Wednesday, 27 November 2024

Kogi Teqers shine in 9ja Teqball Challenger Series, cry out for support



Despite their impressive performance, the Kogi State athletes participating in the 9ja Teqball Challenger Series are calling out for support.


The duo of Ezeigbo and Joshua Musa have already secured a spot in the quarterfinals of the men's singles, while Ibinabor George is through to the women's semifinals.


In an interview with one of the athletes, they expressed their motivation to make the state proud but lamented the lack of support. However, they remain optimistic about the current commissioner of sports and the government's potential to provide assistance.


The tournament, held at the Fwavwei Junction in Rayfield, Jos, Plateau State, will continue today with the conclusion of the men's and women's stages.


The Kogi Tigers are determined to bring glory to their state, and with the right support, they may just achieve their goal.



Source: Fwavwei Junction, Rayfield, Jos, Plateau State.

Tuesday, 26 November 2024

Teqball: Victor Oyemade reigns supreme at Lead Sports 9ja Teqball Challenger Series


Nigeria number one seed Teqer Victor Oyemade, has underlined his credentials after winning all four group games at the 2024 “9ja Teqball Challenger Series” organised by Lead Sports Afrique in collaboration with the Teqball Federation of Nigeria in Jos, Plateau State. 


Playing in Group 'A' Oyemade in his first game today, 26th of November 2024, defeated Abdulkadir Folarin in two straight sets 12-1, 12-7, edged out Ihedioha McBlaise 12-5, 12-5, brushed off Mohammed Rabiu 12-7, 12-2 and smashed Mohammed Danjuma 12-0 12-0. He is joined by Ihedioha McBlaise as he progresses to the next round after triumphing in four games.


In Group 'B' Mikel Enebechukwu won four games and is joined by Yahyah Akorede who won three games to play in the next round.


Group 'C' saw Funsho Samson win all four games to progress while Joshua Musa won three games to join in as the second best in the Group.


Meanwhile, Grouping 'D' saw the calm display of Efosa Ebosa winning all four games to top the group as Ezeigbo Cornelius joined the list of top two to qualify for the second round after winning three games and losing one.


The quarter final game will be decided on November 27, 2024 at the Plateau State Deputy Governor's parking lot, Fwavwei Junction, Rayfield, Jos, Plateau State

Lagos agog as Supremacy Cup kicks off with 10 team battle for honor, glory

 


In a powerful demonstration of their steadfast dedication to developing football talent and empowering young athletes, the Lagos Supremacy Cup is poised for a spectacular return, heralding its 19th edition filled with excitement, celebration, and abundant opportunities for aspiring football stars.


Scheduled for November 27-30, the 19th edition of the Lagos Supremacy Cup will feature 10 exceptionally skilled teams eager to display their abilities and vie for the prestigious trophy.


Among the participating teams are the defending champions Dino SC, Ikorodu City, Broad City, and Real Saphire, alongside Beyond Limits Academy, Seamoriow FC, 36 Lion, Bethel FC, MS Success, and Charlesann FC.


The event has attracted the interest of 10 scouts from leading European football nations, including Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Turkey, England, Slovakia, Denmark, France, and Germany, all keen to identify and cultivate the next wave of football talent.


This remarkable platform has made the possibility of talented players transitioning to international opportunities a tangible reality.


The Lagos Supremacy Cup has long been recognized as a vital venue for discovering football talent.


European scouts are set to return, eager to uncover new talents for potential professional contracts overseas. The tournament's distinctive “No Offside” rule enhances the thrill, promoting dynamic and high-scoring matches.


Spectators can look forward to elite competition, as clubs vie for dominance in this thrilling event, which is celebrated for its contribution to youth development in football. As anticipation grows, all attention will be directed towards Mobolaji Johnson Arena, where the future stars of football will shine.

Saturday, 23 November 2024

Caleb Ochedikwu: Nigerian midfielder hits brace to help Croatian club record success

 


Two weeks after scoring his maiden goal for his club Uljanik against Kustosija, Flying Eagles midfielder, Caleb Ochedikwu had a brace to his name to seal victory for his team against Segesta reports www.totorinews.com


Ochedikwu, a box to box midfielder had a commanding presence on the pitch, as he was all over the place in the thick of the action and little wonder that he scored for Uljanik in both of the encounter.


It was a very entertaining Croatian top flight league game on Saturday, Uljanik made their intentions known from blast of the whistle with Lorenzonl Travaglia opening the net in the 13th minute.


The energetic Nigerian midfielder, blessed with visionary passes, scored in the 35th minute to increase the tally to 2- 0 and the scoreline stood the same going into the break.


