Sports
Why I Sponsor Nkpor Football League – Elijah
The sponsor of Xandro Football League Cup in Nkpor Kingdom in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State, Chief Alexander Elijah has given reasons why he donated a trophy to be competed for among eight principal communities that make up the great Nkpor Kingdom.
Making this disclosure while fielding questions from Tidesports source, at a grand reception organised for the eventual winner of the trophy at stake, Owhorji FC at Nkpor Kingdom, Chief Elijah said that his desire was basically to use the football competition to keep the youths busy and happy, away from other social vices.
He further stated that through this grassroots football competition, some budding young talents could also be exposed and possibly hit stardom to become great players in near future.
“Honestly, I’m not only impressed with the standard of the game exhibited by the young boys but also very happy that my articulated vision in sponsoring the football competition has succeeded in bringing everybody in Nkpor Kingdom together as brothers and sisters, irrespective of the side that eventually won the trophy at the end of the day”, said he.
While encouraging the youths to always remain focused and committed in active participation not only in football but in other meaningful things that will portray the image of Nkpor Kingdom in good light before the outside world, Chief Elijah, an ardent supporter of Manchester United FC equally assured of his readiness to continue to make the football tournament an annual event.
“Believe me; I’m optimistic forward that the organisation of this year’s (2021) Nkpor Football League Cup Competition would be more bigger and better in all ramifications, having rolled up my sleeves to assist any good potential that will want to use football as career for living.”
Also in a separate interview, the Secretary General of Xandro League Soccer Cup Competition, Wamadi B. Ibuchim was full of praises for the sponsor of the competition, Alexander Elijah, stressing that he has done well in investing his resources meaningfully towards the promotion of grassroots football in Nkpor Kingdom, believing that other well meaning individuals will emulate his good steps.
The visibly elated scribe of the competition also took time to commend the quality of game displayed by the participated eight communities in Nkpor Kingdom, adding that their skills displayed, were true to the setting of a grassroots football standard that needs encouragement by all and sundry.
You may wish to know that Owhorji FC defeated Opara-Amadi FC 2-1 at the final of the competition.
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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