Sports Archives | Page 5 of 110

HFN To Hold Players’ and Technical Representatives Election on September 15

The Handball Federation of Nigeria (HFN) has announced that elections to fill the positions of Players’ Representative and Technical Representative on its Board will be held on Monday, September 15, 2025, at the Velodrome of the MKO Abiola National Stadium, Abuja. According to a statement signed by the Secretary General of the Federation, Mrs Monica Otumala, the electoral process, which will be strictly governed by the recently released guidelines by the National Sports Commission (NSC) for elections of the National Sports Federations will begin with accreditation of delegates at 8:30 a.m prompt to 10:00 a.m after which voting will begin immediately. Any delegate who fail to complete accreditation within the allotted time will not be allowed to participate. Mrs Otumala explained that the election for the Technical Representative will be decided by one referee and one coach from each of the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), while the Players’ Representative will be elected by one player from each state and the FCT. In a move to ensure the integrity and smooth running of the election, Mrs Otumala said that every voting delegate must present an official Nomination Letter duly signed and stamped by their respective State Sports Councils or Commissions. She warned that there will be a thorough verification process to authenticate the source of all nomination letters presented “Elections into the office of the technical representative shall involve ONE Referee and ONE Coach from the 37 affiliates of HFN that is 36 states and FCT while Athletes’ representative shall involve only one player per state and the FCT “Every delegate coming for the election must come along with a nomination letter duly signed and stamped from their state sports councils or sport commission to enable them vote. There will be verification of the letter to authenticate its source” Mrs Otumala said. Mrs Otumala revealed that Federation has fixed Thursday, September 11, 2025, by 4:00 p.m. as the deadline for the submission of completed nomination forms at its Secretariat inside the MKO Abiola National Stadium, Abuja. The HFN Secretary General gave assurances that the elections will be conducted in line with its constitution while emphasizing the Federation’s commitment to transparency and fairness in the process.

NTTF Clarifies Conduct of Technical and Athletes Representatives Election

Fola Badmus1 week ago1 week ago02 mins

The Nigeria Table Tennis Federation (NTTF) wishes to inform the general public and the table tennis community that the election of the Technical Representative and Athletes Representative to the NTTF Board was successfully conducted on Wednesday, September 10, 2025. The Board is aware of certain rumors being circulated by one of the contestants questioning the credibility of the process. “We categorically affirm that the election was conducted in full compliance with the approved NTTF Election Guidelines and in strict accordance with the Federation’s Constitution, which has been duly ratified by the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF). “All eligible voters participated in the process, and the election was free, fair, transparent, and devoid of any irregularities. The results reflect the genuine choice of the stakeholders, and the Federation stands firmly by the integrity of the process, The NTTF remains steadfast in its commitment to the principles of fairness, transparency, and accountability in all its operations. We call on all stakeholders to support the duly elected representatives in our shared mission to advance the growth and development of table tennis in Nigeria.

Stakeholders Push For Reform As Leadership Dispute Rocks Gymnastics Federation

Controversy Trails Re-Election of Gymnastics Federation President Amid Calls for Reform

