Fola Badmus

Gusau Pledges Full support for Beach Soccer League Finals, Supersand Eagles’ Revival

President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau MON, has reiterated the federation’s commitment to supporting the upcoming 2025 Nigeria Beach Soccer League (NBSL) Super Finals and the continued revival of the Beach Soccer National Team, Supersand Eagles.   Speaking during a courtesy visit by the Nigeria Beach Soccer League Management led by the National Coordinator Mahmud Hadejia, ahead of the Super League Finals scheduled for 6th – 9th November 2025 at the Jabi Lake Park in Abuja, Gusau emphasized the importance of public support and awareness for the fast-growing sport.   “The key thing is for us to give all the support needed and ensure that we are there for the Super Finals,” Gusau said. “We have to also call on all well-meaning Nigerians, especially football lovers and corporate Nigeria to support the NBSL Finals. Beach soccer is an exciting game for those who have the opportunity to watch it at continental and world level. The last FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup was played in Seychelles with some African countries excelling. We want to see Nigeria back at that level.”   He reiterated that the NFF is determined to ensure beach soccer thrives again in Nigeria after years of absence from the international scene. “We thank God that the beach soccer national team is back on the continent, but it was not easy. We have been off for some years and we can only commend the efforts of the players and officials who came close to qualifying for last year’s Beach Soccer AFCON,” he said.   Gusau credited the Nigeria Beach Soccer League for its consistent efforts over the past five years in maintaining a structured domestic competition, which he said provided the foundation for the national team’s return. “Three years ago when we came on board, we decided not to participate at international competitions until we knew the basis for which we were selecting our players. We must have a structure and I am happy that we are progressing. By the grace of God, we will do our best to make sure that we continue moving forward.”   The NBSL Super Finals, relocated to Abuja’s Jabi Lake Park sand arena, will feature top teams battling for the national title, alongside a charity and cancer awareness match involving celebrities, ex-footballers, entertainers, and beach soccer legends.

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2026 WAFCON: Super Falcons Edge Amazons, Qualify for Morocco 2026

Champions Nigeria qualified for next year’s Women Africa Cup of Nations after a 1-1 draw with Bénin Republic in the return leg of the final round of the qualification series in Abeokuta on Tuesday, which resulted in an aggregate 3-1 win for the 10-time winners.   The Amazons turned out to be credible fighters at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena, as they approached the game with vigour, passion and vibrancy, with the pacy and nimble-footed Dossi Germaine Honfo and Yenido Romaine Gandonou the lead orchestrators.   However, the Super Falcons were calm, collected and confident, and the Amazons’ rearguard had to spiritedly clear their lines after Captain Rasheedat Ajibade freed Asisat Oshoala as the Falcons surged forward in the 8th minute.   Five minutes later, it was no surprise that they got on the scoresheet, when defender Ashley Plumptre nodded firmly into the net from a corner by Esther Okoronkwo.   In the 23rd minute, Oshoala’s firm header from another Okoronkwo corner missed narrowly, and in the 34th minute, Michelle Alozie’s header was a little above the sticks from Oshoala’s cross. There was still time for Okoronkwo to side-net from a free-kick with four minutes left in the first period.   The Amazons began to pour forward in the 56th minute, when Chiamaka Nnadozie saved from Gandonou, and then had to stretch full length to push away a shot from 25 yards by Yolande Gnammi two minutes later.   The game turned into a real contest on the hour, when Yasminath Djibril struck the ball high and above Nnadozie into the net from a free-kick on the left, for the equalizer.   Nigeria had opportunities to increase the tally, with Folashade Ijamilusi missing from close range after goalkeeper Sourakatou Alassane uncharacteristically dropped the ball, and Alassane saved from Ajibade in the 77th minute. Substitute Joy Omewa and Ijamilusi combined in the 90th minute, but Alassane was up to the task.   Qualification means Nigeria have the opportunity to not only defend their title in Morocco next year, but also aim for an 11th title in 14 championships, as well as a ticket to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup finals in Brazil.

