Chinonye Aliyu, President of the Nigeria Aquatics Federation (NAF), said the ongoing `Swim for Life’ National Junior Swimming Championship is a pathway to the 2026 Youth Olympics Games in Senegal.
Aliyu told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday that over 150 swimmers, ages 8 to 15, from various states, schools and clubs are featuring in the three-day tournament in Abuja.
She said the tournament will help improve the swimming database of the federation, as they keep track of athletes ahead of the Olympics.
“ In March, we had a championship for only swimmers in the FCT that was well publicised, resulting in a commendation from the world aquatics governing body.
“ We also had commendation from the National Sports Commission, who instructed us to organise a national event after the success of the FCT championship.
“It was these commendations that gave birth to this tournament in Abuja, and so far, we have recorded lots of talents which will now form our database.
“With the event rounding up today, we are now going to keep upgrading this database, keep track of the athletes and invite them to camp periodically with the Youth Olympics in view,’’ Aliyu said.
Meanwhile, the NAF boss noted that the tournament in Abuja is more than just a sporting event but aimed at promoting water safety.
“This championship is aimed at promoting water safety while encouraging early participation in swimming.
“I believe that every child should learn to swim, not just for competition but as a life skill and watching these kids perform for a couple of days now, has been impressive,’’ she said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Renowned Nigerian boxer Bashiru Ali, popularly known as Bash Ali, has called on President Bola Tinubu to re-inaugurate the Bash Ali Boxing Project Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the Guinness World Records Boxing bout.
Speaking to the press in Abuja on Thursday, Ali expressed frustration over alleged corruption within past government officials that had stalled the event.
He said the 12-round bout would mark the first Guinness World Records Boxing Championship fight to be held on African soil.
Ali emphasised the event’s potential to bring significant economic benefits to Nigeria.
At 69 years old, the former World Boxing Federation (WBF) cruiserweight titleholder, who won his title in 1985, highlighted that while the event was private sector-driven, it required government support to become a reality.
He stressed that all previous Guinness World Records Boxing Championship fights had been held in the U.S., making the event in Nigeria a groundbreaking opportunity.
Ali revealed that 132 countries were expected to participate in the event, and the Federal Government had already written to the World Boxing Body to guarantee the safety of its members in Nigeria.
He also mentioned that the National Sports Commission would follow up to ensure timely payment of approval fees domiciled at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) by the private sector.
Ali said that for 19 years, he had faced obstacles from corrupt government officials in his pursuit of hosting the world championship fight.
He urged President Tinubu to use his office to remove these barriers and ensure the fight finally took place.
“In the spirit of the Renewed Hope Agenda, I am respectfully asking for the immediate re-inauguration of the Bash Ali Boxing Project LOC by Mr President.
“With the re-inauguration, all the unnecessary obstacles caused by corruption would be knocked out, so this historic fight can hold in our great country, Nigeria,” he said.
Ali explained that the LOC had been inaugurated in 2006, 2014, and 2019 by previous administrations but faced setbacks due to corruption.
He called on President Tinubu to investigate the matter and hold accountable any officials found guilty of extortion.
The pugilist also confirmed that he had been medically cleared and was ready to face his opponent, Andy Ruiz Jr., once all arrangements were finalised
Ali, known for his powerful punches and aggressive style, vowed to continue fighting against corruption in the system while pushing for the world title fight, which he believed would bring global recognition to Nigeria.
He also urged Nigerians to support his mission to put Nigeria back on the global boxing map.
Earlier, Dickson Oshin, National President, Bash Ali Fan Club noted that President Bola Tinubu had promised to help make the fight a reality.
“I am using this opportunity to remind Mr President of the promise he made to us during his election campaign when we met with him in Ekiti.
“He promised us that he would ensure that the historic Guinness World Record Boxing Championship fight holds in Nigeria.
