Sports
Cricket: Sports Writers Laud NCF Over Seminar
Some sports writers in
Abuja have lauded the Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF) for the one-day media orientation seminar organised for journalists recently.
In separate interviews, participants said they were excited about the seminar and urged other federations to do the same.
A reporter with Daily Trust in Abuja, Joshua Odeyemi, said he was happy to be part of the training.
“I am so happy to be part of the training. It is an eye-opener for all cricket reporters and I was able to understand the basic terminologies in the game.
“I will obviously be able to report the game better.
“I also think that other complicated sports, like judo and golf, should also provide such opportunity, so that reporters can acquaint themselves with the game,” Odeyemi said.
Francis Sanofe of Independent Television (ITV), Benin, said he would pass the knowledge on to his colleagues.
“I am so happy to be here. I really thank NCF for organising this training.
“No doubt, I have learnt a lot today. I will go back to Benin and pass the knowledge on to my colleagues,” Sanofe said.
A journalist with Purity FM in Awka, Asika Ikemefuna, praised the present NCF board for organising the training.
“I am so happy and impressed. God bless this current NCF administration.
“We have all learnt a lot. It used to be difficult reporting cricket. But now I can teach someone the game.
“If other federations can borrow a leaf from cricket, then fans will not concentrate only on football but will pick interest in other sports because through the media you can get to all,” he said.
The Chairman, Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Imo State Chapter, John Nwagbo, also lauded NCF on the seminar.
“I will however call on other federations to organise such seminars to acquaint journalists with the techniques of some complicated sports,” he said.
More than 30 journalists from across the country participated in the maiden edition of the seminar.
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.”