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By Muzammil Dalha Yola  The Flying Eagles of Nigeria, has made the nation proud once again by successfully defending their U-20 WAFU B tournament title in Togo. The team's 2-1 victory over Ghana in the final on Wednesday marked a thrilling conclusion to their campaign. Senator Abdurrahman Kawu Sumaila, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Sports, was quick to praise the team's achievement, stating, "This is a very good win for Nigeria at this point, and I want to specially commend the boys and technical crews for doing the country proud". The Senator highlighted the team's remarkable resilience throughout the tournament. Senator Abdurrahman Kawu Sumaila praised the Flying Eagles' remarkable resilience after their thrilling 2-1 victory over Ghana in the WAFU B U20 Championship final. "The team's determination to bounce back from their initial loss to Burkina Faso is truly inspiring," he noted. "Their ability to overcome adversity and emerge as...

By Nasir Gide  The Katsina State government has awarded the contract for the renovation and upgrade of Umar Faruq Township Stadium in Daura to Space and Dimension Company Limited. This development is part of Governor Mal Dikko Umar Radda's initiative to promote sports in the state. At a ceremony held at the stadium premises, Alh Muhammad Rabiu Muhammad, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, handed over the project to the contractor. The project is expected to be completed within eight weeks. According to QS Abu Qasim Yusuf Sada, Chairman of Space and Dimension Company Limited and a seasoned sports facility construction expert, the company is grateful for the opportunity and committed to delivering the project in the best interests of all stakeholders. Project Scope: - Renovation of the Pavilion: Upgrading existing facilities to meet modern standards - Construction of New Toilets: Enhancing amenities for spectators and athletes - Installation of Wire M...

By Abdallah Shariff  Lagos State FA Chairman, Alhaji Gafar Liameed, and Super Eagles forward Taiwo Awoniyi have donated substantial cash gifts to the Flying Eagles following their 3-1 victory over Junior Mena of Niger Republic in the ongoing WAFU B U20 tournament in Lome, Togo. Alhaji Liameed contributed ₦1 million, while Awoniyi, who rose through the Flying Eagles ranks and now plays for Nottingham Forest, donated ₦2.5 million. This generous gesture comes as well-meaning Nigerians continue to support the U20 men's team, aiming to boost their morale. The Flying Eagles have already secured a spot in next year's AFCON U20 tournament. They face Ghana's Black Satellites on Wednesday, seeking to defend their title won two years ago in Niger Republic.

By Muzammil Dalha Yola  In a colourful ceremony held at the Lafia Township Stadium, Nigeria Football Federation President, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau MON, officially handed over the hosting rights of the 2025 Gusau/Ahlan Pre-Season Soccer Tournament to the Nasarawa State Government. Gusau presented the hosting flag to Nasarawa State Governor, Engineer Abdullahi Sule, symbolizing the state's confirmation as the next host. The decision to award Nasarawa State the hosting rights was inspired by Governor Sule's commitment to promoting sports, particularly football, in the state and nationwide. The tournament will take place in Lafia before the start of the 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League season. Governor Sule assured Nigerians that his government will provide necessary logistics for a successful tournament, reaffirming his administration's support for initiatives that develop sports activities in the state and country. Abahuraira Dahiru, the Coordinator of the tourname...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola  Kano Pillars have been charged by the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) for breaching the league's Framework and Rules during their Matchday 9 fixture against Nasarawa United on Sunday. According to the NPFL, Kano Pillars' Media and Communications Directorate quoted player Ahmed Musa making disparaging statements about match officials, which is deemed capable of bringing the game into disrepute. Furthermore, the club failed to ensure the proper conduct of their team, resulting in the unruly behavior of player Ugochukwu Gabriel (jersey number 26) during the match. Consequently, Gabriel has been suspended for the next 9 NPFL matches, starting from Matchday 10. The sanctions against Kano Pillars include: - A fine of N1 million for misconduct capable of bringing the game into disrepute - An additional fine of N1 million for improper conduct of players and officials - A warning against publishing inflammatory statements in the future - Advice to use...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola  Nigerian national team captain, Ahmed Musa OON, has strongly criticized the officiating in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 9 fixture between Nasarawa United and Kano Pillars. Musa labeled the officials as "moral killers" due to their handling of the game at the Lafia City Stadium. The officiating team, led by center referee Dahiru Muhammed Kawo and assistant referee Abdulmajid Sani Potiskum, made several avoidable errors. These included allowing a contentious goal by Nasarawa United, where two players appeared to be offside, and failing to maintain a consistent game flow. Musa expressed his disappointment to newsmen after the game, emphasizing that such officiating lapses demoralize players and undermine the league's credibility. The Nigerian football legend recently returned to Kano Pillars, his boyhood club, along with Shehu Abdullahi, aiming to contribute to domestic football. However, Musa now questions his decision due to q...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola  The highly anticipated Ahlan Cup 2024 has released its rescheduled matches for the Round of 32. The competition promises thrilling encounters between top teams in Kano State at Mahaha Sports Complex and fans are eager to witness the action unfold. Here's the schedule: Thursday, October 31 1. Azubah FC vs. Matasa FC - Sharada Field 2. Kabuga United vs. Young Talent - Continue Field Friday, November 1 1. Dabo Babies FC vs. B I B Pollybags - Kano Lion Field 2. Kano Cars vs. Ashafa Action - Skylimit Field Saturday, November 2 1. Kano Ambassador vs. Mandawari United - Kano Lion Field 2. Sky Limit FC vs. Kano Lions - Sharada Field 3. Tudun Wada United vs. A.T.K FC - Skylimit Field Sunday, November 3 1. Kwankwasiya United vs. Dorayi Babba United - Skylimit Field 2. Good Obey vs. Tawayiya FC - Kano Lion Field 3. Tsamiya United vs. FC Heart Future Stars - Sharada Field Thursday, November 7 1. Tagarji United vs. Salanta United - Continue Field 2. Super Star Sheka vs. ...

By Fred Edoreh  From the performances of our national teams in international competitions, especially in the past four Olympic Games, to all the shenanigans that marked various ministerial administrations of sports from 2015 into 2024, it was obvious that the Nigerian sports establishment needed a rejig. Perhaps, the abysmally poor and shameful outing of Team Nigeria at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games jolted the nation, and determined President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's swift, bold and inspiring response to scrap the Ministry of Sports and resuscitate the National Sports Commission structure. Not entirely new in the annals of Nigerian sports, a majority of sports administrators, managers, coaches, veteran athletes and sports businessmen have voiced their preference for it. For one, it compels its composition with professionals in various fields of sports for more robust designs and rigorous evaluation of programmes, eliminates the red tapes of the ministry system and challenges its leadersh...

  By Muzammil Dalha Yola  Chairman of the Senate Committee on Sports, Senator Abdurrahman Kawu Sumaila, has hailed the Confederation of African Football's (CAF) decision to award three points and three goals to Nigeria's Super Eagles following the botched match against Libya in AFCON 2025 qualifying campaign. The Libyan Football Association was also fined $50,000. Sumaila praised CAF's move, stating that it will "restore the image of CAF and serve as a deterrent to others". This decision comes as a welcome relief to Nigerian football fans, who were left disappointed after the match was disrupted. CAF's decision demonstrates their commitment to upholding fair play and ensuring that teams compete on a level playing field. By penalizing the Libyan Football Association, CAF sends a strong message that disruptions to the game will not be tolerated. The Super Eagles are now poised to continue their AFCON 2025 qualifying campaign with renewed momentum. With this boos...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola  In an exciting development for football fans in Kano State, Honourable Mustapha Rabiu Kwankwaso, the Commissioner of Youth and Sports Development, announced that the renovation of the Sani Abacha Stadium is almost complete. During a press briefing on Friday, October 25, 2024, Kwankwaso revealed that approximately 85% of the renovation work has been finished. This news means that Kano Pillars FC, the state's beloved team, will soon return to their home stadium after temporarily playing at the Muhammad Dikko Stadium in Katsina for the 2024/25 Nigeria Premier Football League Season. Fans are eagerly anticipating the team's homecoming, which could happen as early as their next match day 10 against Plateau United. The renovated stadium promises to usher in a new era for Kano Pillars and their supporters. With the commissioner's assurance, fans can look forward to an enhanced viewing experience and a revitalized team spirit. Kwankwaso's announcement ha...

