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Showing posts from December, 2025

Mrs. Sabina Chikere celebrates Edo’s sportsmen and women on christmas day

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...Showers praises DG NIS, Comrade Phillips Shaibu ...Commends Chairman Edo State Sports Commission, Honourable Enabulele By Oluwatobiloba Zeal-Adepetu Kumoye           The Executive Director, Sports Development and Operations, Edo State Sports Commission (ESSC), Mrs. Sabina Ekhaisomi Chikere, has sent warm Christmas felicitations to Christians in Edo State, Nigeria and the rest of the world describing this season as the time joy, happiness and laughter. She extended this heartfelt greetings during an exclusive interview with FIRST ZEALMEDIACAST BLOG's Oluwatobiloba Zeal-Adepetu Kumoye. In her Christmas message, Mrs. Chikere saluted athletes, coaches and sports administrators who continue to raise the nation’s flag high through commitment, sacrifice and excellence, noting that the values of Christmas align perfectly with the spirit of sports. “Christmas is a season that celebrates perseverance, sacrifice and victory — values our sportsmen a...

Dr. Olusola Osetoba hails Ekiti’s sportsmen and women as the world celebrates Christmas

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By Oluwatobiloba Zeal-Adepetu Kumoye           Technical Advisor on Sports Development to Governor Abiodun Oyebanji, Dr. Olusola Osetoba, showered praises on sportsmen and women across Ekiti State, celebrating their grit, discipline and the hope they bring to communities as she celebrates Christmas. The elegant and quintessential sports administrator made this known in her goodwill message to the good people of Ekiti State and the rest of the world, lavishing praises on Governor Oyebanji, a man she described a dedicated sports-lover. Dr. Osetoba placed athletes, men and women, grassroots coaches, referees and sports administrators, at the centre of Ekiti’s festive cheer, calling them the “embodiment of Ekiti’s resilience and the state’s brightest export.”  The winsome and urbane woman urged citizens to recognise sport as a vehicle for social cohesion, health and wealth creation, and asked stakeholders to increase their efforts to back ...

The broadcaster who never left the mic – Anthony Anegbe Akiotu

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  ...Industry speaks, experience leads, Akiotu in line for BON Chairmanship  By Maxwell Kumoye  In Nigerian broadcasting, some names echo. Others endure. Anthony Anegbe Akiotu does both. As the chairmanship election of the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON) approaches, the contest is shaping up as more than a routine power shift. It is a defining moment for an industry at a crossroads and at the centre of it stands a man whose life has been lived in signal strength and sound waves. Anthony Anegbe Akiotu, is not just a broadcaster. He lives broadcasting. A multiple National Award–winning journalist, consummate professional, Akiotu has spent nearly five decades opening doors, on air and off it, for countless talents within Nigeria and across the continent.  From his humble and steadfast beginning in the newsroom of Radio Nigeria to the boardroom of Daar Communications PLC, from policy tables to production floors, his fingerprints are everywhere bro...

Senegal Head Coach sounds warning on South Africa ahead of AFCON 2025

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By Mishael Emmanuel      Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw has fired an early warning shot to the rest of Africa, insisting South Africa’s Bafana Bafana are being dangerously underrated ahead of AFCON 2025. Speaking ahead of the tournament, Thiaw questioned why many pundits have written off South Africa in the title race, despite their recent pedigree and cohesion. “It is very strange to me that many experts exclude South Africa from the list of title contenders,” Thiaw said.  “They play very good football and most of their players come from the same club, Sundowns and Orlando Pirates.” The former Lions of Teranga forward believes Africa-based stars are still not getting the respect they deserve, as attention remains skewed toward Europe-based players. “Unfortunately, we tend to focus only on players based in Europe and overlook those playing in Africa,” he added. Thiaw’s warning is rooted in results, not sentiment. Bafana Bafana finished third at the last Af...