Fola Badmus1 week ago1 week ago04 mins

By Kamall yalwa ABUJA, NIGERIA – September 11, 2025 The Gymnastics Federation of Nigeria (GFN), also known as the Nigerian Federation of Gymnastics (NFG), is facing mounting internal dissent and growing calls for reform following the re-election of its long-serving president, Prince Kelvin Erhunmunse. Prince Kelvin, who has led the federation for the past eight years, secured a third term during elections held on Saturday, September 6, in Gwarinpa, Abuja. The exercise was reportedly attended by delegates from 32 states and the Federal Capital Territory, and monitored by observers including representatives from the Nigeria Olympic Committee. Describing the election as “peaceful and transparent,” Prince Kelvin welcomed his continued leadership, stating it reflects the confidence of the gymnastics community in his vision for the sport. However, the election outcome has not gone without controversy. Several stakeholders have raised concerns over the absence of officials from the National Sports Commission (NSC), which had earlier advised postponing the polls to allow for broader participation and oversight. Adding to the tension, the National Association for Physical, Health Education, Recreation, Sports, and Dance (NAPHER-SD) criticized the exclusion of allied sports bodies from the electoral process, including NAPHER-SD itself, the Nigeria Association of Women in Sports (NAWIS), and paramilitary sports organizations. Speaking on behalf of NAPHER-SD, Hon. Gbenga Samson described the process as incomplete and called for a comprehensive review to ensure future elections reflect the full spectrum of stakeholders involved in gymnastics development. “We believe inclusivity is non-negotiable. Any process that sidelines key players in the sport cannot fully represent the interests of the athletes and the broader gymnastics community,” Samson stated. Multiple petitions have since been lodged with the NSC, requesting a probe into the conduct of the election and the legitimacy of its outcome. Critics argue that without full transparency and fairness, the federation risks deepening mistrust and stalling progress in the sport. Meanwhile, other stakeholders are using this moment to push for broader reforms in Nigerian gymnastics. Calls are growing for stronger structures to support athlete development, increased participation in international competitions, and the creation of more inclusive leadership frameworks. “This is not just about an election. It’s about the future of gymnastics in Nigeria,” said one concerned coach. “We need systems that prioritise athletes’ welfare, coaching education, and global competitiveness.” With the petitions still under review, all eyes are now on the National Sports Commission and other relevant authorities to chart a path forward. For many in the sport, the federation stands at a crossroads—between maintaining the status quo or embracing reforms that could elevate Nigeria’s presence on the global gymnastics stage.

Can Nigeria Still Qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup After South Africa Draw?

Fola Badmus1 week ago1 week ago04 mins

By: Kamal Yalwa: September 9, 2025 Nigeria’s quest to reach the 2026 FIFA World Cup remains uncertain following a 1-1 draw with South Africa in a crucial Group C qualifier on Tuesday evening in Bloemfontein. The result, while hard-fought, leaves the Super Eagles further adrift in the race for an automatic qualification spot and raises pressing questions: Can Nigeria still qualify for the World Cup? Here’s what we know. Tuesday’s draw was yet another frustrating chapter in what has been a turbulent qualifying campaign for Nigeria. Missing key players, most notably striker Victor Osimhen due to injury, the Super Eagles once again showed flashes of quality — but failed to convert chances into three points. An own goal by William Troost-Ekong gave South Africa the lead before Calvin Bassey headed in the equaliser before half-time. Despite dominating parts of the second half, Nigeria couldn’t find a winner, leaving them outside the automatic qualification places. South Africa remain top of Group C, maintaining a comfortable lead over their rivals. Nigeria, meanwhile, are now at risk of falling behind both South Africa and another key contender depending on other matchday results. With only the top team in each group guaranteed automatic qualification for the 2026 World Cup, Nigeria’s position is precarious. Nigeria still has matches left to play, but the margin for error is now virtually non-existent. To stand a chance of direct qualification, the Super Eagles must: If direct qualification slips out of reach, Nigeria could still be in contention for a CAF play-off spot, which allows certain group runners-up to fight for a final place via intercontinental play-offs. The draw against South Africa underlined some of the team’s recurring issues — defensive lapses, missed chances, and lack of consistency in attack. Head coach Eric Sekou Chelle now faces increasing pressure to turn things around quickly. While qualification remains mathematically possible, the Super Eagles must deliver near-perfect performances in their remaining matches — and hope results elsewhere go their way. Yes, Nigeria can still qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup — but the path is now steep, and every remaining game is effectively a must-win. Anything less, and Africa’s most populous nation could miss out on football’s biggest stage.

South Africa vs Nigeria: World Cup qualifier – start, team news and lineups

South Africa vs Nigeria: Lineups, Team News and What’s at Stake in Crucial World Cup Qualifier

