NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Invictus Games: Nigeria’s Festus Igube wins medal in Canada
Sports

Invictus Games: Nigeria’s Festus Igube wins medal in Canada

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By Sumaila Ogbaje

In a thrilling display of resilience and determination, Nigerian athlete, Festus Igube, has secured a bronze medal in swimming at the ongoing Invictus Games taking place at Vancouver, Canada.

The Director of Defence Information, Brig. -Gen. Tukur Gusau, said on Sunday in Abuja.

Gusau said that Igube, a serving member of the Nigerian Armed Forces, competed in the men’s 50-meter freestyle event, finishing third behind competitors from U.S and Australia.

According to him, the Invictus Games, founded by Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, is an international multi-sport event for wounded, injured, and sick servicemen and women, both active and veteran.

He said that Nigeria’s participation in the games was a testament to the country’s commitment to supporting its servicemen and women, adding that Igube’s bronze medal win was a source of national pride.

Igube expressed gratitude to the Nigerian government, the armed forces, and his coaches for their support.

“This medal is not just for me, but for my country and all those who have supported me on this journey.

“The Invictus Games is still ongoing with Nigeria’s team competing in various events, such as track and field, archery and wheelchair basketball.

“Team Nigeria is expected to win more medals for the country as the games unfold,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Franca Ofili/Ifeyinwa Omowole

Minister canvases women empowerment at IBB Ladies Golf Open
Sports

Minister canvases women empowerment at IBB Ladies Golf Open

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By Victor Okoye

Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, Minister of Women Affairs, has reaffirmed  the Federal Government’s commitment to empowering women across all sectors in the country.

Sulaiman-Ibrahim stated this at the tee-off ceremony of the 26th edition of the IBB Ladies Amateur Golf Open on Friday in Abuja.

The tournament, themed “The Abuja Experience,” is attracting an unprecedented record of over
450 female golfers from hosts Nigeria and five other African nations of; Rwanda, Uganda, Ghana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

The minister expressed her support for initiatives that promote women’s participation and success in various fields, especially in sports.

She noted that women excel when given the opportunity to participate and contribute to the nation’s development.

“This is part of my mandate as a marching order from Mr. President, Bola Tinubu, that women should be supported across all sectors.

“We must activate, cultivate, and support to build the potential of women across all sectors.

“We know that when women do things, they do it properly, and we like to support women to contribute to the economy of Nigeria,” she said.

Sulaiman-Ibrahim stressed that supporting women was crucial for the growth and prosperity of Nigeria.

“It means excellence, growth, economic development, and prosperity because a healthy woman or people make a healthy nation.

“When women are healthy, the nation is healthy. Golf plays a critical role in ensuring that we are healthy,” she said.

She added that the focus on women goes beyond sports, with the Ministry also committed to supporting women in agriculture, the green economy, the care economy, the creative industries, and emerging economies.

She welcomed all the participating countries to Abuja, expressing confidence in the competition’s success.

“I like to welcome you all to Abuja. We have many countries coming to play in this particular competition.

“I will like to assure you all that you are going to be wowed because when women play, they play for excellence,” she said.

Earlier, Julie Donli, the Lady Captain, IBB International Golf and Country Club told newsmen that the tournament had grown significantly, promoting excellence in women’s golf.

She said that the tournament continues to be a significant event in promoting women’s sports and empowering women across Africa.

She added that the minister’s support further underscores the importance of the tournament for the country’s development.

“Our goal is to continuously elevate the standard of this event and to create opportunities for more women to participate and enjoy the sport.

“In addition to the opportunity for participants to compete with some of the best golfers from across the country and beyond, the competition is a celebration of women in sport,” she said.

Uloma Mbuko, the chairman of the tournament’s technical committee and the first Nigerian female professional golfer, explained that the event would also allow players to earn world rankings.

“It is a world ranking tournament, meaning that players will earn rankings according to the world ranking system.

“No fewer than 200 ladies are participating in the main event.

“In this category, we have female professionals, those in the main event playing off handicaps of 0-18, a division for handicaps of 19-28, veterans, super veterans, and a special category.

“This tournament is all-inclusive, and we are looking forward to world-standard golfing over the next three days,” Mbuko said.

Meanwhile, defending champion Evelyn Oyome, who is also the President of the Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria (LGAN), expressed her determination to defend her title.

