News Agency of Nigeria
FEDUGAM 2025: FME emerges overall winner with 19 gold medals
Sports

FEDUGAM 2025: FME emerges overall winner with 19 gold medals

By Isaac Ukpoju

The Federal Ministry of Education (FME) has emerged the overall winner of the 5th edition of the Federal Education Sector Games (FEDUGAM 2025) which ended on Saturday in Lafia, Nasarawa State.

FME topped the medal table with 19 gold, 18 silver, and eight bronze medals.

The National Examinations Council (NECO) finished as first runner-up with 13 gold, 17 silver, and 17 bronze medals, while the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) placed second runner-up, winning three gold, three silver, and five bronze medals.

Speaking at the closing of the event, the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, described the games as a platform for fostering unity, synergy, friendship, and camaraderie among agencies of the ministry and their state counterparts.

Represented by Prof. Ibrahim Ogiri-Hassan of the Federal University of Lafia, Alausa highlighted the event’s role in promoting the physical, mental, and spiritual well-being of participants.

He commended the Nasarawa State Government for its hospitality and the enabling environment provided, describing the 2025 games as “memorable.”

He also praised the Federal University of Lafia for making its “world-class facilities” available, which he said was key to the smooth conduct of activities.

“To our athletes, contingents, and officials from participating agencies, we say a big thank you. Your dedication, discipline, sportsmanship, and unwavering spirit have been truly inspiring,” he said.

Alausa congratulated medal winners for their hard work and perseverance, encouraging all participants to see themselves as winners for their courage, teamwork, and commitment.

Also speaking, Nasarawa State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Yakubu Kwanta, represented by Helen Madaki, the Director of Administration and Supply, thanked the organisers for choosing the state as host.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to sports development at all levels.

In his closing remarks, FEDUGAM Chairman, Dr Saeed Yusuf, represented by the Deputy Chairman, Mr Olapade Suleiman, expressed gratitude to God for the successful conduct of the games.

Yusuf commended the Minister of Education for prioritising sports development within the ministry, providing resources and an enabling environment for staff to showcase their talents.

He also lauded the Permanent Secretary, Mr Abel Olumuyiwa-Enitan, for his encouragement, and praised the Main Organising Committee (MOC), Local Organising Committee (LOC), and FEDUGAM consultant for their dedication and teamwork.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that 22 agencies competed in 13 events during the week-long games.

The sixth edition of FEDUGAM will be hosted by Edo in 2026. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abdulfatai Beki/Joseph Edeh

NANPF demands contract compliance to safeguard players
Sports

NANPF demands contract compliance to safeguard players

By Victor Okoye

The National Association of Nigeria Professional Footballers (NANPF) has urged the Nigeria Football Federation Players’ Status and Arbitration Committee (NFF-PSAC) to urgently convene and resolve more than 100 outstanding contractual disputes.

The call comes as the 2025/2026 football season is set to kick off later this month.

According to the union, the unresolved cases include illegal contract terminations, unpaid salaries, outstanding transfer fees, and the withholding of players’ clearances.

The union said such issues directly threaten the welfare and careers of affected players.

In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), NANPF President and former international, Sunday Abe, expressed concern over the number of cases and the potential impact on the integrity of the domestic league.

“More than 100 cases require immediate attention. If left unresolved, they could seriously derail the careers of many players.

“The league exists because of the players, and their rights must be protected, “Abe said.

He added that while the union appreciates the past efforts of the NFF-PSAC, time is of the essence, and the committee must act swiftly to address the backlog before the season begins.

“Addressing these disputes will not only restore confidence in the system but also promote fairness and professionalism across the league,” he said.

The NANPF stressed that timely resolutions would encourage greater transparency and accountability among clubs and league administrators, while also fostering trust within the football community.

The players’ union reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding players’ rights as the season approaches.

It urged all football authorities to ensure clubs fulfil contractual obligations at every level of the Nigerian league system. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Tosin Kolade

Abuja hosts 250 young players at Evolve 2.0 Chess championship
Sports

Abuja hosts 250 young players at Evolve 2.0 Chess championship

By Victor Okoye

No fewer than 250 young chess enthusiasts converged on Abuja on Saturday for the Evolve 2.0 Children’s Chess Championship.

The event, aimed at deepening grassroots sports development and grooming future grandmasters, was organised by the Royals Chess Academy.

Participants drawn from schools across the FCT competed in four age-based categories; Under-8, Under-10, Under-13, and Under-16.

