News Agency of Nigeria
12th CNS Swimming championship kicks off July in Asaba
Sports

12th CNS Swimming championship kicks off July in Asaba

By Ijeoma Okigbo

The Nigeria Aquatics Federation (NAqF), says preparations are in top gear for the 12th Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) Swimming Championship slated for the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba, from July 15 to July 19.

Chinoye Aliyu, president of the federation, said this at a news conference on Wednesday in Abuja adding that the tournament will discover talents to represent the country.

“This championship is a cornerstone of our strategic plan to identify, nurture and prepare elite athletes who will represent Nigeria at international events.

“Recently, Nigeria made history by breaking two African records in the 50m butterfly and 50m freestyle events at the Africa Junior Swimming Championships earlier this month (May).

“It is on the backdrop of these that we encourage swimmers below 18 years of age to register as the CNS tournament has both junior and senior or elite categories.

“We are also expecting a wide range of swimmers; from tertiary institutions, the para-military, states and clubs to register and participate in the tournament.

“The federation’s technical committee and national scouts will be on ground to evaluate performances and select exceptional swimmers for advanced training,’’ Aliyu said.

The President also lauded efforts of the Nigerian Navy and the CNS Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla for his continued support and collaboration towards discovering young talents in the sport.

“I want to particularly thank the Nigerian Navy for restoring the lost glory of swimming in Nigeria.

“Like I said earlier, we broke two records in Egypt, eventually clinching three golds and one bronze medal—an unprecedented feat in the nation’s swimming history.

“This was also due to the support from the CNS who released to us Lt.-Cdr. Labake Oriretan, a former champion and seasoned coach to guide the national team during the competition,” she said.

On his part, Rear Adm. Patrick Nwatu, the chairman, Nigerian Navy Swimming Association, said the partnership has been worthwhile, stressing their continued support for the sport.

“We see supporting NAqF as one of our corporate social responsibility to the nation.

“For almost 14 years now, the Nigerian Navy has been part of this endeavour and we are constantly looking for ways to see how we can improve and contribute our quota.

“We will see how we can identify athletes to be able to participate in international events and also encourage open water swimming.

“Over the years, the collaboration has been worthwhile and we look forward to other areas we can support and partner in the future.

“The last edition was well attended and we look forward to a greater participation this year where we can have our youths express themselves,” Nwatu added.

Also in attendance at the event are Rear Adm. Yusuf Idris, the director of sports Nigerian Navy, Taiwo Oriss, the secretary general of NAqF, Dauda Usman, the vice president of NAqF, amongst others. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Muhyideen Jimoh

Visa delay: Embassy seeks China-Nigeria sports communication channel
Sports

Visa delay: Embassy seeks China-Nigeria sports communication channel

By Muhyideen Jimoh

The Chinese Embassy in Nigeria has called for enhanced collaboration with the National Sports Commission (NSC) and the establishment of a China-Nigeria sports communication channel to foster seamless partnership in the sector.

The Culture Counselor of the Chinese Embassy Yang Jian Xing,  made the call on Tuesday in Abuja when he paid a diplomatic visit to the leadership of the NSC.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the visit is coming in the aftermath of the visa delay from the Chinese embassy that led to Team Nigeria withdrawing from the World relays in Guangzhou, China.

Xing expressed regrets over the visa challenges and pledged China’s commitments to the country’s vision for sports development.

” I want to describe what has happened as an accident and we are sorry and we regret it in its entirety.

“We are here to let the Sports Commission know that the Chinese Government holds Nigeria in high esteem, he said.

He said that China was desirous of boosting diplomatic ties with Nigeria in the sports sector and other areas of mutual interest.

” We are open to better collaboration with the National Sports Commission to boost diplomatic ties of both China and Nigeria in terms of Sports Training and Exchange programmes”.

” Once again,  I want to assure you that from next time we will try our best for this not to repeat itself again and we will also like to create a special channel for a China and Nigeria Sports Communication”, he added.

Earlier, the NSC Chairman, Shehu Dikko commended the move to visit the commission while stressing the need for better collaboration going forward.

” We are very happy to receive officials from the Chinese Embassy in our office today (Tuesday).

“It shows the Chinese Government genuine disappointment for what happened which for us is a huge sign of better things to come between both countries especially in Sports.

” We should at all times try to create positives out of things like this and we are happy that this has further strengthened our relationship with the Chinese Embassy, Dikko said.

The Director-General of the NSC, Bukola Olopade in his remarks reiterated the commission’s desire to build stronger sporting ties with China.

He said the incident of the visa glitch should serve as a springboard to a more robust working relationship between both countries.

” Your humility and diplomacy is the best I have seen anywhere and I am very grateful that you best described the incident between the AFN, the commission and your embassy as an accident.

“We have all agreed to take it as such and move forward to better things”.

” I want to thank you for everything and for the request for exchange programmes and training for our media and Sports men and women.

“This is truly worthy of note . We are looking forward to a bigger and better relationship between Nigeria and China,” Olopade said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Joseph Edeh

ITF certification: NTF boss commends Nigeria’s feat
Sports

ITF certification: NTF boss commends Nigeria’s feat

By Victor Okoye

Ifedayo Akindoju, the President, Nigeria Tennis Federation, has felicitated with three Nigerian tennis referees, following their certification by the International Tennis Federation (ITF) as White Badge Referees.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the trio of Joseph Edili, Bitrus Danjuma, and Folashade Ogunshola achieved the feat on April 27 in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire

Akindoju gave the commendation during a reception/dinner organised by the NTF in their honour on Monday night in Abuja.

He commended the referees for making the federation and the country so proud, noting that what they had achieved was no mean feat.

“Let me use this opportunity to congratulate you all for returning successfully with the seal of approval from the ITF as the significance of your achievements can not be overemphasised.

“I know how tough the journey was to obtaining the White Badge certification. You underwent rigorous training and evaluation, showcasing your knowledge and skills in tennis officiating.

“This certification now enables you to officiate at higher-level tournaments, including ITF World Tennis Tour events,” he said.

The president stressed that their achievements would have a positive impact on Nigerian tennis, adding that it would enhance officiating standards, promote tennis development as well as inspire young officials in the country.

“The certification of Nigerian referees will improve the quality of officiating in local and international tournaments held in Nigeria.

“By having certified referees, Nigeria can attract more international tennis events, promoting the growth of tennis in the country.

“The achievement of these referees will motivate young officials in Nigeria to pursue certification, further developing the sport,” he said.

He said that the Federation was committed to promoting and encouraging more referees to pursue their goals and reach the pinnacle of their career.

He added that NTF’s recognition of the referees’ achievements demonstrates its commitment to promoting tennis development and excellence in Nigeria.

Efe Okwagbe, Chairman of the Nigeria Tennis Umpires Association (NTUA), thanked the NTF president for honouring the referees, adding that it was a gesture the association would not take for granted.

“I want to sincerely thank our president for always finding time to share in our joy and challenges.

“We are not taking it for granted, and we appreciate your dedication to the growth and development of our referees in the country,” he said.

He also appealed to the president to extend the working days of the referees during tournaments and also engage the services of the newly certified ITF referees for upcoming international tournaments in the country.

“Over the years, I have noticed that the days the referees work during tournaments are the same with the chair Umpires.

“I think there is a need to take it a step further because they usually come one or two days ahead of time and stay even beyond the closing date of the event, as they still need to do alot of work with the ITF.

“So, I am making a formal appeal to the NTF president that when we present a request for two additional days for the referees, it should be graciously granted.

“Secondly, over the years, we invite foreign referees to Nigeria, and we have a couple of events just around the corner.

“I suggest that if possible, we can use our newly certified ITF referees for the next J30 event coming up in June,” he said.

He also thanked Edmund Ajoge, the Managing Director of Tombim Services Ltd., and a renowned patron of NTUA for his continued support to the association and efforts at promoting tennis development in Nigeria.

He said that Ajoge’s efforts had not only elevated the standard of tennis in Nigeria but also inspired other sponsors to support the sport.

“His commitment to developing tennis in Nigeria is evident through his consistent support of tournaments, players, and umpires, making him a valuable Patron of NTUA,” he said.

NAN reports that earning a ITF White Badge is a major milestone for tennis officials, as it grants international recognition and qualifies them to officiate at global tournaments under the International Tennis Federation.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

U-20 AFCON: Nigeria defeat Senegal in penalty shootout to reach semi-finals
Sports

U-20 AFCON: Nigeria defeat Senegal in penalty shootout to reach semi-finals

By Victor Okoye

Nigeria held their nerve to secure a place in the semi-finals of the CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt, defeating defending champions Senegal 3-1 on penalties.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that this was after a goalless draw in regulation and extra time at the Suez Canal Stadium on Monday.

The West African giants renewed their fierce rivalry in a tense quarter-final that saw both sides create scoring chances but ultimately fail to break the deadlock in 120 minutes of pulsating action.

The Flying Eagles, unbeaten in the group stages, maintained their composure in the shootout with spot kicks expertly converted by Precious Benjamin, Emmanuel Chukwu and Israel Ayuma.

Senegal, by contrast, faltered under pressure — Pierre Dorival’s, effort was saved, while Mame Mor Faye’s was denied, and Ousmane Konaté crashed his attempt off the crossbar.

Seydi Diouck netted Senegal’s only penalty, but it was not enough to prevent the reigning champions from exiting the tournament.

The result marks Nigeria’s eighth successive quarter-final win at the U-20 AFCON under the current format.

They now advance to the semi-finals, where they will look to maintain their record of never losing a semi-final tie in this competition.

Despite the final scoreline, both sides had moments where they could have clinched victory in open play.

Nigeria’s Kparobo Arierhi and Divine Oliseh each forced saves from Senegal keeper Mouhamed Sissokho, while Senegal’s Cheikh Thiam came agonisingly close in the 42nd minute with a header that rattled the post.

As the match wore on, fatigue set in but the determination from both camps never wavered.

Nigeria’s tactical substitutions — including the introduction of Precious Benjamin and Rickson Mendos — added attacking impetus late on.

Senegal, on their part, reshuffled to find a breakthrough with the likes of Seydi Diouck and Mame Mor Faye.

Extra time saw Nigeria press with renewed energy.

Tahir Maigana’s curling strike in the 106th minute drew a fine stop from Sissokho, while Israel Ayuma’s long-range effort two minutes later also required intervention.

Yet, despite Nigeria’s dominance in the closing stages, the deadlock remained.

Nigeria’s goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt, who had gone largely untested in the shootout, emerged as a quiet hero.

His save against Mame Mor Faye’s spot kick proved pivotal in tilting the balance.

Senegal, who came into the tie with a strong defensive record and ambitions to retain their crown, were ultimately undone by Nigeria’s discipline and precision in the decisive moments.

The result also marked their first loss in a knockout match since 2017.

In a post-match interview, Nigeria head coach Aliyu Zubairu praised his side’s resilience.

“We prepared for all scenarios, including penalties.

“I’m proud of the boys for executing under pressure,” he said.

With this result, Nigeria also earned a spot in the U-20 World Cup, scheduled for Chile from Sept. 27 to Oct. 19.

With this result, Nigeria moves one step closer to a record-extending eighth U20 AFCON title, while Senegal will now reflect on what could have been after a hard-fought campaign.

The victory also earned Nigeria a spot in the U-20 World Cup slated for Sept. 27 to Oct. 19. in Chile.

The four semi-finalists from the on-going U-20 AFCON automatically qualifies to represent Africa at the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile.

Edited by Muhyideen Jimoh

NPFL: Rangers humble Katsina United 4-0 in Enugu
Sports

NPFL: Rangers humble Katsina United 4-0 in Enugu

By Benson Ezugwu
Rangers International FC of Enugu on Sunday defeated Katsina United FC 4-0 in the week 36 of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
The match played at the mainbowl of the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium Enugu, was Rangers’ last home game of the season.
Veteran, Godwin Obaje scored a brace in the 10th and 15th minutes of the first half to end the game 2-0 at half time.
On resumption of second half, Katsina came out smoking putting Rangers under intense pressure but without any goal to show for it.
Fidelis Illechukwu, the Technical Adviser of Rangers made three changes, which made all the difference.
Diminutive midfielder, Saviour Issac increased the tally for the flying Antelopes in the 78th minute while substitute C Igwilo made it 4-0 shortly after Saviour’s goal in the 90th minute.
In his post-match interview, Fidelis Illechukwu lamented the position of the NPFL defending champions, blaming it on lack of funding.
“I appeal to the state government to come to our aide.
“I am a top-class coach and I am not happy with where we are this season,” he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the win left Rangers at the 8th position on the 20-teams league with just 52 points. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Yetunde Fatungase
FIFA approves 48 teams for Women’s World Cup from 2031
Sports

FIFA approves 48 teams for Women’s World Cup from 2031

By Ijeoma Okigbo
The Women’s World Cup will be expanded from 32 to 48 teams from the 2031 edition onwards after the FIFA Council approved the proposal at a virtual meeting on Friday.

The 48-team World Cup will adopt a 12-group format, increasing the total number of matches from 64 to 104 – the same as the expanded men’s World Cup in 2026 – and extending the tournament by one week.

The 2027 Women’s World Cup, which will be held in Brazil, will have 32 teams.

