Ex Internationals Cup: FC Udeze humbles FC Okpara as Ikpeba boys, FC Ipaye share spoils

 

It was another day of exciting matches, impressive performances and positive outings at the on Ex Internationals Cup organized by the Lagos State Football Association, LSFA. 

Four games were decided on Wednesday at various centres with FC Udeze recording the biggest win over FC Okpara. 

Here is the wrap for the Matchday:

FC Udeze 4-1 FC Okpara 

Stephen Okpeche, Rashidi Anifowoshe and Olakunle Irinyemi were among the scorers as FC Udeze took a huge step towards the Nigeria Ex Internationals Cup quarter-finals courtesy of a blistering 4-1 win over 10-man FC Okpara in their last-16 first leg.

FC Udeze drew the first blood through Okpeche's delicious free kick. 

FC Okpara were awarded a penalty kick on 10 minutes. Johnson Adeaga rarely lets such go unpunished, and he delivered the goods to level matters. 

The homers looked the much more likely to score, though, and they did so again shortly before the break. Anifowoshe drove home a world class free kick to find the back of the net.

The Godwin Okpara managed team were no doubt relieved to get a breather at half-time. But things was made complicated for the former PSG man's wards, when Oriyomi Adesegun was given the marching orders in the 55th minute.

Former PAOK and Super Eagles overlapping left back, Ifeanyi Udeze kept on urging his wards to go for more like Oliver Twist. They broke in thrilling fashion from another set-piece to leave the away side shell-shocked once again. Olakunle sent home in excellent fashion.

Okpeche got his brace eight minutes after the hour mark.

The frenetic pace dropped a bit thereafter, with FC Okpara limiting the damage, and only a freak result in the return leg can now prevent Udeze's side from reaching the last eight.

FC Nwosu 1-1 FC Amoo

FC Nwosu and FC Amoo drew 1-1, after strikes by Friday Jatau and Samson Akinyoola. Jatau put FC Amoo ahead with a chip into the top corner in the first half and Zamalek star Akinyoola equalized for the hosts with a one-time  strike from a goal mouth scramble.

FC Ikpeba 1-1 FC Ipaye 

FC Ipaye withstood waves of FC Ikpeba attacks to claim a 1-1 draw.

Ayodele Isiah powered FC Ikpeba ahead from the penalty spot.

But Ipaye dominated the second half and scored a deserved equaliser through Biokpo MacLean's volley.

FC Ugbade 1-0 FC Dominic

Simon Cletus scored a 15th minute penalty to earn hosts FC Ugbade a 1-0 victory over FC Dominic.

Cletus converted his spot-kick after defender Osha Wasiu handled the ball in the box. 

Disciplined FC Ugbade stifled the visiting side's attacks and FC Dominic were toothless throughout the match.

The Nigeria Ex Internationals Cup, is proudly supported by leading gaming company, Bet9ja. 

Other partners are Owu, a foremost sportswear company in Nigeria, Brila FM, Mavlon FC, Mr. Olusola Akinlade, Liigi League, Olafiranye Sports Foundation and Mr. Mahmud Dawo

du.

Ipaye beats Babington 8-7 on penalties, reaches Nigeria Ex Internationals Cup round of 16

 

FC Ipaye beat FC Babington 8-7 in a penalty shootout on Monday to reach the round 16 of the Nigeria Ex Internationals Cup.

10-man FC Babington looked to be on course for victory courtesy of Oyedokun Tosin's early opener, but Gabriel Adewara rescued on the hour before FC Ipaye triumphed in the shootout.

Babington were ahead after just 12 minutes, though, as FC Ipaye failed to adequately clear their lines, allowing Oyedokun to open the scoring.

Lucky Odia was the next to come close for the visitors, but chances were at a premium throughout the first half and the game went into the break at 0-1.

Ipaye struggled to conjure up many clear chances, but they almost levelled things up with just over 10 minutes into the second half.

 

There was nothing goalkeeper Damilare Aina could do when the equaliser eventually came, though, with Adewara converting from a free kick in the 60th minute of action.

