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Author: Muhyideen Jimoh

  • 2026 W/Cup: NFF plans changes to ensure qualification

    2026 W/Cup: NFF plans changes to ensure qualification 

    Qualification

    By Muhyideen Jimoh

    Abuja, June 13, 2024 (NAN) The President of Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) , Ibrahim Gusau says the Federation will take all necessary steps to ensure the Super Eagles qualify for the 2026 World Cup in U.S, Canada and Mexico.

    The NFF boss said this on Thursday in Abuja, shortly after a closed-door meeting with the Minister of Sports Development, Sen. John Owan Enoh, to address Nigeria’s  poor results in the qualifiers.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the minister had summoned the NFF leadership and demanded a detailed technical report on Super Eagles’ disastrous start to the World Cup qualifiers.

    Nigeria has managed  just three points out of the maximum of 12, and currently sit precariously in fifth position in a group consisting of South Africa, Rwanda, Benin, Lesotho and Zimbabwe.

    Gusau, after the meeting with the minister, expressed optimism that all hands would be on deck to get Nigeria back on track in the qualification campaign.

    He said the NFF would continue to work closely with the sports ministry and other stakeholders to fashion out a winning template for the Super Eagles.

    “It’s a very sad moment for Nigerian football. We cannot run away from that. But all I want to assure is that we are working tirelessly in conjunction with the minister to see that we come out with holistic measures that will change the face of the entire system so that we can move forward. 

    “Don’t forget, it is still possible and I want to assure you that we are going to fight it to the latter and Nigeria will qualify for the World Cup.

    “This is not something I will just say it now but very soon you are going to see major steps that NFF would come out with and by the grace of God, those measures that we are going to take will lead us to qualify for the next World Cup,” he said.

    The NFF boss assured that the federation was putting in place holistic measures to overhaul the system and get the Super Eagles soaring again.

    “We are looking holistically at the general affairs of the team. And as I said, very soon, Nigerians will see the measures we are going to take.

    ” Whatever it takes us for us to do, we would do and think outside the box to make sure that everywhere we can see or find any player that is fit to play for Nigeria.

    ” We’ll try as much as possible to get in touch with them so that at least have a pool of players that will play for this country to help us to qualify for the next World Cup, ”  he said.

    Gusau said that the NFF would continue to give Super Eagles head coach, Finidi George ,all the needed support to succeed.

    NAN reports that the meeting was attended by other top NFF officials including first Vice-President, Felix Anyansi-Agwu; General Secretary, Mohammed Sanusi; Technical Director, Augustine Eguavoen; Coach Finidi George and Head of International Competitions, Dayo Enebi. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    MUYI/BHB

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    Edited by Buhari Bolaji

  • 2025 AFCON qualifying draw set for July in Johannesburg

     

    2025 AFCON qualifying draw set for July in Johannesburg

    Draw

    By Muhyideen Jimoh

    Abuja, June 13, 2024 (NAN)  The qualifying draw for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) will take place in Johannesburg, South Africa on July 4, according to the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

    The 48 competing teams will be split into 12 groups of four, with the top two in each group reaching the finals in Morocco.

    The tournament hosts will be included in the draw but, given the Atlas Lions are already assured of qualification; only one team in their group will book a ticket to Morocco.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that date for the 2025 AFCON have not been announced by CAF.

    The qualifiers for the tournament will take place in September, October and November, with the Super Eagles of Nigeria set to slug it with other foes in the qualifying series.

    Liberia, Chad, South Sudan and Eswatini all progressed through a preliminary round to join the continent’s 44 highest-ranked nations in the group draw. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    MUYI/JPE