Ekiti rolls-out red carpet for NSF, Youth Games medalists

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By Oluwatobiloba Zeal-Adepetu Kumoye           The Ekiti State Government has announced plans to host medal-winning athletes from the National Sports Festival in Ogun State and the National Youth Games which took place in Asaba the Delta State capital. This cheering news was made public by the Technical Advisor on Sport Development to Governor Abiodun Oyebanji, Dr. Olusola Osetoba in a press statement made available to your authoritative and award-winning channel, First Zealmediacast Blog. Dr. Osetoba stated that the recognition ceremony is scheduled for Monday, 22nd December 2025. “The reception has been approved by Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji as a mark of recognition for the athletes’ outstanding performances and commitment in representing Ekiti State at both national competitions,” she said. Dr. Osetoba explained that the event will take place at the alluring Lady Jibowu Hall, Governor’s Office Premises, and will commence at 10:00 a...

Ayo Benzi, the wunderkind of Afrobeats — PuffyTee

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...Clinches top honours at the Next Afrobeats Stars Season 1 By Oluwatobiloba Zeal-Adepetu Kumoye           “Afrobeats is brewing for a storm — not of wind and rain, but of musical masterclass, theatrical talent and reverberating rhythm with a touch of royalty.” Those were the words of renowned and highly esteemed singer-songwriter and producer Temidayo Babatope Joseph A.K.A. PuffyTee, a big name in Afrobeats, as he hailed Ayo Benzi — the new 'kid on the throne' in Afrobeats. In a statement released on Wednesday by his spokesman, Oluwatobiloba Zeal-Adepetu Kumoye, PuffyTee described Ayo Benzi, as the “wunderkind of Afrobeats”, saying Next Afrobeats Stars Season 1 crown is proof of the young artist’s exceptional gifts. Ayo Benzi, a key and influential member of Team Puffy Tee, a trio that dominated discussion throughout the series with its combination of studio polish and live energy.  Another member of the Team, Dave Cash finished seco...

Mrs. Sabina Chikere draws the curtains on 2025 Edo Heritage Sports Festival and Carnival

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By Oluwatobiloba Zeal-Adepetu Kumoye            The Executive Director of Sport Development and Operations, Edo State Sports Commission, (ESSC), Mrs. Sabina Chikere, on Friday, drew the curtains on the 2025 edition of the Edo Heritage Sports Festival held at the Etete Sports Centre. The 5 event came to and end in an unforgettable style, with Mrs. Sabina Chikere, a top sports official in Edo State gracing the occasion. Mrs. Sabina Chikere, described being at the prestigious event as a great honour. She made this statement in an exclusive interview with FIRST ZEALMEDIACAST BLOG's Oluwatobiloba Zeal-Adepetu Kumoye, summarising the event as a remarkable platform that celebrates the rich culture, heritage, and sporting excellence of Edo State. “It was a great honour to attend the 2025 Edo Heritage Sports Festival and Carnival — a remarkable platform that celebrates the rich culture, heritage, and sporting excellence of our beloved Edo State,” sh...

World Cup 2026 fever sends hotel prices into the stratosphere

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By Maxwell Kumoye    The 2026 FIFA World Cup is still months away, but the tournament has already produced its first shocker and it’s not on the pitch. It’s in the hotels. Across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, accommodation prices have exploded the moment the match schedule dropped, turning the world’s biggest football party into the most expensive hotel hunt in sports history. In the U.S., the numbers are wild. Houston leads the madness with a 457% price jump, followed by Kansas City (364%), Atlanta (344%), and the Bay Area (342%).  Near New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium, where Brazil vs Morocco is set to light up the group stage, rooms that once went for under $300 are now over $1,500 per night.  And for the final? Some hotels have ripped past $3,500, up from around $600 just weeks ago. Mexico isn’t escaping the frenzy. Mexico City, host of the opener between Mexico and South Africa, has seen prices rocket into absurd territory.  One hotel jacke...