Oyome, a seasoned amateur golfer from Ikoyi Club, beat off intense pressure from Ugandan golfer Kabasweka Peace on the final day of the 2024 edition to secure the IBB Ladies Open crown for the second consecutive year.

NAN reports that the championship trophy and a cash prize of $5,000 are up for grabs as participants continue to slug it out at the lush green course of the IBB Golf and Country Club, Abuja.

The week–long tournament, which began on Monday with the caddies competition, is expected to end with the grand finale on Sunday.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Muhyideen Jimoh

NCF U17 cricket: Niger wins North Central zonal qualifiers
Sports

NCF U17 cricket: Niger wins North Central zonal qualifiers

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By Ijeoma Okigbo

Team Niger on Tuesday won the Under 17 Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF) North Central zonal qualifiers, sponsored by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC).

Niger defeated Benue to emerge winners in the male category, finishing unscathed in five games of the tournament played at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.

The game, on Tuesday, saw Niger won the toss and opted to bowl first in the 15 overs game.

Niger began with bowling clinically with the first wicket of Hamisu Abdulrahman sent back to the stands in the first four balls of the innings, but Niger soon lost the momentum, giving out a staggering 36 extras.

Benue batting line up could not capitalise on the opportunity, scoring just 17 off the bat and managing 53/8 in 15 overs.

In the chase, the opening duo of Isaac Oyewole and Usman Ibrahim needed only 9.0 overs to score 55/0 to seal victory for Niger.

At the end of the game, Aliyu Abubakar, the coach of Niger team, said he was happy with the team’s performance, while anticipating that they carry the momentum to the finals of the tournament.

“The boys played well, although there are lots of areas to work on, but ordinarily, they gave their best.

“Our focus is now on the finals scheduled to begin next week in Abuja. We hope to make our zone proud in the tournament,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Benue emerged second place, while Kwara and Kogi finished on the third and fourth spot respectively.

Plateau state finished on the fifth spot, while FCT occupied the bottom of the log.

Salisu Ishaq from Kogi, emerged best batter with 70 runs, while the best bowler award went to Mohammed Yahaya of Benue.

The best fielder went to Samuel Ayomide from Kwara, while the Most Valuable Player award was pocketed by Marvelous Olusegun, also from Kwara.

In the women’s category, only three teams participated with Kogi emerging champions, while Kwara and FCT finished on the second and third spot respectively.

Sofia Waheed from Kwara was the best female batter with 44 runs, while Hassana Salihu of Kogi was best bowler with 5 wickets to her credit.

The best fielder award was given to Husseina Salihu also of Kogi, while teammate Fatima Musa was awarded the Most Valuable Player of the tournament. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Emmanuel Afonne

Schools sports festival kicks off in Lagos
Sports

Schools sports festival kicks off in Lagos

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By Millicent Ifeanyichukwu/Oluwatope Lawanson

The maiden edition of the Lagos State Schools Sports Festival kicked off on Wednesday with athletics and field events, providing students with a platform to showcase their talents and sportsmanship.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event, organised by the Lagos State Government through the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education (MBSE), was held at Yaba College of Technology.

Highlights included a march-past by schools from the six education districts, track and field events, athletics for junior and senior categories, long jump, high jump, and calisthenics by Queen’s College.

Speaking, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Jamiu Alli-Balogun, described the event as a momentous occasion that marks the beginning of a new era in the system.

Alli-Balogun stated that the festival reflects the school’s commitment to holistic education.

He emphasised that education is not just academics but also intellectual, physical, emotional, and social development.

“Our maiden sports festival is a significant milestone in our school’s journey towards providing a world-class educational experience,” he said.

He noted that sports and physical education play a crucial role in students’ overall development, adding that the festival demonstrates Lagos schools’ dedication to this ideal.

The commissioner highlighted that the event fosters community spirit and promotes physical activity and wellness.

“True sportsmanship is about learning, growing, and having fun.

“Sports have long been a source of entertainment, inspiration, and personal growth. For many, turning their passion into a career can be a dream come true.

“Through sports, students learn valuable lessons in hard work, dedication, and fair play. They build confidence, fitness, and lasting friendships, creating memories that will stay with them forever,” he said.

The commissioner also noted that the sports industry has evolved, offering diverse career opportunities for individuals with different skills, interests, and qualifications.

He mentioned that careers range from professional athletes, coaches, and trainers to sports management, journalism, psychology, marketing, sponsorship, and many others.

