News Agency of Nigeria
I’ll personally support young talent who emerges from Nigeria – Olopade
Sports

I’ll personally support young talent who emerges from Nigeria – Olopade

By Joy Akinsanya
The Director-General of National Sports Commission (NSC), Mr Bukola Olopade, has pledged to support any outstanding Nigerian young talent who emerges at the CAA U18/U20 African Athletics Championships with best athletes’ welfare.
Olopade made the pledge on Wednesday at the ongoing 3rd CAA U18/U20 African Athletics Championships at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena in Abeokuta, Ogun.
According to him, the commission is determined to support young new talents that would dominate the track in the next few years.
He said supporting the young talents from Nigeria would prepare them towards beating established athletes like Favour Ofili who is currently representing Turkey.
“We want a situation where all the talents discovered by Nigeria in particular and Africa in general would become world beaters.
“Personally, I am determined to support any young talent that emerges from Nigeria.
“I will give them the best kind of athletes’ welfare that would prepare them towards beating established athletes.
“We are determined to do that, get young new talents that would dominate the track in the next few years,” he said.
Olopade was optimistic that many big talents would emerge from Nigeria, adding that he is looking forward to a good performance from Nigerian Athletes that would beat global international standards.
“More importantly for us at the sports commission is that we want to be able to tie strongly our young talents to global expectations.
“I was impressed with the young girl I saw training in long jump yesterday; she is already jumping global international time.
“We want to see her do more, these are low hanging fruits for us toward Project 2028,″ he said.
Meanwhile, in the finals of the U-18 Triple jump event, Burkina Faso topped the podium with a leap of 12.79m, while Morocco secured a second place with a jump of 12.39m and Tunisia rounded up with a jump of 12.16m.
Mateo Le Roux from South Africa won his first gold medal in the U-18 high jump event.
The Championships which began today, will end on July 20. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Joseph Edeh
Oluwatola wins 4th AFNIS Golf tournament
Sports

Oluwatola wins 4th AFNIS Golf tournament

By Victor Okoye

Tobi Oluwatola, CEO of TAO Energy, has emerged as the overall best net winner of the 2025 African Natural Resources and Energy Investment Summit (AFNIS) Golf tournament in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that this was after Oluwatola played off handicap 19, and returned a total of 86 gross and 67 net.

The event, which was the fourth in the series was hosted by the TYB International Golf Resort and Country Club (TYBIGRCC), Abuja, with no fewer than 250 golfers taking part.

An elated Oluwatola told NAN that the victory was special to him because it was his first ever win after several attempts.

“It was a hard-fought battle. I am very elated, obviously, because I have been working very hard for this.

“I have been playing for four years. It’s a game I love a lot and am very passionate about.

“I have had alot of second place finishes in this tournament, but this is the first time I am finishing as the overall winner, so this cup holds a special place in my heart,” he said.

The energy entrepreneur noted that though he had a great start, he encountered some difficulties towards the end of the course, which almost ruined his game.

“I knew from the start that I was playing a decent game because I was putting the balls very well and playing a lot of pars.

“But then, towards the end, I started getting nervous, and on hole 17, I hit my tee-shot on a par 3 into the bush, and I thought that was the end of the tournament for me.

“But I went into the bush and tipped it out, even though it didn’t quite get on the green.

“However, from outside the fringe, I was able to chip it into the hole, and at that point, I knew that the forces were behind me, and I was going to win.

“I played par on the last hole, and the rest was history,” he said.

He expressed gratitude to the organisers for putting together a wonderful tournament in the serene and lush green course of the TYB International Golf Club.

The champion added that he was already looking forward to to a tougher challenge ahead in next year’s edition.

NAN also reports that Oluwatola was closely followed by Charles Ona of TYB Golf Club, who returned 96 gross and 72 net after playing off handicap 24 to finish as runner-up net.

Aliyu Ambursa settled for the second runner-up position after he played off handicap 15, and returned 92 gross and 77 net in the men’s category.

Victor Garba emerged the best gross winner in the men’s category after he returned a total gross score of 84, while Salisu Ali finished as runner-up with 85 gross.

In the Ladies category, Maureen Apute, the Lady Captain of TYBIGRCC playing off handicap 18, emerged best net winner after returning 87 gross and 69 net.