Fecafoot Boss Eto’o, defends snub of retired referees’ payment claims

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By Mishael Emmanuel    Cameroon Football Federation president Samuel Eto’o has come out swinging, shutting down mounting criticism over the alleged non-payment of referees’ salaries. Speaking on Info TV and MSI TV, the football icon delivered a blunt message, only those who work get paid. The controversy erupted after a group of retired referees accused Fecafoot of owing them outstanding salaries. But Eto’o was having none of it. “Those who deserve this salary are the ones who are working,” Eto’o said firmly. “I don’t see why I should give money to an association of retirees; they do not work for Fecafoot.” The former Barcelona superstar insisted that all active referees have been duly paid, adding a surprising twist, some officials weren’t even aware that their payments had already been processed. The episode adds another chapter to the turbulent relationship between Fecafoot and its critics. But as always, Eto’o stood his ground, unapologetic, unfiltered, and unb...

Germany–Ghana friendly almost a done deal as Stuttgart braces for blockbuster clash

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By Trust Ittai   Germany and Ghana are on the verge of sealing a high-profile international friendly set for March 30th in Stuttgart, with negotiations said to be “very advanced” and an agreement expected any moment. The match is now the top option after Germany’s earlier plan to face Côte d'Ivoire on the same date was scrapped.  The reason? Both nations will already meet at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, forcing the DFB to reshuffle their schedule and avoid revealing battle plans too early. Ghana, meanwhile, sees the opportunity as perfect timing, an elite test against a European giant, a chance to sharpen their squad, and a global-stage audition for several rising Black Stars. For the German fans in Stuttgart, it could be a spring showdown mixing African flair with German precision. For Ghana, it’s another chance to remind the world that they don’t fear giants, they hunt them. The moment the ink dries, expect Stuttgart to explode with noise, colour and fire.

Tension in Dakar, coach Pape Thiaw clashes with FSF over squad size

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By Maxwell Kumoye  Senegal’s AFCON preparations have been rocked by a brewing standoff between head coach Pape Thiaw and the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF), as both sides wrestle over how big the Lions of Teranga’s tournament squad should be. Thiaw, determined to mount a serious title challenge, has requested a 27-man squad, believing depth and competition are crucial as Senegal prepares to battle Africa’s best.  But the FSF has drawn a firm line in the sand: 24 players only. Why the pushback? Money. According to sources, the Federation is unwilling to take on the extra financial burden that comes with three additional players, including accommodation, allowances, logistics, and bonuses.  That has left Thiaw visibly frustrated, feeling the restrictions could weaken Senegal’s competitive edge at Morocco 2025. The disagreement has sparked debate among fans, analysts, and former players who worry that such administrative friction, so close to the tournament...

NFF reading the riot act as officiating crisis rocks Nigerian Leagues

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By Maxwell Kumoye   The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), has finally slammed its fist on the table and the echo is rattling through every stadium in the country. After an Executive Committee meeting in Abuja on Thursday, the NFF delivered a scathing verdict on the quality of officiating across all domestic leagues: ❌ The NPFL ❌ NNL ❌ NWFL ❌ NLO  The NFF described the performance of many referees as “deeply disappointing.” In a rare public rebuke, the Federation lamented a pattern of incompetence, blatant collusion with club officials, and outright match manipulation aimed at favouring specific teams and private interests.  And this time, the NFF insists the era of soft warnings is over; even tougher sanctions are coming. That message couldn’t be more timely. Only 24 hours earlier in Ado-Ekiti, a storm erupted after Centre Referee Aminat Aliyah ignored what eyewitnesses described as a “stonewall penalty” in favour of Ekiti Queens.  Instead, her calls rep...

Officiating chaos erupts as Ekiti Queens fans rage “shameful” refereeing

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...The real threat to our game isn’t fan violence, it’s bad officiating – Ekiti Queens  By Oluwatobiloba Zeal-Adepetu Kumoye and Trust Ittai   A storm of controversy ripped through Ekiti on MatchDay of the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL), as questionable officiating ignited fury among fans and officials, leaving Ekiti Queens FC at the heart of one of the season’s most explosive refereeing scandals. What should have been a routine league fixture descended into chaos after a string of baffling calls from the center referee, decisions so inconsistent that spectators, team officials, and even the match commissioner were forced into the spotlight. Your authoritative and award winning news channel FIRST ZEALMEDIACAST BLOG understands that tension began simmering early, with “questionable calls” repeatedly going against the home side. The Match Commissioner, who had been sitting in the stands, was urgently called down to the pitch amid rising frustration. She was see...

