Former Nigerian footballer and coach, Samson Siasia, has inaugurated a new Astro Football Pitch at the School of The Hard Knocks in Abuja, Nigeria. The event celebrated the efforts of the School's CEO, Dr. Jerry Akubo, in providing a facility that aims to engage youths productively and steer them away from crime. Siasia praised the sports complex for its potential to change the game in youth development. The complex boasts various sports facilities, including football fields and a gym. The event also featured the unveiling of the School Of Hardnocks Team Jerseys and was attended by notable figures such as Chief Peter Ashetu and representatives from the Nigeria Police Force and Daddy's House Foundation.

Jose Mourinho, the former Chelsea Manager, explained his decision to convert John Mikel Obi from an attacking midfielder to a defensive midfielder. Mourinho highlighted Mikel's physical attributes and his ability to retain the ball as key reasons for the change. Despite criticism from some football observers who believe the switch negatively impacted Mikel's game, Mourinho defended his choice, citing the need for balance in the team and Mikel's quick thinking and simplicity in play. Mikel, who joined Chelsea in 2006, achieved significant success, including multiple FA Cup wins and European titles. The article also includes a poll asking readers if they think Mikel became a better footballer after the conversion.

Prof. Abubakar Sulaiman, representing the National Institute for Legislative & Democratic Studies (NILDS), emphasized the importance of robust research and capacity-building for improving legislation at the 6th capacity-building workshop for NILDS academic staff. The event, which was a collaboration with the German political foundation Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung, highlighted NILDS's focus on staff training in line with international best practices. Prof. Sulaiman noted significant improvements in staff performance, bill analysis, drafting, research, policy analysis, and stakeholder engagement. He reported increases in research outputs, policy briefs, drafted motions, and bill drafting and analysis between 2022 and 2023, and stressed the need for continuous growth through staff training.

The Nigeria Customs Service basketball club won against Universite de Douala with a score of 57-46 in the African Women’s Basketball League 2023 Zone III Qualification match in Alexandria, Egypt. The team, led by Coach Abdulrahman Mohamed and with a notable performance by the team captain, a D’Tigress player, secured a strong lead by halftime. The team also succeeded in a separate match in Abuja, defeating the MFM Basketball Club of Lagos 55-49, with Captain Nkem Akarawe playing a significant role. The victories were attributed to the team's dominance in rebounds and assists, and the support from CGC Adewale Adeniyi MFR was acknowledged.

At a workshop in Abuja, Prof. Abubakar Sulaiman of the National Institute for Legislative & Democratic Studies (NILDS) emphasized the importance of gender parity in security operations and conflict resolution in Nigeria. Represented by Prof. Adewale Aderemi, Sulaiman highlighted the global trend away from inclusive politics and the need for women's active engagement in peacebuilding, citing their crucial role in conflicts like those in Liberia and Sierra Leone. Despite advocacy, the women, peace, and security agenda faces challenges. Prof. Istifanus Zabadi of Bigham University also spoke on the exclusion of women in security operations and the slow progress towards achieving UNSCR 1325 objectives. The workshop aimed to foster synergy among security agencies and government bodies to improve gender balance in addressing security issues.

Governor Chukwuma Soludo has awarded cash prizes totaling approximately N4 million to the winners of the 2022 Academicals football cup for primary and secondary schools in Anambra State. The ceremony was conducted by Patrick-Estate Onyedum, Chairman of the Anambra State Sports Development Commission. Prizes were distributed to various categories, with Ukpor High School and Washington Memorial Grammar School winning in the male U17 category, and Christ The Redeemer College and Stella Maris College in the female U17 category. Umuaraba Primary School and Anyaegbunam Primary School won in the U13 category. Additionally, six students received N25,000 each for individual achievements. The initiative is part of the Anambra State Sports Solution Initiative (ANSSI) aimed at discovering national and Olympic champions. The government's commitment to making the Anambra School Sports Festival an annual event was also reaffirmed.

Wales have been drawn to play against Finland in the semi-finals of the Euro 2024 play-offs, with the match scheduled to take place in Cardiff on March 21. If Wales wins, they will host the winner of the Poland vs. Estonia match in the final. The draw was conducted in Nyon, Switzerland. Wales' manager, Rob Page, expressed relief at avoiding Ukraine, whom they beat in a World Cup play-off, and confidence in playing at home with the support of the 'Red Wall'. He sees the draw as a great opportunity for Wales to qualify for Euro 2024, which would be their fourth major tournament in recent years. Finland and Iceland are also mentioned as having completed their qualifiers, with Finland finishing behind Denmark and Slovenia, and Iceland behind Portugal, Slovakia, and Luxembourg.

Rwanda's national football team secured a 2-0 victory over South Africa in the 2026 FIFA World Cup African Qualifiers, held in Butare. This win places Rwanda at the top of Group C with four points from two matches. Goals from Innocent Nshuti and Gilbert Mugisha in the first half set the pace for Rwanda's triumph. The result is significant for the group dynamics, as it prevents South Africa from taking a four-point lead. The match was also crucial for Nigeria and other teams in the group. Rwanda had previously drawn with Zimbabwe, and their next match will be against Benin Republic. South Africa, now in second place, will face Nigeria in their upcoming fixture. The group's standings are closely contested, with Nigeria, Lesotho, and Zimbabwe tied on points, and Benin Republic at the bottom.

Nigeria's national football team, the Super Eagles, led by coach Jose Peseiro, faced another setback with a 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe. The disappointing result follows a similar draw against Lesotho, leaving Nigeria with just two points from two games in the World Cup qualifiers. Peseiro cited long travel times to Rwanda for the match as a contributing factor to the team's poor performance. Despite changes made during the game, Nigeria failed to secure a win. The current standings in Group C show South Africa leading, with Nigeria and Zimbabwe trailing behind. The World Cup qualifiers will continue in June 2024, with Nigeria facing a challenging path ahead.

The Super Eagles of Nigeria are set to begin their FIFA World Cup qualification campaign against Lesotho at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo. Stand-in Captain Kenneth Omeruo of Kasimpasa SK emphasized the importance of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup after missing the previous tournament. Super Eagles Manager Jose Peseiro expressed confidence in goalkeeper Francis Uzoho despite criticism. Lesotho's caretaker Coach Leslie Notsi sees the match as a chance for his team's exposure, while their Captain Sekhoane Moerane stated they respect but do not fear Nigeria. The Super Eagles aim to win their first two games, starting with Lesotho and then Zimbabwe, to secure the sole qualification spot in their group.

