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By Muzammil Dalha Yola The first edition of the Northern Nigeria Table Tennis Championships has officially commenced in Kano, with 19 states from the region converging on the city to compete in the prestigious tournament. The championships, organized by the Kano State Table Tennis Association in support of the Vice President of the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation (NTTF), Hon. Khamisu Ahmad Mailantarki, aims to promote unity and friendship among northern states, while also discovering and developing young table tennis talents. Chairman of the Kano State Table Tennis Association, Dr. Mustapha Ibrahim Garga, expressed his elation at hosting the event, saying it was a historic moment for Kano and the north. "We are proud to be hosting this event for the first time in the history of table tennis in Kano. Our aim is to promote unity and friendship among northern states, and to identify and develop young talents in the sport," Dr. Garga said. The championships, which will run from J...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola ‎Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology, Wudil, (ADUSTECH) made history on Wednesday, 14th January 2026, as it honoured its athletes who brought pride to the institution at the NUGa Games and JUST Games. The colourful ceremony, held at the university, was attended by esteemed guests, including the University Pro-Chancellor, Retired Justice Abdu Aboki, Vice-Chancellor Professor Musa Tukur Yakasai, and other principal officers. ‎This remarkable achievement marks a milestone in the university's 25-year history, as it won medals for the first time in University Games. The gold and silver medalists in Judo, Aminu Hassan and Khalid Khalil, received impressive cash rewards of ₦200,000 and ₦150,000, respectively. Ya'u Muhammad a gold medalist in draughts game at University Staff games received ₦50,000. Other medalists and coaches also took home prizes, with the Chairman Sports Committee, Director of Sports and his deputies receiving ₦100,000 each.  Th...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola ‎Olushola Ogunnowo, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Nationwide League One (NLO), has been awarded an honorary Doctorate Degree by the African Performance Leadership Academy, an affiliate of Georgia-based KIMT University. This prestigious award recognizes Ogunnowo's outstanding contributions to grassroots football in Nigeria and his exceptional leadership skills.  ‎As COO of NLO, Ogunnowo has been instrumental in repositioning grassroots football in Nigeria as a viable and respected business brand. His pragmatic leadership, administrative acumen, and transformative policies have earned him numerous accolades, including the African Football Manager of the Year award in 2025. ‎Ogunnowo's dedication to developing grassroots football has led to the discovery and development of talented players, many of whom have gone on to successful careers in top leagues. His commitment to promoting community engagement, respect, and inclusivity has made NLO a benchmark for...

‎By Khalid Bello Fagge ‎The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) first round has culminated, showcasing resilience and determination. Stakeholders hail the maiden outing as a commendable success, with teams displaying skills and talents, leaving fans eagerly anticipating forthcoming fixtures.  ‎The first round featured exciting matches, thrilling performances, and a display of talent that left fans yearning for more. However, a pressing issue demands attention: settling match officials' indemnity. Authorities should expeditiously settle outstanding payments before the second round to boost officials' morale and ensure impeccable officiating. ‎We commend HON GBENGA ELEYBELE and the NPFL Board for successfully steering the league through its inaugural round. Their leadership has established a paradigm for an exciting league, and we anticipate further successes. ‎The Refereeing Development Committee merits commendation for developing referees. Their efforts are yielding dividend...

By Abdullahi Karaye ‎Kunle Soname has spoken out about the poor officiating in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), expressing his frustration and disappointment with the current state of refereeing. In response to comments about his press conference, Soname said, "The officiating was far better last season, and Remo Stars were the most televised team at home".  ‎Soname has taken a bold stance, placing a ₦1 million challenge on anyone who can come up with a game where Remo Stars were favored, and ₦5 million to any referee who was influenced to favor his team. This move is seen as a way to clear the air and prove that Remo Stars haven't benefited from biased officiating. ‎The Remo Stars boss has also addressed concerns about retaining top players and increasing player wages, stating that clubs can only pay what they can afford. This highlights the financial struggles faced by many NPFL clubs.  ‎Soname's comments come amidst a backdrop of controversy surrounding ...

By Muzammil Dalha Yola ‎In a stunning display of skill and determination, Motherwell's attacking midfielder and former Nigerian U-17 star, Ibrahim Said led his team to a long-awaited victory over league champions Celtic FC, ending a 35-game winless run in a decade. Said's impressive performance earned him his first goal for the club, setting the tone for Motherwell's commanding 2-0 win at Fir Park.  Said's 13th-minute header, courtesy of a Stephen O'Donnell cross, sparked a dominant display from Motherwell, who went on to double their lead through Elliot Watt in the 58th minute. Said's contribution was pivotal, with his coach Jens Berthel Askou praising his versatility and skill, stating, "He's giving us a lot of options with his ball-carrying, running, ball retention, and distribution. He's a joy to watch". This season, Said has made 25 appearances for Motherwell, scoring one goal with two assists. His impressive form has earned him recognitio...