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By Muzammil Dalha Yola The Nationwide League One (NLO) has issued a stern warning to all its member clubs against poaching players from other clubs. In a letter signed by NLO Chief Operating Officer Olushola Ogunnowo, the Secretariat emphasized that such behavior is unacceptable and will be punished according to the league's rules. The NLO cited Rule 3.03(4) of its rulebook, which states that any club found directly or indirectly attempting to induce a player from another non-professional club will face sanctions. This move aims to maintain fair play and sportsmanship among participating clubs. The NLO highlighted that while FIFA regulations allow for free transfers of amateur players not under contract, this does not justify poaching or inducement. Clubs are expected to adhere to the proper channels for player transfers. The NLO warned that it will not hesitate to sanction any club found guilty of player poaching. These sanctions will serve as a deterrent to ensure compliance with...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola The 23rd edition of the National Sports Festival, tagged Coal City Games Enugu 2026, is poised to outshine the 22nd edition, Gateway Games Ogun 2024. This assurance was made by Enugu State's Commissioner for Sports Development, Mr. Lloyd Ike Ekweremadu, during a press briefing in Abeokuta. Mr. Ekweremadu emphasized that the Governor Peter Mbah administration is dedicated to hosting a world-class event that will become a benchmark for future editions. He highlighted Enugu's readiness to welcome participants and spectators, with existing facilities set to undergo a facelift where necessary. The Commissioner revealed that the state government has planned various activities and sites to showcase Enugu's rich culture and tourism potential. Enugu boasts several historical sites that attract tourists from within and outside Nigeria. Mr. Ekweremadu assured that Enugu State prioritizes security, with comprehensive coverage of security cameras. He described the...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola The Nationwide League One (NLO) has taken decisive action against match fixing allegations at the Maracana B Lagos Centre. In a letter signed by NLO Chief Operating Officer Olushola Ogunnowo, the Secretariat announced the cancellation of matches involving four clubs suspected of compromising their games. The NLO Secretariat received a match officials' report indicating that the clubs' behaviour brought the game into disrepute. Despite matches being played simultaneously to avoid compromise, the investigation revealed suspicious patterns. BISON FC, which had conceded only 7 goals in 8 matches, suddenly conceded 9 goals to Franceex FC. Similarly, Seamoriow FC's unusual 9-goal score after averaging 2 goals per match raised concerns. The NLO Secretariat applied Article 4.17, resulting in severe penalties. The matches played by the clubs on Match Day 9 have been cancelled, including: 1. ACT di Sports Ohio FC Lagos 2-9 Seamoriow FC Lagos 2. BISON FC Lagos 0...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola The Management of Kano Pillars FC has extended heartfelt appreciation to everyone who contributed to the team's successful 2024/2025 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) campaign. In a statement signed by Chairman Alhaji Ali Muhammad Umar (Nayara), the club thanked the Kano State Government, led by Governor Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf, and the Honourable Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development, Hon. Mustapha Rabiu Kwankwaso and Kano State Football Association, for their unwavering support. The club also expressed gratitude to its principal sponsor, RAMBO Insecticide, for their continuous partnership and generous backing. Special appreciation was extended to the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Kano State Chapter, for their tireless coverage and professionalism. Kano Pillars FC acknowledged the dedication of its fans, both at home and across the country, whose loyalty and passionate support were instrumental in the team's achievements. The...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola The Nationwide League One (NLO) has been urged to closely monitor two crucial fixtures during Matchday 9 at the Maracana B, in order to prevent match-fixing and manipulation on Tuesday. The matches feature a three-way race for the playoffs: top-ranked Seamoriow FC will face fifth-placed ACT Sports di Oyibo, while second-placed Franceex United takes on third-placed Bison FC. Both matches are set to kick off simultaneously at 11 am, with Seamoriow FC vs. ACT Sports di Oyibo taking place at the Legacy Pitch, National Stadium Surulere, and Franceex United vs. Bison FC at the Maracana Stadium. These matches had previously been rescheduled due to a brake failure on the ACT Sports di Oyibo team bus—an incident classified as Force Majeure in football terms—that delayed the kickoff by an hour. Kayode Thomas, spokesperson for a non-governmental sports body under the Nigeria Football & Other Sports Interest Group (NFOSIG), has called on the NLO to take action.  "It...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola Kano State athletes have made a remarkable impact at the ongoing 22nd National Sports Festival, tagged Gateway Games 2024, in Abeokuta, Ogun State. The athletes have secured an impressive 17 medals so far, including 5 gold, 5 silver, and 7 bronze. Golf dominance, Rahama Inusa and Augustina Pius secured gold medals in golf double, showcasing the state's prowess in the sport. Weightlifting triumph, Lucky Orobosa won gold in the 109kg category, adding to Kano's impressive medal tally. In Dambe traditional boxing, Alasan claimed gold in the 65kg category, while Yar Mage and Aci Kullun secured gold in the 55kg and 75kg categories, respectively. In the ongoing judo matches, Muhammad Sallus, Rita, and Naomi have advanced to the semi-finals in their respective weight categories. Ibrahim Umar Fagge, Chairman of the Kano State Sports Commission, expressed gratitude to the athletes, coaches, and the state government for their support. He promised to repay the trust ...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola The Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko, has commended Ogun State for its outstanding hosting of the ongoing National Sports Festival, describing it as a game-changer for sports development in Nigeria. He called on other states aspiring to host future editions to emulate and improve on the standard set by Ogun. Speaking during a World Media Chat held at the Local Organizing Committee Secretariat, Dikko noted that the entire country is taking note of the impressive organization and swift handling of challenges during the festival. "This festival is a major improvement from previous editions," he said. "It is normal to experience hitches in events of this magnitude, but the prompt resolution of those issues shows great commitment. This edition will serve as a benchmark for future games." Dikko emphasized that the Commission, in line with the President's directive, is working to transform sports into a key eco...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola A potential free-for-all fight was averted at the Abeokuta Golf Centre during the National Sports Festival after Kano women's golfers were disqualified for alleged cheating in the medal stage. According to reports, the officiating officials claimed that the Kano golfers had cheated, leading to their disqualification. However, investigations revealed that the officials failed to provide proof of the alleged cheating when questioned by Ibrahim Umar Fagge, Acting Chairman of the Kano State Sports Commission. Fagge accused the Golf Technical Director, Mr. Jide, of biased judgment, alleging that he favored Ogun State. Fagge called on the National Sports Commission to intervene and save the image of golf in future championships. After intervention by other match officials, Kano was awarded the gold medal. The incident highlighted the need for transparency and fairness in officiating sports events. Efforts to contact the Technical Director, Mr. Jide, were unsuccessf...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola The Emir of Bwari Area Council, His Royal Highness Dr. Ibrahim Yaro (JP), the 17th Sa-Bwaya, Esu Bwari and Chairman Council of Traditional Rulers Bwari Area Council, FCT. will confer the traditional title of "Abegyi Bwaya" on Alhaji Adam Mohammed Mukhtar, Sports Icon, Philanthropist and Chairman of the FCT Abuja Football Association, on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at the palace in Bwari Area Abuja 10:00am.This honor recognizes Mohammed's outstanding contributions to the Bwari Area Community, FCT, and Nigeria through his philanthropic efforts, humanitarian aid, and youth development initiatives over the past two decades.  In a letter personally signed by the Royal Father to FCT FA Chairman, Mouktar, the Traditional Ruler, stated that, the title is in recognition of his good service and hardwork in development and progress of Bwari Chiefdom and the FCT in general.  The title "Abegyi Bwaya" translates to "Progress of Bwari," reflecting ...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola Kano State weightlifters have secured two silver and three bronze medals at the ongoing 22nd National Sports Festival, "Gateway Games 2024," in Abeokuta, Ogun State. Temmidayo Jegede won two silver and one bronze medal in the 55kg women's category, while Adama Ayinmba secured two bronze medals in the 49kg women's category. The Kano State football team defeated Kwara 2-1 and walked over Ondo State, while the handball team lost 24-25 to Niger State. Acting Chairman of the Kano State Sports Commission, Ibrahim Umar Fagge, described the athletes' performance as encouraging and urged them to strive for more medals. Fagge commended Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and key stakeholders for their support, assuring that the commission is working tirelessly to ensure the state's success in the games.

By Khalid Bello Fagge As the curtain draws close on an exhilarating season, with Week 38 matches set to kick off on May 25th, it's fitting to acknowledge the tireless efforts of Hon. Gbenga Elebele, the IMC Chairman. His unwavering commitment to the league has been a driving force behind its success, and his leadership has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the competition. As Simon Sinek once said, "Leadership is not about being in charge, it's about taking care of those in your charge." Hon. Elebele has exemplified this definition, demonstrating a remarkable ability to prioritize the needs of the league and its stakeholders. Furthermore, Maya Angelou's words resonate deeply in this context: "Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better." Hon. Elebele's leadership has been characterized by a commitment to continuous improvement and a willingness to adapt to changing circumstances. Additionally, Jim Collins' ...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola Faisal Abdullahi, Chairman of the Kaduna State Football Association, has extended his warmest congratulations to NFF President Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau on his recent appointment as President of WAFU. Abdullahi described Gusau's elevation as a well deserved appointmenta, a testament to his dedication and efforts in promoting football development. He praised Gusau's leadership and vision for Nigerian football. Gusau's appointment is seen as a significant milestone for Nigerian football, with Abdullahi expressing optimism that his leadership will positively impact football in the region.

By Muzammil Dalha Yola The Acting Chairman of the Kano State Sports Commission, Alhaji Ibrahim Umar Fagge, has promised that Kano athletes who win gold medals at the Gateway Games 2024 National Sports Festival will automatically be included in the state's monthly salary payroll. Fagge made this announcement while briefing journalists on the state's preparedness for the festival, stating that silver and bronze medalists would receive rewards after discussions with the government. The Chairman expressed confidence in the athletes' abilities, setting a target to finish among the top five states, an improvement from their 7th position in the previous event. He thanked the Kano State Government and Ministry of Youth and Sports Development for their support, urging athletes to repay this backing with medals.

By Muzammil Dalha Yola The National Sports Commission (NSC) has announced that registered athletes with anti-doping issues are ineligible to compete for medals at the 22nd National Sports Festival, also known as Gateway Games 2024. The NSC cited adherence to global best practices and the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) code as the reason for this decision. Director-General Hon. Bukola Olopade emphasized the Commission's commitment to ensuring clean competition. The following athletes have been identified as having doping issues and are disqualified from competing for medals: 1. Marcus Okon (Akwa Ibom State, Para Athletics) 2. Ayabeke David Opeyemi (Bayelsa State, Gymnastics) 3. Kareem Shukurat (Lagos State, Kickboxing) 4. Omole Dolapo Joshua (Bayelsa State, Kickboxing) 5. Ogunsemilore Cynthia (Bayelsa State, Kickboxing) 6. Animashaun Sofia (Lagos State, Para Powerlifting)  The NSC's decision underscores its dedication to promoting clean sports and enforcing anti-doping regulati...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola In a significant show of support, Dr. Shariff Rabiu Ahalan, the Chairman of the Kano State Football Association, the NFF Technical Committee, and the NFF Marketing and Sponsorship Committee, has extended heartfelt congratulations to the NFF President, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, on his recent elevation to Acting President of WAFU Zone B. This prestigious appointment, which marks a pivotal moment for Nigeria and West African football, showcases Gusau's leadership and dedication to the development of the sport on the continent. Dr. Ahalan expressed his hopes that Gusau's new role will not only enhance the standing of Nigerian football but also foster collaboration and growth across Africa, particularly in the West African region. In his statement, Dr. Ahalan emphasized, “This remarkable achievement is a testament to the hard work and commitment of Alhaji Gusau, and we are confident that under his guidance, WAFU Zone B will thrive. His leadership will undoubt...

  By Muzammil Dalha Yola Kano Pillars Football Club has announced that its goalkeeper, Emeka Onyia, has been declared Absent Without Official Leave (AWOL) since March 2025. Despite numerous attempts by the club's management and technical team to contact him, Onyia has failed to respond or report to training.  In an official statement by the Kano Pillars Media and Communications Directorate reveals that despite several efforts by the club Management and Technical crew to reach out to him through various channels, there has been no communication or response from Emeka Onyia. He has failed to report to training and has remained completely absent from the club's camp without any formal notification or justification. This conduct is a clear violation of the club's professional code of conduct and disciplinary framework. Kano Pillars FC is treating this matter with utmost seriousness and appropriate actions will be taken in line with the club’s regulations and the Nigeria Premier...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola The Chairman of Kano Pillars Football Club, Alhaji Ali Na Yara Mai Samba, has extended his warmest congratulations to Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau on his appointment as Acting President of West African Football Union Zone B (WAFU-B). In a statement released by the Kano Pillars Media & Communication Directorate, Ali Na Yara described Gusau's appointment as a testament to his exceptional leadership and dedication to football development in Nigeria and West Africa. "Alhaji Gusau has consistently demonstrated vision and integrity in his stewardship of Nigerian football," he said.  The Chairman expressed confidence that Gusau will bring his signature passion and excellence to WAFU-B, promoting unity and progress among member nations. Kano Pillars FC joins the Nigerian football community in celebrating this achievement and wishes Gusau success in his new role.

By Muzammil Dalha Yola Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau (MON), President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), has been installed as the new President of West African Football Union (WAFU) Zone B. Gusau's appointment follows the resignation of Mr. Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, who stepped down after being elected to the Confederation of African Football's Executive Committee. Gusau's installation is a testament to his leadership and the strong support he enjoys among WAFU B member countries. WAFU Zone B Consists of Niger, Togo, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Burkina Faso, Benin, and Nigeria. As NFF President since September 2022, Gusau previously served as First Vice President of WAFU B. This development comes shortly after the Nigeria U20 team, the Flying Eagles, secured a bronze medal and qualified for the FIFA U20 World Cup.

.... As KSSC Chairman FIFA charged Kano Contingent to be good ambassadors of the state.  By Muzammil Dalha Yola The president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR ably represented by the Vice president Senator Kashim Shetima GCON declare open the 22nd National Sports Festival at the Main bowl of Moshood Abiola International Stadium in the city of Abeokuta, the Ogun State Capital. At the opening ceremony, the president said, National Sports Festival which brought together over ten thousand athletes drawn from the thirty six states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) is aimed at fostering unity and promote cultural diversities among the youth in the country. According to the president, the Sports Festival also showcase the rich cultural values embedded in the shore of Our great country; an its equally an avenue to bring out the best out of talented youths in the country to compete favourably with their counterparts from around the globe. Bola Tinib...

