Nigeria Archives | Page 5 of 27

Osimhen revives Super Eagles’s World Cup hope in Kigali

Our Reporters2 weeks ago2 weeks ago02 mins

A brace from Galatasaray of Turkey striker, Victor Osimhen were all the Super Eagles needed to revive hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup to be hosted by United States of America, Canada and Mexico. Osimhen broke deadlock in the 11th minute when he tapped in a free kick by his successor and the current African Player of the Year Ademola Lookman. Osimhen broke loose and shipped the ball past the onrushing Rwandan goalkeeper to increase the tally at the close of the first half of the tie. The former African champions now placed fourth with 6 points behind South Africa, who currently the log with 10 points, while the Republic of Benin and Rwanda are on eight and nine points respectively. Nigeria however must consolidate on her winning streak when they host the Warriors of Zimbabwe in Match Day 6 of the Qualifying series in Uyo next week, Tuesday. While Nigeria tackles Zimbabwe in Uyo, The Squirrels of Benin will play host to South Africa, and Lesotho would be Rwanda’s guests.

Kenyans, Ethiopians dominate half marathon at ECOWAS Marathon, Nigerians win 5 km race

Our Reporters1 month ago1 month ago06 mins

Kenya Harrison Muchira Wanjiru won the ECOWAS Abuja International Marathon half-marathon on Saturday in 1 hour 04.39; on his heels was another Kenyan, Adam Sulaiman Muhamad, who was second 1.05.27, and a Nigerian Francis James Musa came third in 1.05 51. If Kenyans dominated the men’s race, the women’s race was dominated by Ethiopians. Lydia Natiyaka Wamalawa of Ethiopia won the women’s race in 1 hour 15.3, Aberash Minsewo, another Ethiopian, was second in 1.17.14, and like in the men’s race, a Nigerian Patience Dalyop was third in 1.21.15. Nigerian runners dominated the 5 km race, they also won most of the prizes reserved for ECOWAS citizens. Each one for his reason, thousands of runners pounded the streets of Abuja on Saturday as the 2025 ECOWAS Abuja International Marathon flags off at the ECOWAS Commission Yakubu Gowon Way a little after 8.00 am, while the 5 km race started shortly after. For the elite runners that participated in the 21-kilometer race of Africa’s most lucrative half-marathon, the focus was on the $ 10,000 prize money for the top finisher. Ditto for the top runners in the 5km race whose sights were also fixed on the prize money for the top five finishers. For former presidential aspirant Omoyele Sowore, a constant face in marathons and road races in Nigeria, America and other parts of the world, the ECOWAS Abuja International Marathon was another medium to carry his message of justice for humanity to every part of the world. Sowore did not run alone; he ran with the #Run with Sowore Group and other members of his Lazy Man Athletics Club. But for the majority of the runners like Blessing Mozie, they participated because running has become a way of life. A staff member of the Down Syndrome Foundation of Nigeria, she ran on Saturday because running has become a part and parcel of Lagos-born Mozie’s life. Before moving to Abuja, Mozie participated in several editions of the Lagos City Marathon, running the full marathon, but she ran the 5 km on Saturday because she is not used to the Abuja roads. ”I was born in Lagos, I grew up there, so I am familiar with the route, but I am not too familiar with the Abuja routes. Maybe in future, I will run the half marathon and the full marathon in Abuja. “I think running is something everybody should do because of its immense health benefits. “For me, running is not a fashion statement but a way of life because it is good for the body generally, and I am encouraging everybody to embrace the culture of running; the benefits are immeasurable. An estimated 5,000 Nigerian and international runners battled for $71,000 prize money on Saturday. The men’s and women’s winners of the 21 km half-marathon race won $10,000. Also, all the first 200 runners to cross the line received bronze medals to show they had participated. The Chairman of the Main Organizing Committee and ECOWAS Director of Youth and Sports, Amb. Francis Njoaguani noted that the event was part of activities to commemorate ECOWAS at 50. Njoaguani stated that the initiative is aimed at encouraging regional participation and celebrating homegrown talent. He noted that the future goal is to achieve the World Athletics Gold Label status within the next four years, positioning the ECOWAS Abuja International Marathon among the most prestigious road races globally.

President Federation Cup: NFF insists on this weekend for finals in all States and the FCT

Our Reporters1 month ago1 month ago01 mins

The Nigeria Football Federation has again declared that all 36 States and the Federal Capital Territory must stage the final matches of their 2025 President Federation Cup competition on Saturday, 22nd February or Sunday, 23rd February 2025. In a statement to secretaries of Football Associations in all the 36 States and the FCT, NFF’s Director of Competitions, Ruth David, reiterated: “Final matches are to be played ONLY ON 22nd/23rd, except in special cases and as approved by the NFF “Failure to adhere to the above attracts a fine of N1,000,000 (One million naira only).” The National Play-Off of this year’s competition has been scheduled for 5th March, with the National Draw one week later, while the Rounds of 64, 32 and 16 are scheduled for 19th March, 2nd April and 16th April 2025 respectively. The quarter-finals have been slated for 3rd and 4th May, with the semi-finals fixed for 17th and 18th May.

