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Deputy Speaker of LAHA Gbenga Olowo, SWAN Lagos Olori Yaba and Other Notable Figures Praise InterGuide Academy

Fola Badmus6 months ago6 months ago07 mins

Sports as a Weapon for Economic Growth: Social Vices Best Tackled in Schools and Homes As InterGuide Academy Holds Maiden Inter-House Sports The rise in social vices currently plaguing the nation can best be addressed within schools and homes. This was the view expressed by Dr. Gbenga Olowo, Group Chairman of InterGuide Group, during the Academy’s maiden inter-house sports event held at Agege Stadium, Lagos. Dr. Olowo, an international aviator who also served as the chairman of the occasion, stated, “Parents have a role to play, and schools also have a responsibility. School discipline must be revisited. There is no beauty in a child without discipline.” The event kicked off with a march past, showcasing the four major houses. The Red House delivered a special presentation, clinching an impressive gold medal, while the Yellow House secured second place. The competition underscored the significant role children and youths play in society. This is why it’s crucial to engage them in various sporting activities alongside their academics as they grow. As the special guest of honor, Rt. Hon. Mojisola Meranda, represented by her SA on Legislative Matters and Administration, commended the performances of all the sports houses. She highlighted that school sports is a key element of youth development and character building, which ultimately enhances the credibility of any progressive society. “To grow, it is crucial that we embrace, support, and develop school sports. Only then can we have renewed hope for sustainability in socio-economic development,” she said. On the day of the event, Red House (Grace Adegboyega House) emerged victorious, lifting the Golden Trophy. Yellow House (Dcns Stella Olowo House) took second place, Green House (School House) secured third, and Blue House (Dr. Gbenga Olowo House) finished fourth. Dr. Olowo urged the government to encourage sports development through school inter-house sports and inter-company games. Vice Chairman of InterGuide Group, Dcns Stella Olowo, reflecting on her school days when she was active in sprints and jumps, urged participants to embrace fair competition and good conduct. “Good values and discipline are key elements of success. They determine the level of greatness one can achieve in the future,” she noted. Royal guest of the day, the Queen of Yaba-Iwaya-Kingdom, Lagos, Olori Rebecca Temitope Oloko, a Paris-based women’s advocate, expressed that her passion for children’s welfare motivated her to attend the event. “As a lover of children, today’s event means a lot to me. I’m already thinking about schools I will engage with to replicate such initiatives, as they will help children explore different sports and find where they excel.” Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Lagos Chapter, and UN Peace Ambassador of Nigeria, Olatutu Oladunni, commended InterGuide Academy for the initiative, stressing that it serves as a way to identify and groom talent, which in turn strengthens social development, tourism, and cultural values. “Sports is one of the key factors that boost economic growth and bilateral cooperation. It also contributes to effective foreign relations that influence economic policies across nations. The power of sports can never be underestimated,” she said. She also thanked corporate sponsors like Promasidor (TWISCO chocolate drink) for their significant contributions to the event and urged corporate institutions to engage in more productive collaborations with schools and youth organizations to support developmental growth. Air Vice Marshal Segun Philip (Rtd) emphasized the importance of adopting sports in all schools, stating, “Sports teach discipline, perseverance, and commitment. These values help children develop the right mindset.” Similarly, Vice President of Sabre, Engr. Allen Awosikunde, remarked that sports is the only activity that teaches teamwork. “In the classroom, teamwork may be seen as cheating, but in sports and business, it’s key. Teamwork is the future of any successful business. So, we should encourage more sports, as it teaches teamwork,” he said. The Principal of the Elementary School, Mrs. Blessing Kukoyi, expressed her gratitude to the parents, pupils, and teachers for their impressive cooperation and contributions toward the success of the event. She was particularly amazed by the students’ performance and the strong turnout of parents supporting their children. She also commended the corporate sponsors, including Promasidor (TWISCO chocolate drink), Golfview Hotel and Suites, and Sabre, for their support. “School sports is one of the major areas to invest in, as children are the leaders of tomorrow,” she added.

TotalEnergies CAF U17 AFCON, Morocco 2025 Media Match Day Pack is now available for download

Fola Badmus6 months ago6 months ago02 mins

The TotalEnergies CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations, Morocco 2025 has entered the pivotal third round of matches in the group stage, with four thrilling fixtures scheduled for Sunday, as Groups A and B resume action. To support media coverage of the tournament, the Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) is offering daily statistics packs. These detailed packs delve into the history of the competing teams and provide fascinating insights and facts surrounding their participation in the event. You can download the Media Match-Day Pack for 6th April 2025 HERE. Sunday’s Fixtures: GROUP A GROUP B For more details on the TotalEnergies CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations, Morocco 2025, visit www.cafonline.com. Further Inquiries:communications@cafonline.comCAF | Communication Department