Mr Johnson Enejison, Proprietor of Royals Chess Academy and convener of the championship, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the competition was designed not only to discover young talent but also to instil essential life skills in children.

“Chess improves critical thinking, builds resilience, and promotes discipline and focus from an early age,” he said.

On the sidelines, young players expressed excitement about the game’s benefits.

12-year-old Somtochukwu Okolo said chess had improved his academic performance, especially in mathematics.

“It makes me intelligent and helps me do well in my exams,” he said.

Ms Jemimah Ugwuocha called chess a game for young minds, adding that it teaches players to plan ahead and think strategically.

Similarly, Jaydeen Arosanyin and Osikwe Grace noted that the game sharpens critical thinking and makes learning enjoyable.

Parents and coaches also lauded the sport’s impact beyond the competition.

Mrs Taiye Arosanyin said introducing her son to chess had helped him to focus and pay greater attention to his studies.

A chess coach, Mr Uba Efe, said teaching children the game could be challenging but rewarding.

“Sometimes they get distracted, but the joy lies in seeing them develop problem-solving skills and confidence while interacting with their peers,” he said.

With keen participation and strong performances across all categories, the tournament underscored chess as a growing tool for childhood development.

Winners emerged across all four categories of the championship.

In the Under-16 category, Goodluck Agbara claimed first place and received N30,000.

Afolabi Olutoye Jeremiah came second with N15,000, while Emereole Lawrence finished third, also winning N15,000.

Iwuagwu Nkiruka took fourth position and earned N15,000, just as Orji Chinazam placed fifth with the same prize.

In sixth place was Iyiola Khalid, who also received N15,000.

The award for Best Female Player in this category went to Ihewulezi Chisom, who received N10,000.

In the Under-13 category, Charles Oro emerged champion and took home N25,000.

Second place went to Abasiono Ibok, who received N15,667, while Afolabi Daniel Olumide came third with the same amount.

Mba Uchechi Prosper finished fourth and earned N15,667.

The Best Female Player award in this category was won by Abiodun Kamila, who received N10,000.

For the Under-10 category, Pedro Odogwu claimed first position with a prize of N20,000.

Second place went to Chukwurah King David, who earned N7,166.

Odidiong Ibok took third place with the same prize, while Kamolideen Muhammad-Awwal came fourth, also receiving N7,166.

Ajayi Rereoluwasimi placed fifth and got N7,166, while sixth place went to Rhitoh Joseph, who also received N7,166.

The Best Female Player award in this category went to Berecharh Barnabas, who received N10,000.

In the Under-8 category, Ojeaga Olumhense took first place with a prize of N15,000.

Ibok Idara came second and received N11,000, while Osemudiamhen Osose came third with the same amount.

Fourth place went to Uduaka Victor, who earned N8,000.

The Best Female Player award in this category went to Princess Ukpokowo Olumhense, who received N10,000.

Special recognition went to Munachi Jason Emmanuel, who was named the youngest chess talent of the tournament and received N10,000 for his achievement. (NAN)

Edited by Tosin Kolade

‎Wakama hails Tinubu’s ‘life-changing’ reward for D’Tigress
Sports

‎Wakama hails Tinubu’s ‘life-changing’ reward for D’Tigress

By Muhyideen Jimoh
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‎D’Tigress head coach, Rena Wakama, has praised President Bola Tinubu for his “life-changing” reward after the team’s historic fifth consecutive AfroBasket championship victory.
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‎Speaking to State House correspondents, Wakama commended the generous gesture following the team’s reception at the Presidential Villa on Monday.
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‎President Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, awarded each player $100,000, a flat, and a national honour, Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON).
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‎Wakama and the technical crew each received $50,000 in recognition of their vital contribution to the team’s continental triumph.
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‎Wakama, the first woman to win back-to-back AfroBasket titles as coach, expressed sincere appreciation to the President and loyal Nigerian fans.
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‎“We’re so thankful, so, so thankful for Your Excellency President Tinubu.
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‎“This is life-changing for some of these girls, life-changing for us. This is what we need — renewed hope.
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‎“We’re grateful for this and we look forward to even more support in the future,” Wakama said.

Coach Rena Wakama at the 2025 Afrobasket championship in Abidjan.

