NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Sports

IBB Golf Club crisis: NGF President appeals for calm

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By Victor Okoye

The President, Nigeria Golf Federation (NGF), Olusegun Runsewe, has called for  calm after the IBB International Golf and Country Club, Abuja was sealed  by Department of State Services (DSS) operatives.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Club in Abuja is a prominent recreational and tourist attraction for golf enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

The DSS, however, sealed the club on Saturday, following an internal leadership dispute that rocked the prestigious facility.

The closure on Saturday was allegedly aimed to disrupt an extraordinary General meeting, which was scheduled on the same day.

Runsewe, in a statement personally signed by him on Monday in Abuja, appealed to the public to be calm, adding that it was a family issue that would be resolved soon.

He said the NGF was aware that the closure had caused concerns among its members and the golfing community.

The president said that the situation was being monitored and would be addressed shortly.

“In view of the recent development at the IBB International Golf Club, Abuja, I want to assure everyone that the issue will be resolved soon.

“IBB Golf Club is a family, and therefore, there is no issue that cannot be resolved.

“The NGF under my leadership has handled several other similar issues in Kano, Ekiti, and Yola, and I really want to assure everyone that this will not be an exception,” he said.

Runsewe  urged all stakeholders to refrain from making public statements that would further escalate the issue, adding that the presence of DSS operatives was a sign that the situation was under control. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Joseph Edeh

Sports

Cricket: Nigeria set to host ICC U19 Men’s World Cup Qualifier

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By Ijeoma Okigbo

The Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF) says it is ready to host five other nations for the International Cricket Council (ICC) Under 19 Men’s World Cup African Qualifier.

The tournament is billed for Lagos, with the matches to be held at the cricket ovals in Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS) and the University of Lagos (Unilag) from March 26 to April 6.

Uyi Akpata, President of the federation, said in a statement on Sunday, that the tournament is about celebrating the growth of the game on the continent.

“Nigeria is thrilled to welcome these talented young cricketers and their supporters to Lagos.

“Our nation is known for its warm hospitality and fascinating cricketing potential, and we are committed to making this qualifier a memorable experience for all.

“This tournament is not just about competition; it’s about celebrating the growth of cricket in Africa and inspiring the next generation of players,” Akpata noted.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Kenya, Uganda, Namibia, Tanzania and Sierra Leone will join Nigeria to jostle for the continent’s sole ticket to the 2026 ICC Under 19 Men’s World Cup.

Meanwhile, Nigeria will be hoping to secure the ticket, having achieved same feat in 2019 and competing at the World Cup in South Africa 2020 . (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Muhyideen Jimoh

Sports

Bolaji clinches para-badminton gold in Spain

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By Babatunde Ogunrinde

World number two, Eniola Bolaji, has cemented her dominance in para-badminton SL3 by winning her 12th career gold medal.

The Paralympic bronze medallist defeated Turkey’s Halime Yildiz 2-0 (21-7, 21-10) on Sunday in the women’s final of the Spanish Para Badminton International 2025, held in Toledo.

Bolaji began her campaign with a 2-0 (21-15, 21-8) victory over India’s Sanjana Kumari in the second round of the tournament.

She followed that with another 2-0 (21-9, 21-12) win over Turkey’s Halime Yildiz in the third round.

In the semi-final, the African champion outclassed Ukraine’s Oksana Kozyba 2-0 (21-16, 21-4) to reach the final.

President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, Francis Orbih, praised Bolaji’s resilience and outstanding achievements.

He lauded her status as the only African to win 12 gold medals in all international competitions played to date.

“I extend heartfelt congratulations to Eniola Bolaji on winning her 12th gold medal in as many international tournaments.

“This feat is a testament to her consistency, resilience, and unwavering dedication to excellence.

“Bolaji has made Nigeria proud and firmly stamped her authority on global para-badminton with her relentless spirit.

“She continues to inspire many, and we at the Federation remain committed to supporting her as she ascends to greater heights,” Orbih affirmed.

He also expressed excitement about the upcoming All African Para Badminton Championships scheduled for later 2025 in Abia.

 

Orbih described the event as a chance to showcase Nigeria’s vibrant badminton culture on an international stage.

“We thank Abia State Government for accepting to host this historic event,” the badminton chief said.

“It gladdens me that African para-badminton giants will host an international and African championship right here in Nigeria.

