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Category: Sports

Nigeria Poised to End Medal Drought at African Fencing Championships

Fola Badmus05 mins

As Nigeria prepares to host the 23rd African Fencing Championships from June 25 to 29 at Charterhouse Lagos, the Nigeria Fencing Federation is confident that the nation is ready to end its long-standing medal drought at the continental event. With a promising lineup of athletes, the Federation believes this year’s tournament could mark a turning point for Nigerian fencing. According to Federation President Adeyinka Samuel, the sport is experiencing a resurgence, driven by a new generation of talented fencers who have gained valuable experience at international competitions. “On a personal note, as a former athlete, I vividly remember competing at the Senior African Championships in Morocco in 2008, where I narrowly missed a medal,” Samuel said. “To now host this very event as President is the culmination of years of sacrifice, dedication, and a shared vision for Nigerian fencing. This is a gift to our entire fencing community and a legacy moment for our young, aspiring athletes.” While Nigeria has yet to secure a medal at the African Fencing Championships, Samuel expressed strong optimism about the team’s prospects this year. “Our athletes are more prepared than ever before. We’ve invested heavily in coach development, international exposure, and high-performance training camps. With the support of the home crowd, our fencers are mentally and physically ready to make history,” he added. Team Nigeria has brought in an international coach from Italy, held joint training camps with other African nations, and provided targeted support in areas such as nutrition, conditioning, and mental preparation. Samuel emphasized that the goal extends beyond winning medals—it’s about inspiring the next generation of Nigerian fencers. He specifically predicted that Nigeria is on track to win at least two medals, despite the strong competition expected from across the continent. Among the athletes to watch is U.S.-based Peluola Akinbamiro, who will be competing in her first tournament on home soil. The 13-year-old, who participated in the 2025 African and World Junior Championships in Angola and China, expressed confidence in the team’s preparation under the guidance of the Italian coach. “I’m excited to finally compete in Nigeria. We’ve trained hard, and I believe we’re ready to break the medal drought,” Akinbamiro said. Homegrown talent Wisdom Okanlawon also shared his enthusiasm: “It won’t be easy facing some of the best fencers in Africa and the world, but I’m hopeful. This is my first senior tournament, and I believe we can make our presence felt.” Over 200 fencers from more than 26 African countries are expected to compete in 12 events during the five-day tournament. This marks the third time the African Fencing Championships will be hosted in a Sub-Saharan country, following previous editions in Mali (2019) and Senegal (2003 and 2009).

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NPFL Sets August 22 Kickoff for 2025/26 Season, Vows Calendar Stability

NPFL Sets August 22 Kickoff for 2025/26 Season, Vows Calendar Stability

Fola Badmus12 mins

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has announced that the 2025/26 season will begin on August 22, 2025, and conclude on May 24, 2026. This move marks a significant step toward establishing a consistent football calendar, according to NPFL Chairman Gbenga Elegbeleye. Speaking at a press briefing, Elegbeleye emphasized the league’s commitment to schedule integrity: “This is the first time in many years—perhaps since the start of the new-era NPFL in 2005—that a kickoff and ending date will be faithfully implemented. That is a commitment we made and a promise delivered.” Elegbeleye also praised the standard of officiating in the just-concluded season, which saw Remo Stars claim their first-ever NPFL title. He lauded Nigerian referees as among the best in the world, noting their growing international presence. “I’ve travelled around the world and witnessed some shocking officiating decisions—something you hardly see in the NPFL.” Referees awarded 76 penalties, issued 1,380 yellow cards, and handed out 56 red cards across 380 games last season. He highlighted the participation of Nigerian referees in international tournaments such as the U-20 Championship in Egypt and the upcoming WAFCON. While acknowledging there is still work to be done, Elegbeleye called on media and stakeholders to continue holding the league accountable, citing visible progress in Nigerian football.

