon and 36 Lion are through to the semi-final.

Day Four Fixtures 

Date: Friday 17th November, 2023

Venue: Legacy Pitch, National Stadium, Surulere.

Tripple 44 Vs Mavlon 7am

Dino SC Vs 36 Lion 8:10am

Final 8:40am

NLO secures FirstCentral Credit Bureau sponsorship deal

The Nationwide League One (NLO) has sealed a sponsorship deal with FirstCentral Credit Bureau.

FirstCentral Credit Bureau Limited, Nigeria’s only independent and first licensed credit bureau will bankroll the NLO Cup and the nation's third-tier domestic league's Annual General Meeting (AGM) to herald the 2024/25 season kickoff.

Chairman of the nation's third-tier league Hon. Silas Agara announced the breakthrough during a press conference held at the NLO Secretariat Board Room in Abuja.

A delighted Agara, says the various reforms the new Board has put in place, have started yielding positive gains and have made the NLO a more attractive brand for corporate Nigeria.

This is evident with the new sponsorship deal between the NLO and FirstCentral Credit Bureau.

The sponsorship will cover the Nationwide League One- NLO Cup which is billed to kick off in Kano and Uyo on November 24th and the Annual General Meeting (AGM) billed for December 8, to set the pace for the 2024/25 season kickoff.

Hon. Agara, a former Deputy Governor of Nasarawa State told NLO Media Channel, "We are delighted to have the FirstCentral Credit Bureau come on board as one of our sponsors.

"I believe the various reforms that the new board is proposing to the AGM will yield positive gains and make the NLO a more attractive brand to Corporate Nigeria. The reforms are yet to be approved, but due to positive activities from the NLO Secretariat, we have been seeing positive changes. 

"You will agree with me that the Nationwide League One with over 300 clubs making it the largest in Africa, is a viable brand for corporate organization in Nigeria, this has brought about our relationship with First Central Credit Bureau. 

"Football in Nigeria is massive and an incredible unifier that connects people from all walks of life, as grassroot football is watched daily. It's on record that 70% of NLO Division One and U-19 Youth League matches were live-streamed via the NLO TV App.

The leadership of the NLO has also shown commitment to the growth of grassroot football which has seen a massive increase in the number of participating teams in the NLO from 80 clubs to over 300 clubs cutting across all 36 States of the Federation and FCT, due to our financial prudence with the little resources available. 

"The Board can confidently assure Nigerians that with support from top brands such as First Central Credit Bureau, Nigerians will see more positive service delivery from the NLO.

"So, FirstCentral Credit Bureau will leverage our platform by sponsoring the inaugural NLO Cup and also take care of the bills for the Annual General Meeting (AGM) billed for Friday, December 8, 2023."

First Central Credit Bureau is a credit score is a statistical number that evaluates a consumer’s creditworthiness and is based on the individual’s credit history. It is an instant decision-making tool that helps to reduce the time and cost associated with processing and underwriting credit applications.

This medium reaches the customer directly and educates them on the impact of late/non-repayment of their loans hence improving repayment without breaching the privacy law.

8 Schools vie for glory in Maiden Monday Gift Girls Cup in Lagos

 

Eight Secondary Schools are set to compete for glory at the highly anticipated Maiden Monday Gift Girls Cup 2023 on November 15 at the Obele Community High School Ground in Surulere, Lagos.

Sponsored by the remarkable Gift Monday, this tournament is not just about football; it's a celebration of empowerment and talent.

The substantial N150,000 prize pool recognizes the champions, runners-up, and third-place winner, amplifying the competitive spirit.

Excitement peaks with cash prizes for the best player and highest goal scorer, enhancing the stakes of the competition.

Gift Nyakno Monday, a standout both on and off the field, goes beyond football prowess as a passionate advocate for empowering young girls in her community.

Beyond her stellar performances with UDG Tenerife and the Nigeria women's national team, Gift has initiated the Monday Gift Girls (MGG) Championship.