Mamelodi Sundowns have reached their third consecutive CAF Women’s Champions League final after defeating AS Far in the semi-finals. The match, which took place at Amadou Gon Coulibaly Stadium in Cote d’Ivoire, was a rematch of last season's final where AS Far had emerged as champions. The first half ended goalless, with both teams playing cautiously. In the second half, both teams sought to take the lead, but it was Mamelodi Sundowns who scored the decisive goal in the 73rd minute through Boitumelo Rabale. AS Far will now compete for the bronze medal on Saturday.

Doma United of Gombe achieved a surprising victory over the reigning champions Enyimba with a 1-0 win in a recent football match. The only goal of the game was scored by Hillary Ekawu, assisted by Emmanuel Ekpenyong and Emmanuel Jesam, at the 16-minute mark. Despite efforts from Enyimba to level the score, Doma United's defense, particularly goalkeeper Kingdom Osayi, remained impenetrable. This win has propelled Doma United to fourth place in the NPFL table, while Enyimba has fallen to seventeenth place, facing the threat of relegation.

The Democratic Republic of Congo began their quest for a second World Cup appearance with a 2-0 victory over Mauritania in a Group B match. Yoane Wissa and substitute Théo Bongonda scored the goals for the Congolese team. Equatorial Guinea won 1-0 against Namibia thanks to a goal from Emilio Nsue, while Sierra Leone and Ethiopia ended in a goalless draw in a match that was delayed due to heavy fog. The results put DR Congo at the top of their group, which includes strong contenders like AFCON champions Senegal.

Nigeria's Super Eagles are set to face Lesotho in a FIFA World Cup qualifier in Uyo. The team has been training at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, with manager Jose Peseiro expressing confidence in victory. Peseiro also reaffirmed his choice of Francis Uzoho as the first-choice goalkeeper despite criticism from fans. In related news, Zimbabwe's national team, the Warriors, played to a goalless draw against Rwanda. Zimbabwe's captain Marshall Munetsi commented positively on the result. The Warriors, who were previously banned by FIFA due to government interference, will host Nigeria in their next match in Harare.

At the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Indonesia, African teams Mali and Morocco faced defeats in their respective matches. Morocco, after an initial win against Panama, lost 0-2 to Ecuador with Michael Bermudez scoring twice for Ecuador. Despite a strong start, Morocco failed to capitalize and succumbed to a penalty and a late goal by Bermudez. Meanwhile, Mali, reduced to ten men after Mamadou Doumbia's red card, lost 0-1 to Spain. Juan Hernandez scored the decisive goal for Spain, who managed to control the game post their goal despite Mali's efforts. Both Ecuador and Spain are now in good positions to advance to the knockout stages.

Gbenga Ogunbote, Technical Adviser of Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) of Ibadan, expressed his views on the team's performance in their match against Kwara United. The match, which took place at the Kwara State Sports Complex in Ilorin, ended in a draw after Kwara United scored a late equaliser. Ogunbote was disappointed with the carelessness that led to the equaliser and the red card received by 3SC's captain, Malomo Taofeek. Despite these setbacks, he was pleased that his team secured a point from the game, especially since they were down to ten men.

Christopher Danjuma, the head coach of Nigeria's Under 20 football team, the Falconets, has called up 19 players for the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup qualifying match against Tanzania. The first leg will take place on November 12 at the Azam Sports Complex in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, with the return leg scheduled for November 19 at the MKO Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, Nigeria. The Falconets have been preparing in Abuja and advanced to this round after Mauritius withdrew from the qualifiers. The match officials for the games have been appointed by CAF, with Letticia Antonella Viana from e-Swatini and Rachel Nzigire from the Democratic Republic of Congo serving as referees for the first and second legs, respectively. The article also lists the full roster of Nigerian players invited for the matches.

Kano Pillars' captain, Rabiu Ali, received a warm reception from fans after a Nigeria Premier Football League match against Sporting Lagos FC. Despite Kano Pillars losing 3-0, with goals scored in the 12th, 29th, and 36th minutes by Sporting Lagos, fans from the Hausa community in Lagos showed their support for Ali. Junior Lokosa, a former Kano Pillars player, was named man of the match, scoring two goals against his old team, while Jonathan Alukwu scored the third. Fans praised Ali, the oldest player in the league at 43, for his dedication and longevity with Kano Pillars since 2011.

In a closely contested football match, Rivers United managed to secure a draw against Sunshine Stars thanks to a late goal by Alex Oyowah. Despite dominating the game and creating several opportunities, Rivers United's players, including Andy Okpe and Alex Oyowah, initially failed to convert their chances. Sunshine Stars took the lead early in the second half due to a defensive mix-up by Rivers United. However, a strategic substitution by Technical Manager Stanley Eguma, bringing on captain Nyima Nwagua, changed the game's dynamics. Nwagua's involvement in the play eventually led to Oyowah's equalizing goal in the dying minutes of the match. Rivers United, being the only Nigerian team in continental competitions, faces challenges ahead in both domestic and international fixtures.

Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) of Ibadan is determined to secure a convincing victory against Niger Tornadoes of Minna in their upcoming match at the Lekan Salami Stadium. The team is motivated to bounce back from a recent loss to Remo Stars and sees the match against Tornadoes as an opportunity to redeem themselves. Team captain Malomo Taofeek expressed the team's disappointment with the previous defeat and their intent to win convincingly. Historically, Tornadoes have struggled in Ibadan, and given 3SC's strong home performance this season, the trend is expected to continue. The last encounter between the two teams at this venue resulted in a narrow victory for 3SC with a goal from Moses Omoduemuke.

The Prime Atlantic Squash Tournament concluded with Onaopemipo Adegoke and Rofiat Abudulazeez emerging as winners in the male and female categories, respectively. The event took place at the Teslim Balogun Stadium in Lagos, Nigeria. Adegoke defended his title and won a prize of N220,000, while Abudulazeez defeated Blessing Isaac and received N150,000. The tournament featured a total prize money of N2.6 million, and for the first time, players reaching the round of 32 and 16 also received prizes. Ayo Otuyalo, CEO of Prime Atlantic, expressed satisfaction with the players' performance and improvement.

Shooting Stars FC of Ibadan secured a decisive 4-1 victory over Niger Tornadoes of Minna, bouncing back from their previous loss to Remo Stars. Ayobami Adekunle initiated the scoring for Shooting Stars, followed by an equalizer from Niger Tornadoes' Earnest Chidebere. In the second half, Shooting Stars dominated with goals from Ayodeji Bamidele, Gbolagade Adelowo, and Kareem Ademola Ayinde. Despite a strong effort from the Tornadoes, coached by Hamzat Abarah, they were unable to withstand the offensive prowess of the Ibadan team, coached by Gbenga Ogunbote.

