Sports
Ex-S’Eagles Coaches Task Government On Kidnapping
Two-time Super Eagles coach, Adegboye Onigbinde, has urged the Federal Government to create job opportunities for the youth to reduce kidnapping in the country
Onigbinde told newsmen on Tuesday in Lagos that it was unfortunate that kidnapping was on the increase, adding that urgent steps were required to tackle the problem.
Reacting to the release of Super Eagles Mikel Obi’s father, Michael, from his abductors in Kano on Monday after 11 days, the FIFA/CAF instructor said that more than 100 people had been victims of kidnapping in Nigeria in the last two years.
“It is quite unfortunate that this is happening to the families of footballers because the kidnappers thought that these boys are paid big money by their clubs.
“But the kidnappers have forgotten that these players also have their private commitments. This case is the fourth involving the footballers.
“A holistic approach is required by the Federal Government. It should look into why this thing is happening.
“But as long as we have graduates of 15 years roaming the streets, it portends a dangerous signal which should not be allowed to continue by the government,” the Modakeke chief advised.
Another former Super Eagles coach, Paul Hamilton, advised the Federal Government to beef up security in the country to reduce the menace of kidnapping.
Hamilton called for the involvement of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and other para military outfits to forestall kidnapping.
“The Federal Government should include the civil defence and other para military organisations in the provision of adequate security for Nigerians.
“It is Mikel Obi’s father today. Nobody knows who will be the next victim. As such, security should be beefed up in the country,” Hamilton said.
The former Super Falcons coach flayed the easy access of criminals to army and police uniforms.
“It is very sad that the kidnappers of Michael Obi were found in military uniform and the army did not know how they got them.”
The National Division One and Division Two Volleyball Leagues organised by the Volleyball Federation of Nigeria and sponsored by Alex Otti has kicked off in Umuahia, Abia State.
The Championship features 34 teams from across the country, with about 22 States already participating in activities lined up for the ten-day event.
Addressing journalists at the Umuahia Stadium, the Referee Coach for the tournament and Vice Chairman Nigerian Volleyball Referees Association, Mohamed Mohamed, assured of fair officiating in the competition and advised the athletes to be more disciplined in the field of play, saying that volleyball is known to be a disciplined sport.
He also commended Governor Alex Otti for sponsoring the tournament for the second time.
“Last year, we were here, and we so appreciate the Abia State Government for sponsoring such a competition. The same thing happened this year too, we are here again.
The Coordinator, Lagos Women Run, Tayo Popoola, has stated that the All Women 10km Race aims to connect through their communities, while creating empowerment opportunities.
The 10th edition with the theme: “One Run, a thousand Opportunities,” will come up on the November 8th, 2025, with the start point at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere and end at the Mobolaji Johnson Sports Arena, Onikan.
This year’s edition of the Lagos Women Run marks a significant milestone, celebrating the program’s journey, the vibrant city of Lagos, and the incredible women who have been part of it since its inception.
It will focus more on empowering women, acknowledging their dedication, and ensuring the program’s sustainability by providing participants with opportunities they deserve.
Popoola added that the race has achieved remarkable success in making women happy and uncovering talents, serving as a platform for participants to train for bigger road races, which fosters a strong sense of community, allowing women of all ages to connect, network, and celebrate themselves.
The event’s non-discriminatory nature makes it a level playing ground, open to everyone regardless of social status, by promoting general well-being among women.
The Franco-Malian tactician made the bold declaration whilst speaking to Nigerian legend Segun Odegbami on 90 Minutes with Mathematical on Eagle7FM on Saturday, expressing gratitude to fans for their support.
“Thanks to the fans. Thanks to Nigeria. I am so happy that I have brought back the smiles on their faces,” Chelle said.
“We beat Benin because the fans pushed the players. I ask them this: They have to do this (for the playoffs)… I plan to do my best for Nigeria, and Inshallah, we will go to the FIFA World Cup.”
Chelle, who took charge of a struggling Nigerian side in January, has transformed the team’s fortunes after inheriting a squad on the brink of disaster. Nigeria were winless in their first four qualifiers, with three draws and one defeat threatening to derail another World Cup dream.
Under his leadership, the Super Eagles rallied to win four and draw two of their last six games, collecting 14 points from a possible 18. The highlight came earlier this month in Uyo, where Nigeria swept past Benin Republic 4-0 in a statement victory that reignited national belief.
However, the revival was not enough to seal automatic qualification. Nigeria finished among the four best runners-up in Africa and must now navigate a continental playoff in November for a spot in next March’s intercontinental tie.
The first challenge is a one-legged showdown with Gabon, with Cameroon or DR Congo potentially waiting beyond.
Chelle’s message to his players was uncompromising, saying, “Qualifying for the FIFA World Cup is not a war, but it is like a war… My players need to have a warrior state of mind… They have to be like sharks.”
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