Sports

2025 AFCON Qualifier: Sports Minister Charges Eagles To beat Libya

Published

8 months ago

October 10, 2024

Senator John Owan Enoh the Honourable Minister of Sports Development has charged the Super Eagles of Nigeria to dominate and conquer at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium come Friday the 11th of October 2024 ,as they take on Libya’s Mediterranean Knights.

This match marks a key moment in Group D.

Acknowledging the ranking of the Eagles in group D ,Senator Enoh reminded them to show tactical superiority and prove their mettle on the field of play,leaving nothing to chance.

“Your solid start in the qualifiers has put you in a favorable position to secure a place in the 2025 AFCON tournament.None the less,you must guard your place,as theMediterranean Knights will aim to defy expectations, seeking at least a draw in Uyo.Never undermine your opponents.The nation will be rooting for you ,make us proud and good luck.”He said.

After two matches, Nigeria leads the group, having secured four points, while Libya is at the bottom with just one pointThe Eagles opened their campaign with a commanding 3-0 victory over Benin Republic and followed up with a goalless draw against Rwanda.

The Super Eagles also hold a historical advantage, having won all previous encounters with Libya.

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Sports

No crisis in NAWIS ahead of AFN elections on Monday

Published

5 hours ago

June 8, 2025

The Gleamer

Joel Ajayi

The Association of Nigerian Women in Sports (NAWIS), known for its orderliness since its establishment in 1990, continues to uphold its standards ahead of the upcoming Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) elections.

With members across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, NAWIS has consistently operated without external interference.

Over the years, its members have been nominated to various boards of national sports federations after meeting established criteria, including the payment of annual dues.

The association has attracted a strong base of respected sportswomen who have served the country with distinction, both during and after their active careers.

In preparation for the AFN elections, zonal elections were conducted on June 2 and 3, producing representatives for the national exercise.

While NAWIS initially planned to hold its election in Zaria, Kaduna State, the association’s headquarters, it was later rescheduled for Abuja on Monday, June 9, following directives from higher authorities.

Importantly, NAWIS has a set of strict guidelines that govern its electoral process, particularly the requirement for timely payment of annual dues. Failure to meet this condition results in automatic disqualification.

This guideline was the basis for the disqualification of Maria Wophil, who has reportedly not paid her annual dues since 2017. Her attempt to hurriedly settle outstanding debts just before the election was deemed non-compliant with NAWIS regulations.

Who is Fatima Yusuf-Olukoju?

Commonwealth gold medallist Fatima Yusuf-Olukoju is one of the leading contenders for the NAWIS representative position in the AFN.

She made history as the first African woman to run the 400m in under 50 seconds and brought glory to Nigeria by winning a silver medal in the 4x400m relay at the Atlanta 1996 Olympics.

Yusuf-Olukoju also claimed gold in the 400m at the 1991 All-Africa Games and silver in the 200m.

Based on nominations and her track record, Yusuf-Olukoju is considered the most qualified candidate. However, three other contenders have also shown interest, and the final decision will be made in the election slated for Monday, June 9, in Abuja.

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