Sports
Tokyo 2020: Oborududu Honoured In Yenagoa
Stakeholders in conjunction with the Nigeria Wrestling Federation (NWF) at the weekend hosted the country’s Tokyo 2020 wrestlers and coaches to a reception at the Dynamite Recreation centre in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital.
Blessing Oborududu, who became Nigeria’s first-ever wrestling medallist at the Olympics, after claiming a silver medal in the 68kg in Tokyo a few weeks ago, alongside Commonwealth champions Oduanyo Adekuoroye and Aminat Adeniyi (both unavoidably absent), Adijat Idris, Ekerekeme Agiomor, as well as coaches Purity Akuh and Victor Kodei were presented with plaques and cash prizes for their historic outing at the quadriennial games.
Tidesports source reports that NWF boss, Daniel Igali,was also handed a plaque for his outstanding leadership, which has totally transformed wrestling in Nigeria.
In his remarks, Chairman of Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, who also chaired the occasion, Hon. Kia Nigeria, on behalf of his Council, donated N1million to Oborududu, who hails from Southern Ijaw, adding that he is willing to support any indigene of the area who excels in sports.
“I equally appreciate the Nigeria Wrestling Federation because we have thought it wise that we are going to also host her (Oborududu) as our daughter,” he said.
“But because the Honourable Commissioner for Sports (Daniel Igali) is my friend and he informed me of this ceremony, so, I have to key into it. And that’s the reason why I’m here to come and celebrate her.
“You heard what I offered on behalf of the Council in celebrating her, encouraging her, encouraging every other person that is into this business of wrestling and any other sports.
“Southern Ijaw Local Government is strong enough to support any athlete that would come from any of the sporting fields.”
On her part, Olympic silver medallist Oborududu, who was full of joy, thanked Hon. Kia Nigeria for his kind gesture, while attributing her success to the impact of the NWF boss Daniel Igali on her career.
“I feel so honoured, and I want to say a big thank you to the President (Daniel Igali),” the 10-time African champion said. “Wrestling is No.1 in Nigeria because of him. We are celebrating Olympic silver medal because of him. So, I want to say a big thank you to him, and also to the chairman of the occasion Hon. Kia (Nigeria).
“For being part of this occasion, I want to say a big thank you to everyone that contributed to the success of this occasion. Thank you everyone and God Bless you.”
The Ardova Handball Premier League 2025, which began with the first phase in Benin City months ago, before the second phase in Lagos which ends with a finale that the Executive Chairman of Ardova PLC, Dr. Abdulwasiu Sowami, ably represented by the Deputy Managing Director, Ardova PLC, Mrs Abiola Babatunde-Ojo, described as delightful to watch in her speech.
For Safety Shooters, it was a historic moment as they clinched the men’s title for the first time since 2020, completing a dominant campaign that saw them finish top of the table with 57 points from 20 matches while Safety Babes also etched their name deeper into Nigerian handball history, winning an unprecedented fifth consecutive women’s championship, reaffirming their status as the league’s most dominant team, not just in the women’s category but in the history of handball premier league in Nigeria.
In the Men’s Safety Shooters finished the season in style, beating COAS Shooters 43–32 (20–10) to cap off a dominant outing in Phase 2.
Their final-day victory ensured they remained clear at the summit with an impressive 18 wins, one draw, and one loss, totaling a superb goal difference of +214 after scoring 638 goals and conceding 424.
The organisers of the Ikoyi Club Tennis Masters Tournament have earmarked N4 million as the prize money for this year’s edition.
?The Chairman of the tennis section of Ikoyi Club, Diran Famakinwa, stated this at a briefing, highlighting the activities for the second edition of the tournament.
?The tournament, which is in collaboration with MegaMound Investment Limited, is endorsed by the Nigerian Tennis Federation.
?According to Famakinwa, the male and female champions will receive N500,000 each, while the runners-up in both categories will go home with the sum of N350,000 each, with the remaining money to be shared among the semi-finalists and other participants.
?Sixteen players, which includes the eight top ?male and eight top female players, will feature in the one-week event, which started on December 5, and run till Saturday, December 13.
?The female final will be held on Friday, December 12, while the male final will take up on Saturday, December 13.
In a statement released on Saturday, the NSC described the defender as “Captain Fantastic” and praised his decade of distinguished service to Nigeria, highlighting a legacy defined by professionalism, consistency, patriotism and an unwavering commitment to national duty.
“After a decade of distinguished service to Nigeria, Troost-Ekong leaves behind a legacy defined by professionalism, consistency, patriotism and an unwavering commitment to national duty,” the NSC stated.
The commission noted that, as one of the most capped defenders in Super Eagles history with 83 international appearances since his debut in 2015, Troost-Ekong served as a pillar of leadership across multiple tournaments and qualification campaigns.
“His exceptional outing at the last Africa Cup of Nations, where he scored three goals and was named Player of the Tournament, remains one of the most remarkable achievements by a defender in AFCON history,” the NSC added.
The statement further emphasised that Troost-Ekong’s “Nigeria first” mindset, discipline and exemplary conduct set a standard for the next generation of athletes, with his influence within the national team extending beyond the pitch to inspire unity, resilience and professionalism among his teammates.
Meanwhile, Troost-Ekong has dismissed rumours that he was forced to retire by the country’s football administrators as punishment for leading a revolt against the NFF.
The 32-year-old’s announcement came less than a month before the AFCON, and he was named in the 54-man preliminary list. His decision sparked speculation, particularly as he had led a strike in protest against unpaid bonuses during the World Cup qualifying play-offs.
One fan speculated on social media, suggesting that Troost-Ekong was pressured to quit after exposing the NFF. The Al Khoolood defender offered a sharp retort, establishing that he unilaterally made the decision to retire.
“Not true! My own choice/decision and on my own terms. No one ever asked/tried to force me out. If anything, the opposite when I shared my decision. I wish the team all the best and support them together with all Nigerians for the upcoming AFCON to go all the way,” he wrote on X.
The NSC concluded by wishing Troost-Ekong the very best in the next chapter of his career and commending him for representing Nigeria with honour.
-
Business3 days agoCBN Revises Cash Withdrawal Rules January 2026, Ends Special Authorisation
-
Business4 days ago
Shippers Council Vows Commitment To Security At Nigerian Ports
-
Business4 days agoNigeria Risks Talents Exodus In Oil And Gas Sector – PENGASSAN
-
Business3 days agoFIRS Clarifies New Tax Laws, Debunks Levy Misconceptions
-
Sports3 days ago
Obagi Emerges OML 58 Football Cup Champions
-
Politics3 days agoTinubu Increases Ambassador-nominees to 65, Seeks Senate’s Confirmation
-
Business4 days ago
NCDMB, Others Task Youths On Skills Acquisition, Peace
-
Sports3 days agoFOOTBALL FANS FIESTA IN PH IS TO PROMOTE PEACE, UNITY – Oputa