.... Governor Abba Yusuf Honours Late Salisu Yaro's Legacy By Muzammil Dalha Yola  Kano State Governor, His Excellency Abba Kabir Yusuf, has paid ₦11.2 million to the family of late Salisu Yaro, former Team Manager, Coordinator, and Welfare Officer of Kano Pillars FC. Commissioner of Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Mustapha Rabiu Kwankwaso, and S. A Sports, Hon. Jamiliu Yamadawa, presented the check to the family. Kwankwaso praised Yaro as a "legend and hero" who served Kano Pillars FC and Kano State with love, dedication, and passion. The commissioner expressed sincere gratitude to the family for their steadfast patience and discipline also acknowledged the efforts of the DG Media Directorate of Kano Pillars and his office in forwarding the request to the Governor which approved immediately.  The Governor also settled outstanding payments to athletes who served Kano State, vowing to continue supporting those who elevate the state's name. This kind gesture demonstr...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola  Dr. Shariff Rabiu Ahlan, Chairman of the Kano State Football Association, has extended his warmest congratulations to Alhaji Shehu Dikko on his well-deserved appointment as Chairman/Director General of the National Sports Commission by President Ahmed Bola Tinubu. As a colleague, brother and friend, Dr. Ahlan expressed his optimism about Shehu Dikko's capacity to excel in his new role, citing his proven track record as an experienced and astute administrator. Shehu Dikko's history of introducing innovative initiatives in various positions makes him an ideal fit for this critical position. Dr. Ahlan, who also serves as an Executive Board Member representing the North West and Chairman of the NFF Technical Committee, Marketing, and Sponsorship, praised Shehu Dikko's dedication to sports development. His confidence in Shehu Dikko's ability to drive growth and progress in Nigeria's sports sector is shared by many in the football community. Shehu ...

  By Muzammil Dalha Yola  Former Kano Pillars FC Chairman, Alhaji Kabiru Baita, has congratulated Alhaji Shehu Dikko on his well-deserved appointment as Chairman/Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC) by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Baita described the appointment as judicious, noting that Dikko's vast experience as a veteran sports technocrat is timely, given the current state of Nigerian sports. He praised Dikko's commitment to sports development, honesty, dedication, patience, and humanity. Baita urged Dikko to carry everyone along and deploy his experience to revive sports glory in Nigeria and beyond. Dikko's impressive resume includes Chairman of League Management Company, Second Vice President of Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), and committee member in various CAF committees. President Tinubu appointed Dikko as NSC Chairman/DG on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, as part of a minor cabinet reshuffle.

... Egyptian Third-Division Side Bolsters Attack with 'D' Goal Machine By Muzammil Dalha Yola  Shoban Almraghah Sports Club Egypt has announced the signing of Nigerian striker Abubakar Umar, popularly known as "D' Goal Machine", from Depros FC Lagos. The highly-rated forward joins the Egyptian third-division side on a lucrative deal. Abubakar Umar's impressive stats with Depros FC Lagos caught the attention of Shoban Almraghah's scouting team. Last season, he scored 15 goals and provided 6 assists in 17 games, showcasing his clinical finishing and creativity. Born in Kano and former Zoo United player, Abubakar idolizes former Nigerian striker Rashidi Yekini, known for his powerful shooting and accuracy. Drawing parallels with his idol, Abubakar possesses similar qualities, making him an exciting addition to Shoban Almraghah's attack. "I'm thrilled to join Shoban Almraghah Sports Club Egypt," Abubakar said. "This opportunity will help...