The 2023 edition in Australia and New Zealand was the first to have 32 teams, up from 24 in the 2019 tournament hosted by France.

“This is not just about having 16 more teams playing in the FIFA Women’s World Cup but taking the next steps in relation to the women’s game in general,” FIFA President Gianni Infantino said in a statement.

“More FIFA member associations have the chance to benefit from the tournament to develop their women’s football structures from a holistic point of view,” he said.

The U.S. is poised to be named host of the 2031 Women’s World Cup as the only bid, making the third time the country will stage the tournament after previously hosting it in 1999 and 2003.

The United Kingdom is the sole bidder for the 2035 tournament. Hosts for the 2031 and 2035 editions are yet to be ratified.

Although there are concerns that games could be one-sided with 48 teams, Infantino said the 2023 edition showed sides are closing the gap on the elite.

“The Women’s World Cup 2023, the first in which teams from all confederations won at least one game and teams from five confederations reached the knockout stage, among many other records, set a new standard for global competitiveness,” he added. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Joseph Edeh

NSF 2025: Ekiti receives torch of unity
Sports

NSF 2025: Ekiti receives torch of unity

By Adedeji Egbebi

The Ekiti State Government on Friday in Ado-Ekiti received the Torch of Unity for the Ogun 2025 National Sports Festival.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports the presentation of the torch serves as a formal invitation to the state to attend the event scheduled for May 16 to May 30 in Abeokuta, Ogun.

Receiving the torch on behalf of the state government, the Chairman of the State House of Assembly Committee on Youths and Sports, Mr Idowu Odebunmi, commended the delegation and described the visit as a symbol of unity across the country.

Odebunmi said Governor Biodun Oyebanji was committed to youths and sports development in Ekiti.

The lawmaker described the governor as a sports enthusiast, always using sports for youths development, job creation, wealth generation and to reduce crimes in the state.

He added that the ongoing renovation of the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium, which include, upgrading the football pitch to synthetic turf, renovating the administrative block and athletics track was a reflection of the governor’s passion for youths and sports development.

Odebunmi assured that the state athletes are both mentally and physically prepared to participate in the competition.

The lawmaker said the state government would continue to support and encourage them towards achieving laurels for the state.

NAN reports that the Technical Advisor to the State Governor on Sports Development, Dr Olusola Osetoba, led the state contingent to the presentation. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Tayo Ikujuni

Runsewe commends Ogun governor for honouring Odegbami
Sports

Runsewe commends Ogun governor for honouring Odegbami

By Victor Okoye

The President, Nigeria Golf Federation (NGF), Olusegun Runsewe, has commended Gov. Dapo Abiodun of Ogun, for honouring Segun Odegbami, as the Grand Ambassador of the state.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Odegbami, a Nigerian football legend, was on Tuesday appointed by Abiodun, as the first-ever ‘Grand Sports Ambassador’ in the history of the state.

The role comes with a simple but challenging mandate – to supervise the evolution of a Sports Eco-system in Ogun, plus a Night-Economy during and beyond the upcoming 2025 Gateway Games.

“This is to actualise the vision of the government to put up (for the second time) the best and biggest multi-sports event in Africa (after the All-African Games).

“This will set new standards in harvesting the social, cultural and economic benefits that come with doing so,’’ he said.

Runsewe emphasised the significance of acknowledging and celebrating Nigerian sports heroes, both past and present.

He told NAN on Wednesday in Abuja that by appointing Odegbami as the Grand Ambassador, the governor had set a precedent for recognising national heroes while they were alive.

“I want to sincerely commend the governor for this initiative, which has indeed opened a new chapter in celebrating Nigeria’s sporting heroes, while they are still alive.

“Honouring sports heroes while they’re still alive allows them to appreciate the recognition and enables future generations to learn from their experiences.

“Celebrating sports achievements can foster a culture of excellence, driving sports development, inspiring young athletes, highlights the importance of sports in Nigerian culture, promoting national pride and identity,” he said.

The NGF boss noted that the governor was an administrator, who was very much concerned about the growth and development of sports at the grassroots.

He added that by honouring Odegbami, Gov. Abiodun had demonstrated a commitment to promoting sports development and celebrating Nigeria’s sporting heritage.

NAN reports that Odegbami is a renowned Nigerian footballer, who played for Shooting Stars and the Super Eagles, earning the nickname: “Mathematical” for his calculated shots and speed on the right wing.

He won the Nigerian Premier League with Shooting Stars in 1976, 1980, and 1983, and was part of the 1980 AFCON-winning team, scoring crucial goals in the tournament.

