Kenya's Ngumbau wins Premium Trust Bank Abuja City Internatiinal Half Marathon

By Jumoke Owoola 

Kenya's Shadrack Ngumbau has emerged the champion of the First edition of Premium Trust Bank Abuja City Half Marathon.

With the performance, Ngumbau sets a Half Marathon record of one hour, seven minutes and fifty eight seconds.

The 29 years old System Intergration Engineer at the University of Nairobi, Kenya, went home with a cash prize of five thousand dollars.

In second place was Nigeria's Francis James, who set a new national record for men in the Half Marathon at one hour, 8 minutes and 2 seconds. His second place performance gave Nigeria the long awaited hope and inspiration that very soon, a Nigerian will win the full marathon race which had remained elusive to Nigerian runners over the years.

 Francis James went home with a cash prize of 3,000 dollars, and one million naira, which was the winner's cash prize for the first Nigerian to cross the finish line.

In third place was Raticm Kenneth from South Sudan. Kenneth, emerged third place at a time of one hour, 8 minutes and 55 seconds.

He got the cash prize of 2,000 dollars.

In fourth place was another Nigerian, Gyang Emmanuel, whose performance reconfirmed Nigeria's steady drive to end Kenyan' dominance of marathon races on the African continent.

by the east African. He got a cash prize of one thousand five hundred dollars.

Gyang Emmanuel, from Plateau state also finished as Nigeria's second placed finisher to grab additional cash prize of N750,000.

Another Nigerian, Adamu Shehu, finished fifth place in the main race at one hour, eleven minutes eight seconds. He got a cash prize of one thousand dollars and a Nigerian male's third prize of five hundred thousand naira.

In the women category, the foreign elite runners cleared the top three positions, with South Sudan's Gaspore Atalona beating all runners to cross the finish line at one hour, 20 minutes 23 seconds. She set the women's race record. She also took home the champions' cash prize of five thousand dollars.

Kenya's Toofriada Lodefa finished second place in the women's race at one hour 21 minutes, 37 seconds. She got a cash prize of 3,000 dollars.

In third place was Kenya's Rotto Nancy Jebet crossing the finish line at one hour, 21 seconds, 58 seconds. She got a cash prize of 2 thousand dollars.

In fourth place was Nigeria's Patience Daylop, who also emerged Nigeria's first woman to cross the finish line. She got the Nigerian prize of One million naira and one thousand five hundred dollars in the international race.

In fifth place in the women's race Yilmune Nichola. She emerged Nigeria's second place finisher to get a cash prize of N750,000. 

And in sixth place was Elizabeth Nuhu, who ran 1 hour 29 minutes and 16 seconds.

The presentation of  prizes to the winners in the main race was done by the Senate President, Mr. Godwill Apkabio and the Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer of Premium Trust Bank, Mr. Emmanuel Emefienim, in a series of elaborate victory ceremonies at the finish point, the Old Parade Ground, Garki, Abuja.

The Premium Trust Bank Abuja City International Half Marathon, organised by Nilayo Sports Management Limited, has been described, by the FCT Director of Sports, Mr. Lucas Istafanus, as the first ever official Marathon held in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

Alternative roads, diversions announced as Premium Trust Bank Abuja City Half Marathon holds April 20

By JUMOKE OWOOLA 

As the stage is set for the first edition of the Premium Trust Bank Abuja City International Half Marathon, being organised by Nilayo Sports Management Limited on Saturday, April 20, 2024, the alternative roads and diversions that would keep the people of the Federal Capital Territory,  out of the designated route, for upmost of four hours have been announced to enable the people plan for the day.

According to the Federal Road Safety Corps,  from the start point at the Abuja City Gate, 

Traffic will be diverted to the service lane to climb the bridge.

This would see Area 1 blocked, with vehicles coming from Berger diverted to Airport Road.

Vehicles coming from Area 1 will also be diverted to The Games Village.

 There will be another divertion from Area1 to Apo Junction. This would see all Vehicles diverted to the service lane.

The divertion from Apo Junction to Asokoro Road Junction would see the road Blocked for 4 hours.

For the Nyanyan to Kubwa Road, the flow of vehicles will be allowed, while vehicles coming  from Kubwa Road will be blocked for 4 hours.

For the route connecting the Force Headquarters to the Federal Secretariat, the

Vehicles from Force Headquarters will be blocked from the Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Road.

While the road linking the Transcorp Hotel to the Federal Secretariat 

will be blocked for 4 hours. So also the Constitution Road for 4 hours, so as to have a hitchfree Premuim Trust  Bank Abuja City Half Marathon.

Meanwhile, the official Expo for the Premuim Trust Bank Half Marathon flagged off on Monday in Abuja at the Jabbi Lake Resort. 

This is seeing the continued registration of runners for the Half Marathon, collection of running bibs and numbers by registered runners. 

The Expo would also witness the training and re-training of volunteers that would be stationed at different locations on the marathon routes. 

Some of the official sponsors will also be on ground to showcase their products and services.

Premium Trust Bank Abuja City International Half Marathon route celebrates Nigeria's icons.

By Jumoke Owoola 

The organisers of Premium Trust Bank Abuja City International Half Marathon, Nilayo Sports Management Limited has announced  the official route for the 21 kilometres race scheduled to hold on April 20, 2024, in the country's capital celebrating some top  Nigerian iconic figures/ head of states that have one way or the other contributed immensely to the development of the country since Nigeria's independence in 1960.

The Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer of Nilayo Sports Management Limited, Chief Bukola Olopade, has disclosed that, the start point of the Premium Trust Bank Abuja City International Half Marathon is the Abuja City Gate, the entrance to the new Federal Capital Territory which the Nigeria government moved to in 1991.

The race continues straight down and turn right into Nnamdi Azikiwe Expressway straight up to Apo Roundabout and turn left Muritala Mohammed Way.

From the Muritala Mohammed Way, the race continues straight up to Asokoro Roundabout. The runners continue by turning right into the Yakubu Gowon Way, and move straight down to the AYA Roundabout and turn left into President Goodluck Jonathan Expressway. 

The runners will continue straight down and turn right into Shehu Shagari Way, go straight down and turn left into into Constitution Avenue. From the Constitution Avenue, the race continue down and turn left into the Mohammed Buhari Way and continue straight down to turn left into the Moshood Abiola Road, where they will continue straight down and make a U-turn on Moshood Abiola Road, to turn right into the finish point at the Old Parade Ground.

Lagos City Marathon best in the world, Hamzat

By JUMOKE OWOOLA

The Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr.Kadiri Obafemi Hamzat has described the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon as one of the best long distance races in the world owing to its capacity and the atmosphere created by the state government.

The 9th edition of the Gold Label  was held on Saturday, February 10 as the 42Km race began at the National stadium in Surulere and ended at the Eko Atlantic City in Victoria Island.

Kenya, Bernard Sang won the 2024 race with the time of 2:16:35 in the male category while in the women category Chala Kebene from Ethiopia came first with the time of 2.41.01. The winners were rewarded with the top prize of 30,000 dollars each.

Speaking at the event, the Deputy Governor said “the Marathon has created an opportunity for people that came from other countries to understand our culture better, make friends here and also have socio-economic impact on the state

The Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende said the yearly event is getting bigger and better, stating the the collaboration with the sponsor has yielded tremendous benefits. “I’m happy that lagos State and Access Bank collaborate together and through the collaboration we can have multiple economic  event. The Marathon also help the youth to engage in something because most of them are restless, so I will encourage them to get off their feet and take advantage of it to the next level, he said.

Over 81 elite athletes drawn from different countries took part in the 42 kilometers while thousands of runners participated in the 10Km fun race. The 10th Access Bank Lagos City Marathon will hold next year, organizers are targeting a Platinum Label for the race ahead of the landmark edition.

Kenya's Bernard Sang wins Lagos City Marathon 2024

By JUMOKE OWOOLA 

Kenyan runner, Bernard Sang, has emerged as the winner of the 2024 Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, after clocking a time of 02:16:49.