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IGP Decorates One DIG, 4 AIGs, 11 CPs With New Ranks

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, on Tuesday, 28th October 2025, decorated newly promoted Senior Police Officers with their new ranks amidst an atmosphere of celebration and pride at the Goodluck Jonathan Peacekeeping Hall, Force Headquarters, Abuja.   The decoration ceremony, which reiterates the IGP’s commitment to rewarding hard work, diligence, and professionalism, saw the elevation of one Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) to the rank of Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG), four Commissioners of Police (CP) to AIGs, and eleven Deputy Commissioners of Police (DCs) to substantive Commissioners of Police (CP).   Among those decorated were DIG Mohammed Dankwara, AIGs Denimen Abibo, Umar Madaki, Nkechi Eze, and Garba Nzukwen. Others include CPs Naziru Kankarofi, Nendel Gomwalk, Tijani Fatai, Aniefok Akpan, Moorkwap Dongshal, among others.   The officers are part of 923 officers who passed the rigorous and transparent promotion exercise organised by the Police Service Commission, which comprised written exams and interviews, following their recommendation by the Inspector-General of Police.   In attendance were distinguished dignitaries, including the former Governor of Plateau State and current Senator representing Plateau South, Senator Simon Lalong; the Governor of Adamawa State, Ahmadu Fintiri; the former Governor of Zamfara State, Senator Abdul-Aziz Yari; Senator (Dr.) Tony Nwoye (Anambra North); Senator Iya Abbas (Adamawa Central); and Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central). Also in attendance were the Minister of State for Regional Development, FCT, Hon. Alhaji Ahmadu; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Ambassador Gabriel Aduda; Chairman, Board of Trustees and Founder of Al-Hikmah University, Alhaji (Chief) Dr. Abdul-Raheem Oladimeji, OFR; members of the Force Management Team, serving and retired senior police officers, as well as families and friends of the newly promoted officers.   Egbetokun, in his address, extended his heartfelt congratulations to the newly promoted officers and charged them to uphold the highest ethical standards in the discharge of their duties, embrace community-oriented and intelligence-led policing, and deploy innovative approaches that will keep the Force ahead of emerging criminal threats.   He further urged the newly promoted officers to lead with integrity, fairness, and a renewed commitment to justice, while serving as role models for their subordinates.

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Governor Abiodun Dangles ₦50M At Super Falcons

By BUNMI OGUNYALE   Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to sports development and youth empowerment as he announced a ₦50 million support package for the Super Falcons.   The Governor made the announcement while playing host to the national women’s football team at his office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, ahead of their WAFCON 2026 qualifier against the Amazons of Benin Republic.   He described the gesture as a recognition of the team’s inspiring performances and a motivation to spur them toward greater victories.   Abiodun noted that his administration remains steadfast in transforming the sports landscape of Ogun State. From the modernization of the MKO Abiola International Stadium to plans for a world-class sports hub in Abeokuta, he said the government is investing in infrastructure and opportunities that will nurture champions and position Ogun as the true Gateway to Excellence.   “We were delighted to receive the Super Falcons of Nigeria in our office at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, ahead of their second-leg Women’s African Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2026 qualifier against the Amazons of Benin Republic. In recognition of their inspiring performances and to further motivate them for the task ahead, we announced a support package of ₦50 million to the team.   “Their return to the MKO Abiola International Stadium is a validation that we are doing something right in Ogun State. Beyond hosting matches, we are transforming the stadium environment with plans for a world-class sports hub—complete with a five-star hotel, cinema, shopping complex, and other facilities that will make Abeokuta a true sports and tourism destination.   “We commended the Falcons for their historic tenth WAFCON title in Morocco, a victory that lifted the spirit of our nation. What they represent goes far beyond football—they embody leadership, teamwork, and discipline. Through their example, millions of young women are learning that excellence knows no gender, and that with hard work and unity, they too can break barriers and achieve greatness.   “On behalf of the government and the good people of Ogun State, we assured the Super Falcons of our unwavering support. We believe that through their success, they will continue to inspire the next generation of leaders, athletes, and achievers. Ogun State stands firmly with them as they continue to make Nigeria proud,” the Governor assured.