Mak Town Flyer gets power boost for BAL mission as igoche Mark drops big pledge

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By Maxwell Kumoye    Nigeria National Basketball League Champions Lagos Legends formerly known as Mak Town Flyer have received a massive shot of confidence and commitment as basketball powerbroker and Mark D Basketball Championship founder, Igoche Mark, vowed unwavering support ahead of the team’s campaign in the Basketball Africa League (BAL). At a grand reception in Abuja on Monday, Mark delivered a fiery message to the newly crowned kings of Nigerian basketball. “Your victory is just the beginning, more victories will come,” he declared.  “The BAL is the bigger battle ahead, and one thing I assure you: our support won’t end here. Everything needed for an excellent outing will be provided.” Mark, who has followed the team’s rise closely, heaped praise on club proprietor Akerannan Manusseh Achii, himself a product of the Mark Mentos program. “He was determined from the start. The same way you entered this league and conquered is how you’ll go to the BAL and e...

Top Edo sports official, Mrs. Chikere unveils Edo Heritage Sports Festival & Carnival

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      The Executive Director, Sports Development and Operations, Edo State Sports Commission, (ESSC), Mrs. Sabina Chikere on Monday declared the 8th Edo Heritage Sports Festival & Carnival open. The opening ceremony took place at the Etete Sports Center, kicking off five days of culture, sport and community celebration. “It’s a privilege to stand as Special Guest of Honour and declare the 8th Edo Heritage Sports Festival & Carnival open. Grateful for the opportunity to support a platform that promotes our culture, celebrates our heritage, and strengthens sports development in Edo State,” Mrs. Chikere told the cheering crowd. The festival runs from December 8 to 12, and organisers promise a packed schedule that blends athletic competition with cultural displays and practical training sessions. Competitions include 5-a-side football, traditional wrestling, chess and tug of war, while a pageantry contest and awards presentations will reco...

Nigeria's Jimoh dominates Scrabblemania 3.0, Monrovia agog as road to Africa 2026 begins

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Scrabblemania 3.0 in Sinkor, Monrovia didn’t just crown a new champion but it also delivered a statement.  A statement about rising talent, growing ambition, and a city preparing to become the centre of African Scrabble. At the heart of it all was Nigeria’s Abdulmumin Jimoh, whose near-flawless performance set the tone for a championship defined by precision, intensity, and elite-level board mastery.  With 26 wins, 4 losses after gruelling competition and a colossal +2612 spread, Jimoh didn’t merely win; he controlled the narrative from start to finish. But beyond the numbers, Scrabblemania 3.0 offered a clear glimpse into Africa’s rapidly maturing Scrabble ecosystem which was clearly visible in Accra during WESPAC 2025. A CHAMPIONSHIP THAT DELIVERED MORE THAN TITLES Held at the prestigious Boulevard Palace, the tournament brought together some of the continent’s sharpest wordsmiths. What stood out wasn’t just the competitiveness, but the camaraderie, something you...

Kwara United names Outstanding Player of the Month for November

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Kwara United names Outstanding Player of the Month for November     Kwara United midfielder, Adeoye Victor, has been crowned the club’s Player of the Month for November 2025, following an impressive run of form that earned him top votes from fans, club officials, and teammates.    Victor, described as dynamic, relentless, resilient, and consistent, outshone other nominees with his standout performances throughout the month under review. His remarkable displays were further highlighted by an 8.0 average rating, according to detailed statistics provided by world's leading video-first scouting platform, Eyeball. The monthly award, fully supported by Equity Circle, was introduced to recognise and celebrate exceptional performers within the team.    Victor’s emergence as winner underscores his growing influence in Kwara United’s midfield and his consistent contribution to the club’s success. With Victor Adeoye, turning the midfield into a...