Saratu Kudi who played off handicap 24, finished as runner-up net, after returning 101 gross and 77 net, while Rose Nyam returned 92 gross to clinch the best gross prize in the women’s category. (NAN)

Edited by Tosin Kolade

Why we introduced Habu Gumel Olympic Marathon – NSE boss
Sports

Why we introduced Habu Gumel Olympic Marathon – NSE boss

By Emmanuel Afonne

The President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Margaret Oguntala, says the society will continue to use sports to unify engineers nationwide in spite of their area of specialisation.

Oguntala said this at the unveiling of the mascot for the commencement of the 2025 Nigerian Engineering Games (NEGG) holding between July 12 and July 19, at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.

She said this year’s games had a unique feature following the introduction of the Habu Gumel Olympic Marathon in honour of their former president, Habu Gumel, who is now the President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC).

“This year’s edition of the Games holds special significance.

“The Nigerian Society of Engineers has dedicated the 2025 NEGG in honour of one of our illustrious leaders and a past president of our great society (2000–2001), Habu Gumel, who is currently the President of the NOC.

“He is a respected sports administrator and a shining example of how engineering leadership can extend its impact to the global arena of sports.

“His outstanding contributions to the management of sports in Nigeria and his role in promoting the country’s footprint on the world stage have earned him accolades and recognition, locally and internationally.

“In his honour, we are proud to introduce a special feature of this year’s event, the Habu Gumel NSE Olympic Marathon, which will serve as a lasting tribute to his enduring legacy in both engineering and sports development,” Oguntala said.

According to her, the Engineering Games is conceived with a two-fold objective, namely, to provide engineers an opportunity to take a break from their professional schedules, engage in physical activities and promote overall fitness and wellness.

She said the second objective was to serve as a strategic platform for social interaction and professional networking.

This, she said, was aimed at bringing engineers together with government officials, key stakeholders in the public and private sectors, as well as members of the diplomatic community to mingle and forge ahead together.

Earlier, Malam Shehu Dikko, the Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), said efforts would be geared towards inaugurating a competition where every sector in the country would engage one another and vie for honours.

Dikko said that as a quantity surveyor, he would want to see the inauguration of the Quantity Surveyors Games, to challenge the Engineering Games.

“As a Fellow of the Institute of Quantity Surveyors, I feel jealous that we should also be doing the same thing that I am seeing here.

“I have been a quantity surveyor before I became a sports administrator, and I will take this back to my institute, to ensure we create competition between professional bodies.

“Engineers and quantity surveyors work together on the same site, so we should be having a competition among ourselves to ensure our unity especially as we work on the same project,” Dikko said.

The NOC President, Habu Gumel, said he was honoured to have the marathon in his name.

“It is a great honour for me that the Nigerian Society of Engineers decided to name this marathon after me and it has become an annual event.

“This marathon is an important event for the NOC and the NSE, to promote the interest of sports.

“It is important to see how sports can unite people and a marathon helps to improve health,” Gumel said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that no fewer than 150 runners participated in the marathon with Isaac Ogundare emerging as the overall winner. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

WAFCON: Super Falcons edge Botswana 1-0 in tough encounter
Sports

WAFCON: Super Falcons edge Botswana 1-0 in tough encounter

By Ijeoma Okigbo
Nigeria’s Super Falcons secured a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Botswana’s Mares in their second group match at the 2024 WAFCON in Morocco.

Thursday’s encounter at Stade Larbi Zaouli saw the Southern Africans give the nine-time champions a real challenge throughout the game.

Botswana signalled early intent, as Refilwe Tholakele’s fierce strike forced goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie into a quick double save.

The Mares stayed resolute at the back, with goalkeeper Sedilame Bosija marshalling the defence and frustrating Nigeria’s attacking efforts.

Midway through the first half, Ashley Plumptre surged forward but narrowly missed after a well-placed pass from Rasheedat Ajibade.

Soon after, Toni Payne failed to convert a promising chance, blasting high when clear through on goal from the right flank.

The second half remained scrappy, as Botswana packed the midfield and defence, making it difficult for Nigeria to find rhythm.

In the 48th minute, substitute Chinwendu Ihezuo headed over the bar, while Plumptre’s curling shot was tipped over in the 64th minute.

Bosija was finally beaten in the 89th minute when Okoronkwo broke through and set up Ihezuo for the decisive goal.