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‎She credited the team’s unity and passion for making their victory run in Côte d’Ivoire smooth and successful.
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‎“It was easy representing Nigeria — a country and sport that we love deeply.
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‎“When you love your country, your teammates, and the game, everything falls into place,” she said.
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‎Wakama, also an assistant coach at WNBA side Chicago Sky, earlier expressed hopes that her achievements would inspire more women to lead national teams.
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‎“It breaks my heart, but I know change has started with me.
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‎“To be a woman and get an opportunity to coach at this level is a good sign for others.
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‎“I’m thankful to the NBBF president for trusting me to lead this team and do my job.
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‎“I hope I’m not the last, and I hope I’ve inspired other women to take bold steps into coaching,” she said.
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‎The 33-year-old tactician urged Nigerians to keep supporting the team ahead of the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup in Berlin, Germany. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
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‎Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Tinubu gifts D’Tigress players 0,000, flats
Sports

Tinubu gifts D’Tigress players $100,000, flats

By Salisu Sani-Idris

President Bola Tinubu, on Monday announced a reward of $100,000 for each member of the victorious national female basketball team, D’Tigress.

Represented by the Vice-President Kashim Shettima, the president announced the reward at a reception organised for the team at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Abuja.

The President, who commended the team for making Nigeria proud, also conferred National Honours on the players and gave each of them a flat.

” It is my honour and privilege, on behalf of President Tinubu, to announce national honours for the team, coach, and technical staff; $100,000 for each player;

” $50,000 for the coach and technical team; and more rewards to come. This is true leadership—recognising and rewarding those who have excelled for our nation. “

Tinubu noted that beyond being ambassadors of the nation and symbols of excellence, the players reminded the nation the power of sports to unite a diverse nation.

” Your victory is a testament to what we can achieve when we work together. You have brought home not just a trophy, but valuable lessons for all Nigerians.

” It is a great honour, on behalf of President Bola Tinubu GCFR, to welcome our formidable D’Tigress to the State House.

” Once again, you are continental champions and now the top African team to qualify for the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup pre-qualifying tournament.

” You conquered Africa with a score of 78 to 64—showcasing not just tactical skill, but remarkable determination and resilience.

“The entire nation stands behind you with pride and support, ” Tinubu said.

He applauded Coach Rena Wakama, saying ” you embody the evolution of leadership in Nigerian sports.

” Your quiet strength and remarkable achievements have shattered ceilings and inspired countless young girls across Nigeria.

” You truly deserve your accolades as the best coach in Africa and beyond.

“To Amy Okonkwo, the tournament’s Most Valuable Player, and Ezinne Kalu, the top scorer in the final, your brilliance lifted the whole team, but most importantly, you played for Nigeria and made us all proud.

” My dear daughters, you faced challenges bravely, especially in the final quarter, responding not with panic but with poise.

” When you wore the green and white, it was more than just a uniform—you wore it with purpose, and now you wear the crown of African basketball for the fifth consecutive time. “

He noted that Nigerian women had never failed the nation in sports, adding that from the Super Falcons on the world stage, to record-breakers on the track, “and now a basketball dynasty.

” Our women have consistently been a source of pride and have proven that where preparation meets opportunity, Nigerian excellence prevails.

” We owe you more than applause. That is why, under this administration, sports is being repositioned as a key pillar for national development and economic growth.

” Sports is not just entertainment—it is infrastructure, education, diplomacy, and a powerful tool for youth employment and national transformation.”

Tinubu expressed appreciation to the National Sports Commission for renewed focus on athlete welfare, institutional reform, grassroots support, and performance-based development.

According to him, the results are evident, ” and we are proud of you.

“The Nigerian Basketball Federation, led by Malam Ahmadu Kida, also deserves recognition for consistent team development and dedication to Nigeria’s sporting glory.

” Our government will ensure that D’Tigress, their technical team, and sports leadership in Nigeria are appropriately recognised and rewarded.

” You have made us proud, and we will stand by you as you prepare for the global stage.

“To all Nigerian youth, let the story of D’Tigress inspire you. Greatness stems from hard work, discipline, and belief.

” Nigeria belongs to those who dare to dream and are willing to give their all to realise those dreams.

D’Tigress: you are champions, role models, pathfinders, and true daughters of this land. “

Earlier, the First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, said it was not just a win on the court but a resounding statement of “hard work, excellence, and national pride.”

She noted that the victory of the D’Tigress was a moment that will stick with generations of Nigeria girls and women.

She encouraged them to pursue greatness, describing the victory as a clear lesson that hard work and teamwork are key to success.