Fola Badmus1 week ago2 weeks ago06 mins

Bloemfontein, South Africa — A high-stakes clash awaits as Group C leaders South Africa host Nigeria in a pivotal CAF 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier on Tuesday at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein. With only two matchdays remaining in the first round of African qualifiers, the outcome of this match could reshape the group standings and heavily influence who makes it to North America for the expanded 48-team tournament. Match DetailsWho: South Africa vs NigeriaCompetition: CAF 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier – Group CVenue: Free State Stadium, BloemfonteinDate: Tuesday, September 9Kick-off: 6:00 PM local time (16:00 GMT)Live coverage: Al Jazeera Sport live text commentary from 13:30 GMT Group Leaders: South Africa’s Road to the World Cup Bafana Bafana come into the fixture unbeaten at home during this qualifying campaign, with solid wins over Benin (2-1), Zimbabwe (3-1), and Lesotho (3-0). They currently sit top of Group C with 16 points and a +8 goal difference, five clear of Nigeria. A victory on Tuesday would all but guarantee qualification, leaving only a minimal mathematical chance for rivals to catch up. But head coach Hugo Broos will be forced to reshuffle his defense after injuries to Nyiko Mobbie and Thabo Brendon Moloisane. Kaizer Chiefs’ Thabiso Monyane is expected to deputise, while Lyle Foster, fresh off a goal and assist against Lesotho, will lead the attack. Nigeria’s Must-Win Mission For the Super Eagles, the road to World Cup qualification is narrowing. Currently third in the group with 10 points, Nigeria must beat South Africa to revive their chances of topping the group and qualifying directly. Their challenge, however, is complicated by the absence of star striker Victor Osimhen, ruled out due to a chin injury sustained during their 1-0 win over Rwanda on Friday. Head coach Eric Chelle is likely to turn to Tolu Arokodare to spearhead the attack, with Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, and Alex Iwobi expected to provide attacking support. Cyriel Dessers and Samuel Chukwueze are also options off the bench. Group C Standings (After 7 Matches)South Africa: 16 pts (+8 GD)Benin: 11 pts (0 GD)Nigeria: 10 pts (+2 GD)Rwanda: 8 pts (-1 GD)Lesotho: 6 pts (-4 GD)Zimbabwe: 4 pts (-5 GD) What’s at Stake? Only the group winner qualifies directly for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The four best runners-up across the nine CAF groups will enter an intercontinental playoff for one final African spot. Nigeria must win against South Africa and in their remaining matches against Lesotho and Benin to have any hope of winning the group or securing a playoff place. Last Five Matches South Africa: W W W W WNigeria: D W D D W Head-to-Head Record Since 2004Played: 13Nigeria Wins: 6South Africa Wins: 1Draws: 6 The last time South Africa and Nigeria met in Bloemfontein was during the 2019 AFCON qualifiers, where Nigeria won 2-1. Predicted Starting LineupsSouth Africa (4-2-3-1): Williams (GK); Mdunyelwa, Ndamane, Monyane, Modiba; Mokoena, Mbatha; Nkota, Mbule, Appollis; FosterNigeria (4-3-3): Nwabali (GK); Aina, Fredrick, Bassey, Onyemaechi; Onyedika, Ndidi, Iwobi; Simon, Lookman, Arokodare How to Follow Follow Al Jazeera Sport for pre-match coverage from 13:30 GMT, followed by live text commentary, in-depth analysis, and post-match reactions. This clash is more than a qualifier — it’s a battle for continental supremacy and survival. Can Nigeria revive their campaign without Osimhen? Or will South Africa seal qualification at home in front of a roaring Bloemfontein crowd?

Dorcas Koki Joins Nigeria U17 Women’s Team as Media Officer

Fola Badmus2 weeks ago2 weeks ago03 mins

The Nigeria Football Federation has appointed Erenayo Dorcas Koki, a journalist and football commentator with NigeriaInfo FM, as new Media Officer of the U17 women national team, Flamingos. Koki, who has under her belt, years of experience in covering local and international sporting events and programmes, has a reputation for bold story-telling, engaging analysis, and strong advocacy for women sports, especially women football. Port Harcourt-based Koki steps into the shoes left by the vibrant, highly energetic and sapient Monsurah Olatunji, who was the team’s Media Officer at last year’s FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup finals in the Dominican Republic, and who had taken over from the affable Faith Meremegbunam. Koki is intentional about bringing the Flamingos, 2022 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup bronze medallists, closer to Nigerians and the rest of the world, by deploying skills that will ensure greater visibility for the team. “I will work with the NFF Communication department to amplify the voices of the players and coaches, to ensure the team’s journey is shared with all stakeholders countrywide and beyond. My vision is to make the Flamingos a household name, not only during tournaments but all-year round. We will tell their stories in ways that inspire pride, build fan connection, and position the team as the future of Nigeria football, by combining fresh digital content, stronger media engagement and authentic story-telling.” The Flamingos will resume camping on Sunday as they commence preparations for this year’s FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup finals, taking place in Morocco, 17th October – 8th November.

