By Victor Okoye

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has expressed shock at the death of Nigeria’s goalkeeping legend, Peter Rufai at the age of 61.

Reports say the flamboyant goal-tender, who was in and out of the Nigeria senior team for 17 years, had been ill for some weeks.

This was before giving up the ghost at a Lagos hospital at about 6 a.m. on Thursday.

A statement by Ademola Olajire, NFF’s Director of Communications, said Nigeria football firmament turned pale on Thursday evening following Rufai’s death.

The NFF General Secretary, Mohammed Sanusi, was quoted as saying that the death came to the Federation as a rude shock, adding that the NFF wasn’t aware he had been ill.

“This is really, really shocking.

“Peter Rufai dead? What happened? I am perplexed. We did not even know that he had been ill.

“We earnestly pray to the Almighty God to grant him eternal rest, and to comfort all his loved ones, as well as the entire Nigeria football family.”

Olajire stated that former Nigeria international midfielder Waidi Akanni had confirmed that the body of Rufai had been deposited at a Lagos hospital.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Rufai made his debut for the then Green Eagles in a friendly match in December 1981.

He won the Africa Cup of Nations silver in 1984 and 1988, before Nigeria swept to glory in the continental finals in Tunisia in 1994.

He was the first-choice goalkeeper in the three championships.

The charismatic and disciplined goalkeeper was Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper in the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cup finals (the Super Eagles made the Round of 16 on both occasions).

Rufai dedicated his post-retirement days to discovering and mentoring young players and also served as the coordinator of the Nigeria U23 team at a time.

Apart from his memorable outings with the Super Eagles, he was an extraordinary figure at Lagos club, Stationery Stores, with whom he reached the final of the Africa Cup Winners Cup competition in 1981.

He also played professional football in Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal and Spain. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Emmanuel Afonne

By Babatunde Ogunrinde

Nigeria’s football community is mourning the death of former Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, fondly called Dodomayana.

Rufai died on Thursday in Lagos at the age of 61, following a prolonged illness, according to family sources.

He captained Nigeria and featured in two FIFA World Cups — USA 1994 and France 1998 — becoming one of the country’s most celebrated goalkeepers.

Rufai earned 65 caps for the national team and played a key role in Nigeria’s 1994 Africa Cup of Nations victory in Tunisia.

He was the first Nigerian goalkeeper to play professionally in Europe, with spells in Belgium, Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain.

In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) ex-international and former Super Eagles coach, Kadiri Ikhana, described Rufai’s death as a painful loss.

“Rufai was a dedicated sportsman who gave his all to the growth and development of football in Nigeria,” Ikhana told NAN.

He praised Rufai’s impact at both national and club levels, especially during his time with Stationery Stores of Lagos in his early playing days.

“He was a great goalkeeper whose contributions to the Super Eagles were immense and unforgettable.

“It’s really sad to lose another legend, coming shortly after the demise of Christian Chukwu. May Rufai’s soul rest in perfect peace,” Ikhana said.

He added that Rufai’s legacy as a leader, mentor, and icon will live on in the heart of Nigerian football.

Beyond football, Rufai was admired for his humility and unwavering passion for developing young talents through grassroots initiatives.

He founded the Staruf Football Academy and launched the “Dodomayana Soccerthon”, which discovered and mentored future stars across the country.

His efforts inspired young Nigerians to combine sports and education, shaping the next generation of footballers and leaders.

Nigeria Football Federation President, Ibrahim Gusau, said Rufai was “a true Nigerian legend who inspired generations of players and fans.”

Born in Lagos in 1963 to a royal family in Idimu, Rufai chose football over kingship, chasing his dreams on the pitch.

Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced soon by the family. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

By Emmanuel Afonne

President Bola Tinubu has promised to unite the country through various sporting activities which are currently being heavily funded by the Federal Government.

Tinubu said this in Abuja, while receiving the King’s Baton ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games scheduled to hold between July 23 and Aug. 2, 2026, in Glasgow Scotland.

The President, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen. George Akume, said the present administration was committed to uniting Nigeria through sports.

“We reiterate our dedication to promoting peace through sports.

“The arrival of the King’s Baton in Nigeria on June 27, is a testament of our commitment to the Commonwealth family and the ideals it represents.

“The arrival of the King’s Baton is more than just a relay, it is an opportunity to showcase our rich cultural heritage, vibrant diversity and boundless potential.

“It allows us to reiterate our dedication to peace, understanding our sustainable development through the unifying power of sports.

“We recognise the symbolism of this baton, much like the Olympic Torch, ignites a collective passion and shared anticipation and renewed determination as we look forward to the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games.