“I am therefore pleading again with President Tinubu to help us make this event a reality,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
The Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Malam Shehu Dikko says the One Service One medal ( OSOM) Games remains a veritable platform for discovering top athletes for the nation.
Dikko stated this on Thursday while declaring open the 6th edition of the OSOM Games inside the main bowl of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.
The OSOM Games is meant for all military and para-military service agencies in the country.
He noted the role of security agencies in producing top athletes for the various national teams, and stressed the importance of hosting such competitions.
“We recognise the role the security agencies played in the rich sporting history of our country.
“They have produced some of the country’s finest athletes who have done the country proud at various international competitions.
“At the commission we acknowledge that the security agencies still have the potential to produce top class athletes for the country which is part of the reasons we are committed like never before to hosting this year’s OSOM Games,.
“I look forward to an exciting competition and our eyes will be on some of the outstanding athletes that will distinguish themselves at the Games.
“We are currently building a sustainable pool of talents that will be ready to do the country proud at international competitions,” he said.
The Chairman emphasised the importance of organising such Games which among other things serves as a veritable tool to foster unity and camaraderie among the security agencies.
“The OSOM Games is more than a competition. It is a building block in our broader vision to reform the Nigerian Sports Sector.
“As I said earlier , under the RHINSE initiative, we are committed to turning Sports from a field of consumption into one of Production. That means placing greater focus on local competitions like these,” he added.
Dikko used the occasion to assure athletes that the Commission will soon embark on infrastructural revamping of the country’s sporting facilities.
He specifically said that the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja will soon undergo a total face-lift especially with the pitch.
Dikko maintained that infrastructural development and athlete’s growth go hand in hand and the NSC is fully committed to making this work.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the OSOM Games brings together all Service Agencies, both Military and Para Military, to compete under a fair and competitive atmosphere.
No fewer than 12 military and para-military agencies are competing in the six-day competition which ends on April 30.
The agencies include; the Nigeria Police Force( NPF), Nigeria Customs Service ( NCS), Nigeria Correctional Service (NCOS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps ( NSCDC) .
Others are; Nigeria Army, DSS, EFCC, Fire Service, NIA, ICPC, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS). (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Three Nigerian players from Unicorns Football Club of Ilorin are set for trials at English Premier League (EPL) club, Nottingham Forest in Nottingham, UK.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Nottingham Forest currently sit fourth on the EPL table with 60 points, and are one of the clubs in pole position out of the five clubs slugging it out for the Champions League spots.
The Three Nigerians namely; left winger Olamide Olasehinde, central defender Sulyman Quadri, and midfielder Sanni Adebayo have arrived in the UK for a two-week trial with the club.
Unicorns FC CEO, Victor Awoniyi expressed his excitement about the trials and told NAN that his ultimate goal is to utilise the opportunity to showcase the country’s abundant football talents.
The trio’s trial is part of a larger trend, with Unicorns FC having successfully sent no fewer than nine other players abroad in the last one year.
Secretary of the team, Suleiman Atunrase accompanied the players during their stay in the UK, allowing them to focus on the game.
This opportunity comes as English football continues to attract top talents worldwide.
Nottingham Forest striker, Taiwo Awoniyi who expressed delight at the opportunity, noted that representing Nigeria in major international tournaments, such as the U-15 and U-17 World Cup, was a pivotal moment in his career.
He however, noted that many young talents in Nigeria are not as fortunate as he was, hence the need to create a platform where these talents can showcase their skills.
“With Nigeria’s vast pool of talented individuals, making it to the national team is a remarkable achievement.
“By creating opportunities for these young talents, we are not only giving them a chance to showcase their skills but also making their dreams a reality,” Awoniyi said.
He further explained that providing platforms for young talents to develop and grow is essential in nurturing the next generation of football stars.
“It’s a privilege to be part of initiatives that help young players achieve their goals and pursue their passions.