In his remarks, the Chairman of the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (LASUBEB), Dr Hakeem Shittu, praised the students’ performances, especially those who emerged as winners.

Shittu assured that necessary measures would be implemented to monitor students’ progress, helping them grow, improve, and reach their full potential in sports.

“I am impressed with what I have seen so far. We must support these young ones who have the potential, ability, and energy to excel.

“We can achieve this by keeping them engaged so that their energy is channelled productively. This benefits not only them but also their parents and the state,” he added.

He stressed the importance of balancing education with sports, ensuring students are well-equipped to utilise their abilities effectively.

The LASUBEB chairman urged parents to support government efforts by encouraging their children, stating that sports and education should go hand in hand.

“The combination of education and sports enhances both mental and physical development. We ensure that students balance the two without compromising either,” he added.

NAN reports that students who excelled in various activities were decorated with medals and trophies in recognition of their outstanding performances. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

NRFF: We`II continue to promote Girl-Child participation in Rugby – Are
Sports

NRFF: We`II continue to promote Girl-Child participation in Rugby – Are

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Rugby

By Georgina Adegbie

The President of the Nigeria Rugby Football Federation (NRFF), Ademola Are, says the federation will continue to work towards promoting girl-child participation in rugby across the country.

Are stated this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Abuja.

He said that the federation was determined to enhance grassroots development of the sport in Nigeria.

He said Rugby Rising Play is World Rugby’s first evidence-based girls’ participation programme, specifically designed to introduce teenage girls to rugby.

“The selected coaches, representing Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, will work under the guidance of Wuraola Hussain, a Rugby Africa-certified educator.

“Their primary responsibilities will include driving grassroots development, fostering inclusivity, and encouraging young girls to take up the sport,” he said.

According to him, the federation has appointed 15 national coaches to promote Rugby Rising Play in Nigeria, a progressive grassroots programme.

The president said the appointment was made based on the coaches’ successful completion of the T1 Rugby Course, World Rugby’s introductory non-contact rugby programme.

“This initiative marks a significant milestone in the federation’s efforts to grow the sport and promote gender equality in Nigeria,” he said.

The 15 coaches and their states of assignment are:

Amarachi Orji to coach Abia State

Lawrenta Ukponwan to coach Edo State

Azeez Abimbola to coach Rivers State

Opene Awuli to coach Delta State

Olanrewaju Pereira to coach Abuja FCT

Torkwase Adug to coach Benue State

Innocent Precious to coach Lagos State

Paul Adagbo to coach Plateau State

Umar Bau to coach Kano State

Kehinde Adelaja to coach Ogun State

Mohammed Ibrahim to coach Kwara State

Shehu Garba to coach Bauchi State

Moses Archibong to coach Akwa Ibom State

Vincent Paul to coach Anambra State

Sadam Abubakar to coach Kaduna State

The president said these coaches would be supervised by Hussain, a certified World Rugby educator.

“All the coaches have successfully completed their safeguarding course in accordance with the federation.

“This strategic initiative aims to harness the talent and potentials of young girls and create pathways for their involvement and growth in rugby at the national level,” he said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Joseph Edeh

 

Falcons defender Plumptre becomes ambassador for anti child trafficking
Sports

Falcons defender Plumptre becomes ambassador for anti child trafficking

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By Ijeoma Okigbo

Super Falcons defender Ashleigh Plumptre, has been appointed an ambassador for Mission 89, a global research and advocacy organisation dedicated to combating child trafficking.

Lerina Bright, Executive Director of Mission 89, said on Friday in a letter to convey the appointment that the move underscores the organisation’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding young athletes and upholding the integrity of football.

Bright noted that their partnership with Plumptre came at a pivotal moment as the sports industry was confronted with escalating challenges in shielding young talent from exploitation.

She also noted that the defensive maestro, who is renowned for her dedication to social justice, brings a compelling voice to Mission 89’s initiatives against exploitation in sports.

“Her extensive experience at the highest levels of professional football, alongside her passionate advocacy for ethical practices, positions her as an exemplary representative for this vital cause.

“Sports Trafficking is a critical issue that demands immediate attention and action from all stakeholders especially the government, advocates, leaders, professional athletes and policy makers,” Bright noted.

On her part, Plumptre, who appreciated the appointment, noted that her experiences as a footballer would be pivotal in discharging her duties as an ambassador.

“As a footballer, I have observed firsthand how aspirations can serve as both a source of hope and a potential vulnerability for young athletes.