The Super Falcons will next face Algeria on Sunday evening, again at the Stade Larbi Zaouli, in their final group B fixture. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Remi Koleoso/Kamal Tayo Oropo
Int’l horse racing derby begins in Kaduna
Sports

Int’l horse racing derby begins in Kaduna

By Mohammed Baba Busu

The International Horse Racing Derby has commenced in Kaduna, Kaduna State, Alhaji Mustapha Abubakar-Bida, National Co-ordinator, Horse Racing Federation of Nigeria (HRFN) has said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the epochal event, organised by the federation, is themed: ‘Hope Renewed Sahel Savannah Series 2025, Under Division System Race’.

Speaking to NAN on the sidelines of the race, Mustapha-Bida said that the event was in commemoration of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu.

According to the ‘Sarkin Dawakin Nupe’, the federation organised the event sequel to the good works Tinubu has been doing for Nigeria in the past two years.

He said, “This is because of the trust we have in him and his administration as Tinubu is doing a lot for the nation.

“We believe in his government, we know he means well for Nigeria and he has done a lot to ensure that the Nigerian economy is back on track.

“He is also very supportive to the local production of horses in Nigeria.”

Mustapha-Bida further added that Tinubu has been very special about sports development, adding, “that’s why he created the National Sports Commission (NSC) as there is no Sports Ministry now.

“That has reduced the bureaucracy and the Executive Chairman of the commission has excess powers to ensure that sporting activities are greatly improved.”

He added that Kaduna was very special to the horse racing industry in the country.

Mustapha-Bida said, “The history of horse racing cannot be complete without the mention of Kaduna.

“This is because it was in 1953 that the late Sardauna of blessed memory brought horse racing to Nigeria.

“That’s why the closing event for the season of horse racing is usually done in Kaduna to commemorate its starting in Nigeria.”

The HRFN national co-ordinator also said that there were seven races in the first day of the four-day sports meet, recalling that there were seven competitions for the season including those in Bida, Yola and Zaria, among others.

According to Mustapha-Bida, the event has participants from Nigeria, Niger, Cameroon and Burkina Faso Republics.

He stated that there were five categories of the race, with breeds of horses like the local breed, Sudan and Talon, among others.

Mustapha-Bida expressed happiness that Tinubu’s horse has maintained its lead in the past two years.

He said, “We are hopeful that it will still do so as it is its natural crown and it will maintain it during the grand finale on Saturday.”

Mustapha-Bida stated that the grand finale is expected to be declared closed by Tinubu.

“He will be assisted by esteemed guests like the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr Tajuddeen Abbas, among other top-notch personalities from within and outside Nigeria.” (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

NFF, UNICEF mull fencing for youth empowerment
Sports

NFF, UNICEF mull fencing for youth empowerment

By Vivian Ahanmisi

In a landmark move to promote youth empowerment, the Nigerian Fencing Federation (NFF), backed by FIE, is exploring partnership with UNICEF Nigeria.

The initiative seeks to use fencing as a powerful tool for child development, education, peacebuilding, and sustainable growth in Nigeria and beyond.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that a high-level meeting occurred at UNICEF’s Lagos Office during the 23rd African Fencing Championships.

In attendance were FIE Secretary-General Gulnora Saidova, African Fencing Confederation President Mbagnick Ndiaye, and NFF President Adeyinka Samuel.

They met with senior UNICEF Nigeria officials to discuss a potential collaboration framework for the project.

UNICEF Nigeria was represented by Ronak Khan, Deputy Representative (Programmes), and experts in youth engagement, skill development, and partnerships.

Also present were Novak Perovic, FIE Vice President, Obinna Anyanwu, Vice Chair of the Organising Committee, and Rachael Samuel, NFF Vice President.

During the session, the NFF President reiterated the federation’s vision of fencing as a catalyst for youth development and positive social change.

NAN also reports that the meeting underscored the partnership’s potential to transform lives across communities in Nigeria and Africa at large.

FIE Secretary-General Gulnora Saidova stated, “At FIE, we aim to grow fencing as both a sport and a tool for cultural and social advancement.

“We’re excited by the opportunities discussed with UNICEF Nigeria and believe this collaboration can uplift communities across Africa,” she said.

Samuel noted, “This partnership is a bold step towards using fencing to uplift and empower young Nigerians through education, inclusion, and sport.”