Rangers International of Enugu defeated Heartland of Owerri 2-0 in an Oriental derby, a significant match in the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL). The victory was secured with goals from Kazeem Ogunleye and Kenneth Igboke, scored at the third and fifty-third minutes respectively. This win propelled Rangers International to the top of the league table with 13 points, while Heartland remains at the bottom with only four points. The match highlights for the second half of this Week 8 Match day 1 game are available through the provided NPFL live coverage link.

1472 FC, a new football club in Nigeria, has been unveiled by Dozy Mmobuosi, a UK-based Fintech entrepreneur. The club will compete in the Nigerian National League and has announced the signing of Coach Otega Deniran. The club's temporary home ground is the Mobolaji Johnson Stadium, with plans to move to the Teslim Balogun Stadium after renovations. The club's CEO, Dr. Segun Sanni, detailed the club's unveiling event, which includes a parade and a cocktail for media and guests. 1472 FC, which commemorates the year Lagos was first visited by Europeans, aims to use football to unite and empower the community. The club has also secured Tingo as the official shirt sponsor for the 2023/24 season.

Mouktar Mohammed, Chairman of the FCT Football Association, has endorsed Victor Osimhen for the African Player of the Year award 2023. Osimhen's achievements include an eighth-place finish in the Ballon d'Or rankings, becoming the highest-ranked Nigerian and African in the award's history. He scored 25 league goals for Napoli, leading them to a Serie A title and becoming the top Serie A scorer as an African, surpassing George Weah's record. Despite his accomplishments, Mohammed acknowledges that factors such as the World Cup performance and regional biases could influence the award outcome. Osimhen faces competition from Achraf Hakimi and Riyad Mahrez, who have had significant successes with their clubs and countries.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has released the list of nominees for the men's categories of the CAF Awards 2023, which will take place on December 11 in Marrakech, Morocco. The nominees were selected by a panel consisting of CAF Technical Experts, African Football Legends, and media representatives, based on performances from November 2022 to September 2023. Categories include CAF African Player of the Year, CAF Interclub Player of the Year, and for the first time, CAF African Goalkeeper of the Year. Each category has a set number of nominees, with the winners to be determined by a voting panel. The women's category nominees will be announced later. The last CAF Awards Gala saw Sadio Mane and Asisat Oshoala win African Player of the Year and African Women's Player of the Year, respectively.

In a recent match of the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL), Remo Stars secured a decisive 3-0 victory over Shooting Stars of Ibadan. The match, which took place in Ikenne, saw Remo Stars dominate the game with two goals scored by half-time. Ahmed Akinyele opened the scoring for Remo Stars, followed by Sikiru Alimi who scored twice, including a penalty kick. Despite efforts by Shooting Stars to fight back, including substitutions in the second half, they were unable to score. The win brought Remo Stars to 12 points from five matches, while Shooting Stars faced their second away loss, with 10 points from six games.

In the Nigeria Professional Football League Match day 6, Kano Pillars secured a 3-0 victory over Bayelsa United at the Sani Abacha Stadium. The win marked their third home victory of the season. The opening goal was scored by Mubarak Sani in the 30th minute, followed by goals from captain Rabiu Ali and substitute Abba Adam in the 50th and 81st minutes, respectively. Kano Pillars' coach, Abdul Maikaba, attributed the win to the team's determination and revised strategies after a previous loss to Rangers. Bayelsa United's coach, Diepreye Tiebowei, acknowledged Kano Pillars' effective use of chances and called for the elimination of midweek games due to travel fatigue. Kano Pillars now stand with nine points from six matches and look forward to their next game against Sporting Lagos.

Ayo Bakare, former national coach and Technical Director of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF), discussed the detrimental impact of the leadership crisis that affected Nigerian basketball from 2017 to 2022. He likened the situation to a civil war, noting the difficulty in securing sponsorships due to the 'polluted' environment. Bakare criticized the current state of the basketball league, which has been reduced to short, abridged competitions, and pointed out the lack of planning and information for teams. He revealed that his team, Ebun Comets, is considering cost-cutting measures due to the uncertainty. Bakare also mentioned that despite the challenges, the NBBF could improve the situation, but the damage done by past conflicts and allegations of corruption against past presidents of the federation has made it difficult to attract sponsorships. He emphasized the need for more local competitions to aid in the recovery of Nigerian basketball.

Mouktar Mohammed, the Chairman of the FCT Football Association, while on a tour at FC Bayern Munich, highlighted the lessons Nigerian clubs could learn from the German Bundesliga. He praised the Bundesliga's financial strength, structure, sponsorship, and followership, contrasting it with the Nigerian clubs' reliance on state governors for funding. Mohammed emphasized the Bundesliga's business model, including the 50+1 rule, which ensures clubs are majority-owned by German club members, fostering local support. He also noted Bayern Munich's success in selling out tickets for the 2023-2024 season and the league's focus on youth development as key factors in German football's success.

Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) of Ibadan secured a 3-1 victory over Doma United of Gombe, maintaining their perfect home record in the Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL). Despite conceding an early goal due to a deflected free kick by Nelson Abiam, 3SC equalized before halftime with a penalty by Gbolagade Adelowo. In the second half, Kareem Ayinde Ademola and Gideon Monday scored, ensuring a win for 3SC. This result places 3SC second in the league standings, behind Rangers International on goal difference, with 10 points from five matches.

Lionel Messi has won his eighth Ballon d’Or award, making history once again. The Argentine star, who led his national team to victory in the 2022 FIFA World Cup, clinched the prestigious award ahead of Manchester City's Erling Haaland and French striker Kylian Mbappe. Messi's impressive statistics during the World Cup and his contribution to the French Ligue 1 title with his club were significant factors in his win. Nigerian footballer Victor Osimhen was the highest-ranked African, finishing eighth. Messi's influence extended to the United States, where he helped Inter Miami win the Leagues Cup, marking a remarkable year for the football legend.

Wydad Casablanca secured a 1-0 victory over Esperance in the first leg of the African Football League semi-final, thanks to a second-half goal from Hicham Bousfiane. The match, held at Stade Mohamed V, was tightly contested with both teams having opportunities to score. Esperance's goalkeeper Moez Ben Cherifia made crucial saves, but Bousfiane's goal gave Wydad a narrow lead to take into the second leg in Tunis. Despite the loss, Esperance hit the woodwork and remains hopeful for the return match at Stade Olympique de Rades. The tie remains finely balanced, with Wydad seeking to secure an away goal in the upcoming fixture to advance to the final.

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rhulani Mokwena emphasized the significance of Thapelo Maseko's goal in their recent 1-0 victory against Al Ahly in the African Football League. The win at home sets the stage for a challenging return leg in Cairo, where Sundowns will aim to maintain their advantage. Mokwena highlighted the psychological impact of the away goal on Al Ahly and expressed confidence in Sundowns' ability to score in Cairo. The rivalry between the two teams is intensifying, with their latest match marking their 13th encounter, where Sundowns now lead with 5 wins to Al Ahly's 4, and four draws.

