Sports
20 Schools Grace EStar’s Unveiling In Nigeria
EStars, an educational Esports platform, is thrilled to announce its unveiling in Nigeria as it welcomed over 20 Nigerian schools to its opening, signalling a significant step towards revolutionising education through Esports in the country.
The formal event, which was held at the Residence of the British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, was graced by dignitaries from both the public and private sectors.
EStars, established by Mags Byrne, who saw the potential of sports beyond entertainment by integrating Esports into school curricula, seeks to make learning more engaging and relevant to students’ interests, enhancing educational outcomes and preparing students for sporting careers in the industry.
Speaking at the unveiling of EStars, British Deputy High Commissioner, Jonny Baxter, said, “Esports, albeit emerging, is now fully professional, and is expected to contribute $1.8billion to the UK GDP by 2025. The Esports ecosystem also offers a wide array of career opportunities, and we are happy to support Estars in partnering with Nigerian schools to give their students this exposure.”
Founder of EStars, Byrne, added, “EStars represents a new frontier in education, where the exciting world of Esports meets comprehensive learning and career preparation.
“Our mission is to empower young minds with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in the Esports industry and beyond. We are excited to begin this journey in Nigeria and look forward to expanding our reach across the continent.”
Africa Advisor to EStars and Chairman, UK Institute of Directors, Africa Focus Group, Joel Popoola, said he was aware of the huge potential in the burgeoning Esports industry.
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.”