SWAN Congratulates Kida On Appointment As NNPCL Board Chairman

Fola Badmus6 months ago6 months ago03 mins

The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has congratulated Engr. Ahmadu Musa Kida on his recent appointment as the Board Chairman of Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL). President of SWAN, Mr. Isaiah Benjamin, in a letter to Engr. Kida, dated April 3, 2025 and signed by the Association’s Secretary-General Amb. Ikenna Okonkwo, described his appointment as well deserved. Kida, an oil and gas mogul is the incumbent President of Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF). The SWAN President said Engr. Kida’s track record in the Nigeria’s oil and gas sector has been prominent in the past and recent times. “Before becoming the new NNPCL board chairman, you have made notable achievements in the industry, while occupying various positions as his career gradually blossomed. “One thing that stands you out is your passion for development and your commitment in making great impacts at all times. You deserves all the accolades. More importantly, we believe you will use your new position to touch more lives especially in sports. “Yes, your appointment is about the oil and gas sector, but that can attract a lot for Nigerian sports. Recently, not much has been heard about NNPCL channeling it’s Corporate Social Responsibility programmes to the sporting industry which has the capacity and direct effect on numerous young people that constitute greater part of the country’s population. “So we believe your presence as a known figure within the sporting fraternity will turn things around,” part of the letter said. Meanwhile, SWAN has commiserated with the Board of Nigeria Taekwondo Federation (NTF) over the loss its President, Alhaji Abdullahi Saidu. In a letter of condolence to NTF, SWAN President Mr. Benjamin through the Association’s Secretary-General Amb. Okonkwo expressed sadness for the demise of Alhaji Saidu. He then prayed Allah to give his family, Taekwondo community and the entire sporting arena the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

Niger Delta Sports Festival in Steady Motion Despite Minor Hiccup

Fola Badmus6 months ago6 months ago02 mins

By China Acheru Despite a brief misunderstanding in the Akwa Ibom State camp at the ongoing Niger Delta Sports Festival (NDSF), investigations revealed that the issue stemmed from misinformation and has since been resolved. Athletes, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that the situation was quickly addressed, allowing the festival to proceed without further disruption. The incident occurred just after the spectacular opening ceremony on Tuesday, April 1, as competitions across various sports kicked off in full force at venues throughout the region. Sources indicate that a minor dispute arose on Day 2 between the Akwa Ibom State contingent and their state sports authority. The confusion reportedly revolved around local camping allowances, which had been misdirected. Fortunately, the state sports officials acted swiftly to clarify the matter and restore harmony within the team. With the hiccup now behind them, the festival is running smoothly, delivering thrilling sporting action across all venues. Spectators are enjoying an exciting showcase of talent, reinforcing the NDSF’s reputation as a celebration of sportsmanship and regional unity.

Manchester Derby Headlines Weekend’s Premier League Clashes on GOtv

Fola Badmus6 months ago6 months ago03 mins

All eyes will be on the Manchester Derby this weekend, as the Premier League hits the home stretch. Manchester United host their city rivals, Man City, on Sunday after United’s struggles continued midweek with a 1-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest, leaving them in 13th place. City, currently sixth, are locked in a tight race for Champions League qualification and will be desperate for three points. Kick-off at Old Trafford is 4:30 PM live on GOtv Channel 65. Action begins on Saturday, with Arsenal travelling to take on Everton. The game kicks off at 12:30 PM. The Gunners remain 12 points behind leaders Liverpool and must win every game in the run-in to have any hope of catching them. Later that evening, Aston Villa, pushing for a top-four finish, host third-placed Nottingham Forest at 5:30 PM in what promises to be a high-stakes battle. Also, on Sunday, Liverpool will be guests of Fulham. Kick-off is at 2:00 PM. Liverpool will be looking to extend their winning streak to five games and move another step closer to the title. Brentford with take on Chelsea at 2:00 PM in an encounter that could prove crucial in the race for Champions League places. The round of matches ends on Monday, when Leicester City take on sixth-placed Newcastle United at 8:00 PM. With a game in hand, Newcastle could move into the top four if results go their way, while Leicester desperately need points to avoid relegation. Catch all the Premier League action live on GOtv Channel 65. Subscribe or reconnect via the MyGOtv app to ensure you don’t miss a moment.

