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Nigerians Commend S’Eagles In Defeat …As Ghana Leads Africa To Success
Most Nigerian football fans have commended the performance of the Super Eagles in their first match of the ongoing 2010 World Cup in South Africa.
Despite falling to the superior fireworks of Argentina 0-1 in their first match in Group B, the fans agreed that the Nigerians put up an impressive display remarkably different from their lethargic performances at the 2010 Africa Nations Cup in Angola and the qualifying series for the World Cup.
They were however, unanimous that goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama was the difference between a total humiliation by the Argentines and the respectable loss recorded in the match.
Overall, however, the Super Eagles display was econcuraging enough to inspire hope that they can still get the result that will see them through to the next round.
From Nigerians based in South Africa to football fan at home, the loss to Argentina was bearable.
Honour Sirawoo, chairman of Sport writers Association of Nigerian, SWAN, Rivers State branch said that the Super Eagles showed some promises that can be built on in subsequent matches.
“With a little adjustment and concentration, the Eagles can go far, Sirawoo said.
Ponwang Abari, a civil servant, said that the Nigerian side gave a good account of themselves even though they were unable to convert their scoring chances.
Another Nigerian, Joseph Apollo, a trader, said the out come of the match should galvanise the team’s handlers to devise strategies that would ensure victory in subsequent matches.
Ocheya Obida, a student, said the future of the Nigerian side in the World Cup was bright and called for cooperation from all stakeholders for the country’s success.
Similarly, fans in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State also commended the efforts of the Super Eagles rating them above average in the encounter against Argentina
“I believe the Super Eagles played very well. In fact, they out-played the Argentines in the second half but for the early goal conceded,’’ Alhaji Abdulkadir Kwakwatawa said.
Tidesports source in South Afrcia said that a population of Nigerians who could not obtain match tickets, converged in a popular Nigerian eatery in the locality to watch the match on a big screen.
At the blast of the final whistle, they tropped out on Rockey Street, where the eatery is located, singing and dancing to the admiration of passers by.
Mr Adebayo Ogun, a trader among the cheering crowd said.
“We showed them African soccer; it was just unfortunate we conceded that early goal which made the difference.
“I was happy to see a new Super Eagles and I know there is very high hope that we will still make it to the next round,” Ogun said.
Another fan who simply identified himself as Kabiru, said he felt sad about the loss but said there was still cause to have hope with the team’s performance.
“We will make it against Greece and Korea,” he said, explaining that having watched both teams in their encounter, the Super Eagles had a better chance of qualifying for the next round.
“We can now say Nigeria has a team,” he said, adding that they showed better cohesion and gave hope for better results in their subsequent matches.
“It was unbelievable. I never expected such a performance from the Eagles. They played well beyond the expectations of many Nigerians.
He said the team’s loss was due to ill-luck through wasted scoring chances by Yakubu Ayegbeni and Chinedu Obasi, and lack of midfield firepower.
“The duo of Ayegbeni and Obasi should have scored earlier and later on in the first half. If that had happened, and we had played better in the midfield, the score line would have been different,’’ he added.
Wei Xiangnan, the Abuja-based Chief Correspondent of China Radio International, also told our source that the Eagles’ performance was inspiring and had given more hope to Nigerians.
“I think the Eagles played well, and beyond expectations. They were just unlucky, especially late in the second half.
“But I believe they have given many Nigerians more hope about the World Cup now, and I believe they will do better in their next matches,’’ he said.
Meawhile, the Black Stars of Ghana yesterday in Pretoria recorded Africa’s first victory in the first round of matches of the 2010 World Cup played so far.
The Stars pipped Serbia 1-0 in the first match of Group D to put themselves in good stead for qualification for the second round stage.
Before their victory, three African representatives had taken to the pitch, recording one draw and two losses.
Host Bafana Bafana of South Africa kicked off the world cup seen by many as Africa’s tournament with an impressive 1-1 draw with Mexico on Friday
Nigerian’s Super Eagles and the Fennecs of Algeria failed to match the South African performance narrowly losing 0-1, to Argentina and Slovenia on Saturday and Sunday, respectively.
With Ghana’s victory, it is hoped that the road had been cleared for an African success in subsequent matches.
Asamoah Gyan, scorer of Ghana’s first World Cup goal at Germany 2006, was again on hand to open the account in South Africa through a well taken 85th minute penalty, after Serbia’s Kuzmanovic deliberately handled the ball inside the box.
Despite playing with a one man advantage, Ghana though impressive in their game, failed to break down the resilient Serbian defence, until the defensive howler provided the penalty opportunity.
Gyan could have double the score later on but his effort rebounded off the upright after the goalkeeper was well beaten.
Another African team, the Indomitable Lions of Cameroun will take to the stage this afternoon in a group match with Japan
News
Independence Anniversary: Nigeria Is A Failed Grandfather – Monarch
A first class traditional ruler in Rivers State, His Royal Majesty, King Aaron Ikuru, has described Nigeria at 65 as a grandfather who cannot provide leadership to other African Countries.
The monarch stated this in an interview at his palace in Ikuru Town, yesterday.
According to him, Nigeria would have been a developed country to set the pace in the whole of Africa, considering its numerous resources.
“Nigeria is a grandfather but not behaving as a grandfather. Our country, Nigeria, before and from the era of Independence was in the state of becoming a great country, but unfortunately is not becoming anything.