The 32-year-old defeated about 80 others in the 9th edition of the race on Saturday to win the 42km race and clinch the $50,000 prize money.

The East Africans dominated the race as two other Kenyans, Simon Cheprot and Edwin Kiptoo, came second and third, with cash prizes of $40,000 and $30,000 respectively.

The Kenyans won the marathon in 2016, 2017, 2020 and 2021.

Also,  25-year-old Ethiopian, Kebene Chala, was the first woman to cross the finish line.

Shehu Muazu was the first Nigerian to cross the finish line and will be going home with a N1 million cash prize.

The 42km race, which was scheduled between 5 a.m. and 2 p.m respectfully began at the National Stadium in Surulere and ended at the Eko Atlantic City in Victoria Island.

Full details of the winners at the 2024 Access Bank Lagos City Marathon.

Men

1st - Bernand Sang - 2.16.48seconds.

2nd- Silas Cheprot - 2:16:63seconds.

3rd - Geofrey Birgen - Kenya - 2:17:42.

4th Kiptoo Edwin - Kenya - 2:19:31.

5th - Daniel Mundi - 2:19: 40seconds.

-----------------‐----------

Women winners

1st. HUrisa Kenbere - Ethiopia - 2:41:01seconds.

2nd - Margaret Agai - 2:41:42seconds.

3rd - Cherop Sharon Temtal - Kenya - 2:42:0 second.

4th - Guta Alemeneoh Siyun - Ethiopia- 2:43:00 seconds.

5th - Japheth Kosgei - Kenya,- 2:43:16 seconds.

AFCON: Redefining Nationalism And Patriotism

By Richard Odusanya .

Nationalism and patriotism can be thought of as consequences of national identity that represent positive evaluations of one's group but imply different social goals. In the golden words of Charles André Joseph Marie de Gaulle, a French army officer and statesman who led the Free French Forces against Nazi Germany in World War II and chaired the Provisional Government of the French Republic from 1944 to 1946 to restore a republic in France. 

The former French President Charles de Gaulle summed it up best when he said: “Patriotism is when love of your own people comes first; nationalism when hate for people other than your own comes first.” As a conservative statesman, de Gaulle comes from a mindset where patriotism offers a pathway toward order and stability. Patriotic feeling fosters a shared experience that brings together people from all walks of life.

True patriotism is a love for one’s country. Therefore, in our current situation today as a nation - I would argue that true patriotism is a sort of tough love—a recognition of the issues that plague one’s country and the passionate, relentless pursuit of a solution.

Though our beloved country Nigeria has done an abysmal job of following through on its founding principles, the principles themselves—a strong sense of equality and justice, the idea that “all men are created equal,” the celebration of social mobility, constitutionally binding freedom of expression—are exceptional and the core reason for Constitutional Democracy.

A more explicit link between nationalism and patriotism can be found in the work of German philosopher Johann Gottfried von Herder. In Herder’s view, patriotism refers not to a political virtue but to a spiritual attachment to the nation. In this context, the fatherland becomes synonymous with the nation and its distinct language and culture, which give it unity and coherence. Thus, instead of linking patriotism to the preservation of political liberty, Herder associates the love of one’s country with the preservation of a common culture and the spiritual unity of a people.

Following from the above, the Nigerian National Team 'Super Eagles' in demonstration of team spirit 'Nationalism and Patriotism' applying the philosophy of Turn back! Face your fear, and win! Symbolically, Nigeria wins despite the craziest moment in the history of VAR.

 Sadly, many deaths were recorded while watching Nigeria vs South African semifinal football match on Wednesday 7th, 2024.

1. My friend Cairo Ojougboh, Ex-NDDC director, a former member of the House of Representatives

2. Kwara State University deputy bursar.

 3. A Corp Member

 4. Chief Angus Obi, a Nigerian Businessman; and most likely many other enthusiasts.

The sad events occurred as a result of a second goal for the Nigerian team that was unceremoniously canceled and in a twist of fate, the referee, Amin Omar, awarded a penalty kick to South Africa. Teboho Mokoena, South Africa's ace midfielder rose to the occasion. With the weight of a nation on his shoulders, Mokoena calmly slotted the ball into the net during stoppage time, leveling the score and injecting a fresh dose of suspense into the match. The unexpected equalizer has left the outcome of the match hanging in the balance, with both teams still vying for a spot in the final. That was the craziest moment that was responsible for the deaths of our compatriots.

