Sports
18th NSF: Thugs Disrupt Zonal Elimination In Gombe
The chairman of Bauchi State Sports Council, Tanimu Sa’idu
has expressed dissatisfaction with the organisation of the zonal elimination
series for the 18th National Sports Festival held in Gombe State over the
weekend.
According to him, the event was hijacked by thugs as there
was inadequate security arrangement to secure the venue.
He said that thugs harassed and intimidated officials at the
venue.
“The ugly development almost disrupted the event,” Sai’idu
said.
Sa’idu made the expression in an interview with newsmen
which was monitored in Port Harcourt shortly after the zonal elimination.
He stated that the National Sports Commission NSC had given
assurances of adequate security in a meeting held before the commencement of
the competition. But some youths took advantage of the inadequate security to
intimidate match officials which led to the disruption of games like hockey and
basket ball.
While commenting on the decision of officiating officials to
suspend some matches, the chairman explained that NSC was expected to take
charge of everything about the organisation.
He descried as unfair the way and manner NSC handled the
competition.
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.”
-
Sports4 days agoFBN, C’River gov partner to boost tourism
-
Oil & Energy4 days agoFG Pledges Solar Power Hospitals, Varsities
-
News4 days agoNigeria Records $50bn Cryptocurrency Transactions In One Year
-
Business4 days agoNCAA To Enforce Zero-debt Rule By 2026 ……….As Airlines Face Compliance Sanctions
-
Rivers4 days agoRivers Community Absolves Kingsman of Land Grabbing Allegations, Gives Seven-Day Ultimatum
-
Rivers4 days ago
Shippers Council moves To Enhance Service Delivery At Nigerian Ports
-
Oil & Energy4 days agoEkpo, , Mshelbila Elected Gas Exporting Countries Forum Chiefs
-
News4 days agoTinubu commissions seven new projects at Unilorin