UNICEF Nigeria expressed strong interest in the initiative, citing its alignment with their focus on children’s rights and youth development.

The body also highlighted areas like child protection, peacebuilding, and skills development as key goals the partnership could support.

UNICEF confirmed it has the infrastructure and capacity to roll out the programme nationwide using its existing platforms.

If successful, this would be UNICEF Nigeria’s first development initiative anchored in sport-based programming.

The collaboration is set to become a landmark model for youth and fencing development, with a shared goal of long-term, scalable impact. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Pinnick’s CAF appointment will elevate Nigerian football—- Presidential aide
Sports

Pinnick’s CAF appointment will elevate Nigerian football—- Presidential aide

By Muhyideen Jimoh

‎Mr Sunday Dare, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to President Bola Tinubu, has praised Amaju Pinnick’s appointment as Special Adviser to CAF President Patrice Motsepe.

‎Dare, a former minister of youth and sports development, described the appointment as a significant boost for Nigerian and African football.

‎In a statement made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday, Dare congratulated Pinnick on his return to continental football leadership.

‎Pinnick, a former President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) was appointed on Saturday by Motsepe, marking his reintegration into CAF’s inner circle.

‎The presidential aide commended Pinnick’s dedication to football governance and his consistent influence across Africa’s sporting landscape.

‎“Amaju Pinnick’s re-emergence on the continental football stage is a testament to his vast experience and tireless passion for the beautiful game.

‎”His new appointment as Special Adviser to the CAF President is well-deserved, and I am confident he will make invaluable contributions to African football at this strategic level,” Dare said.

‎Dare emphasised that Pinnick’s presence within the CAF executive will once again, place Nigeria at the center of major football decisions on the continent.

‎”It’s a win for the country and a proud moment for Nigerian sports leadership, especially at a time where President Bola Tinubu has mandated the development of a strong sports economy in Nigeria under the Renewed Hope Agenda,” he added.

‎Pinnick previously served as CAF first vice president and as a member of the FIFA Council.

‎During his tenure, he worked closely with Dare as minister, forging a synergy to reposition Nigerian football and sports generally.

‎Dare expressed optimism that Pinnick’s appointment would further elevate Nigeria’s reputation in international football governance.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chioma Ugboma

WAFCON: Super Falcons edge Tunisia 3-0, keep Mission X dreams alive
Sports

WAFCON: Super Falcons edge Tunisia 3-0, keep Mission X dreams alive

By Ijeoma Okigbo
A fourth minute strike by six-time African Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala, steered the Super Falcons to a comfortable 3-0 victory over their Tunisian counterparts at the Women African Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The win on Sunday at the Stade Larbi Zaouli will keep Mission X momentum alive as the nine-time champions aim for a 10th continental title.
Forward Oshoala came close to doubling the advantage in the 16th minute, but defender Norhene Bettoumi was alert and diverted the ball as the forward was set to pull the trigger from Toni Payne’s cross.
Two minutes into added time of the first period, Nigeria’s Rinsola Babajide packed enough power into her shot as she stormed past Tunisian Chaima Alabbassi and blasted past goalkeeper Salima Jabrani for Nigeria’s second of the evening.
Just before the break, Ashleigh Plumptre thought she had got Nigeria’s third off a header from Babajide’s corner kick, but her effort was disallowed.
In the second half, Plumptre, forever adventurous, rattled Jabrani with a sharp shot, and four minutes later, substitute Esther Okoronkwo’s sharp delivery begged for connection.
Osinachi Ohale missed from close range as Nigeria chased the ball in a melee from a free-kick in the 62nd minute.
At the other end, the veteran defender was fortunate not to be penalised after bringing down the lively Salma Zemzem in Nigeria’s vital area.
True to character, Okoronkwo bustled and hustled, and came pretty close with nine minutes left when she turned a defender and saw the ball hit the upfront from her shot.
Three minutes later, she was jumping for joy when her knockdown from Plumptre’s cross, found fellow substitute Chinwendu Ihezuo in the right place to slot the ball past Jabrani for Nigeria’s third.
In added time, Plumptre’s clever header almost got Jabrani befuddled, but there was still time for Zemzem to rattle goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie’s crossbar.
The victory handed the Super Falcons three points and momentary leadership of group B, ahead of the clash between Botswana and Algeria on Thursday and July 13 respectively. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Joseph Edeh
Nigeria, Togo target ITTF regional titles
Sports

Nigeria, Togo target ITTF regional titles

By Vivian Ahanmisi

Defending champions Nigeria and Togo are preparing to retain their titles at the 2025 ITTF Africa West Regional Championships in Lagos from July 16 to 19.