“It will be an avenue to expose future champions and promote our athletes to the world,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yinusa Ishola/Kamal Tayo Oropo

Sports

Gumel re-elected ANOCA Treasurer-General

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By Emmanuel Afonne

The Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA) has re-elected Habu Gumel as its Treasurer-General.

Gumel, who is also President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), emerged unopposed on Saturday at ANOCA’s General Assembly in Algiers, Algeria.

He is currently Nigeria’s only member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

Tony Nezianya, NOC’s Public Relations Officer, said on Sunday that Gumel would serve another four-year term as ANOCA’s Treasurer-General.

“This reflects the trust and confidence in his leadership by ANOCA members, mainly presidents of Olympic bodies across Africa,” Nezianya stated.

Also re-elected unopposed was ANOCA President Moustapha Berraf of Algeria, highlighting the organisation’s continued unity and stability.

The Assembly concluded with a special awards ceremony, where Nigeria’s D’Tigress coach, Rena Wakama, was honoured.

Wakama was named ANOCA’s Best African Coach for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

Her trophy was received on her behalf by Gumel and presented by National Sports Commission Chairman, Malam Shehu Dikko. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Sports

Cricket: Federation hails improvement in U-17 tourney

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By Ijeoma Okigbo

The Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF), has expressed delight over the ‘significant improvement’ in the standard of the NCF/PwC U17 Cricket Championship.

The sixth edition, ended recently in Abuja with numerous upsets and new records set in the tournament, received commendation from stakeholders but notably organisers.

Musa Ehizoje, the tournament director, while reviewing the competition, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the keenly contested event showcased the development of the game in the regions.

“Overall, the standard of the game has improved significantly and we saw that over the past weekend.

“For instance, we saw a team like North Central giving five -time champions South South a good run for their money in the male category.

“Also North Central beating one-time champion North West in the male event as well as North East picking a 93-run win against South West in the female event.

“These were amazing scenes. This was against bookmakers’ prediction but we saw it happen and it was a testament of how much the game has improved in the various regions.

“Unlike what we have witnessed in the past where teams like South South enjoy seamless ride to victory, now every team fight to finish and these excites us as a federation.

“By 2025, we will not be surprised to see any team beating the South South team to the trophy in both male and female events,’’ he said.

Ehijoze, who is also the Public Relations Officer of the federation, said that this edition also reached a wide audience from across the globe, following Nigeria’s performance at the Under 19 World Cup in January.

“We had more people across the globe in this tournament which was streamed live because this is the tournament that produced the talents that represented Nigeria in Malaysia.

“We also had some of the World Cup players participate in this tournament because they are eligible.

“Now, we have a pool of talents to feed the Under 19 and senior national teams in both male and female category,’’ Ehizoje noted.

NAN reports that South South emerged champions in both male and female categories, with the women’s team coming top since the inception of the tournament while the men’s team are champions five times in a row.

The tournament which began on Thursday, ended on Sunday with the six- geo political zones represented. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Dorcas Jonah/Joseph Edeh

Sports

2026 World Cup: Chelle names Lookman, Osimhen, others for Rwanda, Zimbabwe

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By Ijeoma Okigbo

Éric Chelle, the Super Eagles’ Head Coach, has named forwards Ademola Lookman, Victor Osimhen and Simon Moses in his final list for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.

Goalkeepers Stanley Nwabali and Kayode Bankole, as well as defenders William Ekong, Calvin Bassey and Olaoluwa Aina also made 23-player list released by the NFF on Tuesday.

Also in the squad are defenders Bruno Onyemaechi and Bright Osayi-Samuel,  as well as midfielders Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, Raphael Onyedika and Alhassan Yusuf Abdullahi.

Forwards Samuel Chukwueze and Sadiq Umar were not left out as Czech Republic-based defender Igoh Ogbu also made the final cut.

Also, home-based midfielder Papa Daniel Mustapha, and Belgium-based forward Tolu Arokodare were named in the list.

Nigeria will confront group C leaders Rwanda in Kigali on March 21 before taking on Zimbabwe’s Warriors at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo four days later.