Rivers Hoopers Seek Better Performance at Basketball Africa League Season Five

Fola Badmus6 months ago6 months ago05 mins

Rivers Hoopers Head Coach, Ogoh Odaudu, has stated that his team has what it takes to do better than last year’s outing, at the Basketball Africa League (BAL) Season 5..Rivers Hoopers will be involved in the first game at BAL season five, when they take on Stade Malien in the Kalahari Conference opener in Rabat, Morocco on Saturday, 5th April. The reigning Nigerian champions, who have been in closed camping for two weeks, arrived Rabat on Wednesday, ahead of Saturday’s opening game. Speaking on the team’s preparations so far, the BAL season four Coach of The Year, said “Training has gone well so far, we’ve been working very hard for the past two weeks and we’ve made tremendous progress.” Rivers Hoopers became the first Nigerian side to score a podium finish at BAL when they placed third last year, and while the team aims to do better this season, Coach Ogoh Odaudu insisted that the team’s immediate focus is to qualify for the playoffs which takes place in South Africa later this year. “Every tournament is just like an examination, you want to do better than the previous year. We came third last year, but we do not want to jump far ahead of ourselves. Our goal right now is to qualify from Morocco to the finals in South Africa, and then afterwards we can dream of something else. But right now we’re not thinking so far ahead, we want to be one of the two teams to qualify for South Africa at the end [of the Kalahari Conference].” he said. He however acknowledged the level of difficulty posed by the other teams at BAL by saying “It’s really difficult, right from qualifying from Nigeria. Now everybody knows our name in Africa now, the Rivers Hoopers, so it’s going to be twice as difficult as it was last season. Nobody’s going to underrate Nigeria anymore. They know what we can do. We drew a huge target on our back [last season] and people will be aiming for us now. But we’re just going to play our basketball and hopefully at the end of the day, qualify [for the playoffs].” As part of BAL requirements, Rivers Hoopers secured the signatures of Point Guard, Maxi Shamba (Congo DR), Forwards Madut Akec (South Sudan) and Raphiael Putney (USA), while retaining the services of Kelvin Amayo and Peter Olisemeka who helped the Kings Men win the Nigeria Premier Basketball League title last year, and BAL elevate youngster David Ugonna, who was also part of the Rivers Hoopers team at BAL season four. Despite the absence of sharpshooting Will Perry, the tireless Devine Eke, and the experienced John Wilkins who were among the team’s top performers last year, Coach Ogoh Odaudu thinks his current crop of players are equal to the task. He said “It’s a quite different team; we have a new point guard (Maxi Shamba), we have Rahpiael Putney who’s almost 7-foot tall and can shoot the lights out every court. We also have Madut Akec who I think is an upgrade of what we had last year. So I think the team is good to go. I am not one to single out players, I’m a team player, and the whole team is equally important for what we hope to achieve.”

GOtv Boxing Night 33: Shogbesan, Gbobaniyi Set for Explosive Showdown

Fola Badmus6 months ago6 months ago02 mins

The stage is set for another thrilling night of boxing as GOtv Boxing Night 33 takes centre stage on April 26 at the Molade Okoya-Thomas Indoor Sports Hall, Teslim Balogun Stadium. The night’s headline bout will see Sikiru “Omo Iya Eleja” Shogbesan square off against Segun Gbobaniyi in a highly anticipated lightweight clash. GOtv Boxing Night 33 takes place on April 26 at the Molade Okoya-Thomas Indoor Sports Hall, Teslim Balogun Stadium. Shogbesan, with 20 wins in 24 professional fights, is regarded as a top dog in his division, while his opponent brings a strong record of eight wins from 10 fights, making this contest a battle between experience and resilience. With both fighters known for their knockout power, fans can expect an action-packed encounter. The fight card also features exciting match-ups, including William “Kaki” Amosu against Emmanuel “Ability Famous” Abimbola in a light welterweight contest, while national super featherweight champion Lateef “Latest” Azeez faces Sodiq Oyakojo. Other bouts include Tosin “Soldier Boy” Osaigbovo against Ghana’s Emmanuel Otoo and Durotimi Agboola taking on Sodiq Adeleke in the super bantamweight division. Organizers, Flykite Productions, have promised an unforgettable night of boxing, with elite fighters looking to stake their claim for national and continental titles.

Kevin De Bruyne To Leave Man City

Fola Badmus6 months ago6 months ago02 mins

Kevin De Bruyne says he will leave Manchester City – confirming these are his “final months” with the Premier League champion. The Belgium playmaker, who is out of contract this summer, announced the news in an emotional post on X on Friday. “Nothing about this is easy to write, but as football players, we all know this day eventually comes. That day is here,” he wrote. De Bruyne joined City from Wolfsburg for around $71 million in 2015 and has gone on to win every major honor with the club, including six Premier League titles and the Champions League. In all he has won 14 major trophies at City and established himself as one of the all-time Premier League greats. “This city. This club. These people… gave me EVERYTHING. I had no choice but to give EVERYTHING back! And guess what — we won EVERYTHING,” he wrote. “Whether we like it or not, it’s time to say goodbye.”