  By Nasir Gide  Arrangements are underway for the Principal Cup, Katsina 2024, an inter-secondary school football competition organized by Hidea Plus Limited in collaboration with Katsina Football Academy and partnership with the Ministries of Basic and Secondary Education, Youths, and Sports Development. According to project consultant Mr. Tony Pemu, the competition aims to boost sporting activities at the grassroots level. The knockout tournament, scheduled to begin on November 8, 2024, has attracted 158 registered secondary schools. The preliminary round will take place across 12 zonal educational offices within the state's 34 local government areas, culminating in the final at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium in Katsina. Recently, the local organizing committee, led by Mr. Pemu, inspected the Umar Faruq Township Stadium in Daura, the venue for the opening ceremony. They also met with Prince Daha Umar Faruq, chairman of the Katsina Sports Council's governing board, to secure hi...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola  In a heartwarming gesture, Deputy Senate President Dr. Barau I. Jibrin has donated brand-new motorcycles to Barau Football Club players and officials. The distribution ceremony took place on Sunday, October 20, 2024, in Kano, fulfilling a promise made in June to celebrate the team's triumph and promotion to the Nigerian National League (NNL). DSP. Jibrin's chief of staff, Professor Muhammad Ibn Abdullahi, represented him at the event, emphasizing the deputy president's commitment to enhancing the team's welfare and mobility. "This is not the first, and it will not be the last. By Allah's grace, he will continue to carry out our intervention programs to enable our people to be self-reliant," Professor Abdullahi stated. Barau FC Chairman Ibrahim Shitu Chanji expressed gratitude to DSP. Jibrin for his dedication to the club, acknowledging his contributions to football development in Kano and Nigeria. Najib Yusuf, speaking on behalf of ...

.... Moroccon Giants to Appoint UEFA-Certified Strategist to Boost Title Hopes By Muzammil Dalha Yola  Wydad Athletic Club is set to announce the signing of Nigerian tactical genius Muhammad Bashiru Saidu, who will work alongside new coach, South African international Rhulani Mokwena. This strategic move aims to bolster the team's chances in the ongoing Botola Pro (Moroccan league). Wydad Athletic Club President, Hachim Ait Menna, expressed his delight at securing Saidu's services, citing his impressive credentials. "We are thrilled to welcome Muhammad Bashiru Saidu, mastermind behind Sudan's stunning 2-0 victory over Ghana in the AFCON 2025 qualifier. His expertise will undoubtedly elevate our team's performance." Ait Menna praised Saidu, saying, "He is a golden fish in the river, now in Africa. His UEFA CTSM certification showcases his exceptional tactical acumen. We are confident his presence will bring a fresh perspective and success to Wydad Athletic...

... Sudan Coach James Kwesi Appiah Hails Saidu's Mastermind Tactics in 2-0 Win over Ghana By Muzammil Dalha Yola In a landmark achievement, Muhammad Bashiru Saidu, a trailblazing football tactician from northern Nigeria, is poised to become the first Nigerian to complete the prestigious UEFA Tactical and Strategic Management Program. This feat has captured the attention of top teams in Nigeria and Africa, eager to elevate their game to unprecedented heights. Saidu's exceptional expertise was recently showcased in Sudan's stunning 2-0 victory over Ghana in the AFCON 2025 qualifier. Sudan national team coach, James Kwesi Appiah, lavished praise on Saidu, attributing the team's success to his tactical genius. "Muhammad is a talented and innovative football mind," Appiah exclaimed. "His expertise and analysis were instrumental in our success against Ghana. He brought a fresh perspective to our game plan, and his recommendations paid off." Appiah, a veter...