LIST OF 23 SUPER EAGLES FOR RWANDA, ZIMBABWE GAMES

Goalkeepers: Stanley Nwabali (Chippa United, South Africa); Amas Obasogie (Singida Blackstars, Tanzania); Kayode Bankole (Remo Stars)

Defenders: William Ekong (Al-Kholood FC, Saudi Arabia); Bright Osayi-Samuel (Fenerbahce SK, Turkey); Bruno Onyemaechi (Olympiacos FC, Greece); Calvin Bassey (Fulham FC, England); Olaoluwa Aina (Nottingham Forest, England); Igoh Ogbu (SK Slavia Prague, Czech Republic)

Midfielders: Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City, England); Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge, Belgium); Alhassan Yusuf Abdullahi (New England Revolution, USA); Alex Iwobi (Fulham FC, England); Joseph Ayodele-Aribo (Southampton FC, England); Papa Daniel Mustapha (Niger Tornadoes)

Forwards: Samuel Chukwueze (AC Milan, Italy); Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray FC, Turkey); Ademola Lookman (Atalanta FC, Italy); Victor Boniface (Bayer Leverkusen, Germany); Simon Moses (FC Nantes, France); Sadiq Umar (Valencia FC, Spain); Nathan Tella (Bayer Leverkusen, Germany); Tolu Arokodare (KRC Genk, Belgium) (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Joseph Edeh

Sports

Senegal emerge champions of 13th ECOWAS Wrestling tourney

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By Muhyideen Jimoh

Senegal defeated hosts Nigeria 4-1 in a pulsating team final to win the 13th ECOWAS African Wrestling Tournament in Abuja on Saturday evening.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the three-day wrestling fiesta which held at the Velodrome of the Moshood Abiola Stadium, was part of activities to celebrate ECOWAS 50th anniversary.

The highly explosive tournament had 11 participating West African nations in attendance as traditional wrestlers battled for regional supremacy.

At the end of the tournament, Senegal clinched Gold in the team event, with hosts Nigeria settling for Silver, while Benin overpowered Guinea to pick Bronze.

NAN also reports that defending champion, Niger and Burkina Faso were absent at the tournament due to their  recent exit from ECOWAS.

In the highly entertaining final, Nigeria started strong but struggled against Senegal’s more experienced wrestlers.

The Senegalese secured victories in the 66kg, 86kg, 100kg, and 120kg weight categories, while Nigeria managed a single win in the 76kg division.

Meanwhile, Benin dominated Guinea across all weight categories in the third-place match, showcasing their depth and determination.

While Senegal claimed the overall team title, Nigerian wrestlers made their mark in individual categories.

Ebipatei Lienbofa secured gold in the 66kg division with a victory over Senegal’s Safietou Goudiaby, while Ebi Bigos thrilled the home crowd with a hard-fought win over Côte d’Ivoire’s Youin Amy in the 76kg final.

The biggest moment came in the 120kg final, where Senegal’s Ngagne Sene overpowered Guinea’s Gino Nitehala to cap off his country’s triumph.

The final was graced by the Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Shehu Dikko, and other top sports officials from the sub-region.

NAN also reports that the ECOWAS Conference of Ministers of Youth and Sports had in September, 2000 officially adopted African wrestling as an ECOWAS sport.

It aims to popularise the sport for regional integration and Olympic Games status.

African wrestling, a traditional style of West African folk wrestling, is known as Laamb in Senegal, Boreh in The Gambia, and Kokowa in Nigeria and Niger.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa

Sports

NLO approves Black Scorpion FC’s relocation to Abuja

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By Muhyideen Jimoh

The Nationwide League One (NLO), has officially approved the relocation of Black Scorpions FC of Ogbomoso to Abuja, after the club successfully met all necessary requirements.

Proprietor of the club, Chief Sunday Dare, emphasised that the club was committed to providing a platform for Nigerian youth to thrive and remain productively engaged.

The former Minister of Youth and Sports Development, said that the club was dedicated to nurturing young talents, instilling discipline, and promoting excellence in the game.

“With a strong emphasis on grassroots development, Black Scorpions FC aims to create opportunities for aspiring footballers to reach their full potential while contributing to the growth of Nigerian football,” Dare said.

In an official statement from the NLO Secretariat, signed by Chief Operating Officer Olushola Ogunnowo, the league confirmed the club’s relocation and compliance with all necessary obligations:

“The Nationwide League One Secretariat presents its compliments to you and your club management.

