Sports
Transfer Update: Rivers, Akwa United, Others Recruit Ahead Continental Engagement
Ahead of their continental engagements, clubs from the Nigeria Professional Football League and the Nigeria National League have begun the recruitment of players.
Former Delta Force and Heartland FC goalkeeper, Sochima Victor has joined Rivers United from relegated Jigawa Golden Stars. The goalkeeper signed a one-year deal with the NPFL giant until the end of the 2021/2022 season.
Lobi Stars defender, John Lazarus(RB) and Ebube Duru(LB) have completed their transfer to Rivers United FC for an undisclosed fee, but monthly salary is decent, above five hundred thousand naira.
Rivers United FC has opted out to offer defender, Ifeanyi Anaemena a contract renewal after his deal expired at the end of the season.
Akwa United has been very active in the transfer market with recruitment done to virtually every playing position.
James Ajako officially joined the 2021 NPFL champions, Akwa United from relegated Jigawa Golden Stars on a two- year deal. The left back is expected to help fortify the defence of the Promise Keepers going into the continent.
Dakkada midfield maestro, Isaac George has also crossed to Akwa United. Issac George was solid in the mid-field for Dakkada in the just concluded season. His teammate, Austin Osayande has also joined Akwa United from Dakkada FC ahead of the 2021/22 NPFL season.
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.