Sporting Lagos FC defeated Niger Tornadoes in a Match Day 5 game of the Nigeria Premier Football League at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Lagos. Jonathan Alukwu and Junior Lokosa scored for Sporting Lagos in the first half, while Yahuza Bala scored for the visitors in the second half. A potential equalizer by Bala was disallowed for offside. Junior Lokosa, who was named man of the match, highlighted the team's spirit, while the Chairman of Niger Tornadoes, Adamu Aliyu, criticized the officiating. Sporting Lagos FC's next match is against Kwara United FC.

In the Nigeria Premier Football League, Abia Warriors FC secured a victory against Heartland FC of Owerri with a score of 1-0 during the Match Day 5 oriental derby. The match took place at the Umuahia Township Stadium, where Chinerem Okike scored the only goal at the eighth minute. Despite numerous chances created by both teams, no further goals were scored. The win provided Abia Warriors with three points, improving their standing to fifth place on the league table with nine points. Abia Warriors' coach, Mr Erasmus Onu, acknowledged the missed opportunities but remained optimistic about future matches.

Rangers International is preparing for a crucial Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) match against Kano Pillars, aiming to climb to the top of the league table with a victory. The team, coached by Fidelis Ilechukwu, has been undergoing intensive training despite missing key players Naziru Auwalu, Kalu Nweke, and Chinemerem Ugwueze. Ilechukwu remains optimistic and emphasizes respect for all teams. Rangers International will be bolstered by the return of Kingsley Maduforo and the inclusion of Chinedu Ibe-Agwu and Wilfred Dieke. The historical head-to-head record between the teams is evenly matched, heightening anticipation for the upcoming game.

Dimeji Lawal, the Acting General Manager of Shooting Stars (3SC) of Ibadan, has emphasized the importance of winning the upcoming Matchday five fixture against Doma United of Gombe. The team, known as the Oluyole Warriors, recently secured a draw against Akwa United and are looking to build on that result. Lawal praised the team's recovery from a previous loss to Bendel Insurance and urged them to focus on the next game. The Chief Coach, Abimnola Lawal, also stressed the need for seriousness in the upcoming match. Captain Malomo Taofeek is fit to play after an injury, and other players like Oke Kayode, Anayor Ogbonna, and Michael Eneruna have also recovered and may participate in the game.

Bayelsa Queens secured a convincing 4-1 victory over Ekiti Queens in the Betsy Obaseki Women Football Tournament at the University of Benin Sports Stadium. This win comes after Bayelsa Queens' previous 1-0 win against Confluence Queens and their brief withdrawal from the tournament, which was reversed following the organizers' intervention. Goals were scored by Chinyere Igboamalu, Blessing Abiola, Mercy Itimi, and Dooshima Tarnum. The win propels Bayelsa Queens into the semi-finals, showcasing their strong performance throughout the tournament.

Tottenham Hotspur's manager, Ange Postecoglou, has dismissed the notion that the team is better off without Harry Kane, despite their strong performance leading the English Premier League. Kane's transfer to Bayern Munich for a potential £120 million was initially thought to be a setback for Spurs, who finished eighth last season. However, under Postecoglou's leadership, the team has thrived and currently sits at the top of the league. The manager credits the success to the emergence of other players like Son Heung-min, Richarlison, Dejan Kulusevski, and Brennan Johnson, who have stepped up in Kane's absence. He also praised new signing James Maddison for his immediate impact, scoring and assisting multiple times since his arrival.

Liverpool's manager, Jürgen Klopp, praises Mohamed Salah's physical fitness and game understanding, highlighting his recent achievements, including surpassing Thierry Henry's European goal tally for a single Premier League club. Salah's goal in the 5-1 Europa League victory over Toulouse and his performance in the Premier League, where he has contributed to goals in his last 13 games at Anfield, are noted. Klopp discusses squad rotation and the challenge of balancing Europa League and Premier League campaigns, mentioning the team's preparation for their upcoming match against Nottingham Forest.

Taiye Sobogun, the Head Coach of Oluyole Warriors, expressed his satisfaction with his team's performance at the 2023 Nigeria Basketball Premier League Atlantic Conference Playoffs. Despite having less than a week to prepare, the team has exceeded his expectations by winning four out of five games and securing a spot in the next round of the competition. Sobogun praised his players for their dedication and effort in all the matches. With the Ibadan Centre's competition ending on Saturday, he plans to resume training on Monday to prepare for the next phase, although the venue is yet to be determined.

The second phase of the 2023 Beach Volleyball Star Tour is set to take place at the Jolly Nyame Stadium in Jalingo, Taraba state, from October 28th to November 5th. Over 35 teams are expected to participate in the event, which is considered significant by the Nigeria Volleyball Federation (NVBF) due to upcoming international commitments. DCP Stephen Hasso (RTD), the North East Zonal Representative of NVBF, highlighted that the tour will also act as a preparatory event for the National U21 players who are gearing up for the World Beach Volleyball Championship in Thailand. The Taraba State Government, under the leadership of Governor Agbu Kefas, has been commended for its support in hosting the tour. National Coaches Francis Imoudu and John Iwerima will be present to scout for talent for the national team.

Akwa United FC's management has issued a stern warning to its players and coaches due to the team's poor start in the Nigerian Premier Football League, where they are at the bottom with only two points from four games. The club's chairman, Elder Paul Bassey, expressed disappointment and apologized to fans, urging the team to improve their performance starting with their next match against Bendel Insurance in the 'South-South derby.' The club has moved to Eket township stadium for home matches and is not facing any financial issues as the government has provided necessary support. The management emphasized the need for player commitment and hinted that coach Fatai Osho's position could be at risk if the team loses their next match in Benin.

Destiny Oyero, a young golf prodigy and five-time winner of the Awa Ibraheem Junior Open Golf championship, aspires to emulate the playing style and success of Tiger Woods. Oyero, who recently won the 10th edition of the championship at Ikeja Golf Club in Lagos, is a student at The Ivy College in Lagos. Despite facing older competitors at the National Youth Games, he remains determined to pursue a professional golfing career. Oyero, who also won a silver medal at the 2022 African Junior Championship, benefits from a strict training regime supported by his father, who is also a golfer. His success in golf has provided him with opportunities to travel and gain exposure.

Udinese, a Serie A football club, has announced the appointment of Gabriele Cioffi as their new manager, replacing Andrea Sottil. The decision came after a disappointing start to the season, with Udinese finding themselves third from bottom in the league standings. Cioffi, who has previously managed Udinese during the 2021-22 season, returns to the club with a contract until June 30, 2024, which includes an option for an additional season. Prior to rejoining Udinese, Cioffi was the manager of Hellas Verona but was dismissed after the first nine league games of 2022.

