News Agency of Nigeria
Atilola, Edwards claim gold at Lagos Junior Tennis
Sports

Atilola, Edwards claim gold at Lagos Junior Tennis

By Vivian Ahanmisi

Mofifuoluwa Atilola defeated Precious Ohimai on Saturday to win gold in the U-16 girls’ final of the sixth Alhaji Adewale Issa Foundation Junior Tennis Championship.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the competition was staged at the National Stadium, Lagos.

The U-16 girls’ final was a thrilling clash, with Atilola and Ohimai battling fiercely for the prestigious gold medal.

Atilola, 16, beat Ohimai 6-1, 6-1 to secure the title, confirming her status as a top contender in the tournament.

Her victory reinforced her position as a leading player in the championship and showcased her consistency, strength, and tactical brilliance.

The final was competitive, with both athletes demonstrating outstanding skill, resilience, and strategic awareness throughout the match.

Atilola’s win not only earned her the gold medal but also strengthened her reputation as a rising star in Nigerian junior tennis.

“I’m thrilled to have won the tournament. I’m excited and grateful for this victory,” Atilola told NAN after the match.

She added, “After losing in the U-14 category last year, I was determined to come back stronger in the U-16. I’m glad I achieved that.

“It gives me more motivation to return next year and attempt to win back-to-back,” she said.

In spite of the loss, Ohimai’s impressive performance secured her the silver medal, reaffirming her place among the sport’s promising stars.

In the U-16 boys’ final, David Edwards defeated Marvelous Bolarinwa 6-4, 3-0 to claim gold, after Bolarinwa retired following a series of tough rallies.

His retirement handed Edwards the win.

Edwards, a former Nigerian No. 1 junior player now based in the United States, expressed joy after clinching victory against Bolarinwa.

“I’m thrilled to have come out on top, though I’m sorry Marvelous had to retire.

“I’m just focused on taking it one match at a time and giving my best. This win boosts my confidence for future challenges,” he added.

In the U-12 boys’ final, Kingsley Godwin defeated Emmanuel Ogungbe 4-6, 6-3, 14-12 to take gold, while Mabubat Razaki beat Grace Oritigbemi 6-2, 6-2.

Godwin’s resilience and determination earned him victory, highlighting his potential as a rising talent in the championship.

Success Godwin overcame Tiffany Oshi 6-0, 6-3 in the U-14 girls’ category, while Alex Barnabas edged his opponent 6-3, 7-6 (5) in the U-14 boys’.

Speaking to NAN, Sikirat Adigun-Issa, eldest daughter of the late Adewale Issa, said the tournament remains vital for discovering and nurturing tennis talent in Nigeria.

“I am delighted to see such talent and dedication on display. Many past participants have gone on to represent Nigeria internationally,” she said.

She congratulated all winners and participants, praising their commitment and urging them to continue working hard to achieve greatness in tennis.

“Their dedication is commendable. Some of you will surely go on to achieve remarkable things for Nigeria,” she added.

The prizes are designed to inspire young players and support grassroots tennis development in Nigeria.

The tournament has significantly raised the standard of tennis among Nigerian youngsters. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

NANPF hails Tinubu on Nigeria-Brazil aviation deal
Sports

NANPF hails Tinubu on Nigeria-Brazil aviation deal

By Victor Okoye

The Nigeria Association of National Professional Footballers (NANPF) has commended President Bola Tinubu for signing a Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) with Brazil.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the agreement, signed during Tinubu’s official visit to Brazil, is expected to improve air travel and boost sporting and professional exchanges between both countries.

CSP Chijioke Kalu, NANPF Director of Players’ Safety and Security, told NAN on Friday that the agreement could transform Nigerian football through strategic collaboration with Brazilian and South American football clubs.

He said the deal would enhance player exchange, technical partnerships, and competitive exposure for Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) clubs.

Kalu noted that Brazil enjoys global football prestige, having produced legends like Pelé, Ronaldo, Ronaldinho and Neymar, and winning five FIFA World Cup titles.

He said Brazil’s experience hosting the FIFA World Cup and Olympics offers valuable insights for Nigeria in football infrastructure and stadium safety.