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    Edited by Joseph Edeh

  • Unity: Creative economy minister endorses Jagunlabi football tourney

    Creative Economy Minister endorses Jagunlabi football tourney
    Unveiling
    By Muhyideen Jimoh
    Abuja, June 11, 2024 (NAN) Hajia Hannatu Musawa, Minister of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, has endorsed the 4th edition of the Jagunlabi Football Tournament as a platform for youth development.
    The football competition is sponsored by the Special Adviser to the Minister on Sub-national Engagements, Mr Abiola AbdulKareem popularly known as Jagunlabi.
    The former House of Representatives aspirant under the All Progressives Congress (APC), said the grassroots competition was put together to unite the people of his  constituency.
    Musawa while unveiling the football competition on Tuesday in Abuja, highlighted the importance of sports in promoting cultural exchange and youth development.
    She emphasised government’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote culture, art, and sports within the nation’s communities.
    The minister expressed delight that the tournament has become a beacon of unity and friendly competition, bringing together youth from diverse backgrounds.
    “Sports have the power to unite us, and events like the Jagunlabi Football Tournament are essential in promoting cultural exchange, youth development, and community engagement.
    “I commend Abdulkareem for his dedication to grassroots football development and empowering the youth.” the minister said.
    The tournament is aimed at fostering unity, talent discovery, and community engagement in the four local governments of Ekiti/Oke Ero/Isin/Irepodun federal constituency.
    Abdulkareem in his remarks thanked the minister for her support for the competition, and reiterated his commitment to supporting grassroots football development and empowering the youth through sports.
    According to him, the tournament will feature 10 teams competing for the top prize, with 20 matches scheduled to take place at Osi central school football pitch, Osi Ekiti local government area of Kwara State.
    “We are thrilled to host the 4th edition of the Jagunlabi Football Tournament, and we look forward to an exciting competition that will showcase the talents of our youth.
    “This event is a testament to our commitment to supporting grassroots football development and empowering our communities.” Abdulkareem said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
    MUYI/JPE
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    Edited by Joseph Edeh

  • NPFL fines Enyimba, Rangers, awards three points to Enugu team

    NPFL fines Enyimba, Rangers, awards three points to Enugu team

    Fine

    By Muhyideen Jimoh

    Abuja, June 11, 2024 (NAN) The Nigeria Premier Football League ((NPFL) has sanctioned Enyimba FC of Aba and Rangers International of Enugu for breaching its framework and rules in their Matchday 35 encounter.

    The League governing body awarded three points and three goals to Enugu Rangers and fined Enyimba FC the sum of N10 million for breaching the frameworks.

    In the same vein, the hosts, Enugu Rangers have been slammed with a fine of N5 million for various offences, including non-provision of adequate security and encroachment to the pitch by fans and other unauthorised persons.

    It also includes sales of tickets to spectators more than the stadium capacity leading to encroachment of the pitch.

    The Oriental derby played on Sunday at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium Enugu, was abandoned by Enyimba after Rangers was awarded a penalty in the 107th minute of play.

    The NPFL however gave both teams 48 hours to appeal the decision which may go to NFF Organising and Disciplinary Committee and later Appeal Committee.

    With this decision, Rangers remain on top of the league table with 64 points from 35 matches while Enyimba FC and Remo Stars are in second and third positions with 59 points each. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    MUYI/JPE

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    Edited by Joseph Edeh

  • 2026 WC qualifiers: Sports minister summons NFF over S’Eagles poor results 

    2026 WC qualifiers: Sports minister summons NFF over S’Eagles poor results
    Summon
    By Muhyideen Jimoh
    Abuja, June 10, 2024 (NAN) The Minister of Sports Development, Sen. John Owan Enoh, has demanded a detailed technical report from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) on the Super Eagles’ disappointing results in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
    This is contained in a statement by Diana-Mary Nsan, the Special Assistant to the minister on Media.
    The  Eagles managed to secure only one point from a possible six, following a 1-1 draw with South Africa in Uyo and losing 2-1 to Benin Republic in Abidjan in its third and fourth game  in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying series.
    These results leave the Super Eagles with just three points from a possible 12.
    The minister expressed dissatisfaction with the results, especially considering the support the NFF had received from the Federal Government.
    “The recent results are unacceptable, in spite the immense support from President Tinubu and the high expectations of Nigerian football fans, the Super Eagles have underperformed.
    “The NFF must provide a comprehensive technical report explaining the reasons behind this poor showing, and give cause why there mustn’t be consequences for the disappointment,” he said.
    Enoh emphasised that Nigerian football fans demand and deserve answers and accountability from the NFF.
     “Our supporters are passionate and devoted. They deserve an explanation for why our national team has not been performing to the expected standards since after the last AFCON,” he said (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
    MUYI/JPE
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    Edited by Joseph Edeh