This transformative program, spearheaded by Olasunkanmi A. Gbeleyi, PhD, targets girls aged 8 to 16, providing not just football training but also essential life skills. 

The MGG Championship is not just a tournament; it's a pathway to empowerment and success as Gift Nyakno Monday articulates, "I strive to give back to the girl child in my community, and this initiative will provide opportunities for more girls to excel through the combination of sport and education."

The MGG Championship stands as a testament to the power of sports and education in shaping lives, with the ultimate goal of inspiring excellence across diverse fields.

Lagos Supremacy Cup: Imperial, Triple 44 share spoils in four goal thriller as 36 Lion, Mavlon, Broad City record wins on Day One

 

Tripple 44 started the Lagos Supremacy Cup with a 2-2 draw against Imperial at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Onikan on Tuesday.

There were victories for Mavlon, Broad City and 36 Lion as the competition got under way in front of enthusiastic fans, who were treated to plenty of action on day one.

Joel Ashuku bagged a brace for Imperial in the thriller against the Ibadan based outfit. Rahmon Olawale and Ifeoluwa Adewale netted in the colours of Tripple 44.

Dosu Joseph Football Club forced Ikorodu City to a 1-1 draw.

The game didn't open up until the last 10 minutes. Olowu Seun cancelled out Al Ameen's curtain raiser.

Mavlon had too much quality for Dino SC, as they won 2-1.

Charles Agada showcased his quality with the first blood. Hassan Agbede equalised for Dino.

Imrana Mohammed hit Dino SC with a late heartbreaker.

Broad City beat Corinthians 2-1 in the fourth match of the day.

Isa Muhammed played the poacher role superbly as he helped 36 Lion pip FC Bethel 1-0.

Meanwhile, DN10 played out a 1-1 against SGFC Athletics.

Action continues at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena on Wednesday with six games taking place.

Day 1 Results

Tripple 44 2-2 Imperial 

Ikorodu City 1-1 Dosu Joseph Football Club 

Mavlon 2-1 Dino SC 

Corinthians  1-2 Broad City 

FC Bethel 0-1 36 Lion 

DN10 1-1 SGFC Athletics

Nigeria Boxing Federation suspends Azania Omo-Agege over insubordination

The board of Nigeria Boxing Federation has indefinitely suspended it's Vice President, Azania Omo-Agege.

In a letter signed by the Secretary General of Nigeria Boxing Federation, Akinyele Oladapo; Azania Omo-Agege impersonated as President of  NBF which was confirmed by various African Boxing Federation Presidents.

According to the statement, the suspension was taken at the board meeting held on 11th November 2023 in which he was able to defend his actions concerning the unauthorised press release/letter to the International Boxing Association (IBA) that embarrassed the Nigeria Boxing Federation, Nigeria Olympic Committee, Federal Ministry of Sports and the entire country.

The statement revealed that Azania Omo-Agege forged and printed letterhead of the NBF without approval.

The statement read; "At no time has Azania Omo-Agege briefed or written any report on the outcome of meetings at AFBC and IBA for the action of the President.

"That you failed to utilise the opportunity provided by the board to reconcile you and the President at the last zoom meeting.

"That you constituted yourself as one man parallel body against the majority of the board who affirmed the decision to join the World Boxing body as a step in the right direction for the growth of boxing.

"Your claim to IBA that President of Nigeria Boxing Federation Lieutenant General Kenneth Minimah has ceased to be President according to constitution is null and void as well as embarrassing.

The statement requested Azania Omo-Agege to withdraw the letter written to IBA on Nigeria, the suit against the World body, issue a press release denouncing the earlier release, write an apology to the President as well as board within 21 days.

Ikukuoma Sports Foundation starts Stadium Construction In Mbaise

 

The President of Ikukuoma Sports Development Foundation, High Chief Dr Summers VC Nwokie "Ikukuoma Mbaise" has begun the construction of a standard Sports Complex in Okpuofe, Ezinihitte Mbaise LGA, Imo state to ensure talented footballers have access to better facilities 

Speaking to journalists at the site recently, the Director General of the foundation, Comrade Nnaji Julius Kelechi who represented his president said the decision to float the project is in line with the burning passion of the President to help youths become important citizens through sports in the society.