Kalu added that Brazil’s expertise in facility maintenance and crowd control management could benefit Nigerian football administrators and the NPFL.

He urged the NPFL, Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), and other leagues to act fast in leveraging the aviation deal’s opportunities.

He called for proactive engagement with Brazilian football bodies on youth development, training camps, friendlies, and scouting exchanges.

President Tinubu confirmed the deal on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle following his visits to Japan and Brazil.

He said the agreement aligns with his government’s goal of restoring Nigeria’s global standing and driving reforms.

Tinubu said the Japan trip focused on technology and industry, while Brazil opened new cooperation in aviation, trade, and sports.

Kalu, who is also a board member of the Nigerian Mixed Martial Arts Federation, noted wider benefits for other sports.

He said Brazil’s leadership in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts presents opportunities for Nigerian athletes and coaches.

He said Nigerian fighters could access Brazilian training camps, take part in coaching exchanges, and compete internationally.

Kalu advised sports authorities to include martial arts in future exchange programmes with Brazil.

He urged them to learn from Brazil’s successful sports infrastructure and training systems to grow Nigeria’s sports sector.

Kalu said Brazil has become a global sports leader by leveraging its expertise in football and combat sports.

He described the Nigeria-Brazil aviation deal as a strategic opportunity for long-term development and international sports diplomacy.

Kalu said proper planning can unlock career paths, raise standards, and deliver lasting value for Nigerian sports. (NAN)

Edited by Tosin Kolade

Players’ union hails NPFL over fair hearing for goalkeeper Adeyinka
Sports

Players’ union hails NPFL over fair hearing for goalkeeper Adeyinka

By Victor Okoye

The President of the National Association of Nigeria Professional Footballers (NANPF), Sunday Abe, has commended the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) for lifting the suspension on goalkeeper Adewale Adeyinka.

Abe expressed appreciation to the NPFL for granting the Plateau United FC goalkeeper a fair hearing after his provisional suspension in July over allegations of involvement in betting.

 

The NPFL announced on Thursday that Adeyinka is now free to register with any club of his choice for the 2025/2026 season, pending further investigation into the allegations.

 

Abe, in a statement made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), described the NPFL’s decision as a “progressive step” and praised the league’s willingness to engage with the players’ union.

 

“We are pleased that the NPFL granted our member, Adewale Adeyinka, the opportunity for a fair hearing and did not allow unproven allegations to truncate his professional career,” Abe said.

 

He lauded the NPFL for its professional conduct during the inquest and reiterated NANPF’s commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of Nigerian footballers.

 

“As a union, we will continue to ensure due process is followed and that no player suffers unjustly. We thank the NPFL for listening to our position on this matter.”

 

Abe also urged players to remain disciplined and cooperative when engaging with regulatory bodies, while assuring members of NANPF’s readiness to provide legal and moral support when needed.

 

The NPFL, in a statement signed by its Chief Operating Officer, Davidson Owumi, said Adeyinka honoured its invitation and cooperated fully with investigators.

 

It added that while the goalkeeper had been cleared to resume his career, investigations into the broader matter are ongoing, and others would be invited in due course.

 

The NPFL stressed its commitment to upholding integrity in Nigerian football while ensuring that all disciplinary processes are carried out fairly and transparently. (NAN)

(Edited by Emmanuel Yashim)

Rufai’s death: Stakeholders demand reforms for forgotten heroes
Sports

Rufai’s death: Stakeholders demand reforms for forgotten heroes

By Victor Okoye

The funeral of Nigerian football icon Peter Rufai in Lagos on Thursday drew sharp criticism over the absence of top officials from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the National Sports Commission (NSC).

Rufai, fondly called “Dodo Mayana,” was Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper in the 1990s.

He played a pivotal role in the Super Eagles’ 1994 Africa Cup of Nations triumph and represented the country at two FIFA World Cups.

The News Agency of  Nigeria (NAN) reports that the former goalkeeper began his career with Stationery Stores of Lagos before stints in Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain.

After retirement, he dedicated himself to youth football development and occasionally lent support to national youth teams.

Inspite of his contributions to Nigerian football, no senior NFF or NSC representatives attended key memorial events, including the Service of Songs and Lying-in-State held at the Onikan Stadium.