NFF sets Tuesday deadline for CAF B-License Coaching Course registration

Our Reporters1 month ago1 month ago03 mins

The Nigeria Football Federation has announced that midnight on Tuesday, 25th February 2025 will be the deadline for registration, for those who desire to participate in the four-month CAF B-License Coaching Course that will run between April and August this year. The course, according to the NFF Technical Director, Coach Augustine Eguavoen, is designed to enhance the capacity of Nigerian coaches and prepare them for current and future challenges, and is for both men and women coaches. “As I stated some weeks ago, the CAF B-License course is part of NFF’s strategic effort to build the capacity of coaches across the country, and will be done in modules. It will run between 7th April and 25th August 2025, and to be eligible, a candidate must be an active coach, possess a CAF C-License certificate that has been put to use in the past two years, must be able to read and write in the English language, have basic computer skills and a laptop, have a valid G-mail account, and must submit a medical certificate that proves he/she is physically and mentally fit to undertake the course. “The response has been pretty awesome, and that is why we now have to bring the deadline forward. The new deadline is midnight of Tuesday, 25th February 2025 for intending participants.” Last year, the NFF organised a CAF C-License programme exclusively for women – the first-ever – which drew 30 women coaches from across the country, including a good number of former Nigeria international players. The three-module course took place between July and September 2024.

Man Utd scouts Osimhen

Our Reporters1 month ago1 month ago03 mins

Manchester United have reportedly sent scouts to monitor Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen, according to talkSPORT. Osimhen, 26, recently scored twice in Galatasaray’s 2-1 victory over Rizespor, further solidifying their lead at the top of the table. This performance has reportedly intensified United’s interest as they seek to bolster their attacking options in the upcoming transfer window. However, securing Osimhen’s signature may prove challenging. The Nigerian international commands a significant wage, reportedly around £200,000 per week, and is keen to play in the Champions League. While United are interested, they face competition from other clubs, including Paris Saint-Germain, who are reportedly preparing for the departure of Randal Kolo Muani. Osimhen has previously expressed a desire to play in the Premier League, stating last year, “Future in the Premier League? Of course, I would like to play it one day, for now I have other plans for my career. When the time comes you will know everything.” Since acquiring a minority stake in Manchester United nearly a year ago, Sir Jim Ratcliffe has implemented a cautious approach to spending, including workforce reductions to free up funds for player acquisitions. The club’s ability to make a substantial offer for Osimhen will likely depend on their financial position concerning Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR). While sending scouts suggests United are exploring the possibility of a deal with both Napoli and the player, it remains to be seen whether Ratcliffe will mandate squad trimming before any major purchases. Osimhen’s prolific 2022/23 season, where he scored 26 goals in 32 games and led Napoli to the Serie A title, earned him the African Player of the Year award for 2023. Napoli subsequently extended his contract, including a £113 million release clause, to protect their asset. Despite this, his goal-scoring form dipped slightly the following season, making European giants hesitant to trigger the release clause. The arrival of Antonio Conte at Napoli further complicated Osimhen’s situation, leading to his season-long loan to Galatasaray. There, he has rediscovered his scoring touch, leading the club to the top of the Turkish league.

Ademola Lookman slams ‘disrespectful’ Atalanta coach

Our Reporters1 month ago1 month ago04 mins

Ademola Lookman has hit back at his own manager after being slammed as “one of the worst penalty-takers I’ve ever seen” following a crushing Champions League defeat. Gian Piero Gasperini made the damning comments after the former Everton winger’s spot kick was saved by ex-Liverpool goalkeeper Simon Mignolet in Champions League playoff defeat to Club Brugge. The Nigerian had netted the only goal for La Dea off the bench but they were eliminated 5-2 on aggregate, losing 3-1 on the night. Despite his mixed evening, Gasperini stuck the knife in on the negatives and singled out the 27 year old, who played under Brendan Rodgers at Leicester City, to the media at full time. The Atalanta star missed the spot kick and it was claimed he is not the designated penalty-taker. The Italian coach said: “Lookman was not supposed to take that penalty, he is one of the worst penalty takers I’ve ever seen. He has a frankly terrible record even in training, he converts very few of them. Retegui and De Ketelaere were there, but Lookman in a moment of enthusiasm after scoring decided to take the ball and that was a gesture I did not appreciate at all.” Lookman took to X in response, claiming he has been ‘singled out’ and disrespected. He posted: “It saddens me on a day like this to have to write this statement most of all because of what we have achieved together as a team and as a city. Being singled out in the manner I have been not only hurts but feels deeply disrespectful, not least because of the immense hard work and commitment I have always put in each and every day to help bring success to this club and to the incredible fans of Bergamo. “In truth, I have dealt with many difficult moments during my time here – the majority of which I have never spoken about because in my opinion the team must always be protected and must come first. This makes what happened last night even more hurtful. “Along with our incredible fans, we as a team are hurting too with last night’s result. During the match the designated penalty taker instructed me to take the penalty; and to support the team I took responsibility in the moment to do so. Life’s about challenges and turning pain into power which I’ll continue to do.”