“My experiences in professional sports have taught me that talent alone is insufficient; protection, education and ethical pathways are vital components.

“Mission 89 represents more than just an organisation to me; it signifies a platform for transforming the narrative surrounding youth in football.

“We are not merely preventing trafficking; we are reclaiming the true spirit of the game — a spirit characterised by opportunity, dignity and hope.

“Football has the potential to transform lives. However, it is imperative that we ensure this transformation is both positive and secure.

“Joining Mission 89 enables me to contribute to the safeguarding of the dreams of young players who view football as their pathway to a better future,” Plumptre said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Emmanuel Afonne

NSC boss pledges stakeholders’ inclusiveness in sports administration
Sports

NSC boss pledges stakeholders’ inclusiveness in sports administration

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By Muhyideen Jimoh

The Chairman, National Sports Commission (NSC), Malam Shehu Dikko, has expressed the commissions’ commitment to the development of a vibrant sports economy in the country, in collaboration with stakeholders.

Dikko stated this on Thursday in Abuja during a courtesy visit by a delegation from the Association of Former Female Athletes of Nigeria (AFFAN).

He maintained that no critical stakeholder would be left behind in the pursuit of the commission’s vision.

According to him, the sports economy mandate is from President Bola Tinubu, and he has also instructed us to take sports development down to the grassroots.

“That is why he appointed a senior special assistant on grassroots sports development that works with us here in the commission.

“These mandates can only be actualised with the full involvement of all stakeholders.

“Forging an all-encompassing synergy with strategic stakeholders in the sports industry is also important.

“We don’t close our doors to stakeholders, it’s in such meetings we get suggestions that guide the steps we take.

“No crucial stakeholder will be left behind. All we need from you is to come to us just as you people have done.

“It is not necessary to run to the media when you can talk to us. We are open to further engagements to cross-fertilise ideas,” Dikko said.

He promised to revisit the former administration’s promise to include the group in the board of the sports federations.

The NSC boss also highlighted the immense contributions of women athletes in the nation’s sporting exploits.

According to him, women have always been our collaborators in winning medals and laurels in sports.

“We had agreed with the olympians that ex-internationals have to be part of our teams to major games.

“There are also plans to strengthen the commission’s zonal offices for efficient service delivery. The zones will be like the mini sports commissions, and

“We are going to have federal sports commissioners in the zones and we will task them on bringing talents from the zones. There is already provision for zonal offices in our budget.

“We are setting up the centers of excellence down to the local government areas, states and zones,” he explained.

Earlier, the AFFAN President, Toyin Aluko, commended Dikko for efforts to reposition the sports sector, while pledging the association’s support.

Aluko, a former athlete, expressed the association’s goal of becoming more visible to inspire young female athletes.

“I want to assure the NSC chairman that AFFAN is fully committed to the success of sports in Nigeria.

“The association is made up of retired female athletes who have brought glory to Nigeria during their active careers,” she said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ayodeji Alabi

NSC pledges support for badminton development
Sports

NSC pledges support for badminton development

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By Muhyideen Jimoh

The Director-General (D-G) of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, has reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to advancing badminton development in Nigeria.

Olopade made the pledge on Wednesday in Abuja during a farewell visit to Team Nigeria’s camp, ahead of their departure for the 2025 All-African Senior Badminton Championship in Douala, Cameroon.

Olopade assured the athletes of NSC’s full support and encouraged them to make the country proud at the continental competition.

He also commended the President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN), Francis Orbih, and his team for their efforts in elevating the sport in Nigeria.

“For us at the NSC, and speaking on behalf of our chairman, Malam Shehu Dikko, badminton has become a vital part of the Nigerian sports ecosystem.

“President Orbih and his leadership team have created a buzz around badminton, and it is evident in the success of athletes like Aanu (Anuoluwapo Opeyori) ,” Olopade said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Nigerian badminton team, comprising 10 players (five men and five women), will compete in the Men’s Singles, Women’s Singles, Men’s Doubles, Women’s Doubles, and Mixed Doubles categories.

The championship will take place from February 10 to 16 in Douala.