Observers described their absence as disappointing and disrespectful to Rufai’s legacy and the nation’s football history.

Former Lagos FA Chairman, Waidi Akanni, said,“His service to the country deserved more than a ₦3 million cheque and silence.”

Etim Esin, former Super Eagles midfielder, similarly opined  that “No top footballer will trust this system if we continue to treat legends like this.”

But NFF defended its role, saying it formally communicated condolences and provided financial support to Rufai’s family.

NFF’s Director of Communications, Ademola Olajire, said, “A delegation was sent and support approved.”

Olajire explained that logistics and prior commitments prevented NFF President Ibrahim Gusau from attending personally.

However, stakeholders maintained that the physical presence of top football administrators was crucial to honouring a player of Rufai’s calibre.

They said that his contributions to Nigeria’s football history merited nothing less.

“The symbolism of showing up matters,” said former defender Taribo West. “This was a missed opportunity to honour a national hero.”

Beyond the funeral, stakeholders highlighted the lack of structured welfare for retired athletes in Nigeria.

They called for a professionally managed welfare fund backed by the NFF,  clubs,  private sponsors, and Professional Footballers Association of Nigeria(PFAN).

“Player welfare should be enshrined in a standing agreement—not subject to charity,” said PFAN President, Tijani Babangida.

Critics argue that FIFA and CAF grants earned through players’ efforts should fund retirement and welfare programmes.

“This is not a favour. It’s their right,” said Harrison Jalla, PFAN Board of Trustees Chairman. “What we lack is leadership to implement it.”

The N3 million provided to the families of Rufai and former Super Eagles coach Christian Chukwu was widely considered inadequate, given the financial resources available to the NFF.

Meanwhile, Lagos State Government reportedly approved N15 million in support for Rufai’s family, though the release of the funds was delayed due to bureaucratic bottlenecks.

In the wake of the controversy, stakeholders urged unity among players, and called for reforms through a collective bargaining agreement with the NFF and the NSC.

They noted that only structured welfare measures could secure the dignity of past and present football heroes.

According to  Jalla, “The time for reform is now.

“We must honour our past and protect Nigerian football’s future ” he added. (NAN)

Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa

Special Report: Nigeria’s influence on Europe’s football transfer market
Sports

Special Report: Nigeria’s influence on Europe’s football transfer market

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By David Oladele and Babatunde Ogunrinde

 

The 2025/26 European football season has opened with Nigerian players commanding attention. From blockbuster transfers to careful career moves, their influence cuts across all levels.

 

 

 

 

Nigeria’s footballing diaspora has never been stronger. Players of Nigerian heritage are now considered strategic assets for Europe’s leading clubs, shaping recruitment and competitive strategies.

 

 

 

 

Eberechi Eze produced the summer’s biggest headline. Crystal Palace’s creative midfielder was courted by Tottenham but eventually joined Arsenal in a deal worth up to £67.5 million.

 

 

 

 

Though of Nigerian parentage, Eze represents England internationally. His arrival at Arsenal alongside Bukayo Saka promises one of the Premier League’s most exciting attacking partnerships.

 

 

 

 

Arsenal hijacked Tottenham’s pursuit with a higher offer. Eze, an Arsenal academy product and boyhood supporter, was unveiled with the club’s iconic number 10 shirt.

 

 

 

 

Tottenham’s disappointment was obvious. Yet manager Thomas Frank insisted his players remained focused. Analysts criticised Spurs for failing to act decisively during the crucial negotiations.

 

 

 

 

Ademola Lookman faced a different outcome. Inter Milan attempted to sign him but withdrew after refusing to match Atalanta’s valuation. He remains central to Atalanta’s campaign.

 

 

 

 

Lookman continues attracting interest from Arsenal, Napoli and several Premier League clubs. With the window closing on Sept. 2, further bids may still materialise.

 

 

 

 

Other Nigerians followed quieter paths. Chinonso Emeka, aged 23, left AS Trenčín for Dukla Prague, seeking growth in the Czech First League and long-term career opportunities.

 

 

 

 

This route is familiar. Many Nigerians begin careers in Eastern or Central Europe before progressing to stronger leagues. It creates steady development and sustained visibility.