  • 2026 WC qualifier: Benin rep. defeat Super Eagles 2-1 in Abidjan

    2026 WC qualifier: Benin rep. defeat Super Eagles 2-1 in Abidjan

    Defeat 

    By Muhyideen Jimoh

    Abuja, June 10, 2024 (NAN) The Cheetahs of Benin Republic handed the Super Eagles of Nigeria a shocking defeat in their Match Day 4 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification clash on Monday in Abidjan.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the match played at the Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny in Abidjan, saw the Super Eagles failing to fly again in the qualifiers.

    The loss condemned the team to fifth place in Group C, with a slim chance of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, following three draws and a defeat.

    Nigeria came into the game following  a disappointing 1–1 home draw against South Africa on Friday in Uyo.

    Under pressure Super Eagles head coach, Finidi George, tweaked his starting line-up that prosecuted the South African game in an attempt to give some spark to the team.

    Raphael Onyedika came in for Fisayo Dele-Bashiru in the midfield, while Terem Moffi was preferred ahead of Paul Onuachu to lead the attack.

    The Eagles started the game on the front foot with Onyedika opening scoring with a sweet finish from the edge of the box in the 27th minute.

    Benin struck back 10 minutes later. A defensive mishap from Calvin Bassey sent Jodel Dossou clear on goal, and the striker placed the ball past an on-rushing Stanley Nwabali into the net.

    The Cheetahs turned the game around a few minutes later when Steve Mounie pounced on a loose ball from a corner kick to make it 2-1.

    The Benninose coached by former Super Eagles gaffer, Gernot Rohr thereafter sealed the back to frustrate all forays by the Eagles to equalise.

    The Super Eagles are now fifth in the qualification group with three points from four games.

    With this defeat, the Eagles must win all thier remaining six  matches to have a chance of qualifying for the world cup.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    MUYI/JPE

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    Edited by Joseph Edeh

  • Minister hails Tinubu, NASS over national Anti-Doping Bill

    Minister hails Tinubu, NASS over national Anti-Doping Bill
    Commendation
    By Muhyideen Jimoh
    Abuja, June 10, 2024 (NAN) The Minister of Sports Development, Sen. John Owan Enoh has commended the National Assembly for the accelerated passage of the National Anti-Doping Bill.
    The minister in a statement on Sunday also acknowledged and saluted the vision of President Bola Tinubu for placing premium on the transmission of the bill to the National Assembly.
    “The transmission of the Anti-doping Bill 2024 to the National Assembly and the accelerated passage of same remains a landmark achievement of this administration.
    “It is a show of the courageous and bold leadership of the president, a final and appropriate response to the perennial issues of doping that have characterized Nigeria’s relationship with the World Anti-doping Agency (WADA), ” he said.
    The minister noted that the World Anti- Doping Agency (WADA) had threatened to ban Nigeria from international competitions because of Nigeria’s inability to domestic the national anti-doping law, amidst other non-compliant issues.
    “This administration was greeted with WADA issuing  a notice to ban Nigeria from International Competitions which degenerated to the point that the agency took Nigeria to the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS).
    “Amidst other non-compliant issues, the main challenge was Nigeria’s inability to domesticate the National Anti-doping Law  and setting up a National Anti-Doping Organization (NADO) as part of its obligation having signed the international convention in 1999.
    “For years, the country has grappled with meeting up to the expectations of the World Anti-Doping Organization ,despite being a foundational signatory for 25 years,” Enoh said.
    He expressed optimism that with the passage of the bill, Nigeria will no longer have doubts about its participation in global sporting events and its eligibility to host sports competitions amongst other perennial issues.
    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the development is coming weeks before the country’s participation at the Paris Olympic Games.
    NAN reports that the bill, among other things, also seeks to establish the National Anti-Doping Centre to combat doping in sports, in compliance with the World Anti-Doping Code.The Code is a core document, that provides the framework for anti-doping policies, rules, and regulations within sports organisations and among public authorities. It is designed to harmonise anti-doping policies and ensure the standards are the same for all athletes.

