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By Muzammil Dalha Yola Kano Pillars FC supremo, Alhaji Ali Muhammad Umar, popularly known as Ali Na Yara Mai Samba Kurna, has praised the performance of the players, technical crew, and backroom staff for their impressive showing in the ongoing Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) 2024/2025 season. Speaking with the Media & Communications Directorate of the club on Monday in Kano, Ali Na Yara expressed his satisfaction with the resilience and determination exhibited by the team across the 35 matches played so far. He urged the players and technical crew to maintain their momentum and finish the season strongly. The Sai Masu Gida showcased their strength once again on Friday, delivering a commanding 2-0 victory over Rivers United at the Sani Abacha Stadium, with club legends Ahmed Musa and Rabiu Ali finding the back of the net to the delight of their passionate fans. The Pyramid City giants have also distinguished themselves on the road this season, recording remarkable away victo...

By Muzammil Dalhatu Yola The fixtures for the 2025 season of the New Year Mega Lottery (NYML) Nationwide League One (NLO) have been officially announced, featuring a total of 32 teams from across the country competing for promotion to the Nigeria National League (NNL). This was confirmed in a statement signed by Olushola Ogunnowo, the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the NLO. According to the COO, the promotion will be determined through a round-robin format, with teams divided into 8 groups of 4. Each team will play three matches, and the group winners will qualify directly for promotion to the NNL. For the fixtures at Slot 1 (Ijebu-Ode Stadium), the matchups will feature the Winner of Legacy Pitch A against the Winner of Maracana B, while the Winner of Legacy Pitch B will face the Winner of Maracana A. In Slot 2 (Legacy Pitch), the Winner of Ikorodu A will compete against the Winner of Ebedei, and the Winner of Ikorodu B will go up against the Winner of Ilaro. Proceeding to Slot 3 in...

  The Vice Chancellor of Skyline university, Kano, Professor Ajith Kumar V.V. has reiterated his commitment to partner with key stakeholders aimed at improving and moving sporting sector forward. The vice Chancellor made the pledge during the closing ceremony  of 5th Skyline university 5- aside football and basketball tournaments held at the institution premises. Professor  Ajith Kumar V.V. said that university management is keen interest to collaborate with the Kano state government and other major stakeholders to design more sporting  programmes with a view to identified hidden talented players for future national and international competitions. He added that the university has been organizing inter secondary and youth tournaments as part of it's contributions to complement government efforts in sports development. The Vice Chancellor further hinted that the university will participate in the next edition of Kano state higher institutions games (KASHIGA) and other ...

  By Khalid Bello Fagge Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye's tenure as Chairman of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) Board has been a game-changer for Nigerian football. His leadership, vision, and passion have transformed the league, yielding tangible results and benefits for all stakeholders. As John Maxwell aptly puts it, "Leadership is influence - nothing more, nothing less." Elegbeleye's leadership style has indeed influenced the NPFL's trajectory. Under his visionary guidance, the NPFL has witnessed notable improvements in various critical areas, including: - Broadcasting: Strategic partnerships and deals have increased the league's visibility and revenue, allowing for broader reach and exposure. - Sponsorship: Elegbeleye has secured significant sponsorship deals, ensuring financial stability and growth, and enabling clubs to invest in talent and infrastructure. - Fan Engagement: Initiatives to enhance the fan experience have been implemented, fosterin...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola  In a bold move to promote gender inclusion in sports and youth empowerment, the Nigerian American Football Association (NAFA), in partnership with Browns Nigeria, officially launched the Gridiron Gems program at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Victoria Island, Lagos, on Wednesday, April 16, 2025. The initiative aims to introduce American football to 150,000 girls across Nigeria while equipping them with essential life skills, leadership training, and opportunities for long-term personal development. The event, which attracted prominent figures and stakeholders in sports, gender advocacy, and community development, featured a series of engaging panel discussions and breakout sessions. These sessions focused on sensitizing young girls about critical issues such as personal safety, self-empowerment, and the importance of continuous skill development. Speakers shared powerful messages about the significance of standing up for oneself and protecting personal boundaries...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola  In an effort to drive growth and enhance operational effectiveness within the Nationwide League One (NLO), STW Nigeria Limited in partnership with NYML/NLO has announced the upcoming 2025 NYML/NLO Virtual Management Workshop. Scheduled for April 17-18, 2025, this significant event aims to equip NLO club managers with essential tools and insights necessary for navigating the modern landscape of sporting business. The workshop boasts a lineup of esteemed professionals from the football industry, offering participants a chance to gain invaluable knowledge on a wide range of topics that include financial management, brand-building, and sustainability.  Workshop Highlights: Day One: April 17, 2025 - 10:15 AM - 11:00 AM: *Transfers in Amateur Football* led by Mr. Nasiru Jibril - 11:05 AM - 11:50 AM: *Financial Management for Clubs in the Nationwide League One* presented by Dr. Damilola Adedotun - 11:50 AM - 12:05 PM: Break - 12:10 PM - 12:55 PM: *Building a S...

  By Muzammil Dalha Yola  In a thrilling final that showcased the talent of young Nigerian striker Yusuf Sulaiman, Birzebugga St. Peters FC triumphed over Vittoriosa Stars FC, clinching promotion to the elite division of the Malta football league. The match, which saw Sulaiman at the forefront of the action, was a testament to his remarkable prowess on the pitch. Kano-born Sulaiman, formerly of Capital City Abuja, had an outstanding 2024/25 season, netting an impressive 33 goals across various competitions. His unparalleled performance included winning the Top Scorer Award in the Champion Youth League with 24 goals, along with 7 goals in the Amateur League and 2 goals in the Amateur Cup. In a post-match interview, the ecstatic striker expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the fans and coaches who supported him throughout the season. “This victory is not just mine; it belongs to the entire team, the coaches, and our incredible fans. Their belief in me has fueled my desire to imp...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola  Four-time Nigeria Premier League champions, Kano Pillars FC, returned to winning ways on Sunday with a 2-0 triumph over Lobi Stars, piling more misery on the struggling Makurdi side. Ahmed Musa bagged the SWAN Man of the Match award after scoring a goal and winning a penalty that was converted by Naziru Auwalu. The award was presented by two esteemed guests: Honourable Kabiru Dahiru ADS, Chairman of the Sports Committee at the Kano House of Assembly and representative of Tarauni Local Government, and Honourable Sarki Aliyu Daneji, representing Kano Municipal. They were joined by Ali Muhammad Umar, Chairman of Kano Pillars. The Sai Masu Gida dominated the game, with Musa scoring his 7th goal of the season in the 55th minute, with 2 assists in 20 games. Naziru Auwalu doubled the lead from the penalty spot in the 90+2 minute, sealing a convincing win for Kano Pillars. In post-match interviews, Technical Adviser Usman Sheriff Sidi Abdallah expressed satisfaction...

  By Ado Salisu  Olusegun Runsewe, the President, Nigeria Golf Federation (NGF), has expressed gratitude to the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews (R&A), Scotland for their donation of golf equipment to the NGF. Runsewe made the remarks during the unveiling of the golf equipment at the Golf and Health Signature in Abuja The NGF President noted that the equipment worth would go a long way in ensuring the growth and development of the sport at the grassroots. He expressed his appreciation to the R & A for the kind donations, promising that the donated items would be put to good use. "As of today, there is no single golfer representing Nigeria in the Masters Open in Augusta. "But I promise you that from what we have started here today, in the next two years, you will start to hear about the Okafors, the Chidinmas, the Abubakars, the Olademejis, just like you hear in international football," he said. He also shared his long-term vision, which focuses on buddin...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola  Northwest University, Kano, has made a resounding statement at the FISU Trials held at the University of Jos, emerging as the best-performing team among Nigerian universities. Despite participating in only two events, Taekwondo and Judo, the university's athletes delivered an impressive performance, showcasing their prowess and dedication. The university's outstanding performance yielded an impressive haul of medals: - Taekwondo: Musa Muhammad won 1 Gold medal and 1 Bronze medal. - Judo: Ali Umar Ali secured 1 Silver medal, and the team won 2 Bronze medals. This was Northwest University's first participation in the FISU Trial, and the results have exceeded expectations. The university's performance has earned a potential spot to represent Nigeria in international sports in Germany, pending an official invitation. Musa Muhammad, who won a gold medal in Taekwondo in the 54 kg category, has proven himself to be one of the best players in Nigerian un...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola  In a thrilling Matchday 8 fixture, Barau FC forward Same James shone brightly, earning the SWAN Man of the Match award as his team thrashed Zamfara United 3-0 at the Dambatta Stadium on Saturday. James's brilliant performance was instrumental in the Maliya Boys' dominant victory, witnessed by a large crowd of enthusiastic fans. He opened the scoring in the 23rd minute with a fantastic goal, following an assist from Sunday Dapma. George Enyia doubled the lead in the 39th minute, with Same James providing another contribution. Adamu Ibrahim sealed the win with his first goal of the season for Barau FC in the 86th minute, converting a superb cross from Najib Yusuf. Same James's overall performance earned him the SWAN Man of the Match award through a majority vote by members of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Kano State chapter. The award was presented to Same James by Barau FC President Shawwal Barau I. Jibrin, alongside former Kano St...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola  The Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) has been grappling with issues of misconduct and hooliganism in its stadiums. To address this challenge, the league's organizers have been exploring various punishment mechanisms to deter clubs from engaging in unacceptable behavior. One proposed solution is the deduction of points from clubs found guilty of misconduct, rather than imposing monetary fines. Why Points Deduction is More Effective Clubs and their supporters believe that points deduction is a more effective punishment mechanism than fines. This is because points are more valuable to clubs than monetary fines. The threat of losing points can have a significant impact on a club's chances of winning the league or avoiding relegation, making it a more potent deterrent against misconduct. Fear of Relegation The prospect of points deduction can evoke fear in clubs and their supporters, as it may lead to relegation. This fear can motivate clubs to tak...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola  The New Year Mega Lottery Nigeria Nationwide League One (NYML/NLO) has extended its registration deadline and announced the official kick-off date for its  New Year Mega Lottery NLO 2025 season. In an official statement signed by League Manager Tayo Egbaiyelo (MON), the league informed all state football associations, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and participating clubs of the changes. Due to the introduction of new face recognition technology, several clubs faced challenges in completing their registration on time. To address this issue, the Secretariat has extended the registration deadline to Friday, April 11, 2025. The registration portal will officially close on the same date. The league's kick-off match is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at the Bwari Township Stadium in Abuja. This marks the beginning of the NLO25 season, which promises to be an exciting and competitive tournament. The extension of the registration de...