He said the edifice on completion will serve as home ground of Ikukuoma FC and it will have other modern day facilities including hostel accommodations, training pitches and a standard hotel that can be made use of by the visitors. 

"As you already know, the passion to give youths the opportunity to express their talents and secure better future through football is the driving factor for this project," Comrade Nnaji told journalists.

"High Chief Dr Summers VC Nwokie is more than determined to build a world class sports complex in Mbaise where people can come together for a good football fiesta.

"The location is here in Okpuofe, Ezinihitte Mbaise LGA and is easily accessible from Aboh Junction if you are coming from Owerri straight through Eke Ngwuru, it's easy to locate.

"Part of the plans is to also create access roads that would be tarred for easy accessibility.

"About 50 plots of land is already earmarked for the project and the construction firm has assured that the basic FIFA pro Astro turf pitch and other facilities would be ready in a short time, while other facilities can come from next year.

"The playing turf will be 50mm thick and some of the facilities that will come in immediately include the 3D Score Board as well as a good drainage system round the pitch, an 8 metre up/2 metre down perimeter fence round the pitch, the flood lights and two media stand for proper coverage of matches and events.

"It's important to note that our President is also thinking ahead hence he considered the extra land for construction of relaxation centres plus accommodation (hotel) for visiting teams and camping Programmes.

Meanwhile, former Dolphins FC (now Rivers United) and Heartland FC striker, Mr Echendu Osita Echendu, who is the representative of the Construction Firm in charge of the stadium, Diamond Orange Nigeria Limited reiterated that best equipment have been earmarked for the construction of the modern facilities.

He said the company is ready for the job and would deliver some of the required facilities within the best possible time.

"In one month time we intend to be ready with the stands, electronic scored board, the playing pitch (FIFA pro Astro turf) among other necessary facilities while work on other features of the stadium will commence from February next year", Osita said.

Ikukuoma Sports Development Foundation is the overall umbrella from which High Chief Summers Nwokie is enriching and imparting life positively through his philanthropy.

A subsidiary of the Ikukuoma Sports Development Foundation, Ikukuoma FC got promoted to the Nigeria Nationwide League One just under four months of its formation and the team grabbed a bronze medal in their debut campaign in the Ikukuoma Sports Development Foundation/ NLO Youth League which was recently concluded in Ihitte Uboma, Imo State.

The Ikukuoma Sports Development Foundation/ NLO Youth League was bankrolled by High Chief Summers Nwokie and it attracted over 500 youths and officials to Imo State.

Kano, Uyo to host 16 teams in NLO Cup

 

The ancient city of Kano and the natural beauty of Uyo will host 16 best teams in the grassroots league in the maiden Nationwide League One- NLO Cup billed to kick off on Friday, November 24 through Saturday, December 9, 2023.

Speaking with NLO Media Channel, Chief Operating Officer Olushola Ogunnowo rolled out plans for the first edition of the NLO Cup.

"The Nationwide League One, as the third cadre league in Nigeria has decided to showcase some of the best teams in the grassroots league in a tournament tagged "NLO CUP" that will cap the activities of NLO. 

"This is the maiden edition and the teams involved were carefully selected across the federation, with the best interest of our new sponsors, who will be unveiled soon.

"The NLO Cup is a prestigious tournament that brings together top clubs from the Nationwide League One in an exciting display of talent and sportsmanship. 

"It offers fantastic opportunities for clubs to gain exposure, compete at the highest level, and create lasting memories. 

"NLO Cup tourney will be centered around 16 teams, as Kano and Uyo will host eight (8) teams each of two groups, made up of four (4) teams, and is scheduled to kick off on the 24th of November to 9th of December 2023 and promises to be an unforgettable event for teams and spectators alike.