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FIFA MA Course: Young Talents Course Begins as Instructors Programme Ends

Fola Badmus05 mins

The Nigeria Football Federation has successfully organized this year’s FIFA Member Associations’ Technical and Physical Instructors Course at the MKO Abiola National Stadium, Abuja with the President of Nigeria Referees Association, Hon. Sani Zubairu expressing gratitude to the NFF leadership for the robust support offered to ensure the success of the programme. “We thank God for the success of this first segment of the FIFA MA Course, and we also thank the leadership of Nigeria Football Federation for always having our backs. Without their support, we would not be able to achieve our objectives. I hereby charge all participants to leverage on what they have learnt here and let us see the impact in their zones, in both technical and physical aspects,” Zubairu said. In a similar vein, Chairman of the NFF Referees Committee, Madam Faith Irabor commended the NFF President, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau (MON) for the support and encouragement that the Committee and the NFF Refereeing Unit continue to receive from the Federation. “The NFF President has been gracious to us. This programme is an integral part of his pledge to change the face of refereeing in Nigeria, and you will all agree with me that he has lived up to his words as our referees performed creditably in the just-concluded NPFL season.” She also charged participants to go back to their zones and disseminate the knowledge acquired from the programme. A total of 40 elite technical and physical instructors were involved in the week-long course, which included theoretical and practical sessions, and was superintended by FIFA Fitness Instructor Boubaker Hanachi from Tunisia and FIFA Technical Instructor Ali Mohamed Ahmed from Somalia. Nigerian instructors Felicia Okwugba, Peter Edibe, Cecilia Ogwuche, Emmanuel Imiere and Stella Emoji, and IT/Video Instructor Promise Uwaeme, supported the FIFA delegates. The double-salvo programme aimed at improving the capacity of technical and physical instructors in Nigeria and also recruiting referees from an early age, continues on Sunday with the second segment that is for the Young Talents Programme. Just like the technical and physical instructors’ course, the Young Talents Programme will involve 40 participants. Participants for Young Talents Programme: Mansur Mahmud Ngaski, Gbemisola Solihat Yusuf, Bashir Moukhtar, Dominion Chisom Kalu, Ibrahim Adams Boyi, Emmanuel Ajewole, Kwanga Eric Terhile, Asakpi Oritsetsolayemi, Esther Joseph, Patience Abi Azi, Ehinola Aanu Paulina, Omowunmi Adeola Oluwole, Adepoju Michael Oluwajuwonlo, Suleyman Sani, Semiat Opeyemi Mustapha, Stephanie Tse Henbafan, Alohan Uzoma Osakpamwan, Isah Nagogo, Ruth Ogunrombi, Andrew Iorkon, Jamilu Hamisu, Rachael Onyekwere, Adie Emmanuel Unimike, Umar Musa Anukpo, Yakubu Aliyu, Ismail Ishaq, Idowu Stephen Omolade, Al-Ameen Kabiru Yusuf, Scholastica Amalachukwu Ikeobi, Dahiru Mustapha, Baffa Usman Usman, Uzaifa Abubakar Ilela, Ebenezer Folaesho, Muhammad Bin Lawal, Aminu Kabiru, Habibu Salihu, Idris Ibrahim Buba, Aminu Muhammed Yakubu, Aziz Ahmed, Capehas Hamen

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Super Falcons Move 36th Spot on FIFA Ranking

Fola Badmus03 mins

Nigeria’s Super Falcons have moved to 36h position in the latest World football governing council (FIFA) monthly ranking. The African champions also retained her first place on the continent with a total 1623.29 points against previous 1622.49 points ahead of South Africa, Morocco, Cameroon and Zambia. At the submit, USA continue to lead the way three months on, there has been plenty of movement further down the standings. Indeed, the gap at the top has narrowed, with Spain (2nd) and Germany (3rd) heaping the pressure on the Americans. Both have won all of their games since the last update, while a 2-1 loss at home to Brazil (4th, up 4) in April means that the star-studded squad coached by Emma Hayes can see the European pair looming ever larger in their rear-view mirror. In part on the strength of having upset the four-time world champions, the on-song Seleção have put themselves on the brink of the podium for the first time since December 2013. England (5th, down 1) complete the top 5, just ahead of Sweden (6th). Below them, Japan and Canada have also felt the after-effects of defeats by South American opposition. The Nadeshiko, who have been bested by the burgeoning Brazilians twice in the last couple of weeks, have slipped two spots to seventh, while the Canucks have fallen one place to eighth on account of a loss to Argentina in April. Next up, Korea DPR (9th) are unmoved, while France (10th, up 1) have leapfrogged the Netherlands (11th, down 1) to round off the top 10. The next edition of the FIFA Women’s World Ranking will be published on 7 August 2025.

