Sports
AYC: Flying Eagles Off To Winning Start In S’Africa
Nigeria got their 2011 African Youth Championships off to a winning start with a 2-1 victory against defending champions Ghana at Dobsonville Stadium on Monday.
Nigeria created little in terms of goalscoring opportunities, but were more efficient in front of goal, picking up the three points that sets them up perfectly for a place in the semifinal now.
Nigeria’s hero was Uche Nwafor, who scored both goals in each half for the Flying Eagles.
Their first arrived on 17 minutes when Uche latched onto a cross from the right. Sandwiched between those goals was a headed equaliser for Ghana courtesy of Francis Nsor.
He was first to a corner-kick by Richmond Nketia as Ghana drew level. Ghana then went on to waste a host of chances with Nsor the most guilty, especially when he skewed an effort wide from inside the six yard box.
Nigeria goalkeeper Paul Danjuma then saved well from Richmond Boakye Yiadom as Ghana piled up the pressure in search of the winning goal.
It did not come and they were made to pay in a second half in which Nigeria were the more threatening side especially on the break.
Nwofor broke down the left side of Ghana’s defense, striking a shot-cum-cross that completely caught the Ghana goalkeeper Akwasi Achampong off guard.
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.