“I can assure you that arrangements are also in top gear to send more players across Europe for a chance to achieve their dreams,” he said.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
No fewer than 40 coaches have completed a week-long ITF National Level 1 Tennis Coaching Course organised by the Nigeria Tennis Federation (NTF) in Abuja.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the participants drawn from the six geopolitical zones in the country, were presented with their certificates at a closing ceremony on Wednesday.
The coaching course which began on April 14, ended on Wednesday at the National Tennis Centre, Package B, Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.
In a message from the Chairman, National Sports Commission (NSC), Malam Shehu Dikko and delivered by Olumide Bamiduro, Director of Federations and Elite Athletes Department, NSC, he reiterated the Commission’s continued support to NTF and other Federations.
“I want these new set of coaches to be technically alert to the knowledge been impacted on them towards the growth and development of tennis in the country.
“The athletes are the bedrock of sports development, so if we have coaches at nooks and crannies of the country, you will see the rapid growth of the game of tennis in Nigeria.
“They should put more effort now as they aspire to reach Level Three, which is the highest coaching standard in tennis,” Dikko said.
Earlier, Rotimi Akinloye, NTF Technical Director and Course instructor, highlighted the significance of the 10-day training programme for tennis coaches.
He explained that the training provides hope for the future of tennis in Nigeria, as young coaches learn modern teaching methodologies and technical knowledge to effectively guide players.
“Coaches play a crucial role in shaping the careers of tennis players, and their words can either inspire or discourage players.
“Thus, the training programme focused on equipping our coaches with global best practices and modern teaching techniques to enhance player development.
“It was also quite encouraging to see that the participants are young and knowledgeable about the game, indicating a promising future for Nigerian tennis,” he said.
Participants at the coaching course
NTF Secretary, Shammah Makpa, said that the importance of the training programme on Nigeria Tennis cannot be overemphasised.
Makpa said that it aimed to elevate the coaching standards in Nigeria, enabling coaches to provide better guidance and support to players.
“By equipping coaches with modern teaching methodologies, the programme can contribute to the development of skilled and competitive tennis players in Nigeria.
“It will also go a long way to help promote the growth of tennis at the grassroots, potentially leading to increased participation and success in local and international competitions,” he said.
He said that the Federation under the leadership of Ifedayo Akindoju as President, will continue to work towards taking the country to greater heights in the world of tennis through developmental programmes.
Chukwunonso Nwabueze, a participant in coaching training programme, shared his positive experience.
He highlighted the programme’s enriching content, which he noted covered essential aspects of tennis coaching.
“Participants learned about the basics of tennis coaching, including training methods for beginners and intermediate players.
“The programme covered specific skill areas such as ball feeding, approach shots, serve and volley, providing participants with a comprehensive understanding of tennis techniques,” he said.
Nwabueze who is also the PRO of Nigeria Tennis Umpires Association, explained that he chose to participate in the training for capacity building and development, to further enhance his skills and knowledge of the game.
Rebecca Ekpeyong, a participant from Port Harcourt, said that the training demonstrates a commitment to professional development, allowing participants to stay up-to-date with best practices in tennis coaching.
“The programme equipped participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively coach tennis players.
“By learning modern coaching techniques, participants can contribute to the development of skilled and competitive tennis players in Nigeria,” she said.
Also speaking, Bolaji Bankole from Lagos, commended the NTF for organising the course with a promise to put into use knowledge garnered from the training.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Bankole Olowookere, Head Coach, Nigeria’s Under-17 women’s national team, says his team will make the country proud in the return leg match against Algeria in the ongoing U-17 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifiers in Morocco.
Olowookere told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Wednesday that the girls are determined to qualify for the World Cup in October.
He said the return leg match was crucial as the team would be playing on Algerian territory.
“The Algerian girls will definitely have a home advantage and large crowd support from their compatriots, but we, the Flamingos, will do our best to make Nigeria proud.