Ahmad Hamisu Gwale  Barau Football Club has secured qualification for the 2025 Nigeria National League (NNL) Super 8 Promotional Play-Off following a goalless draw against Mighty Jets on Sunday. The crucial match took place at the New Jos Stadium, Zaria Road, Plateau State, behind closed doors. With this result, Barau FC finished second in Northern Conference C, amassing 19 points from 12 matches. Barau FC has now made history as one of the fastest-rising clubs in Nigeria, having competed in the Nationwide League One (NLO), the NNL, and now aiming for a spot in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL). The Kano-based club will join the NNL Super 8, which features four teams from the North Wikki Tourists, Doma United, Yobe Desert Stars and four from the South. Barau FC now shifts focus to the Super 8 as they continue their quest for promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League next season. The NNL Super 8 which will see four teams gain promotion to the NPFL next, as the league...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola The Nationwide League One (NLO) has revealed the reasons behind its sanctions against Cynosure FC of Ebonyi State. The decision followed a disciplinary review into allegations of match-fixing leveled against Liberty Lions FC in their May 5, 2025, fixture against E-World United FC. Investigation Findings Cynosure FC had petitioned the NLO Secretariat, suspecting match manipulation due to Liberty Lions FC starting the game with seven players. However, the NLO investigation concluded that the claims were unsubstantiated. According to the referees’ official report, Liberty Lions FC began the match with seven players, with others joining midway through the first half. Liberty Lions FC attributed the delayed arrival of some players to a sudden change in match timing.The rescheduling of the match from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 a.m. prevented full squad communication in time. The Calabar Centre Manager had requested that both decisive fixtures Liberty Lions Vs E-World United...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola The Kano State contingent has successfully arrived in Abeokuta, the vibrant capital of Ogun State, in preparation for the highly anticipated 22nd National Sports Festival, known as the Gateway Games 2025. The delegation, comprised of 250 members, made the long journey safely on Saturday evening, led by the Acting Chairman of the Kano State Sports Commission, Alhaji Ibrahim Umar, popularly referred to as FIFA. The diverse contingent includes athletes, coaches, medical personnel, organizing secretaries, and journalists. Ibrahim Umar FIFA expressed confidence in the talent and energy of the athletes representing Kano State, who are set to compete across 13 out of the 32 scheduled events, including judo, kickboxing, taekwondo, swimming, and football, among others. Ibrahim FIFA expresses his gratitude to Governor Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf and Commissioner of Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Mustapha Rabiu Kwankwaso, for their consistent moral and financial support to s...

  By Muzammil Dalha Yola Kano state athletes coaches and officials to the 22nd edition of the national sports festival tagged: '' Gateway Games,'' in Abeokuta, Ogun State to be good ambassadors to the state. The state Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf represented by the commissioner of youth and sports, Alhaji Mustapha Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso made the call while addressing the state contingent before their departure to Ogun state. He explained that nothing could be achieved without patience and endurance as well as sportsmanship in any tournaments, urging to them to do their best. The governor added that the present administration will continue to encourage and support in order to sustain the state high profile as far as sports was concerned in the state and the country in general. He warned the athletes and coaches to avoid anything capable of denting the image of the state before, during and after the festival. Earlier, the Acting Chairman of Kano state sports commission, Ibr...

... As National Sports Festival Begins Monda y  By Muzammil Dalha Yola The Acting chairman of Kano state Sports Commission (KSSC) Ibrahim Umar Fagge popularly known as FIFA is expected to lead over 200 state contingent to Abeokuta, Ogun by road . The upcoming 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival tagged:''Gateway Games," scheduled to commenced from May 16 to 30, 2025. Speaking exclusively with our reporter, Ibrahim Umar Fagge FIFA said: ''By the virtue of my position in the commission, I suppose to travel by plane but I want to remain with athletes, coaches and officials to test experience of traveling by road together.'' ''My Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf gave me the responsibility to head the state commission, and traveling by plane is not an ideal situation, leaving over 200 contingents going by road to Abeokuta what is your justication for that,'' he explained. The acting chairman however called on the people of the state to continu...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola The Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology (ADUSTECH) played host to the thrilling conclusion of the 5th Vice Chancellor Cup football competition on Tuesday, May 6th, 2025. Organized by the University Sports Directorate under the leadership of Director Abubakar Abdussalam, the tournament featured eight students' hostels. In the highly anticipated final match, Off Campus A1 emerged champions after defeating Area II B1 1-0 at the School football pitch. Area III A2 secured the third-place position. The prize-giving ceremony was graced by key university officials. Professor Adamu Abdullahi Shehu, Chairman of the Sports Committee, presented bronze medals to Area III A2. Dr. MD Shehu, University Medical Director, awarded silver medals to runners-up Area II B1. The champions, Off Campus A1, received their gold medals and trophy from Vice Chancellor Professor Musa Tukur Yakasai. In his remarks, Professor Yakasai highlighted the significance of sports in s...