 

 

 

 

Several confirmed transfers strengthened Nigeria’s footprint. Paul Onuachu sealed a permanent move to Trabzonspor. Moses Simon joined Paris FC, while Bright Osayi-Samuel switched to Birmingham City.

 

 

 

 

Semi Ajayi signed for Hull City. Chidozie Awaziem rejoined Nantes. Henry Onyekuru moved to Turkey’s Gençlerbirliği. Benjamin Tanimu signed for Morocco’s Maghreb Fez. Adebayo Adeleye joined Volos.

 

 

 

 

Meanwhile, uncertainties remain. Victor Osimhen returned to Napoli after scoring heavily on loan at Galatasaray. Napoli rejected a €70 million bid amid Juventus and Galatasaray interest.

 

 

 

 

Victor Boniface’s move to AC Milan is edging closer.

 

 

 

 

Milan and Bayer Leverkusen have agreed a loan with option to buy, though the deal hinges on extensive medical checks. Final confirmation is expected soon.

 

 

 

 

Umar Sadiq stays with Real Sociedad but faces interest from Qatar. Ola Aina, now a free agent, is linked with Liverpool, Newcastle and Manchester City before Sept. 2.

 

 

 

 

Kelechi Iheanacho has returned to Sevilla but is deemed surplus to requirements. A summer departure is likely, with mid-table clubs considering moves before the deadline.

 

 

 

 

Toluwalase Arokodare, Belgium’s Golden Boot winner, attracts Fulham and Manchester United. Premier League clubs must act quickly with only days left before the window shuts.

 

 

 

 

A fresh generation of Nigerians is also emerging. Hafiz Umar Ibrahim, aged 19, impressed for Reims in France, scoring in a Coupe de France semi-final.

 

 

 

 

Honest Ahanor, a Genoa defender, is close to a €20 million move to Atalanta. His future should be resolved before the Sept. 2 deadline.

 

 

 

 

Norway continues nurturing Nigerian youth. Ogboji and Arierhi both signed long-term deals with Lillestrøm, continuing the Scandinavian gateway tradition for developing Nigerian footballers.

 

 

 

 

Arthur Okonkwo, formerly of Arsenal, signed for Wrexham. The goalkeeper committed to a three-year deal and is expected to feature regularly in League One.

 

 

 

 

Established Nigerians are already influencing early-season fixtures. Nathan Tella remains vital for Bayer Leverkusen, contributing more than 15 goal involvements across competitions in 2025.

 

 

 

 

Calvin Bassey anchors Fulham’s defence in the Premier League. His strong displays underline Nigeria’s depth in defensive as well as attacking positions across Europe.

 

 

 

 

Samuel Chukwueze is regaining top form with AC Milan. His pace and dribbling have restored confidence, following an inconsistent spell earlier in his career.

 

 

 

 

Maduka Okoye, now Udinese’s first-choice goalkeeper, is rebuilding steadily after suspension. His determination reinforces Nigeria’s growing influence between the posts in Serie A.

 

 

 

 

These developments shape Nigeria’s national team outlook. Dual nationality challenges persist, exemplified by Eze’s England commitment, alongside Bukayo Saka and Tammy Abraham’s choices to represent England rather than Nigeria.

 

 

 

 

Stars like Osimhen, Lookman, Tella and Bassey sharpen abilities against Europe’s toughest opposition each week. Their form remains crucial for Nigeria’s upcoming tournaments.

 

 

 

 

The 2025/26 season confirms Nigerian players are central to European football. They influence record transfers, consistent performances and future planning, both at club and international levels.

 

 

 

 

With the window closing on Sept. 2 in Europe’s top leagues and Sept. 15 in Turkey, there remains time for more Nigerian moves to unfold.

 

 

 

 

Whether through headline-grabbing deals, steady progress in lesser-known leagues, or promising youth breakthroughs, Nigerian footballers embody resilience and ambition. Their presence continues reshaping European football’s direction. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Afrobasket: Stakeholders blame Nigeria’s basketball woes on poor governance, funding gaps
Sports

Afrobasket: Stakeholders blame Nigeria’s basketball woes on poor governance, funding gaps

By Victor Okoye

Stakeholders have blamed Nigeria’s poor performance in  basketball on administrative instability, poor funding, and the absence of a professional domestic league.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the reactions followed Nigeria’s early exit from the 2025 FIBA Men’s Afrobasket Championship in Angola, where the team finished fifth.