Bayelsa Queens, a football team, had initially withdrawn from the Betsy Obaseki Women Football Tournament (BOWFT) due to a dispute over the eligibility of two players. However, after discussions with the Edo State Football Association, the team decided to rejoin the tournament. Bayelsa Queens issued a statement expressing their appreciation for the support from the organizers and fans, and their confidence that the registration issue with Delta Queens would be resolved by the NWFL. They also emphasized their respect for the players' rights and their determination to win the tournament. The team had previously secured a 1-0 victory against Confluence Queens before the controversy arose.

The Nigeria National League (NNL) has delayed the start of the 2023-2024 season due to the teams' inability to complete their registration process by the original deadline of October 25. The season was initially set to begin on October 28, with the opening match at Uyo Township Stadium in Akwa Ibom state. NNL Chairman George Aluo expressed regret over the postponement and advised clubs to finalize their registration by the new deadline of November 3, 2023. He emphasized that failure to meet the new deadline would result in exclusion from the league. A new kick-off date will be announced once all teams have completed the registration process.

Impressions club of Delta state secured their first victory in the 2023 Nigeria Basketball Premier League by defeating Invaders of Ekiti with a score of 73-65. The match took place at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium in Ibadan. Despite previous losses to Oluyole Warriors and Ebun Comets, Impressions club's head coach, Kenneth Mfon, remains optimistic about the team's growth and potential for improvement. On the other hand, Olusola Aluko, head coach of Invaders of Ekiti, acknowledged the challenges of playing daily and the impact on his players' performance. The competition features seven clubs at the Ibadan Centre of the Atlantic Conference, with more games scheduled to continue.

The senior women's football teams of Nigeria and Ethiopia played to a 1-1 draw in Addis Ababa in the second round of qualifiers for the 2024 Olympic Games. Rasheedat Ajibade scored for Nigeria after Birkie Amare had given Ethiopia an early lead. The match featured notable players like Asisat Oshoala and saw both teams struggle to create opportunities. The return leg is scheduled to take place in Abuja, where the aggregate winner will advance to face either Cameroon or Uganda. The tightly contested match sets the stage for an exciting second leg to determine who moves forward in the Olympic qualifiers.

Sporting Lagos is set to face Niger Tornadoes in a home game on Sunday, aiming to recover from their recent 2-1 loss to Remo Stars and climb back into the top half of the NPFL table. This match marks the fifth game of the season for Sporting Lagos, who are the new league campaigners. Despite the loss, coach Paul Offor praised his team's effort and desire, noting that training has been intense and the team is well-prepared. Niger Tornadoes, with two wins from four games, are seeking their first away points of the season. The match is scheduled to take place at Onikan Stadium with kick-off at 6 p.m. Football analysts have referenced the performance of Doma United, who previously held Sporting Lagos to a 0-0 draw, suggesting that Tornadoes could take inspiration from that result.

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Abuja to enhance their cooperation in aiding refugees, stateless individuals, and internally displaced persons in West Africa. Omar Touray, the President of the ECOWAS Commission, and Abdouraouf Gnon-Konde, the Director of UNHCR Regional Bureau for West and Central Africa, were the signatories. The agreement aims to address the humanitarian challenges in the region, where nearly 7 million people have been displaced due to conflicts and violence. Nigeria and Burkina Faso have the highest numbers of displaced individuals, with Niger hosting the largest number of refugees.

The head coach of the University of Pittsburgh Panthers women's team, who also oversees the Nigerian women's national team, will be absent for the first leg of the Olympic Football Tournament qualifier in Ethiopia due to personal commitments in the U.S. His Nigerian assistants will take charge during his absence. The Nigerian team, including star player Asisat Oshoala from Barcelona, is preparing for their match against Ethiopia's team 'Lucy'. The training session will include notable players such as Chiamaka Nnadozie, Oluwatosin Demehin, and Rasheedat Ajibade, among others, and will take place at the Abebe Bekila Stadium in Addis Ababa.

The Confederation of African Football has rescheduled the second leg of the African Football League match between Wydad Casablanca and Enyimba FC from October 25 to 26 due to allegations of unfair tactics by Moroccan authorities. Enyimba FC lodged a complaint with CAF after their team was stranded at Lagos airport, unable to get authorization for their chartered flight to land in Casablanca. The delay has disrupted Enyimba's travel plans for the quarter-final match in Casablanca, where they aim to overcome a 1-0 deficit from the first leg.

The John Hett Sports Foundation (JHSF) squash championship is set to take place at Teslim Balogun Stadium in Lagos, with 180 players participating from Oct. 25 to 28. The event, sanctioned by the PSA and WSF, offers equal prize money for male and female winners, with N400,000 for the champions. Sola Adekunle of Yellow Dot Squash Association highlighted the tournament's commitment to gender prize money equality. Wasiu Bello, president of PSPAN, emphasized the importance of the event for player exposure and ranking. Seun Peters called for good conduct among players, and top-ranked male player Onaopemipo Adegoke expressed excitement for the competition. The second-ranked female player, Busayo Olatunji, will not participate due to personal reasons.

Dr. Awa Ibraheem, a golf enthusiast, has been announced as the first inductee into the soon-to-be-inaugurated Nigeria Golf Hall of Fame by Otunba Olusola Runsewe, president of the Nigeria Golf Federation. The announcement was made at the closing ceremony of the 10th Awa Ibraheem Junior Open Golf Championship at Ikeja Golf Club, Lagos. The federation plans to induct five more distinguished Nigerians into the Hall of Fame. Runsewe praised Ibraheem for his unmatched efforts in promoting grassroots golf in Nigeria and expressed optimism for the future of golf in the country. The championship concluded with Austine Aleji of Otukpo Golf Club winning the title and Ghanian Juliene Amezade becoming the first non-Nigerian to win the U-15 Girls' category in the event's 10-year history.

The Cuban Ambassador to Nigeria, Miriam Morales Palmero, spoke at the celebration of Cuba's Culture Day in Abuja, emphasizing culture's role in liberation, unity, and dialogue. She highlighted the challenges Cuba faces, including the economic impact of COVID-19 and the U.S. blockade. Palmero celebrated Cuba's diverse cultural heritage, particularly its African influences, and thanked Nigeria for its cultural legacy. She also expressed Cuba's concern for peaceful co-existence between Israel and Palestine. Tar Ukoh of Amistados Enterprises praised Cuba's Pan-African culture and its contributions to African liberation movements, noting Cuba's high human capital development index. The event also showed support for the Palestinian people amidst the ongoing conflict with Israel.