Lamingo Golf Club hosts prestigious 2025 Governor’s Golf Tournament

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Plateau State is set to stage one of its most anticipated sporting events of the year—the 2025 Governor’s Golf Tournament—scheduled for December 8th to 14th at the iconic Lamingo Golf Club. The announcement was made on Thursday by the Club Captain, Mr. Silas J. Vem, during a press conference at the Lamingo Club House. “This tournament is more than a sporting event; it is a celebration of excellence, sportsmanship, and the spirit of friendly competition that defines Plateau State,” Vem said.               Silas J. Vem   ★ A MAJOR SPORTING AND TOURISM BOOST FOR PLATEAU STATE The seven-day championship will attract both professional and amateur golfers from across Nigeria and beyond as they compete for trophies, cash rewards, and sponsorship deals. The tournament is strategically positioned to showcase Plateau State as a peaceful, hospitable, and world-class sporting destination. ★ The 2025 edition will also: • Provide a compe...

Handball Federation sympathizes with Benue Buffaloes following harrowing ordeal

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  By Mishael Emmanuel with additional information by Pius Ayinor    The President, Handball Federation of Nigeria, Mr. Jibril Saidu Ojih, on Monday expressed sympathy to the players, coaches, and management of Benue Buffaloes following a harrowing ordeal while returning from the recently conclude Ardova Premier League.   The Buffaloes who finished 9th in the League were abducted by armed men, robbed and left traumatised while travelling back from Lagos. The incident happened just after Otukpo, Benue State but they were later rescued through the intervention of troops of the Nigeria Army as confirmed by the Handball Federation. In a statement made available to Sports Groove, Ojih condemned the traumatic experience, describing it as “a sad and heartbreaking ordeal that no athlete, coach, or official should ever be subjected to” while also thanking the Nigerian Army for their quick response. “I extend my deepest sympathy to the entire Benue Buffaloes team. W...

Ghana makes history, wins 40 medals at maiden West African Para Games

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By Haruna Mubarak, Abeokuta       Ghana wrapped up a historic campaign at the first-ever and highly successful West African Para Games in Abeokuta, winning a total of 40 medals, made up of 4 gold, 15 silver, and 21 bronze to finish second behind hosts Nigeria. Team Ghana fielded more than 60 para athletes competing across nine disciplines, including Para Athletics, Para Powerlifting, Para Table Tennis, Wheelchair Basketball, Sitting Volleyball, Wheelchair Tennis, Para Armwrestling, Para Shooting, and Para Badminton. Para Swimming was cancelled due to logistical challenges, while the country did not feature in Amputee Football. Para Armwrestling stood out, led by Tahiru Haruna, who claimed two gold medals, with teammates Frank Fudzi and Isaac Nii Ayitey adding bronze medals. Para Shooting also delivered success, with Emmanuel Amobire winning gold in the rifle category. There was also history made in Sitting Volleyball, where the national team clinched bron...

CAF unveils AFCON 2025 official mascot

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      With the countdown to Africa’s biggest football festival fast approaching, CAF and the Local Organising Committee for the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 have lifted the curtain on the heartbeat of the tournament, its official mascot, ASSAD. Inspired by the majestic Atlas Lion, Morocco’s enduring symbol of courage and unity, Assad arrives not just as a mascot but as a cultural icon. His name, meaning “lion” in Arabic, captures the spirit of strength, pride, and authenticity that pulses through African football and its millions of fans. Designed as the tournament’s global ambassador, Assad brings a vibrant burst of energy, joy, and personality.  From the touchlines to fan zones, from packed stadiums to digital screens across the world, Assad is primed to electrify audiences, especially children and families who form the beating heart of football culture. Fans can expect to see the friendly, youthful lion everywhere, dancing in the st...