After retiring, Odegbami became a successful writer, publisher, television and radio producer, and sports administrator, founding Nigeria’s first wholly private sports show on television.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Dorcas Jonah/Joe Idika

Grassroots football: 10 teams battle in maiden Kuje football league
Sports

Grassroots football: 10 teams battle in maiden Kuje football league

By Muhyideen Jimoh

No fewer than 10 teams are set to compete in the maiden edition of the Kuje Football League scheduled to kick-off on Sunday at the Kuje Township stadium.

Muhammed Momoh, Chairman, Local Organising Committee (LOC), Kuje Football League, said during a news conference in Kuje on Thursday that the aim was to develop football in that part of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Momoh said that over 180 matches will be played within the five-month duration of the league.

“This league is professionally packaged to set a new benchmark for grassroots football development in the FCT,” he said.

Momoh said that league was also designed to engage youths and stimulate socio-economic activities in Kuje, with strong support from the local community and key football stakeholders.

“Organising a football league of this magnitude in Kuje is long overdue; since I arrived here, I kept asking — why isn’t there a football league in Kuje?

“Football is one of the best ways to engage our youths and energise the community,” he said.

Momoh added that the initiative aligned with the FCT administration’s broader sports development agenda.

“This league is a timely addition to the ongoing efforts by the FCT administration.

“We reached out to sponsors, and thankfully, Pepsi came on board to support the vision; the league promises not just excitement and competition, but also tangible rewards.

“The winner will take home a cash prize of N1.6 million, while the second and third-place teams will receive N600,000 and N400,000 respectively.

“In addition, Pepsi, our main sponsor, will provide jerseys for the participating teams to ensure uniformity and to add value to the tournament,” he added.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Holy Ghost FC, Royal Eni FC, Crown Tee FC, Homeboys FC, Cargo FC, Rondo FC, Amazing Grace FC, are some of the participating teams. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng).

Edited by Emmanuel Afonne

NSC tasks sports officers on vision to transform sector
Sports

NSC tasks sports officers on vision to transform sector

By Muhyideen Jimoh

The Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Malam Shehu Dikko, has called on sports officers across the country to align with the Commission’s renewed vision to transform the sector.

Dikko gave the charge  while declaring open a two-day capacity-building workshop for sports officers organised by the NSC in Abuja on Tuesday.

The workshop, with the theme “Reset, Refocus, and Relaunch the Nigerian Sports Sector for Greater Performance,” aims to create a more vibrant and economically viable sports industry in the country.

He stressed the importance of collective responsibility and commitment in achieving the Commission’s Renewed Hope Initiative for Nigeria’s Sports Economy (RHINSE).

 “You are the fundamental key drivers of this vision. If you fail to align, the task becomes much more difficult.

“You are among the most competent, forward-thinking, and valuable assets within the Commission. If we work together, success is guaranteed,” he said.

The NSC boss reiterated the importance of returning to grassroots sports development as a foundation for international success.

He emphasised the need to key into the Federal Executive Council’s recent approval of the “Nigeria First” policy, which pioritises the development of internal capacity and local services.

“For the first time, the commission has a targeted budget focused on delivering the right infrastructure to enable you to perform better.

 “We are working on the concessioning of facilities in Lagos, Kaduna, Ibadan, and Bauchi to ensure they are fully optimised,” he said.

Dikko  commended the Secretaries-General of the various Sports Federations for their efforts but,  urged them to push their respective federations to be more responsive and results-driven.

“We must change the negative narrative about the commission. We aim to create three to four million jobs through sports,” he added.

Earlier, the Director-General of the NSC, Bukola Olopade, urged the sports officers to adopt a proactive approach and work as a unified team to achieve greater results.

“As stakeholders of this commission, you must be bold, proactive, and never allow yourselves to be intimidated.

“The commission is fully behind you,” Olopade said.

The Director, Federation and Elite Athletes Department (FEAD), NSC, Olumide Bamiduro, said the workshop was designed to recognise and empower the officers, who are the key drivers of the sector.

“Your diligence and hard work are crucial for the progress of sports in Nigeria.

“I encourage you to take full advantage of this retreat to implement the commission’s new policies and vision,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the workshop had sessions on “21st Century High Performance Management Strategies for Podium Success in Sports”.

The sports officers were also engaged in sessions such as ‘Mastering Communication Excellence” and “Remodelling Sports Governance and Development in Nigeria”. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Maureen Ojinaka/Joseph Edeh

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