Rangers International Football Club of Enugu's coach, Fidelis Ilechukwu, expressed satisfaction with the 1-1 draw against Kwara United Football Club in Ilorin. He had anticipated such a result, especially considering Kwara United's recent performance against Rivers United. Coach Ilechukwu praised Kwara United's second-half play, which he found surprisingly good. The match began with Rangers asserting their dominance early on, leading to a goal by Kazeem Ogunleye from a free kick. The draw at Kwara State Stadium followed Kwara United's previous goalless draw with Rivers United.

Mohammed Babaganaru, the head coach of Gombe United FC, expressed satisfaction with his team's victory over Bendel Insurance, halting the latter's unbeaten run. The win came during the Match Day Four fixture of the 2023/2024 Nigeria Premier Football League season. Babaganaru praised his team's improved performance and is optimistic about their upcoming match against Plateau United. On the other side, Monday Odigie, the head coach of Bendel Insurance, took the loss philosophically, emphasizing performance and improvement over the outcome of a single game. Gombe United secured their victory with a goal from Ahmed Jimoto in the 51st minute.

Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) of Ibadan is set to face Akwa United in a Nigerian Professional Football League match. 3SC, also known as the Oluyole Warriors, have won two of their first three games, while Akwa United has had a rough start with two losses and a draw. 3SC's midfielder Ayobami Junior expressed confidence in their strategy to win against Akwa United, who are feeling the pressure and have changed their home ground to Eket. Coach Gbenga Ogunbote has selected a strong squad for the upcoming game, although Oke Kayode, Anayor Ogbonna, and Micheal Enaruna will be absent. New players such as Christian Pyagbara, Mustapha Adams, and Gideon Monday might make their debut for 3SC in this match.

Christopher Danjuma, the head coach of Nigeria's National U20 Women's team, has called up 30 players for the FIFA U20 Women's World Cup qualifying match against Tanzania. The Nigeria Football Federation's Director of Communications, Ademola Olajire, announced the list which includes notable players such as goalkeeper Faith Omilana, midfielder Chinyere Kalu, and forward Yina Adoo. The team will skip the second round due to Mauritius' withdrawal and will play Tanzania in the third round, with the first leg in Dar es Salaam and the return leg in Abuja. The roster features players from the World Cup quarter-finalists and the U17 squad that won bronze at the World Cup in India. The FIFA U20 Women's World Cup has expanded to 24 teams, with Africa having four representatives. The Falconets need to pass the Tanzania round and one more to qualify for the tournament in Colombia in September 2024.

Eng. Musa Kida, the president of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF), praised the Mountain Of Fire Miracles (MFM) Basketball Team for their victory in the Zenith Bank Women’s Basketball Championship. MFM, a new team in the basketball arena, won both the Atlantic Conference championship and the national championship in Lagos, defeating teams like Air Warriors Basketball Club, Nigeria Customs Basketball, and Bayelsa Blue Whales Basketball Club. Kida highlighted the significance of their win as a display of hard work and encouraged them to maintain their efforts for the upcoming continental championships. He also acknowledged Zenith Bank for sponsoring women's basketball in Nigeria and noted that the competition has helped players secure scholarships and play internationally.

Alhaji AbdulRazaq Wopa, the Chairman of the Main Organizing Committee of the Emir of Ilorin football Championship, announced that the final match will include the distribution of palliatives to the vulnerable. The event, which celebrates the Emir's 28th coronation year, aims to make a positive impact rather than profit. Wopa praised the 32 teams for their sportsmanship and adherence to the rules. He also expressed hope for more support, particularly from Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq. The final is set for November 11 at the Kwara Stadium complex in Ilorin.

Khamzat Chimaev defeated Kamaru Usman at UFC 294, maintaining his undefeated record. Chimaev dominated the fight with his grappling skills, securing takedowns and controlling Usman on the ground. Despite Usman's attempts to change the fight's pace and increase his energy in the third round, Chimaev's takedowns and striking kept him ahead. Usman, who had previously lost his welterweight title and suffered consecutive losses, took the fight against Chimaev on short notice after Paulo Costa withdrew due to injury. Chimaev's victory by unanimous decision raises questions about his next move in the UFC, whether he will remain in the middleweight division or return to welterweight.

The article covers the latest results from the Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL). Remo Stars of Ikenne secured a 2-1 victory over Sporting Lagos, propelling them to the top of the league. The match was temporarily halted due to bad weather. Gombe United defeated Bendel Insurance 1-0, handing them their first defeat and goal conceded this season. Lobi Stars of Makurdi continued their unbeaten streak with a 2-0 win over Abia Warriors. Kano Pillars edged out Rivers United 1-0 thanks to a late goal by veteran Rabiu Ali. Rangers were held to a 1-1 draw by Kwara United, while Shooting Stars managed a 0-0 draw with Akwa United. The article provides a roundup of the full results from the league's recent matches.

The CAF African Football League commenced with Mamelodi Sundowns defeating Petro Atletico 2-0 in Angola, thanks to goals from Marcelo Allende and Gift Maseko. Sundowns avenged their previous season's defeat and edged closer to the semi-finals. In another match, Tanzania's Simba SC and Egypt's Al Ahly ended in a 2-2 draw in Dar es Salam. Simba SC came from behind to lead, but Al Ahly equalized shortly after, leaving the tie open for the second leg in Egypt. The matches showcased the excitement of the new African Football League, with more games scheduled for Sunday.

Enyimba of Aba, the Nigerian Professional Football League champions, are set to host Wydad FC of Casablanca in the African Football League (AFL) quarter-final clash at the Nest of Champions stadium in Uyo. This match marks Enyimba's debut in the AFL, and the team is carrying the hopes of many Nigerians. Enyimba's coach, George Finidi, expresses confidence in his team's preparation and their chances against the formidable Moroccan side, who are the previous year's CAF Champions League winners. Enyimba midfielder Eze Ekwutoziam also shows optimism, stating the team is ready to give Wydad a 'good fight'. Super Eagles manager Jose Peseiro has extended his best wishes to Enyimba on social media. The first leg of the quarter-final is scheduled for 18:00 GMT on October 21, 2023, with the return leg on October 25 at Stade Mohamed V in Casablanca.

The African Football League (AFL) is set to begin in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, with the first match between Simba SC and Al Ahly SC scheduled for Friday, 20 October at 18h00 local time. The AFL features eight of Africa's top football clubs competing for a grand prize of $4 million. The tournament will be played in a knockout format with two-leg ties for the quarterfinals, semifinals, and final. The runner-up will receive $2.8 million, semi-finalists $1.7 million each, and quarter-finalists $900,000 each. The AFL aims to become Africa's most exciting competition, enhancing entertainment, television production, and fan experience, complementing CAF's existing interclub competitions.