Segesta were not ready to be slaughtered at an away game without a fight and they registered a goal through Tonci Kukoc Petraello nine minutes into the second half.


It was a goal that gave the visitors a glimpse of hope that they could claw their way back into the game from two goals down, as they intensified pressure on the home team for the equaliser.


However, reality of losing the maximum points was confirmed when Ochedikwu hit the back of the net with his brace in the 73rd minute of the thriller.


The third goal from Uljanik was back - breaking goal. The fighting spirit of Segesta disappeared into the thin air, with Uljanik missing some couples of goal scoring opportunities that woud have turned the tie to a more harvest of goals before the referee signalled the end of the game.


The former Mavlon Fc midfielder, who just signed for the club during the summer transfer window is gradually proving to be goal scoring midfielder with his three goals in two games consecutively.


It is more interesting to note that the Nigerian midfielder has played seven games and scoring three times thereby making him the rave of the moment in Croatia.

TCC League: Hassan Agbede's hat-trick inspires Dino Sporting Club to victory over Valiant FC

 


Dino Sporting Club recorded their first back-to-back wins of the season in the Creative Championship League with a dominant 3-1 victory over Valiant FC on Saturday.


The former cup holders, who have had their worst start to a league campaign in history, had managed just one win prior to this run. 


However, the team showed resilience in recent weeks, beginning with a 1-0 triumph over defending champions Beyond Limits Football Academy in Ikenne last weekend.


The momentum continued this Saturday as Dino Sporting Club impressed at home, with forward Hassan Agbede scoring a remarkable hat-trick to secure the win for coach Godwin Gibson's side.



Expectedly, Agbede was presented with the player of the match prize for his exceptional performance. 


The result has however helped the Coach Godwin Gibson side move up on the TCC League log. 

FG sensitises Kogi stakeholders on benefits of national digital economy bill, e-governance

 


The Federal Government through the Federal Ministry Of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, has interacted with stakeholders in Kogi on benefits of the proposed National Digital Economy and e-Governance Bill, 2024.


The stakeholders' engagement was organised by federal government in collaboration with Kogi Ministry of Information and Communication on Thursday in Lokoja.


In his paper presentation, a Legal Consultant to the National Digital Economy and E-Governance Bill, 2024, Chukwudi Chimezie, noted that the proposed bill was expected to bring numerous benefits to Nigeria's digital landscape.



He said the key objectives include: enhancing digital economy growth, improving competition and innovation, export-oriented capacities, digital transformation of public institutions, and promoting e-governance amongst ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs).


According to him, its benefits include: Legal recognition of electronic transactions, increased accessibility, environmental sustainability, improved consumer protection and encouraging digital literacy.


Chimezie explained that the bill would contribute to Nigeria's goal of increasing digital literacy rates, reduce the need for physical presence and paper usage, as well as support environmental sustainability.


"Overall, the National Digital Economy and e-Governance Bill aims to create a comprehensive legal framework for Nigeria's digital economy, promoting economic growth, innovation, and effective governance.



"The bill is a foundational framework that sets Nigeria on a path toward economic growth, efficient governance, and a secure digital environment," he said.


The legal added that the implementation roadmap would be in phases of short term (0-2 years) Medium (3-5 years) and Long term (5 years and above).


Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of Kogi State Ministry of Information and Communication, Mr Ebenezer Adurotija, urged the stakeholders to take a critical look at the bill and contribute meaningfully towards the benefits of Nigerians.


He emphasised that the bill was aimed at driving economic growth through digital technology, improve public service delivery, and create a competitive environment for the Nigeria digital economy.



The stakeholders at the meeting in various group discussions, expressed their support for the bill and commended the federal government for the initiative, describing it as a significant step in Nigeria's digital transformation journey.


They, however expressed concern over the ability of government agencies to ensure enforcement of digital standards and adherence to e-governance mandates.


They also observed the challenges of financial constraints, institutional resistance, network issue as well as cyber security threat, among others. 


By Stephen Adeleye



Thursday, 21 November 2024

Festus Allen gets Gateway United's top technical job for one football season



Gateway United FC has officially announced the appointment of Festus Allen as head coach for the upcoming 2024/2025 Nigeria National League season.


The unveiling ceremony, held at the Otunba Dipo Dina Stadium in Ijebu Ode, was graced by Ogun State Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Wasiu Isiaka, who presented Coach Allen with the club's jersey. The event also introduced the club's new technical crew, which includes:


Allen will be assisted by Shakiru Lawal (Assistant Coach 1), Emmanuel Bamidele ( Assistant Coach 2) and Michael Soniregun (Goalkeeping Coach).