"The Sani Abacha Stadium and  Godswill Akpabio Stadium will host the group matches, while the Bwari Stadium in Abuja is billed to host the grand finale.

"Furthermore, the NLO has made arrangements for comfortable accommodation and transportation subsidies for all participating teams during the duration of the tournament."

NLO CUP GROUPINGS

Group 1 A

Tudun Wada FC - Kano State

Likeminds FC - FCT

Barau/Muritala FC - Kano State

Zeal Mind FC - Benue State

Group 1 B

Kwankwasiyya FC - Kano State

Green Lock FC - FCT

FC Sheika - Kano State

Na Royal - Kwara State

Group 2 A

Palm Syrup FC - Akwa Ibom

Krane FC - Akwa Ibom

Roro FC - Lagos State

Jaguar FC - Abia State

Group 2 B

Olegacy FC - Akwa Ibom

Kun Khalifa - Imo State

Mavlon FC - Lagos State

Vandrezzer JNR FC - Akwa Ibom

Lagos Supremacy Cup draws pair top teams in tough groups

The draws for the 2023 Lagos Supremacy Cup took place on Saturday night.

Fast rising Tripple 44 landed in Group A alongside tough customers Imperial, Ikorodu City and Dosu Joseph Football Club.

President of Dosu Joseph Football Club, Mr Dosu Joseph (MON) commented after the draw: "The 12 teams are not easy to beat. What an interesting draws! Good luck to all the teams. I think Pool A is the most difficult group."

Meanwhile, giant killing FC Bethel were drawn in Group C with well reverred 36 Lion, DN10 and SGFC Athletics. Many stakeholders agreed that this particular pool as the most difficult group.

Mavlon, Dino SC, Corinthians and Broad City were all placed in Group B.

The Lagos Supremacy Cup is tagged "No Offside! 

Operation Mark Your Man!"

The competition will hold from November 14th-17th at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan.

Registration commences for 8th Adamu Yola Gombe South Cup tourney as organizers announce new partnerships

 

The Local Organizing Committee (LOC) of the 8th Adamu Yola Gombe South Unity Cup has declared the official commencement of online registrations for interested teams aiming to participate in this edition.

Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee, Promise Uwaeme, made the announcement during a Press Conference held yesterday, 1st of November, 2023 at Jewel Hotel Hall in Kaltungo, Gombe. 

Uwaeme outlined the registration period, spanning from November 1st to November 11th, 2023, emphasizing that no extensions will be granted due to existing delays. 

"The earlier you register, the better for you because there will be no extension as you can see that we are behind schedule," Uwaeme stated.

Each participating team is required to remit a registration fee of five thousand naira while enrolling their team and players via the online registration portal within the stipulated timeframe. 

Uwaeme underscored that the committee decided to maintain the five-thousand-naira registration fee, despite economic fluctuations, “Of course our registration money, we know that the economy is up and down, we had several discussions on if we should increase the registration fee but we all agreed that we should still maintain the five-thousand-naira registration fee.”

Furthermore, Uwaeme cautioned against registering previously suspended players, warning that doing so may result in disqualification from the tournament. He urged teams to stay updated via the Foundation’s social media channels for additional information.

In a significant revelation, Uwaeme announced collaborations for this year's tournament, particularly with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Gombe State Command. 

The theme "DRUG FREE COMMUNITIES" will be integrated into the 2023 Beyond Football Campaign Initiative. 

Additionally, a partnership with the Gombe state office of Airtel Nigeria was disclosed, promising technical support for live match streaming and special packages for participating teams, “We have agreed with Airtel that they will provide us with technical support as well as provide free sim cards and registration for teams and they will also provide us with internet connections so that we can stream all our matches live for those who might not be present in match venues and will like to watch.”

The final round of the 8th edition is scheduled to be hosted by Billiri Local Government, a decision Uwaeme greeted with enthusiasm, recalling the successful 6th edition hosted in the same region, “I am glad to announce to you that Billiri will host this year’s final round just as we did in the 6th edition.” 