“Our athletes have consistently demonstrated their prowess on the global stage and brought glory and honour to our country.

“Nigeria has continued to shine since our first participation in 1950 and we are determined to build on these successes.”

Tinubu commended the leadership of the National Sports Commission (NSC), noting that their professionalism had placed Nigeria as the leading sporting nation in Africa.

“This has also made sports one of the key drivers of the economy in line with the best international standard, as expertly driven by the National Sports Commission under my watch.

“I commend the NSC under the leadership of Shehu Dikko and the NOC and other members of the planning committee for this event, for their hard work which ensured that we didn’t only host but to infuse it with our national spirit.

He urged the athletes to train hard and uphold the spirit of sportsmanship, as they carry the hopes of 250 million Nigerians.

He said that efforts had been geared towards ensuring reforms in the system to harness the potential of the youths, and urged the private and public individuals to embrace it.

NSC Chairman, Shehu Dikko, said the event was also a platform to announce Nigeria’s intention to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games.

“Subject to Presidential approval, Nigeria intends to formally bid to host the 2030 Centenary edition of the Commonwealth Games.

“Nigeria is ready to welcome the world and stage an event that will leave a lasting imprint on our continent and the global sporting community.

“We have the passion, infrastructure, and talent to deliver a truly historic Games for the next century of the Commonwealth,” he said.

Dikko added that the King’s Baton Relay served as a reminder that the values of sportsmanship, inclusion, and mutual respect were not abstract ideals but lived realities.

President of Commonwealth Games Nigeria, Habu Gumel, said Nigeria had consistently emerged as a formidable contender in the Commonwealth sports arena.

“Since our inaugural participation in the Commonwealth Games in 1950, our national profile at this quadrennial event has shown remarkable progress.

“From securing a solitary silver medal at the Auckland 1950 Games, to an impressive tally of 12 Gold, 9 silver and 14 bronze medals at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, Nigerian athletes have consistently done well.

“They have demonstrated their prowess at international events and have brought pride to the country.”

Gumel solicited the continued support of Tinubu, especially as it concerned the approval and timely release of funds to facilitate the team’s preparation for the Games.

Acting British High Commissioner in Abuja, Gill Lever, said Nigeria and the United Kingdom had a long-standing relationship.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the King’s Baton Relay is a celebration of unity, peace, and shared dreams among the 72 nations and territories of the Commonwealth.

The Baton began a journey on March 10, across continents, cultures, and communities, carrying with it the message of His Majesty, King Charles III.

It also varies the values of humanity that bind all member countries, the moment it was launched at Buckingham Palace on March 10, 2025. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Joseph Edeh

By Chukwuemeka Opara

Gov. Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi has rewarded 34 registered players of Abakaliki Football Club with N 1million each after emerging the runners-up in the 2025 President Federation Cup on June 28.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the team lost the finals 3–4 on penalties to Kwara United after regulation time scores stood goaless, at the Mobolaji Johnson Stadium, Lagos.

The eight-month old club, became the giant-killers of the competition after dusting big names such as Enyimba FC of Aba, Nasarawa United of Lafia among others, enroute the final.

Nwifuru, while receiving the players in his office in Abakaliki, also announced a reward of N 1million for its Head Coach and Ex-International, Ifeanyi Onyedika.

“16 officials of the team will receive N500, 000 each, while its supporters club will receive N4 million.

“The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) Ebonyi Chapter will also receive N1 million for effective coverage of the team’s activities,” he said.

The governor congratulated the team for the feat, noting that they made the government and Ebonyi people extremely proud.

“I watched the match live and your performance made me believe that our investment in the team was worth it.

“The performance was so convincing that you will become the salt of world football, one day.

“The technicality you displayed on the pitch and passion embodied in the team’s anthem, were thought-provoking and highly encouraging,” he said.

He, however, rued the team’s “sad” relegation from the Nigeria National League (NNL) to Nationwide League One (NNO).

“I blame the coach because if the team had displayed the sort of performance we saw in Lagos, it could have finished among the top-four in the league.

“You could have put confusion in Nigerian football if you won the federation cup because a relegated team should ordinarily not play in the Confederation of African Football (CAF) competition.

“I, however, assure you that we would explore available opportunities to ensure that you remain in the NNL,” he said.

Nwifuru urged the officials to ensure better preparations for the next football season and asked them to give the players a one-month recess.

“I promise to be visible in your matches next season and be more involved in the team’s affairs,” he said.

The team’s Captain, Cyril Timothy, thanked the governor for his ‘immense” encouragement since its formation, noting that the players planned to use the trophy to appreciate him.