60th Founders’ Day Anniversary: Ogun Commissioner harps on Youths Devt ahead of Sports Festival

Our Reporters1 month ago1 month ago03 mins

As Ogun State prepares to host the 22nd National Sports Festival, the State Commissioner for Sports Development, Wasiu Isiaka, has reiterated the importance of sports in youth development and nation-building. The National Sports Festival, which is expected to bring together athletes from across the country, will be a showcase of Nigeria’s sporting talents and a celebration of unity, friendship, and healthy competition. The festival will feature various sports, including track and field, swimming, and basketball. Speaking at the 60th Founders’ Day Anniversary celebration of Remo Divisional School Sagamu, Commissioner Isiaka emphasised the significance of hosting the festival, stating, “This festival represents much more than just track and field competitions: it signifies our determination to create a robust sports ecosystem throughout Ogun State.” He noted that the state government’s commitment to youth and sports development is evident in various initiatives aimed at engaging young people. “We recognise that sports play a critical role in building character, fostering teamwork, and nurturing future leaders,” he explained. Commissioner Isiaka also commended the alumni of Remo Divisional School for their contributions to the institution and the community, saying, “Your commitment to giving back to your roots not only enriches our community but also positively impacts society and our government. Your contributions are invaluable and serve as a testament to the strong foundation that this institution has established over the years.” The commissioner urged the current students of Remo Divisional School to take advantage of the resources available to them, including sports, to become well-rounded individuals and responsible citizens. He advised, “Learn not just from your textbooks, but from your involvement in activities like sports, the arts, and community service. These experiences will help shape you into well-rounded individuals and responsible citizens.”

Moshood Jimoh assumes office as Lagos 41st Commissioner of Police

Our Reporters1 month ago1 month ago04 mins

A new Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Moshood Jimoh, has assumed duty as the 41st Commissioner of Police at the Lagos State Command. He takes over from CP Olanrewaju Ishola, who has been redeployed to Force Headquarters, Abuja. CP Jimoh, who hails from Ilorin, Kwara State, studied Political Science at the Ahmadu Bello University and was appointed into the Nigeria Police Force as a Cadet Assistant Superintendent of Police in 2000. He has worked in different parts of the country including Katsina, Cross River, Anambra, FCT, Oyo, Gombe and Rivers. He was Divisional Police Officer (DPO) Central Police Station, Abuja; Force Public Relations Officer; Deputy Commissioner, Criminal Investigation Department, Airport Police Command; Deputy Commissioner, Finance and Administration, Oyo State Police Command and Deputy Commissioner, General Investigation, FCID Annex, Gombe. He has undergone several professional trainings some of which include: Combat Operations Course, Police Mobile Training College, Maiduguri; Weapons of Mass Destruction Counter Measure First Responder Training Course, United States Embassy, Abuja; Crime Prevention of Korea Police, Police Training Institute, Seoul South Korea; Social Construction and Management Reform, China Executive Leadership Academy, Pudong China; Maritime Rescue and Salvage for Developing Countries, China Maritime Police Academy Ningbo, China; Training on Anti-hijacking Techniques and Tactics for Developing Countries, Special Police Academy, Beijing, China; and SMART Government and Informatization at Academy for International Business Officials (AIBO), Beijing, China. CP Jimoh is a recipient of the Presidential award for Public Relations Personality of the Year in recognition of his sterling qualities and outstanding contribution to the development and use of Public Relations by the Nigeria Institute of Public Relations. He was also a member of the African Union Peacekeeping Mission in Darfur Sudan where he got an Award of Recognition for Commendable Service. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Management Consultants (IMC), Nigeria; Certified Management Consultant (CMC) by Institute of Management Consultant (IMC), Nigeria; Fellow, Institute of Corporate Administration of Nigeria; Associate, Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON); and Member, Nigerian Institute of Public Relations. Until this appointment, CP Jimoh was Commissioner of Police, Ports Authority Police, Eastern Ports, Port-Harcourt. As CP Olohundare Moshood Jimoh embarks on his mission to maintain law and order, foster community trust, and enhance the safety of the state through his wealth of experience, the good people of Lagos State are implored to give him maximum support and cooperation.