Sports
Shorunmu Plans Academy To Train Goalkeepers
The Goalkeeper Trainer of the Super Eagles, Ike Shorunmu, says he plans to set up an academy that will focus on grooming goal-keeping talents at the grassroots.
Shorunmu told newsmen in Lagos, that the project was, however, still on the drawing board pending the conclusion of feasibility studies.
He added that the project would need a dedicated approach to ensure a smooth take off.
“I am working towards it; there are so many things that should be in place to groom them, although it’s rare even in Europe but we have to venture into the unknown once in a while.
“We all know the importance of good goalkeeping; it could make or mar a team irrespective of how good the team is.
“Creating an academy for goalkeepers does not mean alienating them from other players; this proposal is to make them better on the job and to improve their communication level with their defenders,’’ he said.
Shorunmu, who was a member of the Super Eagles squad that won the silver medal when Nigeria hosted the 2000 edition of the AFCON, emphasised the need for goalkeepers to be well trained.
He stressed that goalkeepers’ training must be synchronised with that of the players and defenders to enhance communication among them at all times.
“Goalkeepers need to train with the players to understand the players.
“Building such an academy is not something anybody jumps into like they do with football that anybody can wake up and build and at his backyard.
“It is more sensitive and rare and as such it has to be planned, so that it could serve its purpose,’’ the former goalkeeper said.
The Bayelsa State government, yesterday, announced that the marathon will be held on Saturday, April 4, 2026.
The inaugural race is owned by the Bayelsa State Government and will be organised by Nilayo Sports Management Limited, a sports management company.
Under the theme “The Reveal,” the race represents a bold unveiling of Bayelsa’s immense human and cultural potential to the international community, inviting the world to witness the resilience, grit, and talent rooted in the heart of the Niger Delta.
According to the organisers, the race will be flagged off at 9:30 a.m., at the Opolo Roundabout, guiding participants through a carefully designed 10-kilometre route that highlights the scenic beauty and vibrant atmosphere of Yenagoa.
The course will culminate at Peace Park Square, where athletes will cross the finish line into a grand celebration of endurance, unity, and community spirit.
To elevate the experience for runners and spectators alike, the finish venue will host a high-energy post-race concert featuring performances from top A-list artistes, blending sport and entertainment in a festival-style atmosphere.
The organisers directed all registered participants to collect their race bibs and kits at the designated Peace Park Square between March 30 and April 3, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily.
The race, according to them, is currently on track for World Athletics accreditation, underscoring the commitment of both the Bayelsa State Government and Nilayo Sports Management Limited to delivering an event that meets the highest global standards.
The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, on Friday continued the Commission’s nationwide appreciation tour with a visit to Abeokuta, where outstanding junior athlete, Majekodunmi Afusat Bisola, was presented with a cheque of N3 million.
The presentation forms part of the NSC’s initiative to recognise and reward exceptional junior athletes who distinguished themselves in 2025 and contributed significantly to Nigeria’s medal haul.
Majekodunmi delivered an impressive run of performances on the track. At the last edition of the National Sports Festival, she stormed to gold in the 400m and the 4x400m relay. She replicated the double triumph at the Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) Junior Championship, in Abeokuta, before emerging as one of the standout stars at the African Youth Games in Luanda, Angola.
Speaking during the presentation, Olopade explained that the Commission deemed it necessary to extend financial appreciation to grassroots athletes after elite performers had earlier received grants running into thousands of dollars.
“A few weeks ago, after paying grants to our elite athletes, we agreed tthere was a need to also appreciate these young, budding talents who made Nigeria proud last year,” he said.
He disclosed that of the 376 medals recorded by Nigerian athletes in 2025, more than 200 were won by grassroots talents, underscoring the importance of sustained investment in youth development.