    The executive bill which now makes it incumbent for Nigeria, to domesticate the treaty to tackle the ugly menace of doping amongst sportsmen and women, was read for the second time in May, and has scaled the third reading.

    President Tinubu had urged the Senate to review and approve the bill.

    He argued that it would prohibit athletes from using substances that enhance their performance.

    Tinubu’s request was conveyed in a letter read on the floor of the upper legislative chamber by the Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau.

    The president stated that the bill would establish a legal framework for the formation of the National Anti-Doping Organisation.

    He further emphasised that the establishment of the agency, was essential for Nigeria to meet the standards outlined in the World Anti-Doping Code. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    MUYI/SH
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    edited by Sadiya Hamza

  • Runsewe hails Oboh, Nigeria’s female golf sensation, on U.S. invitational triumph

     

     

    Georgia Oboh, Nigeria’s female golf sensation

    Runsewe hails Oboh, Nigeria’s female golf sensation, on U.S. invitational triumph

    Commendation

    By Muhyideen Jimoh

    Abuja, June 8, 2024 (NAN) The President, Nigeria Golf Federation, Otunba Olusegun Runsewe, has commended Nigeria’s Female golf sensation, Georgia Oboh, on her recent victory at the John Shippen Women’s Invitational in Michigan, U.S.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that 23-year-old Oboh, on Wednesday, captured the 2024 John Shippen Women’s Invitational and earned exemptions to compete in two LPGA tournaments – the Meijer LPGA Classic for Simply Give and the Dow Championship.

    Oboh will tee it up alongside the world’s best female golfers at the Meijer LPGA Classic for Simply Give starting June 13, after shooting 69-70—139 on the same course Tuesday and Wednesday to earn a three-stroke victory at the SHIPPEN event.

    Runsewe, who gave the commendation in a statement on Saturday in Abuja, said that Oboh’s victory was an inspiration to other children back home and a testament to the fact that hard work pays

    “Congratulations to our very own Georgia Oboh on your well-deserved victory at the John Shippen Women’s Invitational at Blythefield Country Club in Grand Rapids, Michigan

    “Your victory is indeed a fulcrum of great possibilities and renewed hope for Nigeria and Nigerians.

    “We believe in you to keep the Nigerian flag flying high and keep doing your very best, to ensure that you represent our dear country as a good ambassador of the game of golf,” he said.

    NAN also reports that another Nigerian female pro golfer, Anita Uwadia, tied for third position with Ashley Shaw of U.S. in the same tournament, making it the first time in an international professional ladies’ golf tournament where two Nigerians made the top three.

    The NGF president noted that the performance of the girls was a very rare one and not a mean feat.

    He added that they had both distinguished themselves as the very first Nigerians and one of the few black professional female golfers on the top stage.

    He said that the federation would continue to support the golfers, to ensure that they reach their full potential as they continue to make the country proud and showcase themselves to the world.

    He also advised parents to always support and encourage their children to start playing golf at an early age, adding that it was a sport they could be engaged in for the rest of their lives.

    “Hand your child a golf club, and you might be surprised what happens.

    “Your child might not be the next Tiger Woods, but golf can make a big impact in a young life.

    “Kids can benefit from the sport mentally, physically, and emotionally. The sport can set them up for success as they get older.

    “Many of the skills learned on the course translate to real life,” he said.

    NAN also reports that Oboh and her chosen partner will compete in the Dow Championship starting June 27 in Midland, Michigan.

    The John Shippen Women’s Invitational which Oboh and Uwadia were part of is a series of competitions created to provide playing opportunities on the LPGA Tour and PGA Tour for the top Black amateur and professional women and men golfers.