Hon. Wasiu Isiaka urged the newly appointed technical crew to deliver their best for the club in the coming NNL season.


"Today, we unveil a new technical crew to lead us on this transformative journey. You are here to inspire, to build a legacy, and to strengthen the bond with our unique community. This is your opportunity to leave an indelible mark," he said.


During the event, Coach Allen said he's ready for the task ahead.


"I am honored to take on this role at Gateway United FC. My mission is to build a competitive team, foster a strong connection with the fans, and achieve the success this club deserves. Together, we can accomplish great things."


With a career spanning over 25 years, Coach Allen brings a wealth of experience to the club. Known for his tactical acumen and talent development, he has previously led ABS FC from the amateur division to Nigeria's top-flight league. 


His coaching portfolio includes stints with 3SC, MFM FC, Bayelsa United, and Ijebu United, where he built a reputation for identifying and nurturing young talents.

Wednesday, 20 November 2024

Top football scouts to harness talents at 19th Lagos Supremacy Cup

 


Ten international scouts have received visas to attend the 19th edition of the Lagos Supremacy Cup.


Cem Sagar, the coordinator for expatriates and head of Diamond Sports Management, will be accompanied by nine additional scouts to Lagos for this esteemed tournament.


Among those confirmed for the event are Dan Smejkal, Tomas Syrovatka, Pape Cissokho, Toni Bilandzic, Dennys Dilettosso, Nenad Sarcevic, Zdenek Mikyska, Jan Prosek, and Florin Biba.


The tournament is set to take place from November 27th to 30th at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena.


Organizers have indicated that the scouting tournament will feature some of the top grassroots teams.


Cem emphasized that the purpose of the program is to identify talent at the grassroots level and provide them with opportunities to play internationally.



He stated, "Our goal is to discover talent and promote them to European markets."


"This is why nine additional scouts have been confirmed for the event."


Lagos State Football Association (LSFA) Chairman, Hajji Olawale Liameed Gafar, who is the Chief Convener of the highly anticipated tournament, shared that each match will consist of two halves lasting 30 minutes each. Notably, there will be no offside calls during the games, which is expected to minimize unnecessary stoppages and increase both playtime and scoring opportunities.


In discussing the significance of the tournament for the advancement of football in Nigeria, he emphasized that only 69 youth players can represent the national U15, U17, and U20 teams in any given generation.


"Our primary goal is to create more opportunities for youth footballers in Nigeria. We have only three youth national teams: U-15, U-17, and U-20. Each of these teams can only feature 23 players per tournament per generation. What happens to the remaining one million active semi-professional players?"


"The solution lies in the Lagos Supremacy Cup. While the 10 teams participating in this tournament do not encompass the entirety of Nigeria's youth football landscape, they have been carefully selected based on their track records in identifying and nurturing top talent," he added.


The tournament will include defending champions Dino FC, Ikorodu City FC, Broad City FC, and Real Saphire FC, along with Beyond Limits FC, Seamoriow FC, 36 Lion, Bethel FC, MS Success FC, and Charlesann FC.

Saturday, 16 November 2024

TCC League: Unauthorised VAR drama costs Dino Sporting crucial win in Ikenne

 

Dino Sporting Club was held to a controversial draw by Beyond Limits on matchday eight of the TCC League on Saturday.


Coming into the game, Dino Sporting was eager to end a four-game winless streak. Despite struggling since the start of October with just one win in their last six matches, the team displayed a revitalized performance against the league leaders in Ikenne.


Godwin Gibson's side dominated proceedings and deservedly took the lead just before halftime. 


They maintained their advantage throughout the second half and were seconds away from a hard-fought victory when the referee handed the hosts a lifeline by awarding a penalty in the 97th minute.


The penalty decision came after claims that a Dino Sporting defender handled the ball in the box. 


The referees controversially consulted an unauthorized VAR before making their call, sparking protests from the visiting team. 


Despite their objections, the penalty was awarded and converted, denying Dino Sporting a well-earned three points.

DG NSC: Olopade's appointment, big win for Nigerian sports sector - Tomiwa Lawal

 


A sports enthusiast, brand and packaging expert, Tomiwa Lawal has described the appointment of Honourable Bukola Olopade as the Director General of National Sports Commission, NSC as accurate and timely for Nigerian sports. 


Olopade was announced as the Director General of the newly reformed commission by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday. 


The veteran sports technocrat will see to the day to day running of the commission which require urgent intervention to restore its glory days. 


