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Mikel Obi visits Yahaya Bello, harps on youth leadership

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Ace Nigerian Footballer, Mikel Obi, has harped on the need for youth leadership in Nigeria while on courtesy visit to Gov. Yahaya Bello of Kogi on Sunday in Abuja.

Obi said that it was time for the Youths to come out and take leadership positions across all boards for the betterment of Nigeria.

He pledged support for Bello’s political aspirations, adding that youths should be given a chance to get the change Nigerians clamour for.

He also lauded Bello for his achievement in Kogi in the areas of security, healthcare, infrastructure, education and agriculture.

The soccer star noted that such efforts when impacted at a higher level would bring further development for Nigeria.

“It is an honour for me to finally meet his Excellency personally after all the good things I have heard and read about him from not just the people of Kogi State but from Nigerians

“My main aim is to come here to show my appreciation and to thank him for all the things he has been doing for the people and also to support him in whatever future political positions he wants to go into.

“I will like to be there to support him, to be there by his side through this journey for him to achieve whatever he wants  which is for the betterment of Nigeria,” he said.

Obi said he was hopeful that Yahaya and himself could work together as team to achieve success.

“What better person to lead the youths than him, because he has been doing all these good works and that is why I am here to see whatever way I can come in.

“To get the youths together to know and see how we can make things better for our country and how we can align to achieve all that”, Obi said.

Responding, Bello thanked Obi for the visit and his pledge to support the course for youth leadership.

He reiterated that it was time for the youths to take the opportunity that had presented itself.

He thanked the ace footballer for lauding his efforts in the state, noting that the security and welfare of his people and Nigerians remained his priority.

The governor noted that when there was political stability in a country, economic prosperity and development would be achieved.

He urged Obi to use his voice and his platform to advocate and call on youths to vie for leadership position to change the existing narratives in line with the current realities.

“We can always come from our comfort zone to support each other.

“If we do not take charge we are going to blame ourselves tomorrow. The opportunity has come and it is now, not a second later.

“So you are going to integrate with us, not just as the superstar, Mikel Obi, but as one who will be in tune with what is happening at home politically.

“In the western world, because they have political stability that is why there is safety and security,” the governor said.

Bello said because there was safety and security outside the country, the economy was stable which was why everyone was rushing there.

“We can as well do same. First economic stability that will guarantee security and safety and then every other thing will follow.

“Even if it is just to talk, you have millions of followers, our achievements are online where you can click, take your time to go through.

“When you go through, send it through your social media handles and tell your advocates and let them see it”, Bello said

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FIFA Rankings: Super Falcons Retain Top Spot In Africa, Ranked 36th Globally

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August 7, 2025

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Super Falcons of Nigeria
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Nigeria’s Super Falcons have maintained their position as the highest-ranked women’s football team in Africa, according to the latest FIFA rankings released on Thursday.

The nine-time African champions are placed 36th in the world with 1,630 points, following their recent triumph at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, where they clinched a record-extending 10th title.

On the global stage, reigning world champions Spain top the rankings with 2,066 points, narrowly ahead of the United States who are second with 2,065 points. Sweden is third with 2,025 points, while European champions England occupy the fourth spot with 2,022 points.

In Africa, South Africa trails the Super Falcons, ranked second on the continent and 54th globally with 1,465 points. WAFCON 2024 finalists and hosts Morocco are third in Africa and 64th in the world with 1,407 points, followed closely by Zambia, ranked fourth in Africa and 65th globally with 1,402 points.

The next update of the FIFA Women’s World Rankings will be released on December 11, 2025.

 

 

 

 

 

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Maiden Senate President Tennis Championship Set For October Showdown

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4 months ago

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August 6, 2025

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Senate President Godwill Akpabio and others
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A new era is about to unfold in Nigerian tennis as the inaugural Senate President National Open Lawn Tennis Championship is set to serve off this October in a thrilling two-city tournament.

The historic championship, powered by Africa Sports Management Nigeria Limited in partnership with the Nigeria Tennis Federation (NTF), promises to inject fresh energy into grassroots tennis and shine a spotlight on the next generation of stars.

The big announcement was made during a high-profile visit to the Office of the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, led by the Chairman/CEO of Africa Sports Management, Rt. Hon. Prince Mathew Kolawole, and Rotimi Akinloye, representing the NTF President.

The meeting was brokered by Senator Abdul Ningi, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Sports Development.

According to Kolawole, the tournament is designed to celebrate Senate President Akpabio’s dynamic leadership and to serve as a vehicle for youth empowerment, sports development, and national unity through tennis.

“This championship is not just about tennis,” Kolawole declared. “It’s about engaging Nigerian youths, promoting healthy lifestyles, and creating a platform for budding talents to connect, compete, and grow.”

The championship will hit the courts in Abuja and Uyo, Akwa Ibom State — Akpabio’s home turf — in what’s expected to be a spectacle of athleticism and national pride.

Welcoming the initiative with enthusiasm, Senate President Akpabio pledged his full support and used the opportunity to rally the private sector behind sports development.

“Sports shouldn’t be government-funded alone,” Akpabio said. “The private sector must rise to the occasion. Competitions like this can attract sponsors, engage our youths, and produce future champions who will make Nigeria proud.”

With big names, bold ambitions, and a vision to transform the tennis scene, the countdown to October has begun — and all eyes are on the courts.

 

 

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Tinubu Awards D’Tigress $100,000, Homes, and National Honours After AfroBasket Victory

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4 months ago

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August 5, 2025

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Tinubu Awards D’Tigress $100,000
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Following their impressive victory at the AfroBasket 2025 championship, Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, received generous rewards from President Bola Tinubu. Each player was awarded a cash prize of $100,000, a three-bedroom apartment, and the prestigious Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) honor.

During a high-profile reception on Monday evening at the State House Banquet Hall in Abuja, Vice President Kashim Shettima praised the athletes and announced the rewards to a thunderous ovation from dignitaries and supporters. “Your victory is more than just a win on the court — it’s a victory for every Nigerian,” Shettima declared. “You’ve shown what’s possible when courage, discipline, and unity come together.”

Coaching and technical team members were also recognized, each receiving $50,000, a home, and national honors for their critical roles in leading the team to success. Under the innovative direction of Head Coach Rena Wakama, D’Tigress secured their fifth consecutive AfroBasket title and seventh overall by defeating Mali 78–64 in the final held at the Palais des Sports de Treichville in Abidjan. This victory extended Nigeria’s unbeaten run in the AfroBasket since 2017, solidifying their status as the continent’s unrivaled champions.

The triumphant team was warmly welcomed at the Presidential Villa shortly before 5:00 p.m., with an electric atmosphere filling the banquet hall. Attendees included First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Hajiya Nana Shettima, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, and key lawmakers like Senator Garba Maidoki and Hon. Kabiru Amadou.

This event followed the Super Falcons’ recent WAFCON triumph, marking a significant double celebration for Nigerian women’s sports. Sports analysts and fans alike praised Tinubu’s gesture as a strong commitment to women in sports. For the players, this recognition serves as more than just a reward; it is inspiration for future generations of champions.

“We did it for Nigeria,” one player expressed. “And to be honored like this? It’s unforgettable.”

D’Tigress didn’t just bring home a trophy; they conveyed hope, pride, and proof that Nigerian excellence knows no limits.

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