Fola Badmus

World Cup Qualifier: FIFA Picks Chadian Referee for Lesotho, Nigeria Showdown

By BUNMI OGUNYALE World football-governing body, FIFA, has selected Chadian official Alhadi Allaou Mahamat as the referee for next week’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match between Nigeria’s Super Eagles and the Crocodiles of Lesotho.   The Matchday 9 encounter is billed for the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, South Africa on Friday, 10th October 2025 and will kick off at 6pm South Africa time (5pm Nigeria time).   Allaou, who was also in charge for Nigeria’s 1-0 win over Rwanda in Uyo on 6th September (Matchday 7), will work with compatriots Bogola Issa (assistant 1), Moussa Hafiz (assistant 2) and Abdelkerim Ousmane (fourth official).   FIFA also appointed Kenyan official Alice Damaris Kimani as referee assessor, while William Makinati Shongwe from eSwatini will be in the role of commissioner.   Nigeria, presently three points off first-placed Benin Republic and second-placed South Africa, will go for an outright win to enhance their chances of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals, to be jointly-hosted by the United States of America, Canada and Mexico next summer.  

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Sanwo-Olu Celebrates Guinness World Record Artist at “Impossibilty’s A Myth” Exhibition

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has celebrated the exceptional achievement of 15-year-old Nigerian artist, Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke, whose Guinness World Record-breaking artwork, “Impossibility is a Myth,” was unveiled on Thursday, in Lagos.   Speaking through his Special Adviser on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr. Idris Aregbe, the Governor described the exhibition as a landmark event that highlights the boundless creativity and resilience of Nigerian youth. He commended Kanyeyachukwu, a non-verbal teenager on the autism spectrum, for using art as a powerful medium of self-expression, courage, and impact.   “At just 15, Kanyeyachukwu has accomplished what many would deem impossible. His record-breaking canvas, now recognised globally as the largest in the world created by an individual, is not only a personal triumph but also a powerful reminder that impossibility is truly a myth,” Sanwo-Olu said.   The Governor noted that the infinity symbol at the centre of the painting is a profound call for inclusion, acceptance and hope for persons living with autism, urging society to create more opportunities for every young person, regardless of their circumstances.   Sanwo-Olu stressed that Lagos State remains committed to supporting young people, whom he described as “the heartbeat of innovation and the stewards of our future”. He emphasised that the government will continue to invest in platforms that nurture youth talent, creativity and global competitiveness.   “On behalf of the Government and people of Lagos State, I congratulate Kanyeyachukwu for showcasing the Nigerian spirit of resilience and excellence on a global stage. You have inspired your peers and reminded us all that impossibility is indeed just a myth,” he added.

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Lagos Govt Deepens Citizens’ Engagement Through Transport Survey

The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive and data-driven governance through a one-day training programme for field officers tasked with conducting the People’s Perception Survey on Lagos State Public Transportation Systems.   The Lagos Bureau of Statistics, in collaboration with the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) and the Lagos Ferry Services Company (LAGFERRY), convened a one-day training session for field officers tasked with conducting the People’s Perception Survey on Lagos State Public Transportation Systems. The exercise will cover Road (BRT), Rail (Red Line and Blue Line), and Water (Ferry Services). The training, held at the Debt Management Office (DMO) in Ikeja on Thursday, brought together coordinators, supervisors, and enumerators from across the state who will engage commuters and collect feedback on the rail, road, and water transport services provided by the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) and the Lagos Ferry Services Company.   The survey is designed to capture how Lagosians truly experience public transportation, not just in terms of service delivery, but in terms of impact. It’s a listening exercise, a mirror held up to the system, and a tool for shaping smarter and more inclusive policies. It aligns with Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES Plus development agenda, which emphasises traffic management, transportation, health, education, technology, and inclusive governance.   Delivering the keynote address, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Economic Planning and Budget (MEPB), Mrs. Olayinka Ojo, represented by the Director Economic Intelligence Department, Mr. Alao Akinkunmi, commended LAMATA and Lagos Ferry Services for embracing transparency and accountability through citizen engagement.   In her words, “This initiative shows we are learning, adapting, and evolving to meet the real needs of our citizens,” she said. “Field officers are the first and most critical link in the data value chain. Their accuracy and professionalism directly influence how effectively the government can plan, allocate resources, and evaluate programmes.”   The Permanent Secretary also highlighted the importance of empathy and public trust in the data collection process, urging enumerators to approach their work with integrity and respect for the voices of everyday Lagosians. “When citizens feel heard, they are more likely to participate, and that participation strengthens our democracy,” she said.   She expressed confidence that the training would empower field officers to deliver high-quality data that would shape the future of mobility in Lagos State.   The Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) representative, Mr. Ayodeji Adegboye, offered practical guidance to enumerators, highlighting peak operational hours (6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.) and the importance of understanding the various transport systems from the Ikorodu-TBS BRT to standard bus routes like Abule Egba and Oshodi, and the seven-seater (FLM) buses.   He urged officers to be patient, punctual, and professional, noting that their role is vital in clarifying transport options to the public and gathering meaningful feedback  