Gilbert Ezeh, the Business Manager of Airtel Nigeria in Gombe State, expressed Airtel's enthusiasm for the strategic partnership, underscoring the brand’s alignment with the youth and local communities. 

“This is the type of strategic partnership that Airtel looks forward to, the reason is, if you have noticed, Airtel is the most youth-loving brand in the country. And Airtel also looks for opportunities to give back to its local communities. 

"We are looking forward to continuing on this ground, in fact, if you have any proposition especially when it is right for humanity or when it is all-inclusive, we are up for it. So, when this opportunity came knowing that soccer is the most loved sport, we felt it was a big one that we can leverage on. So, we feel super excited to be part of this edition and hopefully we can continue on this ground." 

Dino SC adds gloss to Lagos Supremacy Cup

 

Fast rising football outfit, Dino SC have confirmed they have entered into partnership with the organisers of the Lagos Supremacy Cup. 

The enterprising owner of the team, Mr Samuel Omamofe Columbus has agreed to add gloss to the competition with donation of table water.

In a statement via Official WhatsApp Platform of the tournament, Mr Columbus wrote, in our support for this year's Lagos Supremacy Cup, we would be donating 100 packs of table water to the organisers for the tourney. Please accept our token of support.

Brain behind Lagos Supremacy Cup and CEO 36 Lion Investment, Hajj Liameed Gafar, added: "We are always looking to join forces with exciting and forward-thinking brands. Dino SC falls comfortably into that category.

"Mr Columbus is a lifelong partner of Lagos Supremacy Cup and it's fantastic we can keep this in the family. I'm sure clubs will love the water and we are excited to see that this competition is on the lips of people in the grassroots."

The Lagos Supremacy Cup will hold from November 14th to 17th at Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos.

AFCON title dream plus 30 others things you don't know about Sporting Lagos' poster boy Saturday Okon

 

Popular football forum on social media called "Naija Footballers Forum" goes personal with Sporting Lagos center forward Saturday Okon and these were some of what he had to say about life as a footballer....

Q. Where would you like to settle after your career?

Ans. I would like to settle in UK because that is my dream country after football.

 

Q. Which is the most interesting city you have visited so far?

Ans. Abuja.

Q. Who is your dream girl?

Ans. I have a dream girl I wish to marry next year....for now let just keep it secret.

Q. What would you have been were you not a footballer?

Ans. I would have been a musician.

Q. What is your biggest dream?

Ans. My biggest dream is to win African Nations Cup, AFCON and win Africa footballer of the year.

Q. What sports brand do you like most?

Ans. I prefer Nike...because is very light.

Q. What other sports do you enjoy outside football?

Ans. Basketball.

Q. Which is the best Stadium you have played in?

Ans. I love Akwa United Stadium (the nest of champions) the best in Nigeria.

Q. What are your hobbies?

Ans. I love watching movies and listening to music and dancing.

Q. Who is your favourite Nigerian player?

Ans. Victor Moses.

Q. Favourite foreign player?

Ans. Neymar Jr. I love the way he plays.

Q. Best league in the world?

Ans. The English Premier League, EPL.

Q. Your proudest moment in football?

Ans. Winning Akwa United in the semi final of the Naija Super 8 and also the MVP.

Q. Your worst moment in football?

Ans. The lost to Remo last week.

Q. Who is the best player you have played alongside?

Ans. Okorie Ekenson 

Q. Who is the one person you dream of facing on the pitch?

And. Ronald Araujo of FC Barcelona.

Q. Best game you have played?

Ans. It was against Abeokuta Stormers in Asaba for promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL.

Q. Who do you always hang out with in your club?

Ans. Ekene Olisema.

Q. Your best coach?

Ans. Prince Dede, my grassroot coach..because he is the one who made me what I am today...that everyone is calling me all over Nigeria...soon it will be the world.

Q. Your best friend 

Ans. Christian Nwoke..our goalkeeper.

Q. Your best way to relax?

Ans. Listening to musc.