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Everton Manager David Moyes Honoured with OBE

Fola Badmus03 mins

Everton manager David Moyes has been appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) by the Prince of Wales. Moyes, 62, managed West Ham from 2017 to 2024, and under his tenure the team secured its first major trophy in 43 years in the 2023 Europa Conference League. He managed Everton from 2002 to 2013 and returned to the Merseyside team in January. Moyes said Prince William had congratulated him on the way things had turned around in the second half of the season. He said the Prince told him about going to Aston Villa games with his sons. Moyes said: “I think in many ways it shows that the royal family are very much part of the people as well and want to do normal things in life”. Prince William pins a medal onto the jacket of David Moyes. They are standing inside Windsor Castle. Other men in royal dress stand in the room. Aston Villa finished sixth in the Premier League, with Everton in 13th place. They were just one point above the relegation zone when Moyes returned to Goodison in January. The former Celtic and Preston player, who also managed Manchester United, said he learned about the honour in December. Moyes told PA he had not believed it when he was contacted by the Home Office, having previously missed messages about it. “I went back, we checked, and I’ve got to say it was a big moment for both me and my wife. It was emotional,” Moyes said. He added he believed his success at West Ham was a key part of him making the New Year Honours list. “Bringing a trophy to West Ham, I think was huge, and I’ve been really fortunate that I’ve been able to manage and stay in the game for a long time,” he added. Moyes has the third-most Premier Leagues matches as a manager, behind Sir Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger at Manchester United and Arsenal respectively.

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Nigeria Affirms Readiness to Host 23rd African Fencing Championships

Fola Badmus04 mins

Nigeria has reaffirmed its readiness to host the 23rd African Fencing Championships, set to take place in Lagos from June 25 to 29, 2025. This marks the fourth time the event will be held in Sub-Saharan Africa, following previous editions in Senegal (2002 and 2009) and Mali (2019). Speaking at a well-attended media conference on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at the Lagos Fencing Club, President of the Nigeria Fencing Federation, Adeyinka Samuel, expressed excitement and pride over the upcoming tournament. “Today marks a truly historic moment for Nigerian sports, and indeed for the entire African continent,” Samuel said. “From June 25 to 29, Lagos will open its doors to Africa’s finest fencing talents as we proudly host the African Fencing Championships. This is more than just a competition—it’s a landmark achievement that places Nigeria among the few Sub-Saharan nations to host this prestigious event.” Samuel highlighted Nigeria’s growing stature in international fencing, noting past successes including the African Junior Championships in 2018 and 2022, and the World Cup in 2024. “Nigeria is fast emerging as a hub for fencing in Africa, and this championship is a testament to our consistent progress and dedication,” he added. The tournament will take place at Charterhouse Lagos, the first British independent school in West Africa. The venue, which successfully hosted Nigeria’s first Fencing World Cup, boasts a legacy rooted in over 400 years of British academic tradition. “To the 26 African countries that have confirmed participation, bringing over 200 athletes, we promise a world-class experience,” Samuel assured. “Expect top-tier hospitality, seamless organization, and the vibrancy of Lagos—a city rich in culture, infrastructure, and sportsmanship. Beyond the competition, we aim to deliver a uniquely Nigerian experience with cultural showcases and a spirit of unity that defines the pan-African ideal.” Angela Hencher, Chief Operating Officer of Charterhouse Lagos, also expressed enthusiasm about the event and the school’s ongoing partnership with Lagos Fencing. “Charterhouse Lagos is proud to host the 2025 Senior African Fencing Championships,” said Hencher. “This collaboration aligns with our mission to provide a transformative education grounded in British excellence, character development, and global citizenship.” She added that fencing reflects the school’s core values—Excellence, Integrity, Courtesy, Service, and Wellbeing. “Fencing demands strategic thinking, self-discipline, and resilience. We are thrilled to open our world-class facilities to the continent’s top athletes and contribute to the elevation of fencing in Nigeria.” Hencher emphasized that the event extends beyond sport. “It aligns with our vision of nurturing proactive global citizens. This championship is not just an event—it’s a celebration of excellence, ambition, and cross-cultural collaboration. We are honoured, excited, and ready to support Nigerian fencing on this incredible journey.”

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World No. 1 Heads to Lagos for 23rd African Fencing Championships

Fola Badmus14 mins

Twenty-two-year-old world number one Mohamed El-Sayed of Egypt is among the elite fencers set to compete in the 23rd African Fencing Championships, scheduled to take place in Lagos from June 25 to 29. El-Sayed, who recently clinched a silver medal at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, will be joined by his brother, Mahmoud El-Sayed, the 2025 Junior World Champion. Speaking at a press briefing ahead of the tournament—the third ever to be hosted in sub-Saharan Africa after previous editions in Senegal (2002, 2009) and Mali (2019)—President of the Nigeria Fencing Federation, Adeyinka Samuel, announced that 26 countries and over 200 fencers are expected to participate in this prestigious continental event. “A total of 26 African nations have confirmed their participation, bringing with them more than 200 athletes,” Samuel stated. “We are committed to delivering a world-class experience. Participants can expect exceptional hospitality, professional organization, and a vibrant, secure environment. Lagos offers a unique combination of modern infrastructure, cultural richness, and passionate sportsmanship. Beyond the intense competition, we aim to showcase a memorable Nigerian experience, featuring cultural displays that reflect our diversity and a strong pan-African spirit of unity.” Samuel emphasized the high caliber of athletes set to compete, including Senior World No. 1 and Olympic bronze medalist Mohamed El-Sayed; Junior World No. 1 Mahmoud El-Sayed; 2024 Olympic silver medalist Fares Ferjani; and former World Champion Ndolo Alexandra of Kenya. Nigeria’s own Inkosi Brou, currently ranked 23rd in the world, will also be competing, among many other top-tier fencers. Highlighting the significance of the event, Samuel added: “We are immensely proud to announce that top Executive Committee members from the International Fencing Federation will be attending, marking their first official visit to Africa. Additionally, all executive members of the African Fencing Confederation will be present, underscoring the importance of this championship for the growth and development of fencing across the continent.” The tournament will be hosted at the iconic Charterhouse Lagos—the first British independent school in West Africa—located in the bustling heart of the city. Having previously hosted Nigeria’s first Fencing World Cup, Charterhouse, with its 400-year legacy of British academic excellence, is seen as the ideal venue for the championship, which is sanctioned by the International Fencing Federation (FIE). Angela Hencher, Chief Operating Officer of Charterhouse, reaffirmed the school’s commitment to supporting the sport: “Charterhouse will continue to partner with the federation to help grow fencing in Nigeria and across Africa. The Senior African Fencing Championships will bring together athletes from across the continent, aligning with our vision to nurture proactive contributors ready to make a meaningful impact in an interconnected world.” “Beyond the competition,” she added, “this event is a celebration of the power of sport, fostering a culture of excellence and ambition.”

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We Achieved Our Objectives With the Unity Cup Tournament, Russia Games – Gusau

Fola Badmus04 mins

President of the Nigeria, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau (MON) has asserverated that the Federation is delighted to have achieved its objectives for making the Super Eagles prosecute the Four-Nation Unity Cup Tournament in London and the friendly match with the Russia senior national team in Moscow, all within the past 12 days. “I can tell you categorically that we achieved our sporting objectives, which were the most important in this case. The principal goal was to provide windows for the Coach and his crew to take a look at new players that might be positive additions to the team going forward. “I had some conversations with Coach Eric Chelle and I could see that he was pleased with the opportunities that the tournament in London (Unity Cup) that we won, and the friendly match with Russia that we drew, provided for him and his assistants.” Gusau reflected on the Super Eagles’ triumph in the Unity Cup Tournament (in which the Super Eagles defeated Ghana and Jamaica) and the gutsy draw with Russia, and expressed satisfaction with the output of most of the playing personnel. “Apart from the regulars that we already know what they are capable of, the tournament in London afforded us the opportunity to see players like Benjamin Frederick, Felix Agu, Christantus Uche and Igoh Ogbu. We saw more of Cyriel Dessers. The home-based professionals (Papa Daniel Mustapha, Ifeanyi Onyebuchi, Collins Ogwueze) did not fare badly either. “In Russia, we saw more of Uche and we saw Tolu Arokodare score a poacher’s goal. Goalkeeper Maduka Okoye was also excellent on his return and captain Ekong held the defence unit well. Now, we have options in defence, midfield and the attack, and I am quite satisfied with the team’s output in the three matches.” The Super Eagles defeated the Black Stars 2-1 in an entertaining Unity Cup semi-final at Brentford’s Gtech Community Stadium on May 28, and then outlasted Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz 5-4 on penalties after a 2-2 draw in the final three days later. Tolu Arokodare scored in the second half to stalemate the clash with Russia’s Sbornaya at the iconic Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow on Friday, following Semi Ajayi’s inadvertent own goal in the first period. “Now, we have good options in all areas as we look ahead to the FIFA World Cup qualifying matches, and I am certain that the technical crew is happy with that,” Gusau added.

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