Sports
CBN Football: FIRS Narrowly Beat SEC 1-0
ThankGod Ikeagwu’s 20th minute goal in the final against Securities and Exchange Commission crowned Federal Inland Revenue Service FC champions of the 35th All-Financial Institutions Football Competition organised by the Central Bank of Nigeria, in collaboration with the Nigeria Football Federation.
The keenly contested final, which held at the Pantami Stadium, Gombe on Saturday night, kept fans on their toes, but FIRS held on after their early goal to clinch a hard-fought 1-0 as well as the title and the star prize of N2m.
Runners-up SEC received N1.5m, while Unity Bank, who emerged third after defeating Bubayero Microfinance FC in the losers final, were given N1m.
Speaking shortly after the event, Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria, Godwin Emefiele, who was represented by Shehu Alhaji-Goringo, expressed continued support for the competition, following its far-reaching impact.
“Since its inception in 1979, the AFIFC has become a significant tournament among financial institutions in Nigeria, particularly as it creates an opportunity for social interaction among financial institutions and regulators, as well as facilitate the promotion of harmony in Nigeria’s financial system,” Emefiele stated.
While enumerating the importance of the event, Emefiele added, “The competition, over the years, has also served as a grooming ground for young football-playing bankers to become full professionals and national team players. It is on record that some of our decorated football heroes such as Nwankwo Kanu, Henry Nwosu and Stephen Keshi of blessed memory participated in this competition.
“As part of our corporate social responsibility, the bank remains committed to making positive contributions towards the promotion and development of football and other sporting competitions such as golf and tennis.”
Also speaking, Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Yahaya, who was represented by Chairman, Gombe Sports Commission, Larry Daniel, lauded the CBN for hosting the final in Gombe State.
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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