Former Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) player, Ademola Kudaisi, has joined the club's technical crew to undertake his coaching internship. Known as Atee during his playing days, he had previously played for 3SC, as well as having professional stints in Lebanon and South Africa. Post-retirement, Kudaisi completed his coaching course and has chosen to return to 3SC, citing the club's culture and the opportunity to learn under coach Gbenga Ogunbote. He expressed gratitude to the club's management for the opportunity and is hopeful that the experience will enhance his coaching abilities. The article also mentions former assistant coach Kabiru Alausa, Abayomi Adigun, and Kola Ige, who similarly completed their internships at 3SC.

Odion Ighalo FC won the Epe Conference ticket by defeating De Elite 1-0 in the final match, qualifying them for the next round of the 1XBET football challenge. The match was intense, with Odion Ighalo FC's defense, led by Justice Ohanusi, and goalkeeper Idowu Abiodun, being tested by De Elite. Michael Nwachukwu scored the decisive goal in the 53rd minute, his 5th in two matches. Yusuf Fawaz of Ighalo FC won the highest scorer award with six goals. The Epe Conference saw a total of 40 goals in 13 matches. Michael Dominic praised Match International Ltd. and 1XBET for organizing the event. The winners of the tournament will receive N1million, with second and third places receiving N500,000 and N300,000, respectively.

The Alake Golf Tournament, sponsored by Oando Plc, is set to feature over 200 participants and will take place from October 26 to October 28 at the Abeokuta Golf Club in Ogun, Nigeria. The tournament is organized to honor the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Dr Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, and has been held for 10 consecutive years. Steve Oma-Ofozor, Media Officer with Oando, highlighted the importance of sports in fostering national unity and driving positive change. The event will include competitions for caddies, professionals, and amateurs, celebrating unity and camaraderie among golfers from across the nation.

Mountain Of Fire Ministries (MFM) Basketball Club of Lagos won the Zenith Bank Women’s Basketball League Championship for 2023, defeating Nigeria Customs Basketball Club with a score of 64-60. This victory marks MFM's first championship win, and they will now represent Nigeria in regional and continental club championships. MFM took home a prize of N1,750,000, while Air Warriors Basketball Club of Abuja, who finished second, received N750,000, and Customs received N500,000 for third place. Coaches from both MFM and Air Warriors expressed their thoughts on their teams' performances. Zenith Bank, the sponsor of the competition, through Executive Director Temitope Fasaranti, praised the players and reiterated the bank's commitment to supporting sports that develop youth talent.

The Nigeria Premier Football League has approved Akwa United's request to play their home matches at Eket Stadium due to the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium being occupied with international matches. FIFA and CAF have recently endorsed the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium for international club and national team games. Consequently, Akwa United will host their match against Shooting Stars at Eket Stadium on October 22, 2023. The league organizers have tasked the Akwa Ibom State Football Normalisation Committee with ensuring the provision of necessary logistics for the matches in Eket. Akwa United, with only one point from three games, is also training at Eket Stadium to adapt to the artificial surface. Team manager Sir Emmanuel Udoh has encouraged local fans to support the team in their upcoming game.

Jose Peseiro, the head coach of the Nigerian national football team, the Super Eagles, has taken a pay cut following persuasion from his players. The players expressed their belief in Peseiro's leadership and their conviction that they could win the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Cote d’Ivoire. Peseiro, who has previously worked as an assistant coach at Real Madrid, was motivated by the players' desire and belief in victory to stay on as the coach. The Super Eagles are currently in Group A for the AFCON alongside Cote d’Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea, and Guinea-Bissau. Nigeria recently broke a 4-year streak of not winning friendly matches by defeating Mozambique 3-2.

The 10th Awa Ibraheem Junior Golf championship is set to take place from October 19 to 21 in Lagos, Nigeria. Jide Bolaji, the Technical Director and Team Lead, emphasized the tournament's adherence to international standards and rules set by the R&A and USGA. About 110 cadet golfers have registered, and strict age verification will be enforced, with penalties for falsification. The event will not allow parents or coaches on the course to ensure fair play and will provide accommodation only for players from outside Lagos. Volunteers are welcome to assist as marshals. The tournament may adjust for weather conditions, and ties will be resolved by sudden death play-off or count back. The technical team's decisions are final.

Sen. John Owan-Enoh, the Minister of Sports Development in Nigeria, has emphasized the importance of creating a strategic plan to nurture and monitor the progress of talented athletes discovered at the National Youth Games. During an interactive meeting in Abuja with senior officials of the ministry, he highlighted the need to maintain the athletes' interest in their sports and to focus on their development rather than just medal counts. The minister stressed the significance of demonstrating the athletes' growth before the next Games to gain public and stakeholder confidence. The Permanent Secretary, Ismaila Abubaker, also spoke about evaluating the Games' performance and identifying areas for improvement.

Chidiebere Nnachi, a Nigerian winger, emphasized the importance of giving grassroots players opportunities in professional football after making his debut for Enyimba in the Nigeria Premier Football League. Nnachi, who hails from Aba, expressed his joy at playing for the defending champions, Enyimba, and contributing to their 3-2 victory over Akwa United. He highlighted his personal achievement of joining Enyimba from local football in Aba and hopes his success will inspire other young players in the city. Nnachi also mentioned French footballer Kylian Mbappe as his idol and discussed the abundance of talent in Aba, noting the lack of sponsors for local players.

Nasarawa United Football Club in Nigeria has introduced a new technical adviser with the aim of improving the team's performance and securing a return to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) from which they were relegated last season. The unveiling ceremony took place at the Nasarawa township stadium in Lafia, where the new technical adviser, Adams Usman, expressed his commitment to work with the club's management, staff, and players to achieve this goal. The club's chairman, Dr. Othman Ahmed, expressed confidence in Usman's experience and the collective effort to bring the club back to the top tier of Nigerian football.

Lionel Messi led Argentina to a 2-0 victory over Peru in a FIFA World Cup qualifier, scoring both goals and becoming the all-time leading scorer in South American World Cup qualifiers. Argentina continues to lead the CONMEBOL standings with a perfect record. Meanwhile, Brazil suffered a setback with Neymar sustaining a knee injury in a loss to Uruguay. This was Uruguay's first win over Brazil since 2001. Venezuela also continued their impressive run by defeating Chile 3-0. The next round of qualifiers will see Argentina facing Uruguay and Brazil, while Peru will play against Bolivia and Venezuela.

Mohammed Sanusi, the General Secretary of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), praised the Nigerian national football team, the Super Eagles, for their recent 3-2 victory over Mozambique. The win is significant as it marks the team's first friendly match victory in 55 months, with the last win dating back to March 2019 against Egypt. Sanusi emphasized the importance of the victory as a morale booster and a positive step in preparing for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers and the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). He also noted that the players demonstrated their worth and cohesion, which is crucial for the team's success in future tournaments. The Super Eagles are scheduled to start their World Cup qualifying campaign against Lesotho and Zimbabwe in November and will participate in the 34th AFCON in Cote d'Ivoire in early 2024.