In the 75th minute, Austin Harrison of FC Babington was sent off for illegally thwarting a goal bound move.

In response, FC Ipaye increased the pressure further but despite a glut of openings, they lacked a cutting edge and tiring FC Babington did just enough to force penalties.

During the thrilling shootout, FC Ipaye won 8-7 and crossed over to the next phase of the tournament.

In the day's other game, FC Enegwae pipped hardfighting FC Ekpo 1-0. 

FC Enagwae played much better and had opportunities. They were rewarded with the winner thanks to Morris Ali.

Mavlon FC, Brila FM, Olafiranye Sports Foundation and Mr. Mahmud Dawodu are partners of the Lagos State Football Association (LSFA) organized tournament.

Others are Bet9ja, Mr. Olusola Akinlade and LiiGi League.

Bet9ja is the registered trading name of the KC Gaming Networks Limited. The brand hold licenses to operate in all states where sports betting is permitted in Nigeria. They cover all the major sporting events across Europe and the world and guarantees payouts on all winning bets.

NPFL Promotion: Optima Energy Gold Cup applauds Beyond Limits

 

Organizers of the prestigious pre-season football tourney for clubs in the nation's three-tier league divisions, Optima Energy Gold Cup has showered emcomiums on newly promoted Nigeria Premier Football League club Beyond Limits FA. 

The fast-rasing Ikenne-based football academy made history in Nigeria domestic football became the first academy side to earn promotion from the Nationwide League One (NLO), to the Nigeria National League and to the NPFL within the space of three season. 

General Coordinator of the Optima Energy Gold Cup, Tunde Shamsudeen told the tourney's Media Channel. 

"Congratulations to Honourable Kunle Soname, whose vision and passion for football development in Nigeria, can't be measured looking at the huge investment in Beyond Limits and Remo Stars. 

"For everything that starts from a great beginning, always ends with success. Within five years, Beyond Limits, who are reigning Optima Energy Gold Cup kings, are a household name and a brand that plays magnificent football. 

"We are proud that the Optima Energy Gold Cup platform galvanized the team to be a force in the NNL than just make up the numbers. 

"Beyond Limits growth from the NLO to NPFL is not rocket science, but came about years of hardwork, dedication and putting the right pegs in right holes. 

“As football pundits would say, the game of football belongs to the players but heavy is the head that carries the crown.

"Kudos to the coaching staff of the football academy, led by Golden Eaglets assistant coach, Olumide Ajibolade. 

"Olumide, whose football philosophy is geared towards transforming raw talents to finished products, wowed every fan with his team's play. 

As his lads were fearless in Enugu, pushed top teams in both the regular season and play-off to their limits and got the job done by winning the top prize via a thrilling finale and spots kicks against former NPFL top guns and FA Cup champions Nasarawa United. 

"We hope this triumph will take them many places, as we urged Beyond Limits not to rest in its oars to achieving greater things."

Eight Teams Gear Up for Inaugural DanMalikin Hausa Cup

 

By Wale Mustapha

All is set for the inaugural DanMalikin Hausa Cup billed to kick off on June 17, 2024, at the Adeyemo College, Marafa, Kaduna State. 

This highly anticipated football competition promises to be an exciting event, with eight teams vying for top honors and prizes. 

The newly established tournament was put together to honor a renowned Philanthropist, grassroot developer, a silent achiever and lover of youth empowerment, Alhaji Shehu Usman Aliyu, the DanMalikin Hausa.

Alhaji Aliyu who is also the Special Adviser to Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio is also known for his keen interest in empowering youths through sports. 

According to chairman of the Main Organizing Committee, Abdul Sule, the Cup tourney which will be in knockout format is expected to set the bar high for future events. 

Sule, a former Nigerian international disclosed on Friday that talented players from the tournament will be selected for foreign scouting tour later in the year. 

Abdul Sule added that "this competition is expected to be fierce, with fantastic prizes at stake for the top scorer, most valuable player, and best goalkeeper to recognize individual excellence and add an extra layer of excitement to the tournament.