Essentially, Nationalism and Patriotism played significant roles in the outcome of the Nigeria/South Africa match. Characteristically the epitome of RESILIENCE was noticeable in the Nigerian team the Super Eagles. 

 “Our team has a huge state of mind. The team fights together, There are 25 of us (in the squad) and it’s difficult to beat us,” said Nigeria coach Jose Peseiro.

 “Deep down, thinking about that second canceled (Nigerian) goal and the (South African equalizer), a lot of teams would have given up.

 “I am very happy, the players are happy, they deserve it, we deserve it, the Super Eagles deserve it, and the Nigerian people deserve it.”

So, as we reflect on the subject of Nationalism and Patriotism - let us begin to reinvent the glorious old days as exemplified by the then-youngest governor of Abia State. The pillar of sport in Africa and a Distinguished Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria Dr Orji Uzor Kalu promoted nationalism above primordial sentiment as seen in the formation and success stories of Eyimba football club of Aba where Musa Aliyu a Northerner was the team captain.

Conclusively, in the spirit of Renewed Nationalism and Patriotism that enveloped and currently working amongst us - just as we unite to support the Super Eagles, we must also unite to restore HOPE, HEALING, PEACEFUL COEXISTENCE and work for a stronger nation living in HARMONY and PEACE. - as we join millions of our compatriots at home and abroad in wishing the Super Eagles a resounding victory in the Final march.

Finally, I like to join millions of our citizens home and abroad to dedicate this article to the unforgettable and loving memories of the departed compatriots. Goodnight our beloved compatriots – REST IN POWER.

UP NIGERIA

Richard Odusanya

[email protected]

LAGOS CITY MARATHON RACE: ORGANISERS PROMISE WORLD CLASS EVENT.

By JUMOKE OWOOLA 

Organisers of the annual Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, says the 9th edition holding Saturday, 10th February, 2024 promises to be full of fun passion and excitement.

In a world press conference held at the corporate headquarters of Access Bank to herald the 42km race , Chief Executive Officer of Nilayo Management Sports Limited, owners of the race, Chief Bukola Olopade explained that they were not only ready to make this year’s race a memorable one but to also showcase the hospitality and rich heritage of the country to the outside world as well as work towards achieving a platinum label.

He noted that the presence of former world record holder, Demis Kipmeto and the Commonwealth champion was a testimony that the race would be an exceptional one just as he stated that many things have been put in place for an amazing race.

The race General Manager, and former Africa record holder in Long Jump for 27 years, Yusuf Ali noted that, the presence of 88 Gold Label runners, was a positive thing for the 9th edition of the Lagos City Marathon, especially as the organisers are preparing for the 10th edition of the race with the biggest prospect of uplifting the race from the Gold Label status to the Platinuum Label.

“Our target is to ensure that our registered world class elite runners help propel the Lagos City Marathon to the Platinuum Label. This is possible with the calibre of runners that will be on the field on February 10.

” If we can produce five elite runners crossing the finish line at 2 hours 8 minutes, we shall most definitely climb to the Platinum Label”, he stressed.

Ali while stating that the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon is the only marathon that got silver label within four years, however appealed to World Athletics not to judge the race by the time returned as a prerequisite for upgrading it to platinum label but to consider also the weather of the country and other factors peculiar to Africa before taking a decision.

In his own remarks, Vice President of World Athletics, Jackson Tuwel commended the organisers of the race describing the Access Bank/Lagos City Marathon as not only one of the best in Africa but all over the world.

He expressed hope that the sponsors will continue investing in the race as it goes into 10th edition next year.

Tuwel spoke on the need for a synergy between various marathons in the African continent to make it more attractive and ensure runners are well paid to encourage them.