“Our girls are always ready to do what they know best. They have been wonderful in their performance since the commencement of this year’s qualifiers,” he said.
NAN reports that the Flamingos will face Algeria in the reverse fixture on Friday at the Mustapha Tchaker Stadium in Blida, Algeria.
Nigeria’s Flamingos have edged closer to their 8th appearance at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup with a 4-0 win over Algeria in the first leg of the third and final rounds of the qualifiers.
The aggregate winner over the two-legged encounter will qualify for this year’s FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, slated for Morocco in October.
The 2025 edition will be the first to feature 24 teams.
The tournament is scheduled to take place from Oct. 17 to Nov. 8 in Morocco. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Nigeria’s U-18 women’s handball team began their IHF Trophy Zonal Phase on Sunday with a resounding 53-21 win over Togo in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports the team displayed ruthless dominance, particularly from the wings, securing a 21-8 lead by the end of the first half.
Nigeria maintained control in the second half, making it difficult for Togo to respond, and wrapped up the match with a commanding 53-21 scoreline.
Coaches John Uzor and Bukola Duru guided the team to play with intensity, utilising quick ball rotation and fast breaks to devastating effect.
Surprisingly, in spite of Nigeria’s dominant display, none of their players was named Most Valuable Player, with the award going to a Togolese player.
Coach Uzor said he wasn’t disappointed, adding that the comprehensive victory was more satisfying than individual accolades.
“I’m thrilled with the win. The girls followed our instructions perfectly, which allowed them to score many goals.
“Recognition or not, that’s not my concern. The result is what truly matters,” Uzor said.
Nigeria will face Burkina Faso on Monday at 9 a.m., while the U-20 team will play Togo at 3 p.m. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Enyimba International FC of Aba, at the Enyimba International Stadium, Aba overpowered visiting Kano Pillars FC 2-1 in the ongoing Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) match day 34.
Joseph Atule put the host 1-0 ahead in the 35th minute from Chinedu Ufere’s long range free kick to ensure his team ended the first 45 minute with a goal advantage over their visitor.
The ex-Super Eagles players and 2013 African Cup of Nation winner, Brown Ideye, doubled the lead through Quadri Olasunkanmi’s pass on the 52nd minute.
The visitors reduced the tally from a spots kick as Chigozie Umeh carelessly fouled a Kano Pillars players inside the 18 yard box
Enyimba goalkeeper was left disappointed that his players could not react quick to his saved penalty kick from Kano Pillars Rabiu Ali which allowed Naibe Akpesiri to score the rebounds.
In his post-match interview, Coach Stanley Eguma of Enyimba FC praised his team for getting the victory over Kano Pillars, in spite of missing several scoring chances.
“Today we played against one of the best teams in the league but the bone of contention here was that we missed lot of chances.
“We should have scored more goals than what the score line reads because, several chances went begging.
“Though, it is a good result for us, but we should have done better than the slim margin because, goals matter at this stage of the league,” Eguma said.
His counterpart from Kano Pillars, Usman Abdallah, said he thought his team would get a positive result against Enyimba in order to help their position in the fight for the continental slot.
“Well, we lost the game and we have to wait for other results to know where this result takes us to, but we have to continue fighting for the points.
“All hope is not lost for continental ticket because something can still happen in our favour and it is not yet over until the final whistle of the season,” Abdallah said. (NAN)(www.nannews.com.ng)
The President, Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA), Mrs Oghogho Musa, has charged wives of military personnel to remain active and healthy through physical exercise and regular health checks.
Musa made the call at the Fitness Health Walk organised by the Naval Officer’s Wives Association (NOWA), on Saturday in Abuja.
She was represented by the Coordinator, Defence Space Administration Officers Wives Association (DSAOWA), Mrs Rukayat Oluwatoyin.
According to her, small actions, like taking a walk, could have a profound impact on lives as a move toward better mental clarity, stronger hearts, and healthier futures.