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Onuachu Wins Goal of the Month Award in Turkey

Nigeria and Trabzonspor forward Paul Onuachu has won the Turkish Super Lig Goal of the Month award. Onuachu superb header in the Black Sea Storm’s 1-1 draw with Samsunspor was named the best for the month. The Nigeria international was the first recipient of the award in the 2025/26 season. The 31-year-old has been in blistering form since joining Trabzonspor from Southampton on a permanent transfer in the summer. Onuachu registered a goal , and an assist in the club’s 4-0 win over Kayserispor on Friday. He is currently the leading scorer in the Turkish top-flight with six goals, and one assist from eight outings.  

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NTA, Global TV Partner SWAN @60

The Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) and Global Television have pledged strong support to the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) ahead of its 60th/Diamond Jubilee Anniversary scheduled for October 30 to 31, 2025. While receiving both the SWAN National Leadership and Local Organising Committee (LOC) ahead of SWAN @60/Diamond Jubilee Anniversary on behalf of the Director-General (DG) of NTA, the General Manager of NTA Sports, Mr. Kayode Adeniyi, described the forthcoming epoch event as a milestone not just for the association, but for Nigerian sports journalism. “The importance of SWAN to this association cannot be overemphasised,” he said. “Our DG has always maintained that anytime SWAN requires our support, we will gladly render it. As we prepare for the diamond jubilee, we are happy to be part of this journey. Everything you have said today will be reported back to him, and he is waiting to hear your plans and areas where we can collaborate.” He commended the LOC chairman, Ben Ogbemudia, for accepting the responsibility of leading the committee, noting that his experience and commitment to the growth of sports journalism would ensure a memorable event. “We trust your capacity to deliver, and we look forward to seeing a celebration that will make history,” he added. Earlier, SWAN President, Mr. Isaiah Benjamin, who led the delegation, expressed appreciation to the NTA management for its consistent support. He recalled the assurances given by the DG when he assumed office. “From the very beginning, he told us his doors would always remain open to us, and I can tell you for free, he has kept that promi. That is why anytime I’m in Abuja, I make it a point of duty to come here — not just as a professional visit but to also learn from a senior colleague who has been there before us,” he said. The SWAN President outlined activities lined up for the 60th anniversary, scheduled to hold in Abuja from October 29 to 31, 2026. “We have already kick-started with thanksgiving services. By October this year, members from across the country will converge in Abuja. There will be symposium, paper presentations, a novelty football match, our full council meeting, the launch of the SWAN House project, as well as awards and gala night,” he explained. He also appealed for continued collaboration with NTA to give national visibility to the celebration, adding, “We are here to seek necessary partnership and assistance. We cannot do this alone. Corporate organisations like NTA can be a tremendous help, particularly in media coverage and promotion. We sincerely commend what NTA has been doing in sports development, and we are hopeful of your partnership in making SWAN@60 a grand success.” Benjamin further revealed that the Diamond jubilee event would serve as a moment of reflection for SWAN. “Sixty years of existence is not a small feat. This celebration gives us the opportunity to look back at our achievements, acknowledge areas where we need improvement, and re-commit to sports as a gateway to development in Nigeria,” he said. Also, the SWAN delegation were at the Abuja Headquarters of Global TV to intimate its management team of the upcoming SWAN 60th celebration. Speaking, the acting Managing Director of the rising broadcast outfit, Aisha Musa Larai, congratulated SWAN for its exploits and assured of support. While highlighting the crucial role Sports Writers play in Nigeria’s development, Aisha Larai said the media are pacesetters in any society in need of meaningful impact. Secretary-General of SWAN, Amb. Ikenna Okonkwo, who stood for the President, Mr. Isaiah Benjamin, commended the management of Global TV for amazing footprints within the brief time the media organisation has existed. While highlighting SWAN 60th Anniversary timelines, he added it would also feature interfaith (Muslim and Christian) special prayers/services nationwide to underscore the role of God in the journey of the association since its establishment in 1964. The visit ended on a cordial note, with assurances from both sides that the partnerships would be strengthened as the countdown to the anniversary begins.  

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SWAN Suspends Impostor Lagos SWAN Chairman, Secretary

The National Executive Committee (NEC) of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has suspended the Lagos State Chapter Chairman, Ms. Olatutu Oladunni, and Secretary, Mr. Bello Omotunde Muritala, from all Association’s activities with immediate effect. The decision announced in a letter to them, with copies to the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, dated Thursday October 2, 2025, followed findings of gross misconduct, as the decision was taken in line with Article 21, Section (1) A and C of the SWAN Statute. The National Leadership directed both Olatutu and Bello to hand over all Association’s property and documents in their possession to the SWAN Lagos State Chapter’s leadership, with the Vice Chairman, Mr. Aaron Akerejola, now on the saddle to see off the current State Executive Committee tenure. Part of the letter to IGP and other top law enforcement officials in the country, reads, “We write to formally notify you that the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has ratified the suspension of Olatutu Oladunni and Bello Omotunde Muritala from all activities of the association. “The decision of NEC is in line with SWAN statutory provision Article 21, number (1) A and C, following their various acts of misconduct. “By this notification, both persons have been directed to stay away from all issues, events, meetings, forum etc concerning SWAN immediately. “They are also instructed to submit all SWAN property/documents in their possession to the SWAN Lagos State Chapter Leadership now led by Aaron Akerejola, the acting Chairman in line with SWAN statutory provision, being that the Vice Chairman takes over in the absence of the Chairman. “They are not also meant to be seen in or around SWAN Secretariat located inside the National Stadium Lagos, Moshood Abiola Stadium Abuja or any other SWAN office or Secretariat in any part of Nigeria. “Also, members of the public are by this notice advised not to transact any business or have any relationship regarding SWAN with any of the suspended persons as listed in this correspondence.” The SWAN NEC also suspended all electoral activities by the SWAN Electoral Committee (SWANECO) in the Chapter and revealed that further directive will be public in due course.

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Nollywood Actress Bukky Wright Rejoices As Son Hooks His Heartthrob

Veteran Nollywood actress, Bukky Wright, has celebrated her son, Eniola, as he tied the knot with his international partner. Wright expressed her gratitude and joy in a heartfelt Instagram post, thanking Allah for sparing her life to witness the milestone. “This is the day that the Lord has made!! I rejoiced and was glad with so much gratitude to Allah for sparing my life to see my baby boy get married and start his life with his wife. I have seen the beginning of your life till date, I will not see your end insha Allah,” she wrote. She also prayed for the couple’s marriage to be blessed and filled with happiness. “Almighty Allah will make this union one made from heaven. He will continue to be with your family and by His grace you will never lack anything good in life. As you start the journey into real life with your wife you will not know sorrow. Thanks for making me a proud mother. I can go on and on but I will stop here for now. I love you guys.”  

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CAC, SMEDAN Launch Free Registration Drive for 250,000 MSMEs

The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) have launched a nationwide drive to provide free business registration for 250,000 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).   The free business name registration drive is designed to strengthen Nigeria’s MSME ecosystem by promoting formalization and reducing barriers to growth, in line with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope vision. The initiative was announced in Abuja on Friday, September 26, during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two agencies. Formalization has long been a challenge for many small businesses, with cost, bureaucracy, and lack of awareness keeping millions in the informal sector. This often denies them access to finance, markets, and government support. The new CAC–SMEDAN scheme removes these barriers by covering the cost of registration and linking beneficiaries directly to SMEDAN’s MSME database. Through this database, registered businesses will gain access to aftercare services and opportunities such as grants, capacity-building programmes, technical support, and market linkages. CAC Registrar-General Hussaini Ishaq Magaji, SAN, emphasized that the free registration drive is aimed at breaking barriers that keep many businesses informal by removing the cost of registration and helping entrepreneurs access growth opportunities. SMEDAN Director-General Dr. Charles Odii added that formalization is the gateway to support, noting that registered businesses will benefit from continuous aftercare such as grants, training, and market access. Together, they highlighted that the initiative represents a major investment in Nigeria’s MSME ecosystem, with CAC foregoing about ₦3 billion in fees, while SMEDAN provides the support system to ensure businesses not only register but also thrive. They agreed that this collaboration gives practical meaning to the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope agenda by lowering barriers and creating an enabling environment for entrepreneurs.

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