She encouraged them to pursue greatness, describing the victory as a clear lesson that hard work and teamwork are key to success.

She said while the nation was yet to get over the euphoria of the women football team’s victory, D’Tigress had given the nation “another reason to believe in the power of Nigerian women to break barriers and set new records”. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa

‎Our Afrobasket dominance will inspire young girls globally— D’Tigress captain
Sports

‎Our Afrobasket dominance will inspire young girls globally— D’Tigress captain

By Muhyideen Jimoh

‎D’Tigress captain Amy Okonkwo says the team’s historic Afrobasket run will inspire girls in Nigeria and beyond to embrace basketball.

‎Okonkwo stated this on Monday at a reception organised by President Bola Tinubu at the State House for the team after clinching a record fifth consecutive and seventh overall Afrobasket title in Côte d’Ivoire.

‎The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the D’Tigress defeated Mali 78–64 in the final of the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket Championship, continuing their unbeaten streak and continental dominance.‎

‎Okonkwo, who was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the tournament, expressed gratitude to President Tinubu and his team for the warm reception.‎

‎”I just want to say on behalf of the D’Tigress that we are so, so thankful to be here today. I’m thankful that we get to represent our country.”‎

‎”We’re thankful to be able to continue our excellence in our sport, the gift that God gave us. It means the world to us to be hosted here today.”

‎”To be able to represent our country in this way, to bring back another championship.”

‎She said the team’s continued success would inspire the next generation of female athletes across the world.‎

‎”This victory will inspire young women, young girls around the world, that they can one day be in our shoes.”

‎Okonkwo praised the team’s support system, emphasising the collective effort behind their triumph.

‎”I give thanks to every one of our staff, the GM, coach, doctors, President (NBBF) Chairman (NSC), everybody. We thank you all for your support.”

‎”Your continuing support in lifting us higher.”

‎She expressed confidence that this milestone would propel the team to aim even higher on the World Cup stage.

‎”With this victory, I don’t think the sky is our limit. I think we can go beyond and we can break barriers.”

‎NAN reports that with the win, D’Tigress also booked a spot at the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup in Berlin, Germany, scheduled for Sept. 4 to Sept. 13.

‎The win marks their 29th consecutive victory in Afrobasket , a streak that began in 2015 in Yaoundé, Cameroon.‎

‎President Bola Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the reception, announced a reward of $100,000 for each member of the team, a flat for each, and the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON).‎(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Afrobasket: Tinubu hails D’Tigress on historic title triumph
Sports

Afrobasket: Tinubu hails D’Tigress on historic title triumph

By Muhyideen Jimoh

‎President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Nigeria’s national women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, for lifting their seventh African championship title at the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket.

‎D’Tigress, led by Coach Rena Wakama, defeated Mali 78–64 in a gripping final on Sunday night at the Palais des Sports de Treichville in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.

‎President Tinubu, in a message issued by his Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, said the win had brought pride and global recognition to Nigeria.

‎He lauded their skill, resilience, and teamwork, which powered them to a fifth consecutive AfroBasket title, an African record and their seventh championship overall.

‎Despite trailing in the first quarter, the president commended their determination and fighting spirit throughout the match.

‎“Your superb performance throughout the competition has made Nigeria proud.”

‎“Like the Super Falcons, you have inspired our young ladies. You embodied the indomitable Nigerian spirit, the power of unity, and the rewards of hard work.”

‎“By winning the AfroBasket trophy for a record fifth consecutive time, you have written your names in history and shown the world what to expect out of Africa.”

‎Tinubu also praised Head Coach, Rena Wakama and her technical crew for their outstanding leadership and strategic execution.

‎He commended the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) for its consistent support and dedication to growing the sport.

‎“The Federal Government and Nigerians will never forget the sacrifices and remain grateful for the highly elevating performances.

‎“The government and the people of Nigeria celebrate you and assure you of our continued support as you prepare for the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup qualifying tournaments next March.”

‎The president expressed his eagerness to welcome the champions back to Abuja.