Q. Favourite food?

Ans. I love plantain and egg.

Q. Favourite drink?

Ans. Juice.

Q. Favourite car?

Ans. Venza.

Q. What is your favourite music?

Ans. Perfect....by Ed Sheeran.

Q. Your favourite music artist?

Ans. Ed Sheeran.

Q. Which is the best movie you have watched recently?

Ans. Breaking Bad.

Q. Greatest personality you have ever met?

Ans. That is my girl.

Q. Who would you most like to meet one day?

Ans. I will like to meet Erling Halland of Manchester City.

Q. What is your philosophy on life?

Ans. Just live one day at a time.

NFF: Thank you so much for talking with Naija Footballers Forum. We hope you will avail yourself when next we call on you.

Okon: Sure..... thanks 🙏 for the time you people spend with me.

Tijani Babangida to head Senator Sani UBA Unity Football Competition

The Kaduna State Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, Honourable Sadiq Mamman Lagos has inaugurated a 25-Man Main Organizing Committee, (MOC) of Senator Uba Sani Unity Football Cup Competition 2023/2024.

While inaugurating the committee, Mamman Lagos tasked the  members to organize a befitting competition targeted at discovering talents from the grassroots across all the 23 Local Government Areas of Kaduna State.

“You must organize a football competition that will serve as an avenue for recruiting raw talents from the grassroots; a competition we will be proud of.” he said.

Speaking further, the Commissioner called on them to be fair to all and not to allow their Interest to interfere with the general aim of the competition, 

"You should organize a competition that the people of Kaduna State will be happy and proud to associate with”.

According to the Commissioner, it may interest you to know that youth and sports development form a critical part of the ‘SUSTAIN AGENDA’ of this administration, and Governor Uba Sani is committed to not just developing the youths through sports, but to the general youth empowerment through other economic activities in such a way that they will contribute positively to the development of the state”, Mamman Lagos stated.

“With these few words, I inaugurate you and I wish you success in this endeavor. I assure you that my doors are always open to your needs toward the success of the competition”. He concluded.

Responding Chairman of the Committee, former International and Super Eagles of Nigeria, Tijani Babangida who appreciated the ministry for finding him worthy to lead the MOC.

He expressed confidence that the best caliber of members on the committee are drivers of grassroots football.

“I am so happy that the people serving in this committee are people who are engaged in organizing grassroots football competitions and I am lucky to be their chairman”.

Tijani Babangida said each of the 23 local governments will present a team to compete for honor during the competition. He said.

Ten teams to jostle for honors, trophy at Ave/Ihitte-Uboma Super League

Ten grassroot teams have been listed to display their beautiful football artistry in the first edition of the Ave/Ihitte-Uboma Super League, billed for the Uboma Secondary School Stadium Complex.

PMC Okeke, Chief Executive Officer of Ave International Football Club in Isinweke, Ihitte-Uboma of Imo State gave the hint in a chat with the Media Channel of the Nationwide League One (NLO) team.

Okeke, a well-breed football administrator said: "The Ave/Ihitte-Uboma Super League is geared towards hosting 10 clubs within the Local Government Area, the passion for that is to further develop and discover raw football talents and also engaging the youths into meaningful sporting activities.

"Their catchment area is within Ihitte-Uboma, though each club has the opportunity to register five (5) external players. The essence is for us to host the best tournament with a professional touch and play, as the plan is to show our matches via live stream on television and on our YouTube Channel and also to promote the unity and diversity of our people. In this modern time, football has proven to be the best platform to unify people regardless of race, tribe, or religion, and we thought it very interesting to get involved in this project.

"Some of the best players that will be discovered from the tournament will be recruited into Ave International Football Club for the 2024/2025 NLO season. Others will be scouted by some Nigerian Premier Football League clubs and our European partners. It will be an explosive tourney that will last for 10 or 12 days."