“We sincerely regret the loss and relegation from the league, but assure the state of improved performances next season,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Francis Onyeukwu

By Vivian Ahanmisi

Nigeria’s women’s epee team celebrated a historic feat at the 23rd African Fencing Championships, winning their first-ever match and finishing in the competition’s top five.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the five-day tournament, held at Charterhouse, Lagos, ended with Egypt emerging as overall champions.

Following a quarterfinal loss to Algeria, the Nigerian team—Somtochukwu Eribenne, Sara Idongesit, and Adebodunirin Thomas — bounced back strongly to finish their campaign on a high.

They overcame Benin Republic 45-40 in the classification match for fifth place, showing teamwork and resilience to the delight of the home crowd.

An excited Thomas called the win a morale booster: “We are thrilled to get our first win and secure a top-five finish in the event.

“We worked hard together as a team, and our coach played a big part in helping us challenge our opponents.

“This experience will definitely boost our confidence heading into the next competition.

Egypt maintained its dominance in the men’s team foil event, defeating Angola convincingly in a one-sided final.

The Egyptian side — 2025 men’s foil champion Abdelrahman Tolba, Karim Medhat, Mohamed Hamza, and Sief Elghayesh — crushed Nigeria 45-9 in the semifinals.

They then beat Angola 45-23 in the final, sealing another gold medal in commanding fashion.

Angola reached the final after a thrilling 45-44 comeback victory over Algeria in the semifinals.

In spite of Algeria’s strong start, Angola fought back spiritedly to earn their first podium finish in the competition.

In the women’s team epee final, Egypt was awarded gold after Algeria refused to continue the match, which had been tied 6-6.

The match ended with a P. Black decision in Egypt’s favour following Algeria’s withdrawal.

Egypt also won the women’s team sabre final, where Alanoud Hegazy, Nada Hafez, Nagwa Nofal, and Renad Eldoksh triumphed over Algeria 45-40.

With that win, Egypt added another gold to their growing tally in the championship.

Egypt topped the overall medal table with 11 gold, 5 silver, and 5 bronze medals.

Kenya came second with one gold, while Tunisia placed third, earning two silver and two bronze medals.

Algeria finished fourth with one silver and six bronze medals to their name.

Côte d’Ivoire and South Africa both secured one silver and one bronze medal each.

Angola earned one silver, while Morocco, Cape Verde, and Senegal each claimed one bronze medal.

NAN reports the five-day tournament, hosted by the Nigeria Fencing Federation at Charterhouse, Lagos, featured over 120 fencers from 18 countries. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

By Babatunde Ogunrinde

Rivers Angels FC of Port Harcourt on Saturday claimed their 10th consecutive title of the Women’s President Federation Cup after a 6-4 penalty defeat of Nasarawa Amazons.

The match played at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan Lagos Island saw the Rivers ladies coming for two goals down to overpower the Nasarawa Amazons.

It was a thrilling encounter which saw the Amazons almost dethroning the River Angels who have become perennial champions.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Amazons scored two great goals through Olushola Shobawale in the 7th and 17th minutes respectively to end the first half.

Rivers Angels with their intimidating record continued their onslaught in at the start of the second half and were soon rewarded by Taiwo Ajibade’s brilliance.

She latched onto a through pass in the 57th minute to beat Amazons goalkeeper.

It took Afolabi another five minutes to equalise the game for Rivers Angels following a goalmouth scramble.

The encounter eventually ended in a shootout which saw Rivers Angels produce a superb 6-4 win in the penalty shootout.

Amazons star player, Shobowale, expressed disappointment over the loss.

“We played well to win the match, but unfortunately it did not happen. We are happy to have reached the final; we just have to go and work harder next time,” Shobowale said.

Similarly, Rivers Angels star player, Afolabi, said that she was happy with the result.

“It was a tough match. We worked very hard to beat Amazons and it paid off. We are very proud of our achievement,” she said.

In a related development, Kwara United emerged winners of the men’s President Federation Cup after defeating Abakaliki FC, 4-3 on penalties.

NAN reports that the match ended 0-0 in regulation time, as both sides failed to find the back of the net.

Kwara United, having missed their first kick in spite of their player losing the first penalty kick, converted their remaining four kicks, as against the three kicks converted by the Abakiliki team.

Kwara United star player, Victor Adeoye, who won the competition’s Most Valuable Player Award, attributed their win to hard work.

He said that the support from the state government was enough motivation which propelled them to victory.

“We are proud to have won a trophy after 49 years.

“It’s a great day in our history. God did this for us and we are thankful for our governor who has supported us financially and morally to achieve this feat,” Adeoye said.