    The events are named after John Shippen, Jr., who was both the first American-born golf professional and the country’s first Black golf professional. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    MUYI/AMM

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    Edited by Abiemwense Moru

  • 2026 WC qualifier: South Africa hold Super Eagles to 1-1draw in Uyo

    2026 WC qualifier: South Africa hold Super  Eagles to 1-1 draw in Uyo
    Draw
    By Muhyideen Jimoh/Isaiah Eka
    Abuja, June 7,  2024 (NAN) The Super Eagles of Nigeria were held to a 1-1 draw by Bafana Bafana of South Africa in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers matchday three at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on Friday.
    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Super Eagles have now drawn their three consecutive games and are in fifth place while South Africa sit in the fourth spot.
    The lackluster Super Eagles had to come from behind to earn a 1-1 draw against their more adventurous opponents from South Africa.
    Bafana Bafana took the lead in the 29th minute of the first half through Themba Zwane who dazzled past the Nigerian defence to send the ball beyond the hapless Stanley Nwabali in Nigerian goal.
    On resumption of play in the second half,
    Dele Bashiru came to the rescue in the 46th minute with an equaliser and got Nigeria back into the game.
    Speaking after match, Super Eagles Coach, Finidi George said that his players approached the first half of the match in a sloppy manner that did not produce a goal.
    George said the draw is not good enough for the team as they have three points from  three matches.
    He, however, assured fans that the team will strategise to ensure victory in the next group match.
    “I think we got into  the game a little bit sloppy, but we picked up in the second half.
    “Overall, it was not a bad second half, but I felt we should have entered the game in the early minutes of play. It is not the result we expected.
    “A draw is not too good, but we will strategise to win the next game. We will remain focused in our next match to win.
    “We want to qualify and we will do everything to ensure we win,” George said.
    On his part, the Bafana Bafana Coach, Hugo Broos, said he was very proud of his players for holding the Super Eagles to a draw.
    Broos said his boys played good football and did not disappoint him and the country, stressing that the result was good for his team.
    He, however said that the Super Eagles was a big opponent in the group as they have good players.
    “For us, we are very happy with the outcome of the match. I can only be proud of my players, who played good football today.
    “I think the result is correct and good,” Broos said.

    The result means that the Super Eagles remain winless in three games in their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign and are now in a precarious situation to qualify for the World Cup.

    The Super Eagles will face third placed Benin Republic on Monday in Cote D’Ivoire, as they seek to get their campaign back on track. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    MUYI/IE/JPE

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    Edited by Joseph Edeh

  • 2026 WC qualifier: Sports minister charges Super Eagles to whip Bafana Bafana 

    2026 WC qualifier: Sports minister charges Super Eagles to whip Bafana Bafana
    Qualifier
    By Muhyideen Jimoh
    Abuja, June 6, 2024 (NAN) The Minister of Sports Development, Sen. John Owan Enoh has charged the Super Eagles to defeat their South African counterparts on Friday to boost their chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
    The Super Eagles will take on the Bafana Bafana of South Africa in Uyo in a matchday three of the qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
     The minister stressed the need for the Eagles to approach the tie as a make-or-break one, as victory will put the team back on track for qualification.
    “The FIFA World Cup is the biggest showpiece in football.We cannot afford to miss out on the World Cup again.
    “The disappointment of missing the last tournament, especially after the disappointing home match against the Black Stars, must drive us to ensure we qualify this time,” he said.
    Enoh urged all stakeholders, including players, coaches and support staff, to be fully committed to the qualification campaign.
     “All hands must be on deck to ensure the team qualifies for the World Cup.
    “I urge the players to get the job done in the first half of the game by scoring early goals, so they will  not be under pressure in the second half.
    “The upcoming match against South Africa is critical, the players need to put the AFCON glory behind them and concentrate fully on this task.
    “Early goals will be key to taking control of the game and ensuring a less pressured second half,” he said.
    The minister expressed confidence in the team’s ability to rise to the occasion and secure a much-needed victory.
     “We have the talent, the passion, and the support of millions of Nigerians. Let’s channel that into a winning performance and take a significant step towards World Cup qualification,” he added.
    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the match will kick off at 8 p.m. on Friday, at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo.
    Nigeria currently has two points from two games and sits third in their group of six teams. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
    MUYI/JPE
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    Edited by Joseph Edeh