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Heavy Rainfall ‘Grounds’ Air Peace Flights in Lagos

By BUNMI OGUNYALE Air Peace Limited has announced delay of some flights at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos due to heavy downpour.   The Airline Spokesperson, Osifo-Whiskey Efe stated this in a press statement on Tuesday.   “Due to the heavy downpour of rain this afternoon, some flights across our operating networks will be delayed. “While weather is beyond our control and safety remains our utmost priority, we appeal for your understanding as we manage the disruptions as best as we can and get you to your destinations safely. “At Air Peace, safety is not justa priority but a core commitment. We remain dedicated to upholding the highest safety standards for our passengers and crew,” the Statement read.

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2034 World Cup: Saudi Arabia Unveil Plans for ‘Sky Stadium’

Saudi Arabia has revealed plans for the NEOM Sky Stadium, set to become the world’s first “sky stadium” and a key venue for the 2034 FIFA World Cup. The stadium will be suspended an astonishing 350 meters above the desert floor within the futuristic linear city of The Line, offering spectators a truly unique perspective on the action. Designed to hold 46,000 fans, the stadium will run entirely on renewable energy, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s commitment to sustainable infrastructure as part of Vision 2030. Construction is expected to begin in 2026, with completion scheduled for 2032, leaving ample time for final preparations ahead of the tournament. The stadium will host matches from the group stage through the quarterfinals and is planned to operate year-round, doubling as a venue for concerts, sports events, and other global gatherings.   The NEOM Sky Stadium is part of a broader vision to transform sports architecture and technology. It will integrate into NEOM’s mirrored megastructure, creating a striking visual landmark while incorporating state-of-the-art cooling, lighting, and digital fan experience systems. International architectural firms with experience in high-altitude and sustainable design are leading the project in partnership with NEOM, the Saudi Ministry of Sport, and the Public Investment Fund (PIF). The total investment is estimated at $1 billion, making it one of the most ambitious stadium projects in the world. As the first stadium of its kind, NEOM Sky Stadium is expected to become a symbol of Saudi Arabia’s push for innovation and global sporting prominence. The stadium will be one of 15 venues for the 2034 World Cup, integrated into The Line, a city stretching 170 kilometres along the northwestern coast. Its elevated position and futuristic design offer fans an unparalleled experience while demonstrating the kingdom’s ambitions to combine sports, technology, and sustainability on a global stage.   Saudi Arabia has already outlined plans for 15 stadiums as part of its 2034 World Cup bid. The centerpiece is the King Salman International Stadium in Riyadh, which is expected to become the largest stadium in the kingdom, with a capacity of 92,760, by 2029, according to Arab News.   While the NEOM Sky Stadium has garnered widespread attention, it has also faced skepticism online, with some questioning the engineering feasibility of a stadium suspended at such a height. Others have praised the project as groundbreaking, positioning Saudi Arabia as a pioneer in futuristic, eco-conscious sports infrastructure. Despite broader delays in the NEOM development, initially scheduled for completion by 2039, sources indicate that the stadium’s 2034 World Cup deadline remains a priority. The project is expected to boost tourism and investment, supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 diversification goals.

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KingsMen Begin 2025 NBPL Playoffs With Statement Win Over Hoops and Read