BREAKING: Graham Potter sacked by Chelsea FC

Official Statement from Chelsea Football Club of England says the has announced that Graham Potter has departed. 

Graham has agreed to collaborate with the Club to facilitate a smooth transition. In his time with the club, Graham has taken us to the quarter final of the Champions League, where we will face Real Madrid. Chelsea would like to thank Graham for all his efforts and contribution and wish him well for the future. 

Bruno Saltor will take charge of the team as Interim Head Coach.

Co-controlling owners Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali said: 'On behalf of everyone at the club, we want to thank Graham sincerely for his contribution to Chelsea. We have the highest degree of respect for Graham as a coach and as a person. He has always conducted himself with professionalism and integrity and we are all disappointed in this outcome.

'Along with our incredible fans, we will all be getting behind Bruno and the team as we focus on the rest of the season. We have 10 Premier League games remaining and a Champions League quarter final ahead. We will put every effort and commitment into every one of those games so that we can end the season on a high.'

PFAN Congratulates Flying Eagles On World Cup Ticket

...tasks team to go for the trophy 

By Akeem Busari 

Nigeria's foremost players union, the Professional Footballers Association of Nigeria, (PFAN), has congratulated Nigeria's U20 male team, the Flying Eagles' for qualifying for the U20 World Cup, after defeating hard-fighting Hippos Of Uganda, 1-0, in the quarter-finals of the ongoing Africa U20 Championship in Egypt. 

In the congratulatory message signed by its President Tijani Babangida, MON and released by Secretary-General  Emmanuel Babayaro, MON, the players union, while expressing its joy on the victory and eventual qualification of the boys handled by Ladan Bosso for the world cup, restated its firm belief in the potentials and abilities of the team. 

"Yesterday's win over Uganda is a reconfirmation of the abilities of our boys to rule the world of football," the statement read.

"We understand that qualifying for the semi-finals and of course, the world cup, is no mean feat. We say congratulations to the Nigeria Football Federation, the team and officials, and of course, all football loving Nigerians. 

"Going forward, we want to encourage the boys to face their new opponents with renewed confidence and determination to conquer all and bring home a record eight African title," PFAN stated. 

The players body went on to admonish the NFF, not to leave any stone unturned in the quest of the team to become African champions, once again. Adding that winning the cup would further buoy the fortunes of Nigerian football.

BREAKING: Football legend, Pele is dead

Pelé, the Brazilian king of soccer who won a record three World Cups and became one of the most commanding sports figures of the last century, died Thursday. He was 82.

The standard-bearer of “the beautiful game” had undergone treatment for colon cancer since 2021. The medical center where he had been hospitalized for the last month said he died of multiple organ failure as a result of the cancer.

“All that we are is thanks to you,” his daughter Kely Nascimento wrote on Instagram. “We love you endlessly. Rest in peace.”

His agent, Joe Fraga, confirmed his death: “The king has passed.”

Widely regarded as one of soccer’s greatest players, Pelé spent nearly two decades enchanting fans and dazzling opponents as the game’s most prolific scorer with Brazilian club Santos and the Brazil national team.

His grace, athleticism and mesmerizing moves transfixed players and fans. He orchestrated a fast, fluid style that revolutionized the sport — a samba-like flair that personified his country’s elegance on the field.

He carried Brazil to soccer’s heights and became a global ambassador for his sport in a journey that began on the streets of Sao Paulo state, where he would kick a sock stuffed with newspapers or rags.

Al Rihla': The High-tech Footballs Used in Qatar 2022 World Cup That Require No Air But Charged Like Mobile Phones

By Dansu Peter 

The official 'Al Rihla' footballs used for the World Cup in Qatar are so high-tech they don't just need to be pumped full of air - they need to be charged. 

Manufactured by Adidas, the ball, which takes its name from the Arabic word for 'the journey', has a sensor inside that measures data like speed and direction and allows for ball-tracking and offside calls by the VAR.

The World Cup balls are charged before every game. The balls used at the World Cup in Qatar have a high-tech sensor which needs to be charged. 