The integrity of Nigerian athletics is non-negotiable – AFN Boss Chief Tonobok Okowa

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...Federation launches urgent probe on age-cheating allegations   Nigerian athletics has been thrown into the spotlight once again as the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has launched an immediate investigation into troubling allegations of athletes presenting multiple birth dates at the 2025 African U-18 and U-20 Championships in Abeokuta. The Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) of World Athletics has demanded clarification after flagging a number of Nigerian athletes currently under scrutiny, prompting swift action from the AFN. In a hard-hitting statement released in Abuja, AFN Secretary-General Israel Inwang confirmed that Federation President, Chief Tonobok Okowa, has ordered a full-scale probe, insisting that the integrity of Nigerian athletics is non-negotiable. Chief Okowa, known for his zero tolerance for age manipulation, announced that a special investigative committee will be unveiled on Monday, December 8, with a clear mandate, uncover the truth and hold an...

Top Edo State Sports administrator hails Niger Delta Sports Festival

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...Promises “Game-Changing” second edition By Oluwatobiloba Zeal-Adepetu Kumoye            The Executive Director of Sports Development, Edo State Sports Commission, (ESSC), Mrs. Sabina Ekhaisomi Chikere, has hailed the Niger Delta Sports Festival as a “game changer” for regional unity, youth development, and the sports economy. Backed by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), the flagship intervention agency for the nine Niger Delta states, the festival has quickly grown into a major platform for youth engagement and human capital development across the region. Speaking on Edo State’s readiness to host the second edition next year, Mrs. Chikere said the state is poised to set a new benchmark for excellence. “Edo State will set the standard when we host the second edition of the Niger Delta Sports Festival,” she declared. She praised the state government, led by His Excellency Senator Monday Okpebholo, for accepting the hosting righ...

Kwara rewards rising stars as NYG medalists get educational support

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...Gesture, deliberate investment in the future of the state’s budding sports talents - Coach Bolakale Adisa Mogaji ...Over ₦8 million distributed as incentives By Maxwell Kumoye      Kwara State on Friday rolled out a loud salute to its National Youth Games (NYG) heroes and heroines, hosting a colourful reception in Ilorin and handing out cash awards to the parents of medal-winning athletes as education support. Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, represented by the Executive Chairman of the State Sports Commission, Coach Bolakale Adisa Mogaji, said the gesture was a deliberate investment in the future of the state’s budding sports talents—both on and off the field. “We asked them to come with their parents because they are underage and cannot open accounts yet,” the Governor explained at George Innih Stadium. “This support is for school fees, uniforms, whatever boosts their education. It’s a form of scholarship.” Kwara’s steady rise at the NYG formed the backdr...

Sodje raises alarm, address grassroots sports now or lose Nigeria’s sporting future

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By Maxwell Kumoye and Raymond Nwaduba      A former Nigeria international, Sam Sodje has delivered a thunderbolt message to Nigerian sports, invest in the grassroots or watch the nation’s sporting glory crumble even further. The Technical Director of the Delta State FA and former Super Eagles defender didn’t mince words as he called for urgent, massive investment at the base of Nigerian sports.  For Sodje, who runs his own foundation to groom young talents, the message is simple: put money, structure and commitment where the future is, at the grassroots. “There’s an urgent need to build formidable grassroots structures. Cosmetic approaches won’t work,” Sodje declared with trademark bluntness.  “Genuine investment and proper structures are the only way forward.” While acknowledging attempts by the National Sports Commission to revamp the system, Sodje insisted that Nigeria is miles away from where it should be.  He argued that no nation can domin...

Konami pens CAF to licensing agreement to bring AFCON to eFootball

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Konami has signed a new licensing agreement with the Confederation of African Football (CAF), strengthening its foothold in one of football’s fastest-growing markets and bringing the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) officially into its eFootball game series. It marks a rare victory over EA Sports for Konami’s football gaming model, having secured Africa’s top competition on the digital stage along its rights for FIFA competitions, which EA’s strained relationship with FIFA makes it unlikely to replicate. The FC26 producers, meanwhile, have authentic Champions League and Euro simulations thanks to their close partnership with UEFA. Konami has said that enthusiasm for eFootball in Africa has ‘risen sharply’, creating what it views as a natural moment to formalise its relationship with CAF. While the publisher has spent the past decade rebuilding and repositioning its football franchise in an effort to keep pace with EA’s FC juggernaut (formerly the FIFA franchise) – securing an ...