The 2025 President Federation Cup had in attendance former Super Eagles Players, Nwankwo Kanu and Victor Ikpeba.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos and his Kwara State counterpart, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, as well as Shehu Dikko, Chairman, National Sports Commission (NSC), were among the dignitaries that watched the encounter.

The Director-General of NSC, Bukola Olapade, was also at the venue. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Emmanuel Afonne

By Aderonke Ojo

New Boys Football Club of Karu, Abuja on Saturday defeated One Touch FC of Games Village 4-3 in a penalty shootout to win the 2025 Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) Unity Cup title.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the match went into penalty shootout after it ended 1-1 in regulation time.

The competition was organised by AMAC Football Coaches Council and was played at the Area 3 Football Pitch in Abuja.

The final match saw Paul Henry of New Boys FC netting the first goal in the 10th minute before One Touch FC fought back for an equaliser through Jonathan Nuhu, in the 75th minute.

Both teams created scoring opportunities which could not be converted, leaving the teams with the option of penalty shootout.

In the end, New Boys FC’s precision and composure proved decisive, as they won 4-3.

It would be recalled that New Boys had defeated hard fighting G-Medix Football Academy 3-1, to claim one of the final tickets, while One Touch defeated Gwarinpa United 1-0 to grab the other final ticket.

Speaking after the match, Head Coach of New Boys, Ayala Bashiru, expressed gratitude to God for the win while praising his team’s effort.

He commended his boys for maintaining their winning streak in the competition.

“It wasn’t an easy game, but we give God the glory from the beginning to the end. I thank the crew and our supporters who were behind us throughout the game.

“We can now go and prepare for other competitions.

“I appreciate the officials and I can go out to brag that we had good officiating,” he said.

On his part, Head Coach of One Touch FC, Jeffery Okoli, said the final match was interesting in spite of their loss.

“Penalty is anybody’s game but unfortunately, it wasn’t our game today,” he said.

Okoli, however, told his players that there was more to play for in the future.

“This is not the end.

“In football, you can either win, lose or draw, but in the final game, it’s only win or lose.

“Although we lost today, we will keep our heads up and hope to win another day.

“We will go back, regroup and refocus on future competitions, and we hope to bounce back from this setback,” he said.

The win marks a significant achievement for New Boys FC, who have demonstrated their skill and determination to win throughout the tournament.

NAN reports that 23 teams participated in the sixth edition of competition which began on June 3 and ended on June 28, at the Area 3 football pitch Abuja. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Emmanuel Afonne

By Vivian Ahanmisi

Egypt extended their dominance at the 23rd African Fencing Championships, winning all three gold medals in the team events on Saturday in Lagos.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the five-day competition is being held at Charterhouse, Lagos, drawing significant attention on Saturday.

In a tense final, Egypt narrowly defeated Tunisia 45–41 to win the Men’s Team Sabre title.

The Egyptian team—Ziad Elsissy, Adham Moataz, Mohamed Amer, and Ahmed Hesham—faced a strong Tunisian side led by Olympic silver medallist Fares Ferjani.

Other Tunisian fencers included Lucas Messica, Maurice Andre, Mohamed Aziz Cherni, and Ahmed Ferjani.

Egypt established an early advantage, though Tunisia mounted a determined comeback.

Ahmed Hesham, the 2025 African Champion, produced a match-winning display to secure the title.

In the semifinals, Egypt beat Niger Republic 45–23, while Tunisia overcame Algeria 45–21.

Algeria claimed the bronze medal after a 45–27 win over Niger Republic.

Egypt also retained the Women’s Team Sabre title, defeating Tunisia 45–39 in a closely contested final.

The Egyptian squad included 2025 Women’s Foil Champion Sara Amr, Jana Ehab, Noha Hany, and Malak Hamza.

Tunisia fielded Nourane B’chir, Yasmine Ayari, and Yasmine Soussi in their challenge for gold.

Egypt led from the start and resisted a strong Tunisian finish to defend their 2024 title.

Algeria took bronze after a 14–45 loss to Tunisia in the semifinal.

In the Men’s Team Épée final, Egypt overpowered South Africa 45–26 to replicate their 2024 triumph.

Led by World No. 1 Mohamed Elsayed and World Junior No. 1 Mahmoud Elsayed, Egypt were dominant throughout.

They were supported by Mohamed Yasseen and Mahmoud Mohsen in the commanding performance.

South Africa, captained by Sergey Losevskiy with Rahul Van Manen and Stembele Phakisi, could not match Egypt’s intensity.

Algeria earned bronze, defeating Angola 45–30 in the third-place match.

These victories underline Egypt’s fencing supremacy, combining veteran skill and emerging talent across team events.

NAN reports that the tournament concludes on Sunday, June 29, with finals in men’s foil and women’s épée and sabre. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo