Gusau: We Will Continue to Encourage Grassroots Football Devt.

President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau (MON) affirmed on Wednesday that his administration will continue to prioritise the development of football from the grassroots, saying it is the only way to grow the game sustainably, as no one can realistically build an edifice from the rooftop. Speaking at the monthly awards ceremony of the Nigeria National League, held in Abuja, Gusau reiterated that awards remain important projects to be encouraged because they help to spur better performances from all actors in an industry. “One of my NFF’s key commitments is to invigorate grassroots football and the associated leagues, recognizing them as the foundation for the future of the sport in Nigeria. We are grateful that after two and a-half years, we are witnessing tangible progress. By the end of our tenure, we anticipate that Nigerians will observe further positive developments and enhancements within our domestic league,” Gusau said. The NFF boss further highlighted the importance of synchronizing Nigeria’s football calendar with international standards. “This season marks the first occasion that we have successfully aligned our calendar with global leagues, an achievement that many deemed unattainable.” This alignment is not restricted to the top-tier league but also encompasses the Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL). Under Gusau’s leadership, substantial advancements have been made to improve the domestic league, and he expressed optimism regarding continued progress in the years ahead. The NFF’s focus on grassroots development aims to secure a promising future for Nigerian football. The NNL Awards ceremony recognizes exemplary performances and accomplishments within the Nigeria National League, shining a spotlight on the deftness of athletes, coaches and teams nationwide. Through the celebration of these achievements, the NFF seeks to foster a culture of excellence and competition within Nigerian football. Also present at the occasion were NFF 2nd Vice President/Chairman NPFL, Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye; Senior Special Assistant to Mr. President on Grassroots Sports Development, Prince Adeyinka Adeboye; NNL Chairman, Chief George Aluo; NNL CEO, Mr Emmanuel Attah; former NFF General Secretary, Ambassador Fanny Amun (MON); Chairman FCT FA, Hon. Abba Mouktar Mohammed; representative of the NSC Chairman, Mallam Salihu Abubakar; representative of the NSC DG, Edidowei Oweife; NFF’s Director of Media & Communications, Dr Ademola Olajire; President of NRA, Hon. Sani Zubairu; Chairman of NFF Referees Committee, Madam Faith Irabor and; NNL COO, Danlami Alanana.

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Nigeria Poised to End Medal Drought at African Fencing Championships

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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𝐉𝐮𝐧𝐞 𝟏𝟐 P𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 B𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐀𝐛𝐮𝐣𝐚 A𝐦𝐢𝐝 H𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐲 S𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐲

Protest has commenced in the Federal Capital Territory to demonstrate against rising hardship and insecurity in the country. Security agencies had earlier deployed heavily armed personnel to strategic locations across the city, including potential protest hotspots. The presence of operatives was particularly noticeable at major junctions and the national Assembly, among other places where the protesters could have gathered. However, the protest, which coincides with Nigeria’s Democracy Day, commenced in the Apo area of Abuja, where demonstrators were seen chanting solidarity songs and waving placards to express their grievances.

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Super Falcons Move 36th Spot on FIFA Ranking

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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Tinubu Cancels National Broadcast

President Bola Tinubu has cancelled the previously scheduled nationwide broadcast in commemoration of Nigeria’s 26th Democracy Day anniversary. In a statement on Wednesday, the Director of Information and Public Relations, Segun Imohiosen, attributed the change to President Tinubu’s scheduled attendance at a joint session of the National Assembly on Thursday. He added that the president will instead deliver his Democracy Day address directly from the National Assembly chambers. “Due to President Bola Tinubu scheduled attendance at the National Assembly Joint Session, the Presidential National Broadcast on June 12 has been cancelled. President Tinubu will deliver his address from the National Assembly, ” Imohiosen said. He added that other scheduled activities to mark the day will proceed as planned. Earlier, a notice sent to journalists announced the cancellation of the traditional military parade initially scheduled to mark the 26th Democracy Day celebration on Thursday, June 12, 2025. No official reason was given for the cancellation of the military parade. The notice also said the president will also participate in a special joint session of the National Assembly later in the day at 12 noon. The notice, signed by Abdulhakeem Adeoye on behalf of the Director, Information & Public Relations in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, outlined a revised schedule of events. It read, “The Inter-Ministerial Committee wishes to announce the following developments on the 26th Democracy Day celebration: “1. Presidential National Broadcast on June 12, 2025, at 7 a.m. The committee also directed that the public lecture, which will be held at the State House Conference Centre, will be covered exclusively by accredited State House correspondents.

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How Oshiomole Disrupted Air Peace Operations

A prominent lawmaker, Senator Adams Oshiomole have been accused of disrupting the operations of Nigeria’s largest flag carrier, Air Peace, on Wednesday. The airline’s statement followed the circulation of a viral video on social media showing former Edo State Governor locking the terminal gate at the Murtala Muhammed Airport, MMA, Terminal 1, also known as Zulu Terminal, after a heated exchange with an airport official. Although Air Peace did not name the politician, it revealed that the individual arrived at MMA Terminal 1 (Zulu Hall) at about 6:10 a.m. for Flight P47120, which was scheduled to depart Lagos for Abuja at 6:30 a.m. According to the airline, upon the politician being informed of the missed flight, he resorted to violence, physically assaulting its staff and forcefully barricading the terminal’s entrance. The statement by the airline reads: “In line with our standard on-time departure policy, the boarding process had closed, and the flight departed as scheduled. “Upon being informed of the missed flight, the politician resorted to violence, physically assaulting our staff and forcefully barricading the terminal’s entrance. He went as far as sealing the entry gate and manning the access point, effectively obstructing other passengers from gaining entry into the terminal. “This unacceptable behaviour caused significant disruption to ongoing operations and affected numerous travellers scheduled for various flights. To minimise further inconvenience, Air Peace swiftly activated an operational contingency plan to board affected passengers through an alternate terminal, ensuring the continuity of their travel plans. “We are deeply saddened that such a high-profile figure displayed conduct so unbecoming and disruptive to fellow passengers and our personnel. Air Peace maintains a zero-tolerance stance on violence or any form of aggression against our staff and passengers. “We urge all guests to remain civil and cooperative at all times. Aviation operations are bound by strict timelines and safety protocols, and we remain committed to upholding these standards while delivering safe and timely services to the Nigerian public. “Air Peace continues to stand for discipline, integrity, and respect for due process. No individual, no matter how influential, is above these values.”

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Nigeria Affirms Readiness to Host 23rd African Fencing Championships

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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“Too Many Things Went Wrong”, Says Ogoh Odaudu after BAL Exit

Rivers Hoopers head coach Ogoh Odaudu has said, “too many things went wrong,” while assessing his side’s quarter-final performance against Armée Patriotique Rwandaise [APR] on Monday in Pretoria. The KingsMen fell one step short of repeating last season’s heroic run to the Basketball Africa League semi-finals as they lost their quarter-final 104-73 to APR, their largest loss margin at the BAL. It looked like it wasn’t going to be Rivers Hoopers’ night, as early in the game as the first quarter, where APR doubled the KingsMen’s points, leading 24-11. Despite some bright moments from South Sudanese-Australian forward, Madut Akec, who scored 19 points, had four assists and two rebounds, the KingsMen were outplayed in the entirety of the game. Raphiael Putney attempted to begin a second-quarter comeback with three consecutive threes, but APR were quick to deal with the surge, continuing their show: efficient on both ends of the court. Speaking in a postgame news conference at the SunBet Arena on Monday, Odaudu said: “What’s changed [is that] we are no longer playing in the semi-finals. We’ve been knocked out, but on a general note, I think we had a really bad day today.” “We didn’t play as well as we thought we could play, and it happens in basketball. We are not upset. We may be disappointed, but we are holding our heads high. Too many things went wrong. The killer for us [at] the start was the 52 points made in the paint. The BAL Season Four Coach of the Year was critical of his team following the shots allowed in the paint by APR. “We didn’t defend the way we should have. So, nothing has changed; we are still Rivers Hoopers. We will still go back there [BAL], and we will still be back. Rivers Hoopers finished runners-up in Rabat, Morocco, during the Sahara Conference, where they finished with a 4-2 record. Recalling the team’s performance, Odaudu said the team exceeded expectations in the conference. “Nobody gave us a chance in Morocco,” Odaudu acknowledged. “But we stood our ground against all the teams that were there, and we came up second.” Odaudu was thankful for the support the Port Harcourt-based side has enjoyed so far, stating that it is important. “All in all, Rivers State, so far, has been giving us the support that they have been able to give us, and trust me, it is miles better than what other teams get. The heavy loss was one of the reasons Odaudu reflected on the domestic league, highlighting the importance of regular domestic competitions as the KingsMen look to regroup and return to Africa’s elite competition. “One major problem that we are facing, too, [is that] we played against US Monastir, who just came off their championship game – they lost – but they have been playing for a long time. “We played today against APR, who are still in the thick of their league… Rivers Hoopers have not played competitively since Morocco. It’s one of the problems that we have, too. We hope the Nigeria [Basketball] Federation is going to change all this [domestic league format], and then we are going to arrive at the BAL playing, not just coming to try to get into game shape while we are at the tournament.”

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