Nigeria’s D’Tigers crashed out after a 91–75 loss to Senegal in the quarter-finals at the Pavilhão Multiusos Arena in Luanda, ending their campaign with more questions than answers.

Reacting to the defeat, Igoche Mark, basketball promoter and founder of the Mark D’Ball Championship, described the situation as “deeply troubling,” citing years of poor leadership and policy inconsistency.

“Enough is enough. We cannot continue like this. Basketball in Nigeria has no structure, no direction. Since 2017, we have not had a functional domestic league. That is unacceptable.

“The time for politics is over. Basketball must return to the courts, not the courtrooms,” Mark said.

He urged the National Sports Commission (NSC) to intervene decisively to sanitise the system, warning that talented players are being lost to other countries due to  lack of local opportunities.

Similarly, former D’Tigers captain Olumide Oyedeji said that the failure to run a viable league is weakening Nigeria’s competitiveness in Africa and globally.

“No country can succeed at the top without grassroots development and a strong domestic league. We are only recycling talent, not the new stars,” Oyedeji told NAN.

The  2025  Afrobasket Championship, which ran from Aug. 15 to 24 in Angola, featured 16 teams, and served as a pathway to the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup qualifiers.

Nigeria, once a dominant force on the continent and champions in 2015, struggled in the group stage and barely advanced before falling to a tactically superior Senegalese side.

Basketball analysts say the cracks in the system have long been visible, pointing to the leadership tussles that have plagued the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) over the past decades.

Sports development consultant Tunde Popoola said Nigeria’s basketball infrastructure has failed to keep pace with the standards.

“Our basketball system is outdated. Countries like South Sudan, Rwanda, and Cape Verde are investing in their leagues and reaping the rewards. We’re stuck in crisis mode,” Popoola said.

Meanwhile, fans and former players have taken to social media to express disappointment over the team’s performance, demanding accountability from sports authorities.

As calls grow louder for reforms, stakeholders agree that only a clear roadmap, led by competent leadership and supported by government policy, can revive the sport.(NAN)

Edited by Joseph Edeh

NANPF pledges player education on NPFL rules
Sports

NANPF pledges player education on NPFL rules

By Victor Okoye

The National Association of Nigeria Professional Footballers (NANPF) has pledged to intensify player education on Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) rules, especially on betting and match-fixing.

NANPF President, Sunday Abe, made this known in a statement on Sunday in Abuja, stressing the association’s commitment to upholding the integrity of Nigerian football.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the move follows recent developments, including a betting allegation involving Plateau United goalkeeper, Adewale Adeyinka, which has prompted calls for greater awareness.

Abe said NANPF would take proactive steps to sensitise players on key sections of the NPFL Framework governing betting and match-fixing.

“As the voice of Nigerian players, NANPF condemns unethical conduct that threatens the integrity of the game,” he said.

He urged players to comply with Sections 15.5 and 15.6 of the NPFL Framework, which prohibit betting and match-fixing in any form.

Section 15.5 bars players, clubs or officials from directly or indirectly engaging in football-related betting or receiving inducements connected to matches.

Section 15.6 describes match-fixing as gross misconduct, involving inducement of match officials or club members to influence results or decisions.

Abe stressed that ignorance of these rules would not be excused, adding that players must be fully informed of their responsibilities.

“NANPF is launching a sensitisation campaign across all clubs to ensure players understand the rules and uphold professionalism,” he added.

He said the initiative would help rebuild credibility in Nigerian football and strengthen its image internationally.

Abe also commended the NPFL leadership, especially Chief Operating Officer Davidson Owumi, for his stance on transparency and discipline in the league.

“We applaud Owumi’s leadership in protecting the league’s integrity. NANPF is proud to support this vision,” he said.

The awareness drive, according to him, will feature workshops, seminars and club visits across the NPFL, NNL, NWFL and NLO leagues nationwide.