Lawal who is also the Field Sales Manager with the world's largest food and beverage company, Nestle Nigeria Plc in Kogi State believed strongly that Olopade's appointment was an indication of President Tinubu's interest to make sports as a veritable tool to nation building and source of revenue to the country's GDP. 


He however charged his old friend and associate dated back to their days at Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Abeokuta to justify his appointment by making positive impact on the sector as he's always known for his transformative initiative in sportd business. 


"Congratulations to my dear friend and big brother , Honourable Bukola Olopade on his well-deserved appointment as the Director General of National Sports Commission. 


"This achievement is a testament to his vast experience and dedication to the sports industry.


"Olopade's journey to this milestone is inspiring, his passion for sports, coupled with his business acumen, has earned him recognition and respect within the industry.


"As Director General, Olopade will undoubtedly bring his expertise to bear, fostering growth and success for Nigeria's sports programs.


"His appointment is a victory for Nigeria's sports and we eagerly anticipate the positive impact he'll make.


"I wish him all the best in his new role and look forward to witnessing the transformative changes he'll bring to Nigeria's sports landscape," he said.


Olopade was one time Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development in Ogun State. 


He spare headed the successful hosting of National Sports Festival in 2006 held in Ogun State. 


Olopade has organized quite a number of successful sports tournaments in Nigeria in athletics, football, wheelchair basketball among others through his sports firm, Nilayo Sports Management Limited.

Sunday, 10 November 2024

NLO sends Ogunnowo, others to sports business refresher course

 


In its quest to make the Nationwide League One a more valuable asset and attract corporate sponsors/partners, top management staff of the NLO will be seeking academic knowledge and skills to pursue global business. 


They will, on Tuesday, November 12, through Friday, November 14, attend a 3-day Refreshers course in Sports Business Administration. 


Attending the course are the Chief Operating Officer (COO), Olushola Ogunnowo, Temitayo Egbayelo (League Manager), and Tunde Shamsudeen, the NLO's Media Director. 


The course curriculum includes administration and operations, digital branding and corporate communications, stakeholder management, and sports marketing and sponsorship. 


Ogunnowo, who spoke with the NLO Media Channel, said: "Sports business is a thriving multi-million dollar industry that is set to grow exponentially in Africa. At the NLO, we are poised to seeing clubs make good returns from their investments. 


"Unfortunately, with more than 300 clubs, football academies, and overwhelming talents, the NLO remains the biggest league in Africa, yet the business part of the sport is untapped. 


"Looking at the growing number of the clubs and academies, the NLO I would say is in its exciting stages of its development, so we don't want to leave nothing to chance to ensure.


"One of the essence of this refresher training courses is to take us back to basics so we can review fundamentals we may have forgotten or upskill on new information we may be unaware of. 


"It will help increase efficiency, knowledge retention, and our awareness of new football business trends."

Saturday, 9 November 2024

Ochedikwu's goal not enough to give Uljanik match points

 


Caleb Ochedikwu's 49th minute goal for Uljanik failed to seal the victory for his club against visiting Kustosija, reports www.totorinews.com.


Nigerian midfielder, Ochedikwu was in the thick of the action in the thrilling encounter where Kustosija scored six minutes before the end of regulation time to earn a draw.


The former Mavlon midfielder has featured six times for the modest Croatian side and he registered his maiden goal in this tie.

Uljanik are not well placed on the Dugla NL as they are in the red zone (14th) haven garnered 11 points from 12 games. 

Greenlock FC: Turkish experts arrive Nigeria for football talents, coaches development


 

Greenlock FC Turkish Sporting Director Ahmet Arslan, along with renowned Coach Tayfun Sirin, have arrived in Abuja to oversee a series of intra-team matches and a high-profile friendly match at the Bwari Township Stadium. 


Their visit to Nigeria is part of an initiative aimed at enhancing the development of Nigerian football talent at Greenlock FC, with a particular focus on easing the players’ transition to European football clubs.


This initiative aims to refine player skills, optimize training schedules, and provide targeted development programs that will elevate athletes’ potential and prepare them for professional opportunities abroad.



During their stay, Coach Sirin will lead a comprehensive player development program designed to help players build the necessary technical, tactical, and physical qualities that will make them attractive prospects for European clubs. 


Training sessions will occur twice daily over the next eight days, concentrating on improving individual skills, team strategies, and match fitness.


In addition to intensive training, players will participate in recovery protocols to minimize injury risks and maintain peak physical conditions throughout the program. The coaching staff is committed to creating an optimal training schedule that incorporates rest and recovery, which are crucial for player longevity and performance.