“It is not just about the miles, it is about the mindset. It is about making a choice to prioritize our well-being and to continue taking those steps, no matter how small, every single day.
“The momentum we have built today can carry us forward to even greater health achievements. Whether it is continuing to walk, choosing healthier meals, staying active with loved ones, or simply taking time to care for ourselves – every action counts.
“Stay active, stay healthy, and let us keep walking toward a brighter, stronger future,” she said.
The National Vice President of NOWA, Mrs Zainab Akpan, said that walking was one of the simplest yet most powerful forms of physical activity.
According to Akpan, it improves cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles and bones, supports joint health, reduces stress, and boosts mood.
She said that studies had shown that just 30 minutes of brisk walk a day can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, type two diabetes, and certain cancers.
Akpan said the walk was not just about physical fitness, but about holistic well-being.
“Let us walk together-not just for ourselves, but for the message we send, but that health is a priority.
“Regular walking supports mental health, improves sleep, and helps manage anxiety and depression.
“Today, we are walking for our health-but also to raise awareness, build community, and promote a culture where movement is part of everyday life,” she said.
Akpan urged the women to always note that a fitness health walk was one of the best ways to stay active without needing special equipment or a gym membership.
A health expert, Dr Uduak Aboh said that physical exercises like walking could help reduce the risk of diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, among others.
She also urged women to maintain occupational, emotional and physical wellness through regular checks and exercises. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Chinonye Aliyu, President, Nigeria Aquatics Federation (NAqF), says there is need for every child to make swimming a life skill.
Aliyu, in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, said already, the federation had concluded plans to organise the National Junior Swimming Championships, tagged “Swim for Life”.
“We believe every child should learn to swim, not only for competition, but as a life skill; Swim for Life, embodies that mission.”
The president said the competition was dedicated to nurturing the next generation of swimmers in Nigeria.
She added that the initiative would welcome participants between the ages of eight and 14, from across states, clubs and academies.
The president added that she was excited to see children participating in the competition, adding that swimming was also her hobby.
“This championship is more than just a sporting event, but it is a movement aimed at promoting water safety.
“It is a means of encouraging early participation in swimming, selection into the national junior team, as well as building a culture of excellence in aquatic sports.”
According to her, young athletes will showcase their talent and passion in a World Aquatics certified 50 meters long course facility in Abuja, while participating in a range of swimming discipline.
“The three days event will include freestyle, breaststroke, backstroke, butterfly, individual medley and relays.
“This championship will enjoy mass participation from states, clubs, schools and swim academies both in Nigeria and abroad, to cater to Nigerians in diaspora, who desire a place in the national junior team,” she said.
The president said a total of 22 academies, state and teams would participate in the upcoming championship at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium.
“The championship will also provide a platform for talent discovery, selection into the junior national team, ahead of the World Aquatics Junior World Cup in Romania, later this year.
“It is also aimed at promoting grassroots development. The federation is calling for the collaboration of all stakeholders to make this a success and support swimming development in Nigeria.
“The federation also invites all stakeholders, families, coaches and sports enthusiasts to attend and support this epoch event,” Aliyu said.
She listed the registered teams to include the FCT, Lagos, Kaduna, Delta, Edo and Anambra States. Also included are MakoSail, Laurel and Danaqua Swimming Academies.
Other academies are: DE_BEBE, Easy Swim, Swim Dolphin, ICARE Ace and Even Swim Academies, as well as Bokun Aquatics and ALLFOI Swimmers.
Swimkay Academy, Just Swim Academy Ltd, Lakeland School Abuja, Hydroracers, YY Swimming Academy Lagos and Ikoyi Club Swim Team Lagos also made the list.
NAN reports that the event would commence with team arrivals and accreditation on April 22, at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium.
The opening ceremony will hold on April 23 and close with medal presentations and awards on April 25. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Chinyere Nwachukwu/Maureen Atuonwu
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