It will also involve content creators, simplified rulebooks, and a hotline for reporting suspected unethical behaviour. (NAN)

Edited by Tosin Kolade

  • NAN
  • Aug, Wed, 2025
Sports

Le rôle du sport dans le renforcement des liens communautaires au Nigeria

Le rôle du sport dans le renforcement des liens communautaires au Nigeria

Le Nigeria est un pays où le sport n’est pas seulement un divertissement, mais une véritable force sociale. Dans les villes comme dans les villages, les matchs rassemblent des foules, créent des débats passionnés et soudent des générations entières autour d’une même passion. Plus qu’une activité physique, le sport est devenu un langage universel qui dépasse les clivages sociaux, religieux ou ethniques.

Le sport comme ciment social

Le football est sans conteste le sport roi au Nigeria. Les compétitions locales attirent autant d’attention que les grandes affiches européennes. Les quartiers organisent régulièrement des tournois de rue, où jeunes et anciens se retrouvent pour partager un moment d’émotion collective. Ces rencontres ne se limitent pas au jeu : elles deviennent des lieux de solidarité, où l’on échange, discute et renforce le sentiment d’appartenance à une communauté.

Au-delà du football, le basketball prend une place croissante, notamment grâce à l’influence de la NBA et des joueurs nigérians qui brillent à l’étranger. L’athlétisme, discipline historique pour le pays, continue aussi de fédérer les foules, en particulier lors des compétitions scolaires et universitaires.

Tendances sportives au Nigeria

L’année 2025 marque une évolution intéressante. Les académies de jeunes joueurs se multiplient, permettant aux enfants de se former dès le plus jeune âge. Plusieurs clubs européens collaborent avec des structures nigérianes, ouvrant ainsi des portes à de nouveaux talents.

Parallèlement, le basketball et les sports urbains comme le street football ou le handball se développent dans les grandes villes. Ces disciplines attirent une jeunesse avide de nouvelles formes d’expression sportive. Les médias locaux contribuent aussi à cette dynamique en diffusant davantage de compétitions locales et en valorisant les athlètes nigérians évoluant à l’étranger.

L’essor du numérique et des applications sportives

Une autre tendance majeure réside dans l’impact du numérique. De plus en plus de Nigérians suivent les matchs via leur smartphone, utilisent des applications pour consulter les résultats en direct, ou encore participent à des discussions sur les réseaux sociaux.

Dans ce contexte, les plateformes de paris sportifs ont pris une place significative. Elles permettent non seulement de vivre l’expérience des matchs plus intensément, mais aussi d’analyser les performances, les statistiques et les tendances. Les amateurs qui souhaitent miser peuvent, par exemple, trouver facilement un place pari sportif Melbet, où ils accèdent à une grande variété de compétitions et de marchés. Cette pratique, qui s’est démocratisée ces dernières années, illustre la manière dont le numérique transforme la relation entre les Nigérians et le sport.

Un secteur économique en pleine croissance

Le sport au Nigeria ne se limite pas aux stades : il génère un véritable écosystème économique. Les sponsors locaux et internationaux investissent massivement dans les clubs, les académies et les événements sportifs. Les diffuseurs télévisés et les plateformes de streaming voient également dans le sport une opportunité de fidéliser un large public.

Les startups nigérianes, quant à elles, se lancent dans des applications liées au suivi des performances, à l’analyse des statistiques ou encore à la gestion des tournois communautaires. Le marché des paris en ligne contribue aussi à cette dynamique. Pour les utilisateurs qui souhaitent parier via leur téléphone, il est possible de télécharger le melbet apk, une application pratique qui facilite l’accès aux paris et au suivi en temps réel des événements sportifs.

Cette interconnexion entre le sport et la technologie ouvre des perspectives économiques considérables, en créant des emplois et en favorisant l’innovation locale.

Défis et perspectives

Cependant, tout n’est pas simple. Le Nigeria fait face à plusieurs défis : infrastructures insuffisantes, manque de financements stables pour les clubs amateurs, ou encore besoin d’encadrer légalement certaines pratiques liées aux paris en ligne. Malgré cela, le potentiel reste énorme.