‎‎“I look forward to receiving the victorious team and the trophy in Abuja, while wishing you all a safe trip.” (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Maureen Atuonwu

WAFCON: Uzodimma honours 7 Super Falcons from Imo with N30m, plot of land each
Sports

WAFCON: Uzodimma honours 7 Super Falcons from Imo with N30m, plot of land each

By Peter Okolie
Gov. Hope Uzodimma of Imo has honoured seven Super Falcons players from the state with a plot of land and N30 million each.
This followed their role in winning the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) with a 3-2 victory over the host country, Morocco.
Receiving them at the Banquet Hall of Government House Owerri, Uzodimma said the honour was part of efforts by the state to domesticate and celebrate the feat achieved by the Nigeria female players.
“Imo people are happy with our girls and will continue to give them support so that we can have more of them make Nigeria proud and bring honour to our state,” he noted.
He commended President Bola Tinubu for setting the pace in celebrating excellent performance.
 “Imo people are particularly happy and proud that the majority of the Super Falcons team and Africa’s number one female goal keeper come from Imo,” he said.
He said that the state would continue to support and promote excellence.
The governor used the opportunity to challenge women and young girls to brace up and compete for the best.
The players honoured include Chiamaka Nnadozie, Jennifer Echegini, Osinachi Ohale, Tochukwu Oluchi, Chinwendu Ihezuo, Ifeoma Onumonu, and Michelle Alozie.
Also honoured were the technical team members from the state who were all rewarded with a plot of land in a choice area of Owerri.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Sports Development, Mr Obinna Onyeocha, commended Uzodimma for his passion for sports development and the huge investment so far made in the sector.
“The event today is the manifestation of your huge investment in sports,” Onyeocha stated. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Joseph Edeh
Nigeria win Women’s Afrobasket, fifth time in a row
Sports

Nigeria win Women’s Afrobasket, fifth time in a row

By Ijeoma Okigbo

Nigeria overcame a resilient Mali in the final game of the 2025 Women’s AfroBasket in Abidjan to become the first team to win the tournament five times in a row.

With this win, Nigeria extended their winning streak to 29-0, dating back to the third-place game of the 2015 tournament in Yaoundé, Cameroon.

As was the case for most of their initial games in the tournament, Nigeria got off to a slow start.

However, feeling threatened by Mali’s intensity, Rena Wakama’s team regrouped in the second quarter and headed to the locker room tied at 41–41.

With the score tied,  Wakama’s ladies came out in the third quarter with renewed focus and energy taking a 61-56 lead in the quarter, capitalising on Mali’s turnovers.

In spite of Mali’s valiant effort in the final quarter to mount a comeback, Nigeria maintained their composure and held on to their lead.

They continued to play with the confidence, answering every Malian basket with one of their own. The final buzzer sounded with Nigeria winning 78-64.

Nigeria is now the only nation to win more consecutive Women’s AfroBasket titles than any other nation.

NAN reports that debutant South Sudan beat Senegal 66-65 in the third place encounter. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Joseph Edeh

ITTF championship: Badr stuns Wassim in U-19 final
Sports

ITTF championship: Badr stuns Wassim in U-19 final

By Vivian Ahanmisi

In a stunning upset, Egypt’s Mostafa Badr dethroned Tunisia’s Essid Wassim in the U-19 singles final on Sunday at the ITTF Africa Youth Championships.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports the tournament is ongoing at Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall, Teslim Balogun Stadium, Lagos.

Badr’s strong performance displayed his skill and focus, leaving defending champion Wassim struggling to match the pace and intensity of the game.

The 19-year-old right-hander, ranked 259 in the world, delivered a dominant display that propelled him into the spotlight of the championship.

Badr, who uses a shakehand grip and attacking style, defeated Wassim 4-1 (11-8, 6-11, 11-9, 11-6, 12-9).

Wassim’s defeat signals the emergence of a new contender, reshaping the competitive landscape of the U-19 category.

In the girls’ U-19 final, Egypt’s Younes Mariam beat compatriot Habibat Elbasoumy to retain her title with a 4-1 win (11-6, 11-7, 9-11, 11-5, 11-7).

Top-seeded Younes remains unbeaten throughout the championship, showcasing dominance and consistency on the African youth table tennis scene.

She plays right-handed, using an attacking style and a shakehand grip, which has proven highly effective in the tournament.

Speaking to NAN, African Table Tennis Federation President, Wahid Oshodi, praised the high-quality performance of players at the 2025 ITTF Africa Youth Championships.

“I’m thrilled by the talent and dedication shown by our young athletes,” Oshodi said, commending the tournament’s competitive spirit.

He noted that players from several nations performed impressively, proving Africa’s rich pool of table tennis talent.

“The future of African table tennis looks very bright. I believe our players will continue to shine on the global stage,” he added.

His remarks underscore the continent’s growing strength in the sport and rising global recognition of its young stars. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

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