Sports

Abuja Gears Up for Sports Revolution

Published

4 weeks ago

April 22, 2025

By Adenike Lawal

Abuja will play host to a game-changing event this Saturday, April twenty sixth, as the maiden edition of the Sports Meet Nigeria Conference takes place at Cubana Hotel in Jabi.

The high-powered gathering is set to unite investors, broadcasters, media professionals, marketers, PR experts and other key players across the sports value chain, all driven by one goal — to transform the business of sports in Nigeria.

The conference is the brainchild of Akeola Lukumanu Ayinde, a seasoned sports business consultant, FIFA agent, and boxing promoter.

Ayinde, who doubles as the Chief Executive of ESEM GROUP, envisions a shift from raw passion to structured investment and innovation in the sector.

A major highlight of the day will be the unveiling of his new book, Beyond the Game – Unveiling the Potential of Sports in Nigeria.

Describing it as a wake-up call, Ayinde said the publication urges a bold rethink of sports as a driver of economic growth and national pride.

“This is not just another talk shop,” said Halima Imam, the Event Director. “It is a serious platform for forging partnerships that will deliver real value to Nigeria’s sports ecosystem.”

Creative Director Musa Sunusi Ahmad added that the event will bridge creativity and commerce.

“To grow globally, Nigeria needs both the artistic energy and business strategy in sports,” he said.

The conference promises keynote addresses, expert panels, networking, and opportunities for groundbreaking deals — all aimed at unlocking the vast potential within Nigeria’s sports industry.

News

Napoli Blocks Turkish Move for Osimhen

Published

5 hours ago

May 21, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Njoku Chijioke

Napoli has rejected a move by Turkish giants Galatasaray and Fenerbahce to land Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen, signaling the club’s firm stance on the forward’s future.

Though figures behind the offer remain under wraps, sources close to the deal suggest the Italian side is not ready to part with their star man unless a compelling package is presented.

Osimhen has drawn attention from several European heavyweights this transfer window, with his name topping many wish lists.

Napoli’s refusal to engage with the Turkish bid sends a strong message – the Nigerian forward is not going anywhere cheaply.

The club is believed to be holding out for a much larger deal or eyeing a strategic replacement before entertaining any sale talks.

As speculation swirls, all eyes remain on Osimhen and what could become one of the summer’s most-watched transfer sagas.

Sports

Chelle Shakes Up Eagles Squad, Drops Osimhen, Lookmam

Published

6 hours ago

May 21, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Adenike Lawal

In a move that has stunned fans and analysts alike, Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has left out top strikers Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman from Nigeria’s squad for the upcoming Unity Cup friendlies against Ghana and Russia.

The Nigeria Football Federation confirmed the surprise exclusions on Wednesday, with no official reason given for the absence of the high-flying forwards despite their strong performances at club level.

Chelle’s selection signals a major shift in attacking strategy as the team prepares for two high-profile clashes.

However, there is good news for some as goalkeeper Maduka Okoye returns to the lineup, joined by Frank Onyeka, Kelechi Iheanacho, and veteran skipper Ahmed Musa, who is expected to anchor the squad with his experience.

The omissions have sparked intense debate, with many questioning the timing and tactical reasoning behind sidelining two of Nigeria’s most potent attacking threats.

News

Falcons Set for Showdown with Cameroon

Published

9 hours ago

May 21, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Njoku Chijioke

Nigeria’s Super Falcons are primed for two high-profile friendly clashes against the Indomitable Lionesses of Cameroon as part of their buildup to the 2024 Women Africa Cup of Nations.

Coach Justine Madugu has named a strong 23-player squad featuring top stars like Rasheedat Ajibade, Chiamaka Nnadozie, Michelle Alozie, Toni Payne, and Rinsola Babajide.

The matches will hold on May 31 at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne and on June 3 at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta.

With Nigeria drawn in a challenging AFCON Group B alongside Tunisia, Algeria and Botswana, the double-header against Cameroon offers a vital chance for tactical fine-tuning and team chemistry.

Players are expected to report to camp at the Am2pm Hotel in Ijebu-Ode on May 26 ahead of the fixtures.