Team Nigeria is led by Anuoluwapo Opeyori, the country’s number one player, who is set to defend his singles gold medal from 2024. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

MUYI/KOO/AMM

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Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa and Abiemwense Moru

Ex-International partners academy to nurture young talents to Europe
Sports

Ex-International partners academy to nurture young talents to Europe

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By Joshua Olomu

Former Super Eagles star Tijani Babangida and MOP Stars FC  have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop  and transfer young Nigerian football talents to clubs in Europe.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the collaborative MoU was signed by both parties on Saturday in Abuja.

The MoU sets forth the terms and understanding between the Academy and Babangida in a collaboration aimed at identifying young football talents and facilitating their transfer to football clubs in Europe.

According to them, the agreement will ensure that MOP Stars FC Academy develop young players and provide financial support for scouting.

Babangida on the other hand is expected to utilise his influence and network to facilitate the transfer of players to football clubs in Europe.

Dr Suleiman Adejoh, president of MOP Stars, who signed on behalf of the academy, said the partnership was part of his commitment towards discovery, development and empowerment of Nigeria’s budding football talents.

“The Messengers of Peace (MOP) Stars Football Academy was born out of the need to preach peace in Nigeria through sports and engage young Nigerians positively, while also contributing to the development of football.

“As I scout for young talents across the country, it is obvious that our country is blessed with  gifted and passionate young people  who sincerely need platforms to express themselves.

“We now have U16 and the U19 teams playing and winning games locally, with the the team building process still ongoing through trials and test games.

“This is our modest way of contributing to the peaceful coexistence that we need in our country Nigeria”, he said.

According to the president, both the U16 and U19 teams of the MOP Star FC has been invited to participate at the 2025 Dana World Youth Tournament in Denmark.

He expressed delight that the tournament was an opportunity for talented young Nigerians to showcase their talents on the  global stage.

“We are preparing them for the next edition of the Dana World Youth Cup coming up in Denmark where 50 nations of the world are coming to play these young lads.

“ As  we progress in our preparation , our boys have recorded outstanding wins in our recent matches, including  a 4-2 win over FC Gwagwalada and  a 3-1 win over One World FC.

“The process has been very okay, and we are working on the boys and by God’s grace in April , we will  be together for about two months to perfect our training,” he said.

Earlier, Babangida, who met with the MOP Star players, urged them to work hard to emerge the next generation of players who would represent their country on the global stage.

He expressed satisfaction with the level of performance from the team, as the target is for them to make impact at the Dana World Youth Cup. (NAN)(nannews.ng)

Edited by Muhyideen Jimoh

Association to boost badminton development in FCT
Sports

Association to boost badminton development in FCT

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By Muhyideen Jimoh

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Badminton Association Board has pledged to boost grassroots development of the sport with the organisation of tournaments across the area councils of the territory.

The Chairman of the association, Mohammed Bappa,  said this on Thursday in Abuja when he paid a courtesy visit to the FCT Director of Sports, Luka Istifanus.

Bappa said that the association was working round the clock to organise befitting tournaments and discover new talents for the FCT.

“We have been meeting and working round the clock to get the game of Badminton in the FCT going as it has always been under our late Chairman, Mr Gabriel Gbayan.

“He is a model and we have resolved to keep the flag flying. We have over 40 Badminton clubs in the FCT  really doing well, I must say.

“What we will continue to do is to bring them together in a competition, to discover and harness raw talents that will make the FCT and our country, Nigeria proud,” he said.

Bappa said that plans were also underway to introduce badminton to schools in the FCT.

“Aside other initiatives that we are considering, we are already discussing the idea of putting together a period tournament plans, that will cover all categories and playable age.

“We plan to take badminton to our educational institutions, especially our primary and secondary schools, to get them young and nurture them,” Bappa said.

He said that the association would continue to work more closely with the FCT Sports Department to develop badminton in the territory.

In his response, the FCT Director of Sports,  Luka Istifanus, appreciated the board for its efforts in developing the sport.

“I want to appreciate you for coming. This is a thing of joy for me. We have been working together and we will continue to work together.

“Badminton is one game I hold so dear to my heart. The reason is simple, you have always been a delight for the FCT whenever we go for competitions,” he said.

Istifanus assured of continues support for all the programmes of the association.

“Let me use this opportunity to give you the assurance of our 100 per cent support towards your programmes, ideas and initiative.

“You have nothing to worry nor fear about, the FCT sports department is solidly with you all the way.

“Do not hesitate to come and approach us as we are always here to help and assist you and even partner with you,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Bappa was the Vice Chairman of the FCT Badminton Association under the leadership of late Gabriel Gbayan. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman

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