Reigning champions Rivers Hoopers launched their 2025 Nigeria Basketball Premier League Final Eight Playoffs campaign with a commanding 73-50 victory over Hoops & Read, thanks to an explosive first-quarter performance which helped the KingsMen lead from start to finish. The defending champions started hot, opening up a 12-0 lead inside the first four minutes, thanks to four consecutive shots from deep courtesy of Mustapha Oyebanji and Isaiah Williams. That twelve-point lead grew to eighteen at the end of the first quarter as the score stood at 29-11. Speaking after the game, Rivers Hoopers Head Coach Ogoh Odaudu said his team’s strong start was crucial in determining the outcome of the game. “We started off really strong, and I think that determined the direction that the game was going to go. Even though the guys took their foot off the pedal at some point in the game and almost let the opponents come back. It’s something I’m going to have to address going forward.” Hoops & Read tried to find a way back into the game but could only reduce the deficit by two points at halftime, as the hosts took a 41-25 lead into the break. Both teams seemed to have gone cold following the break, as they could only manage ten points apiece in a combative third quarter, before the KingsMen wrapped up the win with an improved fourth-quarter showing. Despite the twenty-three-point demolition of their opponents, for coach Odaudu, picking up a vital win to start the playoffs was what really mattered. “For us, it doesn’t matter the number of points we win by; just a win is good for us. We’ll take a one-point lead; we’ll take a half-point lead; a win is a win. “We’re happy with how it ended,” he emphasised. Overall, it was an all-round team performance from the defending champions, as ten out of the eleven KingsMen who made the matchday roster scored points, with thirty-five (35) points coming from the bench. Captain Victor Anthony Koko alongside Oyebanji led the KingsMen with eleven (11) points apiece, while the energetic Victor Sunday dropped ten (10) points along with five rebounds and five steals. Isaiah Williams scored nine (9) points on his Rivers Hoopers debut, as Peter Olisemeka recorded a game-high twelve (12) rebounds. Kelvin Amayo, who was named the Most Valuable Player at the 2024 NBPL Finals, scored nine (9) points on his return to basketball in Nigeria and relished the support of the Port Harcourt crowd, which cheered on the team to victory. “To be honest, playing in PH (Port Harcourt) is always the best to me. The fans always do a great job; they love watching us play. I’m just happy to be here and be able to showcase what we’ve been working [on] throughout the season and off-season, to come here and give them a show,” he revealed. Rivers Hoopers will next be in action by 5pm on Tuesday, 28th October, 2025, as they take on Kano Pillars in a matchday two encounter. Day 2 – Tuesday, 28th October 11:00am: Kwara Falcons vs Lagos Legends 1:00pm: Nigeria Customs vs Gboko City Chiefs 3:00pm: Nile University vs Hoops & Read 5:00pm: Kano Pillars vs Rivers Hoopers All games will be played at the Basketball Stadium, #59 Niger Street, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

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NDLEA Operatives Burst Drug Party, Arrest Over 100 Fun Seekers

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has warned night club operators and fun seekers about the creeping culture of organising, hosting and attending drug parties, a disturbing fad within social circles, which is a blatant illegality under the Nigerian law.   ​The Agency’s warning comes on the heels of a raid carried out by its operatives at a drug party, which held on the night of Saturday 25th October into the early hours of Sunday 26th October 2025, at Proxy Night Club located at 7 Akin Adesola street, Victoria Island Lagos where over 100 attendees were arrested along with the owner of the facility, Mike Eze Nwalie Nwogu alias Pretty Mike and his manager Joachin Millary.   ​According to the Agency, “any gathering organised for the purpose of consuming, distributing, or abusing illicit substances is an act of criminality. These ‘drug parties’ contravene the explicit provisions of the NDLEA Act and will be treated as serious narcotic offences. In the case of the drug party at Proxy night club, organisers went above board and had the audacity to produce and circulate flyers inviting fun seekers to come together to commit crime, an act that not only constitutes an incitement to commit crime but equally an affront to the law enforcement capabilities of the country if condoned.   ​“Nigeria is currently grappling with a very high prevalence rate of drug abuse, particularly among our youths. These illicit drug parties do not only fuel the drug scourge but equally serve as hubs for new recruitment into drug addiction and actively undermine our current national efforts to safeguard public health and security.   “In the recent case, the NDLEA was meticulous and professional throughout the processes leading to the raid and during the operation. Following intelligence on the party, our undercover agents conducted surveillance on the facility, made pre-purchases of illicit drugs from within the club and for four hours between 11pm on Saturday and 3am on Sunday during the party, our operatives observed and recorded drug transactions and abuse going on before we eventually disrupted the brazen public display of illegality and made arrests.   “All attendees initially arrested were later profiled, addressed, counselled and released within hours in custody, in line with best global practices while the two principal suspects: Pretty Mike and his manager, Joachin Millary remain in custody following the seizure of 384.882 kilograms of Canadian Loud, a strong strain of cannabis and other substances from the club’s store.   “While the Agency will intensify surveillance and apply the full force of the law against perpetrators, owners of properties, hotels, and event centres found to be knowingly hosting such illegal activities risk the confiscation and forfeiture of their assets to the Federal Government. Those held in custody in the ongoing case will face prosecution while we will file for forfeiture of the property, Proxy Night Club, in which the drugs were found.”   ​The Agency urged all patriotic Nigerians, parents, religious and community leaders, as well as concerned citizens to be vigilant, report such activities, and partner with the NDLEA in combating this threat to national well-being.  

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