Police called in as Terem Moffi, teammate attacked by own supporters

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French Ligue 1 club Nice have found themselves in the headlines after two of their players, Terem Moffi and Jérémie Boga, were placed on medical leave following an ugly confrontation with their own supporters. The team had returned from a 3–1 defeat at Lorient expecting a quiet bus ride back through the French Riviera, but instead, an estimated 400 fans were waiting. As the bus pulled into the training ground, ultras surrounded the vehicle. Moffi and Boga were met with a barrage of abuse the moment they stepped off. Witnesses say two supporters made it onto the bus, confronting terrified players. As they left the bus, the abuse turned into a physical altercation with spitting, punching, kicking, and even racist insults. Nice’s form has been terrible with six straight losses, but this was something else entirely. Moffi is so shaken that he has been excused from the team by medical staff for a full week, ruling him out of Sunday’s match with Angers. Boga has been given five d...

Warri set for high-voltage 5-A-Side showdown, as Ikpeba Football Challenge returns

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...Prize money hits N1m, initiator, Ikpeba calls it appetizer  By Maxwell Kumoye    Warri is warming up for a football fiesta as the Victor Ikpeba 5-a-Side Football Challenge storms the city from December 18–20, delivering three days of grassroots brilliance, festive excitement and pure street football energy. In its 5th edition, the tournament comes with a major boost, as prize pool increased to N1 million, a strong incentive aimed at rewarding the grit and flair of local talents.  With only eight teams lined up this year, organisers say the leaner field ensures better coordination, fiercer competition and an even more entertaining spectacle. The teams, built around Bet9ja vendors in the Warri axis, will battle from Day One for places in the semi-finals, before the action rolls into the third-place match and the grand finale on Saturday, December 20.  Bet9ja remains a key partner in what has become one of the most vibrant community football carnivals i...

Essien – the midfield monster who made legends speak in awe

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By Maxwell Kumoye   Former Ghanaian international Michael Essien wasn’t just a footballer — he was a force of nature, a walking earthquake in blue.  At Chelsea, he didn’t merely play midfield; he dominated entire landscapes, bending games to his will and earning respect from the biggest names of his era. José Mourinho, a man never short of confidence, once summed it up with the kind of statement reserved for immortals: “If I could have 11 Essiens, I’d win everything.” And The Special One meant every word. Essien was his battering ram, his engine, his shield and the ultimate professional. Didier Drogba felt it too. The Ivorian lion didn’t mince words: “There was no other midfielder like Michael. His power, his energy, his heart, unbelievable.” When Drogba, a colossus himself, calls you unbelievable, you’re operating on another planet. John Terry, the captain who led Chelsea into countless battles, always wanted one man beside him: “If I could take one player into a ...

Ghana U-15 girls cruise into CAF School Championship WAFU B final after emphatic win over Côte D’ivoire

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  Ghana’s U-15 Girls have booked their place in the final of the WAFU B Zonal Qualifiers of the CAF African Schools Championship after a commanding 3–0 victory over Côte d’Ivoire in Wednesday’s semifinal clash in Ouagadougou. The defending champions have been nothing short of sensational in their title defense, scoring an impressive 15 goals in just three matches on their way to a second consecutive final. After a tense and cagey first half, tournament leading scorer Margaret Akosua Tawiah broke the deadlock from the penalty spot early in the second period. Her goal settled Ghana’s nerves and opened the floodgates for a dominant finish. Belinda Kpentey doubled the advantage with a stunning strike, before Mavis Koah sealed the victory, completing a dominant display at the 4 August Stadium. Ghana’s path to the final has been marked by overwhelming superiority. Sandra Boakye’s young side opened their campaign with a 5–0 demolition of Benin, followed by a ruthless 7–0 win o...