Sports
Maigari Praises Nigerians’ Support For Eagles
Chairman, Nigeria Foot
ball Federation (NFA), Aminu Maigari, has commended President Goodluck Jonathan for his support in spite of Nigeria’s exit from the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil last Monday.
A statement by Ademola Olajire, the Assistant Director, Communications of NFA, quoted Maigari as also appreciating Nigerians for their support to the team.
Two second-half goals by France in Brasilia ensured that the country’s run at the World Cup was put to a halt.
“We must applaud Mr President and the Government of Nigeria for the massive support the NFA and the team received all through the qualifying series and the tournament proper.
“Mr President’s personal keen interest in the team, saw us qualify for the finals and put up a credible campaign in Brazil.
“The players were brilliant, they showed heart and commitment and deserve the praise of Nigerians for their efforts,’’ the statement quoted as saying.
The statement also quoted Maigari as applauding the support of his colleagues on the NFA board, management and staff, the National Sports Commission, and members of the National Assembly.
He also commended the chairmen and secretaries of football associations in the states, top shots of the various leagues and top government officials from the states who were in Brazil to cheer the team.
Former Nigeria Coaches, former Nigeria captains and officials of federal government agencies and parastatals were also not left out in his appreciation.
Paul Pogba’s header from a corner and Captain Joseph Yobo’s own goal on his 100th cap, ensured victory for the French team.
“Nigeria’s elimination means the Super Eagles must fly out of Brazil within the next 24 hours,’’ the statement added.
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.
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