    By Khalid Bello Fagge  The Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) has continued to experience transformative growth and development under the exemplary stewardship of its chairman, Honourable Gbenga Elegbeleye. Since assuming office, Chairman Elegbeleye has consistently demonstrated an unrelenting commitment to excellence, yielding remarkable results that have catapulted the league to unprecedented heights. As renowned leadership scholar, John C. Maxwell, once astutely observed, "Leadership is not about titles, positions, or flowcharts. It is about one life influencing another." (Maxwell, 2007) Chairman Elegbeleye's leadership paradigm embodies Maxwell's definition, as he has fostered a culture of inclusivity, empowering his board members to discharge their duties with efficacy. This synergistic approach has cultivated a sense of unity and cohesion among stakeholders, enabling the NPFL to navigate its challenges with renewed vigor and determination. Accordin...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola  Nigeria-born center forward Umar Abubakar, a former product of Footwork Football Academy Abuja, has been invited to the 20-man Flying Eagles camp in preparation for the Afcon U-20 tournament in Egypt. This recognition comes on the back of his impressive performances for Jong KAA Gent in the Belgian First Amateur Division. Abubakar's eye for goals, good positioning, and scoring ability have made him a standout player in the league. His superb performance has caught the attention of Technical Adviser Aliyu Zubairu, who sees him as a valuable asset to the Flying Eagles. In the lead-up to the Afcon U-20 tournament, Abubakar has been in sensational form for Jong KAA Gent. Last week, he delivered another standout performance, scoring a brace in a dominant 4-0 victory over Lyra-Lierse. This brings his impressive tally to 19 goals in 25 matches, further cementing his reputation as one of the league's most consistent goal scorers. As Generatie Gent pushes towards...

Sadiq Umar Clinches Prestigious Award   By Muzammil Dalha Yola  Nigerian international Sadiq Umar has been making waves in La Liga with his impressive form for Valencia CF, showcasing his exceptional positioning and predatory instincts in the box. The former Almeria striker, who joined Valencia from Real Sociedad on loan in January 2025, has been a revelation in Spain's top flight. His recent performances have earned him widespread acclaim, with many pundits and fans hailing him as one of the most clinical finishers in the league. Nigerian and Valencia CF striker Umar Sadiq just recently won the LALIGA EA SPORTS Best Goal of the month award of March for his spectacular back-heeled goal against CA Osasuna, which helped his team secure a 3-3 draw. This is Sadiq's first time winning the award, beating out two other impressive goals of Rayo Vallecano’s Andrei Ratiu and CD Leganes’ Diego Garcia to claim the coveted award, as confirmed through La Liga’s official channels in the fina...