“After conducting due diligence to confirm the club’s non-indebtedness to its previously affiliated state, we hereby approve your request to relocate from Oyo State to the Federal Capital Territory,” Ogunnowo said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that with this approval, Black Scorpions FC is set to begin a new chapter in Abuja, furthering its mission of developing young footballers and fostering a professional sporting culture.

The club’s relocation to the nation’s capital is expected to enhance its visibility, attract more opportunities for players, and strengthen its impact on Nigerian football. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Sports

Nigerian community in S/Africa rallies behind victorious Flamingos

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By Muhyideen Jimoh

In a spectacular display of national pride, Nigerians living in South Africa cheered Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team, Flamingos, to a 3-1 victory over their South African counterparts on Saturday in Pretoria.

Smart Nwobi, President of the Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA), led a vibrant delegation of Nigerians to support the Flamingos during their crucial FIFA
U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifier match.

Nwobi told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that NUSA mobilised massive Nigerian support to the Lucas Moripe Stadium in Pretoria for the Flamingos.

“The atmosphere at the stadium was a testament to the power of community support as Nigerians in South Africa came out adorned in green and white to cheer on their young compatriots

” NUSA’s initiative to organise this show of support highlights the organisation’s commitment to fostering a sense of belonging and national pride
among Nigerians living in South Africa.

“Despite the Flamingos team being less than three weeks old in camp, they have
done exceptionally well.

” I use this opportunity to thank Nigerians in South Africa for coming out to support our girls and ensuring their victory.

“Our girls, the Flamingos, were amazing despite the overwhelming crowd from South Africans at the stadium.

” They stood their ground,” Nwobi said.

He said that the players, technical crew and officials of the team were delighted with the support received.

Ruth David, Director of Competitions Department at the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and Timothy Magaji, Executive Board Member of the
NFF, lauded NUSA’s efforts in mobilising support for the team.

NAN reports that both teams will clash again in the return leg at the Remo Stars’ Stadium in Ikenne-Remo on March  15.

The winner will advance to the final round of the series, where all four winners will qualify to join hosts Morocco as Africa’s flag-bearers at this year’s FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup slated for Oct. 17 to Nov. 5. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

(Edited by Mufutau Ojo)

Sports

Thrilling moments await chess lovers as Nigeria hosts West Africa championships

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By Oluwaseyi Oduneye-Ogunwomoju

Chess players and lovers have been promised thrilling moments as Nigeria hosts the Zone 4.2 West Africa Chess Championships from March 31 to April 9.

Speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Ibadan on Saturday, Mr Babatunde Ogunsiku, the championships’ Media Director, Local Organising Committee (LOC), said plans were in top gear for a memorable competition.

Ogunsiku said the championships would be the 3rd edition for West Africa, being Zone 4.2 area.

“The LOC is working around the clock to ensure that everything works out perfectly to leave a lasting image in the minds of both participants and leaders of the various federations that will be in Nigeria.

“Before, West Africa used to be Zone 4.4 with more countries. However , in 2023, the system changed, and instead of having four zones in Africa, we now have five.

“Zone 4.1 is Northern Africa, Zone 4.2 is Western Africa, Zone 4.3 is Central Africa, Zone 4.4 is Eastern Africa, and Zone 4.5 is Southern Africa.

He added that letters had been sent to the 11 West African countries making up the zone.

“They have till March 15 to send in their registration. After which, late registration will only be accepted on the LOC’s prerogative,” he said.

Ogunsiku added that this would, however, be the first time Nigeria would be hosting Zone 4.2.

“We’ve hosted the whole of Africa twice – once in Abuja in 2003 and in Lagos in 2022.

“Hosting this event provides Nigerian chess players with the opportunity to spend less in participating in a chess event, considering that it is held in different countries yearly.

“It is a huge opportunity that presents itself once a year and one that thousands of people will most likely be following all around Africa and beyond,” he said.

“The competition will be a 9-round Classical Chess Tournament with a time control of 90 minutes + 30 seconds increment per move for the first 40 moves and 30 minutes + 30 seconds to finish each game (per player).

“Right now, there is a standard prize pool of 3,000 dollars. However, the team is working on reeling in sponsors to ensure an increment in the prizes.

“There are hopes that this will happen before the end of registration,” he said.

NAN reports the championships will be held at CitiHeights Hotel, Lagos, from March 31 to April 9. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Moses Solanke

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