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 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.
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