The sensor is powered by a small battery, which Adidas said can last for six hours of active use, or up to 18 days when not. The sensor, which weighs just 14 grams, gives ball-tracking in real-time; with cameras positioned around the pitch helping referees to determine offside and other questionable decisions.

Any time the ball is kicked, headed, thrown or even so much as tapped, the system picks it up at 500 frames per second. Data is sent in real time from sensors to a local positioning system (LPS), which involves a setup of network antennas installed around the playing field that take in and store the data for immediate use. 

When a ball flies out of bounds during the course of play, and a new ball is thrown or kicked in to replace it, KINEXON’s backend system automatically switches to the new ball’s data input without the need for human intervention.

CREDIT: DailyMail

BREAKING: Man United faces Atletico Madrid : Redone UCL Full Draw

Paris St-Germain vs Real Madrid

Inter Milan vs Liverpool

Villarreal vs Juventus

Atletico Madrid vs Manchester United

Chelsea vs Lille. 

Benfica vs Ajax

Sporting Lisbon vs Manchester City

Red Bull Salzburg vs Bayern Munich

BREAKING: Gernot Rohr sacked by NFF

By Our Reporter 

Gernot Rohr, the Super Eagles of Nigeria technical handler has reportedly been sacked by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). 

According to SpyNigeria, the coach and the football governing body reached mutual termination of agreement on Sunday. 

"The agreement was reached few hours ago with Rohr said to have returned back to his base" , NFF source allegedly said according to SPY NIGERIA in Abuja on Sunday.

Clamour for Rohr’s removal reached its peak few days ago after Nigeria’s senior men football team struggled to pull a draw with Cape Verde in a 2022 World Cup qualifying match.

The NFF is expected to make an official statement on Rohr’s mutual disengagement soon.

Uefa Champions League Full Draw: Man City Face PSG, Chelsea vs Juventus

BREAKING: Spurs SACKS Mourinho

By Dansu Peter 

Jose Mourinho has been sacked as manager Tottenham Hotspur, News Proof understands 

It was reliably learned that the Spurs have decided to relief Mourinho after just over a season and a half in charge. Tottenham are in seventh in the Premier League and at risk of missing out on a place in the top four.

Details shortly 

Bruedent FC defeats Alfa Boys 2 - 1 in crunch derby game in Lagos

By: kikekon Manoah 

A friendly match took place between 'Bruedent football club' and 'Alfa Boys'. on Friday march 12, 2021 at Agboju, Amuwo Grammar school, Lagos state. It happened to be a local derby match between both teams. 

The match ended with a 2 - 1, with Bruedent f.c. topping. The goal scorers in the Bruedent F.c team are; James David and Ugochukwu Julius. The match was played strictly on COVID-19 protocol.

Speaking with Ojelowo Alli Abiodun, the manager of Bruedent F.C “Many of the players are still undergoing trials, but with the level of their performance in the last local derby match, it can be said to be average performance. The purpose of the match is to know the level of fitness of the just discovered talents in Bruedent football club. These players were picked from their various schools by the manager of Bruedent F.C.”

He also said “we brought them together and they have been undergoing training for the past two months, so as the manager, I decided to organize a friendly match between Bruedent F.C and Alfa F.C. to know their level of improvement on their previous training given to them by their coach, Tony.

In view of the coach, Mr Tony, the players need enough confidence, which is what have been noticed by the coach and the team has started working seriously on that.

The manager further said, "the team needs extra training. The more they train, the better for them. They need to train tentatively, tremendously and adequately, because the game of football is not just you having talent, talent without hard work will never take a player anywhere, when hard work and talent is combined together, the sky will be the limit of such players. They can now aim at becoming professional players.

The major keys needed to move from grass root player to professional football player are discipline, hard working and focus".

 

Photo moments of Tuchel's First Training Session at Chelsea

Photos source : Chelsea FC Facebook Page 

BREAKING: Lampard Sacked as Chelsea Coach

By Dansu Peter 

Chelsea FC has sacked coach Frank Lampard report according to goal.com says. 

The Blues icon has left Stamford Bridge after just 18 months in charge, with the former Borussia Dortmund and PSG coach due to take over. 