Thomas Bach, the president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), has indicated his openness to the possibility of extending his tenure beyond the current 12-year limit set by the Olympic Charter. During a news conference in Mumbai, Bach expressed his gratitude for the support and friendship shown by some IOC members who wish to amend the statutes to allow him to stand for re-election. The issue has arisen as some members prefer to avoid an election campaign before the Paris 2024 Games. World Athletics chief Sebastian Coe is considered a potential candidate for the IOC presidency.

Kenyan marathon runner Titus Ekiru has been handed a 10-year ban by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) for doping and tampering with the investigation process. The ban is a result of Ekiru providing false information and documentation to obstruct the AIU's investigation into two adverse analytical findings for banned substances, including triamcinolone acetonide and pethidine. The positive test for triamcinolone acetonide occurred at the Milan Marathon, which he won. The investigation also revealed that Ekiru had received injections of banned substances during undocumented hospital visits and that medical documents he submitted were forged. As a consequence, his results from May 16th, 2021, have been disqualified, and he is required to return all race prizes and money. AIU chair David Howman emphasized that there is no hiding place for athletes and their entourages involved in doping.

Nigeria's national football team, the Super Eagles, secured a 3-2 victory over Mozambique in an international friendly match in Portimäo, Portugal. This win marks the first friendly match victory for Nigeria in 55 months, with their last win dating back to March 2019 against Egypt. Goals from Terem Moffi, Frank Onyeka, and Moses Simon contributed to the win, despite an early lead by Mozambique with a goal from Catamo. The match also saw Mozambique reduced to 10 men due to a red card. The victory is seen as a positive step towards building a winning mentality for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers and the 34th Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d'Ivoire.

Jose Peseiro, the head coach of the Super Eagles, has introduced Jordan Torunarigha and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru in the team's lineup for the friendly match against Mozambique. Francis Uzoho is confirmed as the goalkeeper for the game, which will take place at the Estadio Municipal de Albufeira. Bruno Onyemaechi will play as left-back, while the midfield will see Frank Onyeka and Raphael Onyedika, with Moses Simon playing on the flanks. Terem Moffi from OGC Nice is set to lead the attack, supported by Joe Aribo.

Nigeria excelled at the Valuejet/ITTF Lagos Para Open, sweeping all the medals available. The event, which lasted three days, concluded at the Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall of Teslim Balogun Stadium. Bolawa Akingbemisilu emerged as the standout athlete, securing three gold medals across various events. Other Nigerian athletes like Egbinola Oluade, Abiola Adesope, and Temitope Idris also won multiple golds. The women's singles saw victories from Ifechukwude Ikpeoyi, Nosimot Ganiu, Kafayat Olaitan, and Maryam Popoola in their respective classes. The final gold was claimed by Tajudeen Agunbiade and Francis Chukwuemeka in the men's doubles. This dominance highlights Nigeria's potential in para table tennis as they prepare for the Paris 2024 Paralympics.

Augustine Ndubisi, owner of Nigeria's largest Tug supply Vessels MV Atlantic Brigand, has won the Lord Wilson Golf Open Tournament. The event was held at Lakowe Lakes Golf Resort in Lagos, where Ndubisi played off a handicap of 17 and won by one stroke under par. Capt. Sunday Umoren, Secretary General of Abuja MOU, finished second, while Lagos-based banker Okposo Hector came in third. Other winners included Emmanuel Emoghware for nearest the pin and Mendes Seun for the longest drive. Stakeholders from the maritime sector showed increased interest in golf, with Mr Bayo Alli of ARM Group expressing commitment to organizing more tournaments and Ndubisi encouraging maritime industry players to take up the sport.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) Session in Mumbai has approved the inclusion of cricket in the 2028 Summer Games in Los Angeles. The sport, which is extremely popular in India, was last featured in the Olympics in 1900. The decision aims to tap into the Indian market, with India also considering a bid for the 2036 Games. The 2028 Olympics will also see the addition of baseball/softball, lacrosse, flag football, and squash. These sports are being added due to their cultural significance and persistent lobbying efforts. The inclusion of these sports is expected to increase the number of participants in the Los Angeles Games to over 11,000, surpassing the previous maximum of 10,500 athletes at Summer Games.

Gbenga Ogunbote, the Technical Adviser of Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) of Ibadan, expressed concerns over his team's defensive and goal-scoring performance in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL). Despite a 2-1 victory against Gombe United in their recent match, Ogunbote highlighted that 3SC has conceded four goals in three matches, affecting their league table position. He emphasized the need for improvement in goal scoring, acknowledging it as a recurring issue. Ogunbote also reflected on the challenging nature of the game against Gombe United and the pressure his players faced to score. Looking ahead, he anticipates a tough match against Akwa United and stressed the importance of fair officiating, especially in away games.

Baba Ganaru, the Head Coach of Gombe United, discussed the challenges faced by his team following their 1-2 loss to Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Match Day 3 fixture at Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan. Ganaru highlighted that the team was newly assembled just eight weeks prior, with a significant turnover in players, leaving them with limited pre-season preparation. Despite these challenges, he expressed pride in his players' efforts and is focused on improving with each game. Ganaru also emphasized the need for better officiating in the league to ensure credibility and maintain trust among players and fans.

Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) of Ibadan overcame an early deficit to defeat Gombe United Football Club 2-1 in a Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) match. Gombe United took the lead in the ninth minute with a goal from Bala Aliko. However, 3SC's captain Taofeek Malomo scored twice, including a late winner in the 89th minute, to secure the victory for the home team. Both teams had opportunities to score more goals but lacked clinical finishing. 3SC's head coach Gbenga Ogunbote expressed confidence that his team's finishing would improve, while Gombe United's coach Baba Ganaru is working on building team chemistry after joining the team just three weeks before the league started.

The Iyalode of Lagos State, Bintu Tinubu, and Innocent Ike, the former Managing Director of Polaris Bank, praised the Golfsixses tournament, which is aimed at the elderly and retirees. The event took place at the Ikeja Golf Club during its 2023 edition. Both Tinubu and Ike, participating for the first time, emphasized the importance of the tournament in providing a sense of belonging and keeping participants physically and mentally active. They encouraged the organizers to build on the current success to ensure the tournament's sustainability. The event saw 80 participants and included major partners such as Gabriel Olowo, Awa Ibraheem, Zed Jituboh, and Lola Akande, who presented an 'All Ladies' team. The Golfsixses tournament began in 2021 and alternates between Abuja and Lagos.