The event will take place at the Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall, located within the Teslim Balogun Stadium complex in Lagos.

Nigeria, the region’s most decorated team, will defend the women’s team title it successfully retained in Lomé last year.

This confirmation was made on Sunday by International Table Tennis Africa (ITTF Africa).

Togo will pursue back-to-back wins in the men’s team event, after a thrilling 3-2 victory over Nigeria in the 2024 final.

That 2024 triumph came on home soil, spurred by strong local support from enthusiastic fans.

This year, Togo faces tough opposition from Nigeria and other countries including Benin Republic, Ghana, and Côte d’Ivoire.

Other participating nations include Burkina Faso, Guinea, Liberia, Niger Republic, and Sierra Leone.

In the singles event, Nigeria’s top-ranked player, Matthew Kuti, will seek to retain his men’s singles crown.

Kuti won his first regional title last year in Lomé, defeating Oba Oba Kizito of Côte d’Ivoire 4-1 in the final.

Victory this year would make him the first male player to win consecutive singles titles at the tournament.

However, the women’s singles title is wide open due to the absence of reigning champion, Nigeria’s Hope Udoaka.

Her absence provides a golden opportunity for a new female champion to emerge from the competition.

The championship will also serve as a qualifier for the 2025 African Championships in Rwanda later this year.

With home advantage and the largest squad, Nigeria is eyeing a return to the top in the men’s team event.

Nigeria narrowly lost the men’s team title to Togo in last year’s hard-fought final in Lomé.

This year’s edition has seen increased participation, with over ten countries confirming their attendance.

This marks a rise from previous editions, which recorded a maximum of nine participating countries.

Sierra Leone, Guinea, and Niger Republic are returning to the championship after years of absence.

All eyes will be on Nigeria, a country that has dominated both men’s and women’s events in the region.

Ferdinand Sonou, ITTF Africa West Region Vice President, shared his excitement ahead of the event.

He said, “I’m thrilled we’re back in Nigeria for the regional championships. It’s always a favourite for visiting teams.

“Nigeria has a strong reputation for hosting international events, and teams look forward to the experience.

“This tournament signals the start of a packed international table tennis season in Lagos.

“I’m confident we’ll witness the rise of new talents alongside the established stars of the sport.

“The passionate Lagos crowd will certainly bring energy to the matches.”

Sonou also praised ITTF Africa President, Wahid Enitan Oshodi, for his unwavering support for the championships.

He noted that the growing number of teams reflects ITTF Africa’s commitment to developing the sport across the region.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the 2025 championship promises intense action and top-tier table tennis talent. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Wrestling: Kolawole wins gold at Spanish grand prix
Sports

Wrestling: Kolawole wins gold at Spanish grand prix

By Georgina Adegbie
Nigeria’s Esther Kolawole, a 62kg wrestler, defeated America’s Jaffe Haylie 10-0 by superiority on Saturday to win gold at the Grand Prix of Spain.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports Kolawole entered the match with high confidence, after beating Spain’s Lydia Tourino 10-0 in the quarter-final.

She also secured a 4-1 victory against Alicja Nowosad of Poland during the semi-final clash.

The gold medal underscores Esther Kolawole’s potential and her strong belief in achieving greatness.

Reacting to her win, Nigeria Wrestling Federation President, Daniel Igali, praised Kolawole’s determined and inspired performance on behalf of the federation’s board.

“I believe this experience will help shape her for future international competitions.

“I’m truly impressed by her outing. If she keeps this up, Nigerians can expect more gold medals in the near future,” Igali said.

NAN reports that Kolawole will next compete in the Ranking Series in Budapest, Hungary, from July 14 to 19.

This is part of her preparation for the World Wrestling Championship in Croatia, scheduled later in 2025.

NAN also notes the 2025 Grand Prix of Spain began on Friday and ends Sunday in Madrid. (NAN)(www.nannrws.ng)

Edited by Augusta Uchediunor/Kamal Tayo Oropo
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