"We have also promised a memorable experience for all the participating teams as each team will be getting soccer balls and other souvenirs. 

"It is our little way to appreciate Alhaji Shehu Usman Aliyu who has been relentless in his quest to development of this environment and empowering the youths, especially through sports," he said.

The final of the tournament is expected to take place on 23rd of June at the same Adeyemo College, Marafa, Kaduna State.

Adegoke Wale Qamar: Igbajo United's poster boy who earns plaudits praises with astonishing goal record

 

The Nationwide League One, NLO has been identified as the largest grassroots league in the world with over 251 teams vying for the titles, prominence, honours and glories each year.

It is known for its intense competition where strikers often struggle to find the back of the net. 

Then Adegoke Wale Qamar, “Qamar Qamar” as he’s popularly known came along - the striking sensation from Igbajo United Football Club. 

In the recently concluded NLO season, Qamar scored an impressive 8 goals in 9 games, playing an important role in Igbajo United’s promotion to the Nigerian National League (NNL), the second- tier division in Nigerian leaguea. 

The Osun State-born striker’s stellar performance didn’t stop at scoring. His playmaking skills earned him an additional two assists, bringing his total goal contributions to 10 in 9 NLO matches. 

Qamar Qamar’s career thus far has been marked by one defining characteristic: goals. 

Making his debut for Igbajo United, he showed his ability to find the net with remarkable consistency.

Qamar Qamar embodies the quintessential centre-forward, blending strength, agility, aerial prowess, and the ability to score with both feet. 

His dynamic presence on the field filled a crucial role for Igbajo United, a role that had been vacant for two seasons. 

After an incredible debut season full of accolades and goals, Qamar helped his team secure promotion to the NNL.

To learn more about Adegoke Qamar Wale, or if you have any questions or wish to discuss his remarkable career, feel free to call or send a WhatsApp message to Mr. Tunde Adebiyi (Baba Coach) a football administrator and sports consultant +2347031629234.

Respect must be given where it is due, and Qamar Qamar’s goal-scoring record deserves all the accolades and recognition.

FC Agbai, Ekpo FC record comfortable victories as Ex Internationals Cup returns

 

Hostilities continued at the Maiden edition of Nigeria Ex Internationals Cup with some spicy games on Thursday.

FC Agbai hosted FC Temile in an affair that turned out to be one sided.

Quickfire goals from Ajiboye Israel and ThankGod Essien handed FC Agbai the advantage after 10 minutes.

Fuad Kaffo completed the rout five minutes after the hour mark as the tie ended 3-0.

It was "Rumble in the Jungle" as FC Ekpo and FC Akanni battled for supremacy.

Richard Zoje nodded home the curtain raiser in the 19th minute for FC Ekpo.

The lead was increased thanks to a volley on the part of Daniel Joda. 

FC Akanni tried to fight back but they were repelled by FC Ekpo who won 2-0.

Up next on the schedule was the game between FC Nieketein and FC Ugbade which the former won 1-0.

Meanwhile, FC Odini and FC Ikpeba shared the spoils in a goalless draw.

Mavlon FC, Brila FM, Olafiranye Sports Foundation and Mr. Mahmud Dawodu are partners of the Nigeria Ex Internationals Cup.

Others are Bet9ja, Mr. Olusola Akinlade and LiiGi League.

Bet9ja is the registered trading name of the KC Gaming Networks Limited. The brand hold licenses to operate in all states where sports betting is permitted in Nigeria. They cover all the major sporting events across Europe and the world and guarantees payouts on all winning bets.

Mrs Tinubu donates 50,000 notebooks to pupils in Kogi

 

The Wife of Nigeria's President, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, has donated 50,000 notebooks to public Primary schools in Kogi State under her "Renewed Hope Initiative" project.

The distribution of the note books was flagged off by the wife of Kogi Governor, Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo, on Thursday at Glass House, Government House Lokoja.

In her remarks, Hajia Ododo appreciated the President's wife for her commitment to education development and empowerment of children in public schools across the country.