Speaking on his club's mission and vision for football. "I have a very strong passion for football and here at Ave International Football Club, we have a vision and mission for the beautiful game. Our vision is to become a very reputable club in Nigeria and Africa, and also a club that develops talents by giving them role care that each player requires, not players developing on their own.

"We currently have a senior team and a feeder team, our feeder team played in the final of the Nationwide League One/Ikukuoma Super Cup that was held a few months ago. Our teams are well-groomed and that is why it got to the final and lost on the lotteries of penalty."

Meanwhile, the organizers of the Ave/Ihitte-Uboma Super League have named a 10-man Local Organizing Committee (LOC) headed by key Ovuegbe as Chairman.

Other members are Patrick Chiwuike, Jude Uju, CC boy Anyalewechi, Goddy Ndudi, Saint John Okeke- Ave Director of Sports, Dee Chima Ibezim- President Supporters Club, Cheta Ojukwu- Ave Football Club Director of Social and Strategic Mobilization and Chinemerem Frank, while Ogechi Marcelina Obi will serve as Secretary.

Eight hidden gems to keep your eyes on at Lagos Supremacy Cup

 

Whether you're looking for some insight or amusement, take a look at our picks for the players to keep an eye on in the Lagos Supremacy Cup.

NB: This is the concluding part of the series......

Wasiu Jato [Corinthians]

Technically proficient with both feet, Jato can operate comfortably as an attacking midfielder, can beat defenders with pace or trickery, is excellent at pulling away from defenders to make himself available for a pass.

Egbedokun Samson [Mavlon]

A technically proficient midfielder, who's displayed a decent eye for a pass, Samson usually plays in a "number six" role as a deep-lying playmaker in a three-man midfield. 

However, he can use his talents in a more advanced midfield role, or as part of a double-pivot in a two-man midfield. He featured at the 2023 ViaRaggio Cup in Italy.

Ezeno Chidera [Imperial]

An all-round forward in the mould of Thierry Henry, the youngster is comfortable across the entire forward line, has great technique and crucially possesses the all-important goalscoring instinct. 

Quick, mobile and hard-working, Chidera uses his body well and has a good aerial game.

Stephen Tambari [SGFC Athletics]

A versatile defensive player, Tambari has been used at right-back and holding midfield, but is best suited to a centre-back role. Comfortable in possession, rather physically imposing and able to bring the ball out from the back. Tambari possesses the attributes to suit a centre-back role in the modern game.

Amos Mata [Dino SC]

Able to operate as the main striker, a second striker or an inside-forward, Amos Mata is the goal bomber of Dino SC. He is usually seen popping up across the pitch, usually in the half spaces. The lad is considered one of the best young talents in the TCC League.

Oyedokun Tosin [Ikorodu City]

Normally a "number ten", Tosin can also drift in from the right and has even played as an out-and-out striker at times.

 

Skilful, well-balanced, excellent at turning away from pressure, and capable of picking up dangerous positions, Tosin's vision is his most impressive attribute. He is superb at picking out reverse passes which can split defences and play in teammates running in-behind the opposing back-line. 

Ugochukwu Iwuala [DN10]

Iwuala is a fantastic goal poacher, who can shoot with both feet and knows where to be to sniff out the chances around the six yard box. He always presses the centre-half's not giving them time on the ball to pick a pass out. 

A big thing from his game that he has a fantastic first touch which is so important in a poacher's game if they want to be deadly in and around the box. Iwuala is also quite versatile in terms of playing on his own or in a pair upfront playing in numerous systems.

Kehinde Ibrahim [36 Lion]

Kehinde was part of the Nigeria squad that reached quarter final at the 2023 FIFA U20 World Cup. He featured in some games for the team. One of Kenny's main weapons is his electric burst of speed and frightening turn of pace.  

Raw and unrefined, there is a frenetic, almost roadrunner style, about the way he tears up and down the flank and is part of what makes him both so enjoyable to watch and so difficult to defend against.

Typically hugging the touchline and giving 36 Lion plenty of width, Kenny's fleet of foot helps stretch the opposition by either isolating the full back or getting in behind the defence.