World Cup Qualifier: Gabonese Officials to Take Charge of S’Africa Vs Nigeria

Fola Badmus2 weeks ago2 weeks ago02 mins

World football-governing body, FIFA has appointed Gabonese official Pierre Ghislain Atcho as referee for next Tuesday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match between Nigeria and South Africa in Bloemfontein. It is a Matchday 8 encounter in the African qualification series, and will hold at the Toyota Stadium. Atcho’s compatriots Boris Marlaise Ditsoga, Amos Abeigne Ndong and Cregue Fleury Moukagni will serve as assistant referee 1, assistant referee 2 and fourth official respectively. Olivier Safari Kabene from the Democratic Republic of Congo will serve as the referee assessor while Ugandan Mike Letti will be in the role of commissioner. Chadian official Allaou Mahamat will be the referee for Saturday’s Matchday 7 encounter between Nigeria and Rwanda at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, with his compatriots Bogollah Issa, Moussa Hafiz and Abdelkerim Ousmane in the roles of assistant referee 1, assistant referee 2 and fourth official respectively. Taher Abdelsalam Mahmoud from Egypt will serve as referee assessor while Bakary Jammeh from Gambia will be the commissioner.

Flamingos Resume Camping Ahead 2025 U17 Women’s World Cup

Fola Badmus2 weeks ago2 weeks ago03 mins

Head Coach Bankole Olowookere has invited a total of 30 players to the camp of Nigeria’s U17 girls, Flamingos, as the team kickstarts preparations for this year’s FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup finals, taking place in Morocco. Invited are four goalkeepers, nine defenders, nine midfielders and nine strikers. 2022 FIFA World Cup bronze medallists, Nigeria overpowered South Africa and Algeria in the qualifying series to pick a ticket to the first-ever 24-team FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup finals, which will be played across four venues in two cities in Morocco, 17th October – 8th November. Venues earmarked for the finals (the first of five straight final tournaments to be hosted by Morocco) are the Prince Héritier Moulay el-Hassan Sports Complex, Prince Moulay Abdellah Sport Complex, Al Barid Stadium and Mohamed VI Football Academy. The invited players are expected to arrive camp in Abuja on Sunday, 7th September. ALL THE INVITED PLAYERS Goalkeepers: Elizabeth Boniface (Abia Angels); Onyinyechi Opara (Imo Strikers); Abigail Nmecha (Team Abia); Sylva Echefu (Bayelsa Queens) Defenders: Hannah Ibrahim (Remo Stars Ladies); Jumai Adebayo (Naija Ratels); Azeezat Oduntan (FC Robo); Christiana Sunday (Imo Strikers); Ufuoma Lucky (Royal Queens, Warri); Choice Ovwighovwiroro (New Generation, Abuja); Maryjane Ikeche (Ahudiyannem Queens); Blessed Isigbo (Remo Stars Ladies); Grace Ufot (Fortress Ladies) Midfielders: Shakirat Moshood (Bayelsa Queens); Muinat Rotimi (Nakamura Football Academy); Fatimah Shuaib (Confluence Queens); Waliat Rotimi (Nakamura Football Academy); Taiwo Lukman (Confluence Queens); Esther Lasisi (N-Youth, Abuja); Precious Nkwocha (Imo Strikers); Gift Anekan (New Generation, Abuja); Ayomide Abubakar (Onimarg FC) Forwards: Kaosara Olanrewaju (Aisha Yusuf Academy, Lagos); Kindness Ifeanyi (Bayelsa Queens); Queen Joseph (Fosla Academy); Shavih Istifanus (Youth Arise Academy); Tabitha Terlumu (Braavos, Edo); Destiny Itodore (Delta Queens); Chisom Nwachukwu (Rivers Angels); Nofisat Tijani (Youthful Talent 99)