“We should be far ahead with what we have in the country. God blessed us, we have almost what it takes in terms of mineral resources, manpower amongst others that can drive speedy development in the country.
“If we’re able to harness all the things we have, even America by now would have respected us”, he said.
While blaming the past leaders of the country, the monarch called on the current leadership of the country to redouble efforts in order to narrow the differences in terms of development, exchange rate between naira and foreign currencies.
King Ikuru, who is also the Chairman of Andoni Area Traditional Rulers Council, however, lauded the efforts of the founding fathers, past leaders of the country for the achievements so far.
He also expressed optimism that Nigeria would be great, calling on the opinion leaders to shun tribalism and political intolerance in the country.
“If Nigeria should experience rapid development in all sectors, it means we must shun tribalism and political intolerance, the interest of our country must be our priority.
“We need to fight corruption vigorously, and leaders must show good example of discipline and integrity”, he said.
The monarch used the opportunity to wish Nigeria happy independence anniversary.
By: Enoch Epelle
News
FG begins payment of N32,000 pension increment to retirees – PTAD
The Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate has announced the start of implementation of the new pension increments for pensioners under the Defined Benefit Scheme, saying the adjustments will be reflected in the September 2025 payroll cycle.
In a statement signed by Management and posted on its X handle, PTAD said the increase package includes a fixed N32,000 payment alongside percentage increases of 10.66% and 12.95% for eligible categories, which will benefit about 832,000 pensioners under its management.
Recall that PTAD in August announced President Bola Tinubu approved a series of measures, including new welfare benefits for pensioners under DBS.
The approval follows a formal request by PTAD’s Executive Secretary, Tolulope Odunaiya, seeking an emergency budgetary allocation to implement pension reforms and welfare benefits for the scheme’s retirees.
The measures include a N32,000 pension increment, percentage increases for pensioners of defunct and privatised agencies, pension harmonisation for all DBS pensioners, enrolment into the National Health Insurance Scheme, and the settlement of long-standing unfunded pension liabilities.
In a statement yesterday, PTAD said the partial release of N820.188 billion by the Federal Ministry of Finance from the emergency funding has made it possible for pensioners to begin receiving the enhanced payments immediately.
The statement read, “Further to the President’s approval of the emergency budgetary allocation for the payment of the new pension increment rates for Pensioners under the Defined Benefit Pension Scheme (DBS) that was earlier published by the Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate on Friday, 8th August, 2025, the Directorate is delighted to announce the commencement of the implementation of the 832,000, 10.66% and 12.95% pension increment for eligible pensioners under the management of PTAD, in the September 2025 pension payroll cycle.
“This achievement has been made possible through the partial release of 820.188 billion by the Federal Ministry of Finance, from the initial 845 billion emergency funding approval granted by the Federal Government.
“This milestone clearly reaffirms the Federal Government’s dedication to safeguarding the welfare and entitlements of DBS Pensioners in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda.”
The directorate thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the emergency allocation.
It also acknowledged the role of the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun; the Minister of State for Finance, Dr Doris Uzoka-Anite; the Accountant-General of the Federation and key presidential aides and parliamentary committees for their “timely interventions” and support.
The statement also expressed appreciation to organised pension groups, including the Nigeria Union of Pensioners and the Federal Parastatals and Private Sector Pensioners Association of Nigeria, for their cooperation during negotiations and implementation planning.
“We further assure all our DBS Pensioners and Stakeholders that the Directorate will continue to collaborate with the relevant authorities towards release of the outstanding approved funds and subsequent fulfilment of all future obligations relating to the pension increments and the landmark reforms,” the statement added.
The DBS covers pensioners who retired before the introduction of the Contributory Pension Scheme in 2004, including those from defunct public institutions, privatised agencies, and treasury-funded parastatals.
Over the years, many have faced irregular payments, delayed harmonisation, and inadequate healthcare access, challenges that the new reforms are expected to address.
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Nigeria At 65: NOA urges citizens to foster unity, progress
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has urged Nigeria. citizens to remain united, peaceful to enhance development of the nation as it celebrates 65th independence anniversary.
Mr Mkpoutom Mkpoutom, Director of NOA in Akwa Ibom, gave the charge in Uyo yesterday while addressing newsmen and stakeholders to mark the anniversary.
Mkpoutom said it was essential to recognise that the strength of Nigeria lay in its diversity
“With over 250 ethnic groups and an array of languages, the nation embodies a unique blend of heritage.
“This diversity should be seen not as a dividing line but as a unifying force that propels the country toward progress.
“As Akwa Ibom embarks on another year, it is crucial for all citizens to foster a sense of unity and shared purpose.
“Embrace dialogue, understanding and collaborate with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu in its efforts to addressing pressing challenges like poverty, security, education, and healthcare, thereby paving way for a brighter future for all.”
The state director, however, appealed to Nigerians from all walks of life to renew their commitment to a more prosperous, peaceful, and equitable nation.
“Let this anniversary serve as a reminder of the collective strength that lies in every citizen,” he said.
He urged everyone to contribute positively to the development of a better society.
Mkpoutom urged the people and all citizens to honour the labours of heroes past, as they celebrated the present, while working diligently toward a future filled with hope and opportunities for generations to come.
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