  By Muzammil Dalha Yola Chairman of the Sports Senate Committee, Honourable Abdurrahman Kawu Sumaila OFR, PhD has strongly condemned the barbaric treatment of Nigerian Super Eagles players by Libyan authorities during the ongoing AFCON 2025 qualifiers. The team was left stranded at the airport for 14 hours, sparking widespread outrage.  Honourable Kawu Sumaila  emphasized that the safety and well-being of Nigerian players and citizens abroad is of utmost importance. He stressed that protecting Nigerians, both at home and abroad, is a collective responsibility that requires urgent attention and action. As a prominent figure in Nigerian politics and sports, Kawu Sumaila's condemnation carries significant weight. With his extensive experience in the National Assembly and as a former Senior Special Assistant to President Muhammadu Buhari, he has been a vocal advocate for Nigerian interests. The Super Eagles' ordeal in Libya has raised concerns about player safety and the ...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola  The management of Barau Football Club has dismissed and denied recent online newspaper posts alleging that Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin failed to fulfill his promises to the club. A recent online report claimed that "Management and Players of Barau FC expressed anger over the team's owner's failure to fulfill his promises." In an official statement signed by the club's Media Officer, Ahmad Hamisu Gwale, on Sunday, the club described the report as malicious and false. "The report is completely untrue and should be disregarded," Gwale stated. "It's disappointing that some media outlets expose misinformation without verifying the facts." The statement added that Deputy Senate President Barau I. Jibrin deserves commendation for his contributions, which led to the club's promotion from the NLO to the NNL last season. As part of his efforts to develop sports, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin is building sta...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola  Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa made a stunning return to Kano Pillars, scoring twice to lead his team to a 2-0 victory over Sunshine Stars in Match Day 5 of the 2024/25 Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) season. Musa, who recently rejoined Kano Pillars on a short-term deal, opened the scoring in the 5th minute and doubled his tally in the 51st minute. The brace marked a memorable comeback for the veteran forward, who showed no signs of rust despite his recent absence from the domestic scene. However, Musa missed a chance to seal a hat-trick when he failed to convert a penalty kick in the 70th minute. The win propels Kano Pillars up the NPFL standings to 8th position with 7 points. Musa's impressive performance is expected to boost morale within the Kano Pillars camp and energize the team's push for a strong finish in the NPFL this season. With this victory, Kano Pillars focuses on the match day 6 away to Akwa United 

  By Rilwanu Idris Malikawa  The Federal Government has urged the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) board to be resilient and determined in ensuring the Super Eagles qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Minister of Sports, Mr. John Enoh, set this target at the 2024 Annual General Assembly held at the Delta State Government House Conference Hall, Asaba Delta State on friday, 4th October 2024. Mr. Enoh emphasized that the government and people of Nigeria expect nothing less than the World Cup ticket from the Super Eagles, along with bringing home the Afcon trophy from Morocco. He also urged the federation to resolve the lingering crisis over the board's Secretary General tenure and appoint a deserving technical adviser for the men's senior national team. The Minister commended the leadership style of the federation, led by Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau MON, and reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's unwavering commitment to supporting the federation's activities. Mr. Enoh h...

By Ado Salisu  The Kano Government College football team is expected to travel to Abuja ahead of the national inter-secondary schools Under-15 soccer tournament, scheduled to hold from October 24 to November 1, 2024. The competition, organized by the Nigerian School Sports Federation (NSSF) under the leadership of its President, Olabisi Joseph, has attracted schools from across the country. According to Ibrahim Bello, head of school sports for the Kano State Ministry of Education, preparations for the championship have commenced to ensure the state excels in the tournament. The boys have already begun rigorous training, twice a day, to emerge victorious. Bello commended Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and the state Commissioner of Education, Alhaji Umar Haruna Doguwa, for their unwavering financial and moral support. Bello charged the boys to do everything possible to ensure the state's success in the competition, assuring them that with their commitment and determination, "the sky ...