She commended Mrs Tinubu for her visionary leadership and passion to ensuring quality education for all, stressing that the initiative remained an inspiration worthy of emulation.

The Kogi governor's wife promised to continue to emulate and support the Nigeria's first lady for a better output, noting that the notebooks were being distributed across the 36 States of the federation.

Mrs Ododo urged the people of Kogi to continue to support her husband to take Kogi to greater heights.

She reaffirmed the governor's commitment to continue to bridging the gaps in ensuring quality education in the state.

She advised the pupils to take their studies seriously while urging the stakeholders to ensure equitable distribution of the notebooks across public primary schools in the state.

Also speaking, the state's Commissioner for Education, Mr Wemi Jones, commended the wife of the President for the gesture towards the development of education in Kogi State.

Jones emphasised that education palliative remained the most sustainable assistance to the people, stressing that Gov. Ododo's administration would not compromise the educational needs of Kogi children.

"We are indeed very grateful to the wife of the President for the gesture because palliative in education is the most sustainable palliative that you can give because education is the bedrock of any development," he said

Jones stressed that the former Governor, Alh Yahaya Bello, handed over to Ododo who had been trained and groomed to take education to another higher level in Kogi State. 

The Commissioner assured that the necessary structure had been put in place to ensure that the notebooks get to the targeted beneficiaries.

Jones reaffirmed the commitment of Ododo's administration to ensure that education remained free at basic and secondary levels in public schools across the state.

"Education is free in Kogi. We are paying for all exams; both internal and external examinations at basic and secondary school levels in the state.

"As a ministry, we are irreversibly committed to taking education to higher level in Kogi because we have a governor that is fully ready and committed to education development," Jones said.

On her part, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Fatima Momoh appreciated the Mrs Tinubu's efforts in improving education standards in the country.

Speaking on behalf of the Education Secretaeies in the state, the Chairman Forum of Education Secretaries, Mall. Salihu Usman, appreciated the initiative and promised to ensure the distribution with fairness.

The highlight of the occasion was the flagg off of the notebooks' distribution by Kogi first lady, who subsequently handed them over to the commissioner for education for onward distribution to pupils across the state.

By Stephen Adeleye 

Multi Million Naira Zeems Sports Arena set for inauguration on June 15th in Offa

 

The multimillion naira Offa Zeems Sports Arena has been described as an edifice which aimed at developing and nurturing sports talents not only in Offa but the state in general.

Founder of Zeems Sports Arena, Aare Musbau Olaniyi stated this while briefing sports journalists on Wednesday at the Kwara State Stadium in Ilorin.

Aare Musbau who explained that the sports facility is billed to be commissioned on June 15th 2024 (Saturday) explained that it is a veritable platform to discover new talents as well as nurture them to stardom.

He added that the sports centre will also boost and fast track socioeconomic development of the host community.

 

According to Aare Musbau, Zeems Sports Arena which housed standard seven aside pitch where football matches can be played in the morning and night will be commissioned for public use, the open lounge which contains table tennis, snooker board, air hockey and kids session will also be opened to the public at the affordable prices .

"We are planning to construct swimming pool for leisure and to also have four in one court for volleyball, Badminton, tennis and handball in future but for now we are taking off from this seven aside pitch"

Aare Musbau is a philanthropist and sports administrator who has invested heavily to the development of sports in the state through sponsorship and partnership, this is manifested with establishment of Zeems Sports Arena

New ABS FC Coordinator assures to sustain club's structure with winning mentality, robust talent hunt

 

Newly appointed Coordinator of ABS FC Ilorin Malam Jimoh Bashir has assured that the structure of ABS FC which has produced a lot of Football talents across the country and beyond would be sustained with a renewed vigor of winning mentality to produce more talents. 

He spoke today at his inaugural meeting with the Management and officials of the club in Ilorin. 

Malam Bashir said his return to ABS FC was to re-enact his performance when he was the team Coordinator of the ABS FC U-15 that won the first NPFL/Laliga promises championship in Nigeria. 

He reiterated his determination to sustain the structure which had given hundreds of young talented players and coaches the opportunity to excel in their soccer careers. 

He charged the club officials to rise up against any challenge to keep the structure going for youths development and growth in Football. 

As part of his new program he has confirmed the activation of both the club's U-15, U-18 and the senior teams to participate in different cadres of the Nigeria league with assurance that competent coaches would be appointed soonest to take charge of the teams.

The Coordinator said the ABS FC/PTDT players Talent Development Program will start soonest in the six geopolitical zones with approved centers in Kaduna, Bauchi, Ilorin, Ado Ekiti, Owerri and calabar and charged the programme consultant to expedite actions with the zonal Coordinators for immediate commencement of the program. 

He thanked the proprietor of the club Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, Chairman of the club Mr Seni Saraki, Management and fans of the club for opportunity to serve in the club 

Present at the meeting were the club's Director of Football Chief Alloy Chukwuemeka, Administrative Secretary Mrs Fumilayo Owolabi, newly appointed Media Officer Mr Tosh Michael, Vice Chairman of kwara SWAN Malam Toyin Saheed, chairman of ABS FC Supporters club and other club officials.

NLO strengthens image branding, visibility as Honourable Agara visits Zagreb to sign pact with SofaScore

 

Poised to take the nation's grassroot football to enviable heights, Chairman of the Nationwide League One, His Excellency Silas Agara arrived in Zagreb, the Croatian capital for a sports business conference. 

On Wednesday 5, June 2024 in Zagreb, the former Nasarawa State Deputy Governor began his trip, as a guest at the headquarters of Sofascore, where he met Zlatko Hrkać (the co-founders of Sofascore) and other top executives Marta Bihar, Toni Jermaniš and Filip Vrlec.

From there Agara was at Hotel Falkensteiner & SPA Iadera located on the Adriatic Coast of Croatia, for his first event, which was to network with all the partnership clubs of Sofascore across the world. 

Next on his trip, the NLO boss will attend a two-day Sunset Sports Media Festival beginning from Thursday to Friday. 

While speaking from Zagreb with the NLO Media Channel, a delighted Agara said. 

"Football in Nigeria has over the years been in high demand, looking at the quality that makes it to Europe and other parts of the world. More so there are a lot of on-tapped talents everywhere, thus making the Nationwide League One the best platform that can create a career pathway for many of these talents. 

"We are delighted that the NLO now has  international interest amongst fans and corporate brands, this development in the long run can help our grassroot football realise its enormous potential. 

"Our first season with Sofascore has been a rewarding one, as it has provided an opportunity for more fan engagements, by way of comments, predicting the scoreline of matches and also seeing minute-by-minute live scores of their teams pop up on their devices by way of notifications once they have the app."

Honourable Ekene Adams felicitates with Minister of Sports, Senator John Enoh on his 58th birthday

 

Chairman House Committee on Sports, Honourable Ekene Abubakar Adams, has expressed his felicitation with the Nigeria Sports Minister, senator John Enoh as he marks his 58th Birthday.

"I want to join the rest of the Sports family to congratulate our Sports Minister, as he adds another year today."

Honourable Ekene Adams who represents the good people of chikun/Kajuru federal constituency in the House of Representatives said this is the best time for every sports loving Nigerian to pray for the Minister in order to steer Nigeria Sports to greater height.

"I want to personally send my best wishes to the Minister on this day of his birthday and I pray that he continues to enjoy God's wisdom and guidance as he discharges his duties in office."

Honourable Ekene further used the occasion of the Minister's birthday to reiterate his committee's unwavering partnership with the Sports Ministry in the development of Nigeria Sports in terms of legislation and oversight duties.

Signed 

Media, House Committee on Sports Chairman

Awoniyi's Unicorn Football Academy strengthens collaboration with French embassy

 

Super Eagles and Nottingham Forest striker, Taiwo Awoniyi, paid a courtesy visit to the French Ambassador to Nigeria, Jean Francois Hasperue, on Monday. 

The meeting at the French Embassy in Abuja focused on exploring sports partnership opportunities and discussing ways to develop the Unicorn Football Academy in Ilorin.

Unicorn Football Academy, which is controlled by the elder brother of the Forest's striker, Victor Awoniyi, is been positioned to help youngsters achieve their dreams of playing football at the highest level. 

Awoniyi, who has been making waves in the English Premier League, was warmly received by Ambassador Hasperue. 

The duo engaged in a fruitful conversation, exchanging ideas on how to strengthen sports ties between Nigeria and France.

The ambassador expressed his admiration for Awoniyi's achievements on the pitch and his role in promoting Nigerian football globally. 

Awoniyi thanked the ambassador for his support and shared his vision for the Unicorn Football Academy, which aims to nurture young talents and provide opportunities for them to succeed in the sport.

The discussion centered on potential collaborations between French football institutions and the academy, including training programs, coaching exchanges, and infrastructure development.

Ambassador Hasperue assured Awoniyi of France's commitment to supporting sports development in Nigeria and explored possibilities for future partnerships.

The meeting concluded with a pledge to continue the dialogue and explore ways to strengthen sports relations between the two nations. 

Awoniyi left the embassy inspired, knowing that his passion for football could make a positive impact on the lives of young Nigerians and contribute to the growth of the sport in the country.

Unicorn Football Academy is scheduled to participate in a four-club scouting programme from Tue., June 4 to Fri. June 7, in Kaduna.

LSFA Ex-International Cup: FC Agali humbles Aiyegbeni FC

 

FC Agali recorded a 2-0 victory over FC Aiyegbeni in the first leg of their Round of 32 at Victor Agali Community Stadium on Sunday afternoon. 

Segun Alayande made the breakthrough in the 70th minute of the contest before Aliu Hassan doubled FC Agali's advantage in the 89th minute, meaning that the Badagry side will take a two-goal lead into the second leg of the contest.

FC Agali had a golden chance to take the lead in the 22nd minute of the game but Aliu missed the spot kick.

The homers, as expected, were the team dominating possession, but FC Ayegbeni looked a big threat on the counter, with Osas Ekuase and Chinaza Onuaha leading the charge.

The away side had a chance of their own when Chinonso Sunday worked space inside the FC Agali box before attempting to beat the keeper, who was equal to the effort.

The game trully deserved a goal as it was an end to end affair. 

However, at the break the scoreline was goalless draw.

The home team did make the breakthrough in the 70th minute of the contest, though, and it was not a surprise that Alayande was the player on the scoresheet.

It was a simple finish from the youngster, who converted into the net from close range after Isa Hassan flicked the ball to his path. 

The Yakubu Ayegbeni mentored team managed to settle after going down to a goal, but they conceded a second in the 89th minute when Aliu's struck to redeem himself after a first half penalty miss. 

FC Ayegbeni had the opportunity to reduce the deficit but they blew it just wide of the post at injury time, leaving them in a difficult position in the tie ahead of the second leg.

Mavlon FC, Brila FM, Olafiranye Sports Foundation and Mr. Mahmud Dawodu are partners of the Nigeria Ex Internationals Cup.

Others are Bet9ja, Mr. Olusola Akinlade and LiiGi League.

Bet9ja is the registered trading name of the KC Gaming Networks Limited. The brand hold licenses to operate in all states where sports betting is permitted in Nigeria. They cover all the major sporting events across Europe and the world and guarantees payouts on all winning bets.

Matchday2 Result

FC Agali 2-0 FC Ayegbeni

NYSC holds environmental sanitation exercise in Kogi State, sensitises residents on good hygiene

 

The National Youth Services Corps (NYSC) in Kogi, has offered free Environmental sanitation services to Kabawa communities in Lokoja to prevent outbreak of diseases.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the NYSC also enlightened the residents with adequate information on good grooming, environmental and personal hygienes.

Kabawa community comprised of rural traditional communities in confluence city of Lokoja the state capital.

Speaking at the event on Saturday in Lokoja, the Kogi State Coordinator of NYSC, Mr Femi Osungbohun, said the exercise was being carried out nationwide as mandated by the NYSC Director General, Brig. -Gen. Yushau Ahmed.

Osungbohun noted that environmental sanitation had been recognised globally as one of the key requirements for prevention of diseases and their escalation to epidemic.

He stressed the need to intensify efforts to enlighten the general public especially the rural dwellers on the health risks of poor hygiene with focus on food contamination prevention, water and the environment.

"To achieve a clean environment, every community member will have to be mobilised for participation in the exercise, which will feature sensitisation, disease surveillance and report of outbreaks.

"Indeed, the call to action will promote cooperation and reduce indifference and ignorance as seen in the robust response to the COVID-19 pandemic with awareness creation and vigilance.

"We can no longer afford to be indifferent to anything that will be detrimental to public health and safety," Osungbohun said.

Osungbohun stressed that the NYSC was making efforts to save many lives by empowering the people with adequate information on good grooming and environmental hygiene.

According to him, the NYSC sensitisation efforts will focus on regular environmental sanitation, proper waste disposal, clean food and water intake, hand wash, protection from food and water contamination, among others.

"I wish to assure Nigerians that we will not rest on our oars as we continue to offer health and other services including environmental protection.

"I am particularly hopeful about the prospects of this exercise because with regular sanitation, malaria and other related diseases will be reduced to the barest minimum," Osungbohun said.

In his remarks, the Kogi Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Mr Monday Anyebe, who was represented by Mrs Esther Ogaji, commended the NYSC for the initiative.

The Commissioner assured the NYSC of the continuous support of the state government for the corps members in the state, while urging the residents to imbibe thee habit of keeping their environment clean .

In their comments, the Caretaker Committee Chairman of Lokoja Local Government Area, Abdullahi Adamu; and Maigari of Lokoja, Alh. Ibrahim Gambo, commended the NYSC for the initiative.

The Maigari, who was represented by the Waziri of Lokoja, Alh Abdulrahman Idris, assured the NYSC of his total support in order to achieve the desired objectives of the exercise.

The highlight of the occasion was the Health talk by the President of NYSC Medical CDS, Dr Adeniyi Ayomide, as well as the flag off of the exercise by the NYSC State coordinator. 

Stakeholders at the event include: representatives from Red Cross, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Federal University Lokoja (FUL), Religious and Traditional leaders, among others. 

By Stephen Adeleye

Ex International Cup kics off on Saturday in Lagos

 

The eargerly-awaited Ex-Internationals Cup organised by Lagos State Football Association kicks off Saturday, with three matches to be played on Matchday One, in two different centres.

In the opening match, FC Ugbade would play host to FC Nieketein at the Nitel ground, Oshodi, at 7am.

Other Matchday One games would hold at Legacy pitch Surulere, as FC Omoruyi and FC Obafemi trade tackles at 10am, while FC Elaho and FC Udeze do battle on the same pitch at 12 noon.

According to the organisers, the tournament which would see 32 Lagos based ex-Nigeria internationals adopting various teams purposedly for the tournament, would be played on a home and away knockout basis across different playgrounds including Legacy Pitch, Nitel Ground, Maracana Stadium, Victor Agali Stadium, Jalisco Stadium, amongst other Stadia.

Speaking on the historic tournament, Chairman of the organising committee, Engr. Waidi Akanni, said the tournament is expected to have these retired national teams players on the touchlines, ditching out tactical instructions to their various adopted teams, as coach-mentor.

"This is historic and unprecedented, as football fans would have the opportunity to see their once favourite players, passing on instructions to the younger players during the tournament," he remarked excitedly.

"This is a well-planned and unique tournament. Already, the 32 teams have been fully kitted and of course by Owu Sportswear, with adequate logistics arrangement to make it hitch-free," Akanni, a former Chairman of LSFA disclosed.

While assuring soccer fans, players and officials of a top quality organisation, he also enthused that the tournament is expected to set an enviable benchmark for grassroots football development.