Frank Lampard has been sacked from his role as Chelsea manager and will be replaced by former Paris Saint-Germain coach Thomas Tuchel.

Lampard had been in charge for just over 18 months, but leaves following five defeats in the last eight games.

He will be replaced by Tuchel, with Goal understanding that a verbal agreement as been in place between Chelsea and their incoming manager for a couple of days before the news of Lampard's departure became public.

Exclusive: Bruedent Football Academy takes football development to the grassroots

By Kikekon Manoah 

Bruedent football club and academy was established in 2014, located at Agboju Lagos state. An initiative to discover, develop and explore football talent at the grass root level. Helping young stars to achieve their career goal. Serving as bridge connecting young talents to their greatest peak. Bruedent FC has achieved a lot in short time, producing players that has represented various academy and football clubs here in Nigeria and abroad.

In an exclusive interview with News Proof, Ojelowo Alli Abiodun the CEO said “Looking at Nigeria’s Super Eagle, they have not been performing well lately because they are average players. Many of them do not have the opportunity to develop themselves at the grass root level, which is affecting their career today. Compare to their counterpart in Europe and other parts of the world”.

“From history, the team that represented Nigeria at the U.S.A. 1994 world cup will always remain in the memories of Nigerians because they are world class football players who were developed from grass root clubs, players like Uche Okachukwu, Jay Jay Okocha and Rashidi Yekini who holds the unbroken title of highest goal scorer for Nigeria till date. The players we have today are not talented enough to represent Nigeria in international level”. 

“Nigeria has dropped in FIFA ranking just because of the poor performance of the Nigerian Super Eagle, but if government should invest in grass root football, Nigeria will be able to meet up with so many other countries. If the government can invest in football at the grass root levels Nigeria too can provide good professional footballers in future, that would make the nation gain her rightful place in football”. 

He further said “It is the duty N.F.F to organize football competition at grass root level where all football academies and local football clubs would be beneficiary. On the part of Lagos state Football Association, they are trying but it’s not enough. They should organize competition involving all the grass root football clubs in Lagos state. All the previous tournaments have been monopolized to few clubs”.

 “We have discovered and developed young talents in Nigeria, helping them further their career in football. Bruedent F.C players have represented various football clubs such as Yobo f.c. at the F.A. cup in Nigeria, Nilayo f.c. at the Nigeria amateur football league. We provided players for Nigerian football team at the grass root level, which is the Golden Eaglet. Many of my players have been invited to Under 17 Golden Eaglet camp where they were able to showcase their talents”.

“We warn so many tournaments around Lagos, as the CEO I have singlehandedly organized various tournaments for football academy in Lagos state where various football stars has participated. We have engaged our players in various youth empowerment, we made sure that both genders are beneficial of our empowerment, one of the beneficiaries is Ruth Ogana who was just signed for Royal Queen F.C in Warri few months ago”.

 “On my part I have tried as much as I can to develop various talent, I have successfully organized seven tournaments, all F.C’s around Agboju has benefited from this. In other to improve grass root F.C Lagos state and Nigeria need to organize tournament involving all the grass root F.C which should b replicated in both state and national level”. 

He concluded the interview with word of advice to other grass root football teams saying, they should not relent they will definitely get reward for their good works one day.

JUST IN: Kwara United signs Brazilian winger, Alves

By Dansu Peter 

An emerging report according to Punch Newspaper suggest that Kwara United in Ilorin, Nigeria has signed a Brazilian winger, Lucas Ribeiro Alves

Alves joined the Afonja boys from Corinthians. He will be unveiled soon, the report says. 

Alves is the second high-profile signing to join the Afonja Warriors, ahead of the 2020/21 Nigeria Professional Football League, following the arrival of former Super Eagles goalkeeper Dele Ayenugba from Israeli side Hapoel Afula.

Alves, who can also function as a midfielder, had a stint in the US cut short following the outbreak of  COVID-19 in March.

The 25-year-old is hoping to play a big role in Kwara United’s campaign next season, but admits the NPFL is a new challenge.

Source, including photo : Punch Newspaper