"We are here to assist in the development of these young talents and prepare them for the challenges of professional football," said Arslan.


"Our goal is to help them transition from local football to the European football system while showcasing their skills, discipline, and mental resilience."


As part of the coaching program, Greenlock FC will hold intra-team matches to simulate competitive conditions and further assess player strengths and areas for improvement. Additionally, a friendly match will be organized, providing an excellent opportunity for players to demonstrate their abilities in a real-game scenario.


These matches are significant as they serve as evaluation tools for the coaches and provide vital exposure for the players, giving them a chance to showcase their skills in front of local and international scouts.


At the end of the eight-day training period, the coaching staff plans to analyze the outcomes of the friendly match and intra-team games to identify specific areas that need further attention.


 "The friendly match and intra-team scrimmages will give us a clearer picture of each player’s development. We will be able to finalize the training programs based on these observations," Coach Sirin explained.



Subsequently, the coaches will adjust the training schedules to address any weaknesses while continuing to refine players’ strengths, with the ultimate goal of making them more competitive on the European stage.


The arrival of Sporting Director Ahmet Arslan and Coach Sirin marks a significant milestone in the ongoing development of Nigerian football. With their experience and international expertise, they are providing valuable insights into how local talent can be better prepared for the rigours of top-tier European football. 

This program is expected to open doors for many of these players, helping them transition smoothly into professional football careers abroad.



"We believe in the talent here in Nigeria," concluded Ahmet Arslan. "With the right development and exposure, these players will have the chance to thrive at the highest levels of the sport."


This initiative is part of a larger vision to not only enhance the skills of individual players but also to foster a stronger connection between Greenlock FC and other European clubs, potentially creating more pathways for young talents to succeed internationally.

Monday, 4 November 2024

Kwara State to host inaugural Beach Volleyball Tourney in December

 


The first Kwara Beach Volleyball Tournament is set for December 27-28, 2024, at WaterView Park in Ilorin, Kwara State. 


Announced by Dare Kuti, Media Assistant to Nigeria Volleyball Federation President Engr Musa Nimrod, the event aims to promote the sport and discover new talent.


"This tournament will provide a vital platform for athletes to showcase their skills and passion," Kuti stated at a press conference on November 4, 2024. 


The competition welcomes participants from military and paramilitary organizations, as well as students from tertiary institutions, fostering camaraderie among diverse groups.


Key collaborations include the Kwara State Volleyball Association, Nigeria Volleyball Referees Association (Kwara State), University of Ilorin, Kwara State Sports Commission, and the Ministry of Youth Development. 


Kuti emphasized the need for partnerships with investors to enhance the tournament and promote beach volleyball in Nigeria.


He also encouraged the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) in Kwara to help publicize the event and raise community awareness. 


Additionally, Kuti congratulated Engineer Musa Nimrod on his recent appointment as President of the CAVB Beach Volleyball Commission, highlighting its significance for the Nigerian sports community.

Saturday, 2 November 2024

NLO top brass meets Bayelsa government officials over grassroots football development

 



Chief Operating Officer Olushola Ogunnowo and League Manager Tayo Egbaiyelo (MON) during the week had a productive meeting with the Bayelsa State Deputy Governor Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo. 

The meeting in Yenegoa also had House Committee Chairman on Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Tare Porri, Deputy Chief of Staff (DCoS), Mr. Irorodamie Komonibo and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Sports Development in Bayelsa State, Mrs. Alagoa-Aigbiniode Grace in attendance.

Chief Operating Officer (COO), Olushola Ogunnowo, told NLO Media Channel. 


"We had a robust and successful deliberations with His Excellency, Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo and other key government officials in Bayelsa's sports sector, on how the state can inculcate one of NLO's major activities into its football programmes. 

"Governor Douye Diri deserves all the accolades he has been getting as his 'Prosperity Administration’ has impacted meaningfully on the youths via football and other sports. 

"Being a former Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Governor Diri's unparalleled commitment to sports is unmatched, as he has prioritised the development of sports as a tool to positively engage the youths in the state.


"No wonder Bayelsa is now ascribed as the Mecca of sports in Nigeria and home of grassroots football with the Prosperity Cup. 

"As the apex body coordinating grassroot football in the country and the largest teams and academies in Africa, the recent Afriskaut NLO Cup partnership has become one the most prestigious sporting events, showcasing our best talents to top clubs in Europe and of course, a global audience."

"Hosting one of NLO's major events at the Samson Siasia Sports Complex in Yenegoa will complement Governor Diri's agenda on grassroot football development," he said.