Avec une population jeune, passionnée et connectée, le Nigeria a les moyens de devenir un hub sportif incontournable en Afrique. Le développement des partenariats avec des organisations internationales, la montée en puissance des stars locales et l’appui des technologies numériques offrent des perspectives prometteuses.

Le sport au Nigeria dépasse largement la simple notion de compétition. Il unit les communautés, nourrit les rêves de millions de jeunes et contribue à l’économie nationale. En s’appuyant sur les nouvelles tendances numériques et sur l’enthousiasme populaire, le pays renforce son identité sportive tout en construisant des ponts entre générations, quartiers et régions.

Qu’il s’agisse d’un match de football de quartier ou d’un tournoi national retransmis en direct, chaque événement est une preuve que le sport reste un moteur puissant de cohésion et de développement pour le Nigeria.

Abuja golf reporters urge Wike to reopen IBB golf club
Sports

Abuja golf reporters urge Wike to reopen IBB golf club

By Victor Okoye

Golf reporters in Abuja have appealed to the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, to reopen the IBB International Golf and Country Club, Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the club has remained closed due to a leadership crisis that led to government intervention and temporary shutdown.

In April, Wike reconstituted the Board of Trustees (BoT), appointing Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem as Chairperson, replacing retired Maj.-Gen. IBM Haruna.

Other members include Otunba Segun Runsewe, Grace Ihonvbere, S.I. Ameh (SAN), Hamid Abbo, and retired Admiral Victor Adedipe.

Also on the board are Patrick Chidolue, Ben Ikokwu, and Adumu Suleiman.

The appointments were widely praised as a step towards restoring peace and order in the club.


However, months after the closure, concerns have grown among golfers and club employees over the prolonged shutdown.

Some members reportedly suffer health setbacks due to lack of access to the club’s sporting and recreational facilities.

Affected staff said they have lost their means of livelihood, resulting in hardship for their families.

Golfers say the closure has also denied them social interaction and community bonding the club once offered.

In a joint statement by the Abuja-based golf reporters on Tuesday, they urged the Minister to reopen the club in the interest of members and staff.

“We call on the  Minister to temper justice with mercy and reopen the IBB Golf Club,” they said.

The group warned that continued inactivity may result in health risks and urged urgent repairs to prevent facility collapse.

They also appealed for the restoration of livelihoods and return of joyful activities to the golf community. (NAN)

Edited by Joseph Edeh

LGAN urges grooming of U-18 golfers for continental event
Sports

LGAN urges grooming of U-18 golfers for continental event

By Segun Giwa

The Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria (LGAN), Western Zone, has urged members to groom U-18 golfers for future continental representation.

The Vice President of the zone, Evelyn Balogun, made the call at the closing of the 10th Western Zone Open Golf Championship in Akure on Sunday.

The four-day tournament, with the theme “ Golfing with the Stars, was held at the Crosscreek Golf Club, Ilado.

The event featured 130 participants, 60 female and 70 male golfers from clubs across the country.                                                                      .

Balogun lauded the golfers for their dedication, saying that they competed in spite of the challenging weather conditions.

She said the championship focused not just on victory but on participation, early morning practices, and friendships formed on the course.

Balogun congratulated the participants, stressing that excellence meant passion, respect, and courage, not just winning trophies.

“This tournament celebrates perseverance, camaraderie, and the quiet strength of every woman golfer,” she said.

“My role was to support, organise, and lead a team of resilient and enthusiastic lady golfers,” Balogun added.

LGAN President Evelyn Oyome, represented by Joyce Nule, congratulated the golfers and called for unity in future events.

Oyome appreciated the lady captains and participants for their vision, leadership, and dedication to the sport.


NAN reports that Grace Adeyinka of Ekiti Golf Club won the Best Gross Champion title.

She returned a total gross score of 270 over three days to beat 45 other golfers in the ladies’ handicap 0-18 category.

Adeyinka expressed joy, saying that even though the course was tough, she was proud of her performance.

“With just one ball lost, I’m proud of myself and my teammates; we did well,” she said.

Captain of Crosscreek Golf Club, Isaac Shedowo, commended participants for fair play throughout the tournament. (NAN)

Edited by Joseph Edeh

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