Sports
30 Days to Go: Okocha, Kanu, Adebayor Lead Star-Studded African Legends Squad for Champions Cup Clash Against Barça Legends in Abuja
Ex Super Eagles Captain, Jay-Jay Okocha, two-time African footballer of the year, Nwankwo Kanu, 2008 African player of the year, Emmanuel Adebayor, and Arsenal legend, Alex Song, are set to lead African Legends in a mouthwatering clash against Barca Legends on October 25, in Abuja.
The game will take place at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, at 3 pm, as Africa’s greatest ever players go toe-to-toe against the legendary stars of FC Barcelona in the Champions Cup organized by Attom Foundation.
Widely regarded as one of the most skillful African players of all time, Jay-Jay Okocha enjoyed a stellar career in Germany, France, England, and Turkey, earning global acclaim for his dazzling dribbles and flair. Twice named BBC African Footballer of the Year (2003, 2004), Okocha remains a cult hero at clubs like Paris Saint-Germain and Bolton Wanderers, and played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s triumph at the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations and the historic 1996 Olympic Gold Medal in Atlanta.
Nwankwo Kanu, one of Africa’s most decorated footballers, brings an illustrious résumé that includes a UEFA Champions League title with Ajax (1995), two Premier League titles with Arsenal, and three FA Cups across his time in England. The lanky forward is also a two-time African Footballer of the Year (1996, 1999) and was instrumental in Nigeria’s Golden Generation, memorably leading the Dream Team to Olympic glory in 1996.
Adding to the firepower, Emmanuel Adebayor, former African Footballer of the Year (2008), and Alex Song, a two-time Cameroonian Footballer of the Year and ex-Barcelona star, will reinforce an African line-up rich in experience from Europe’s top leagues, including the Premier League, LaLiga, Serie A, and Ligue 1.
This marquee encounter will see the African side, packed with charisma and talent, lock horns with a Barça Legends squad boasting world-renowned names such as Ronaldinho, Ludovic Giuly, Javier Saviola, Jesús Angoy, Samuel Okunowo, Marc Valiente, Fernando Navarro, and Roberto Trashorras.
In a game dedicated to raising awareness for the empowerment of the girl child, Attom Foundation has teamed up with ZMB Homes, and WGI to power through.
Fans will enjoy the rare opportunity to meet their football idols up close in a fan meet and greet event. Also, a gala night is being organized – an elegant evening of dining, networking, and generosity, with proceeds directly supporting programs for the girl child.
Sports
Dr. Ogunbiyi Emerges New President of Rowing, Canoe and Sailing Federation, Vows Greater Development
Joel Ajayi
Dr. Akin Ogunbiyi on Saturday emerged as the new President of the Nigeria Rowing, Canoe and Sailing Federation, taking over from Rear Admiral Festus Porbeni (rtd).
In an election held at the Media Centre of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, Ogunbiyi polled all 13 votes cast to win unopposed in what stakeholders described as one of the freest and fairest elections in recent times.
Similarly, Mr. Kayode Abulazeez was elected Vice President after securing 13 out of 13 votes.
In his acceptance speech, Dr. Ogunbiyi commended the outgoing president for laying a solid foundation for the Federation.
He noted that under Porbeni’s leadership, Nigeria achieved notable milestones, including participation in Olympic qualifiers.
“Over the last 10 to 15 years, the Federation has gained national recognition through sacrifice and commitment. We must now build on that foundation to take rowing, canoeing, and sailing to the next level,” Ogunbiyi said.
He stressed that infrastructure development and nationwide talent scouting will be top priorities for the new board, adding that Nigeria’s abundant water resources hold great potential for the growth of water sports.
“We will consolidate on what has been achieved and, with the support of government agencies and corporate sponsors, I believe that within one to two years we will witness massive progress in this sport,” he added.
Ogunbiyi also acknowledged the challenge of Nigeria’s poor maintenance culture, promising that the Federation will not only construct new facilities but also maintain existing ones in line with international standards.
He pledged to align with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda in driving sustainable development in the sport.
On his own, the Vice President Kayode Abulazeez, appreciated the delegates for their confidence and stressed that infrastructure remains key to discovering hidden talents across the country.
“Nigeria is blessed with diverse water bodies, and we must make rowing, canoeing, and sailing inclusive sports developed across all regions,” he said.
Speaking also, the Chairman of the Electoral Committee, Mr. Olumide Bamiduro, described the election as seamless and transparent, noting that strict adherence to rules and regulations ensured its credibility.
“This is one of the freest and fairest elections conducted in recent times. My charge to the new board is to work in unity and harmony to move the Federation forward,” Bamiduro stated.
He also commended the management of the National Sports Commission under the leadership of Malam Shehu Dikko, Chairman, and Dr. Bukola Olopade, Secretary-General, for providing the enabling environment for the successful conduct of the polls.
-
Featured6 years agoLampard Names New Chelsea Manager
-
Featured5 years agoFG To Extends Lockdown In FCT, Lagos Ogun states For 7days
-
Featured6 years agoChildren Custody: Court Adjourns Mike Ezuruonye, Wife’s Case To April 7
-
Featured6 years agoNYSC Dismisses Report Of DG’s Plan To Islamize Benue Orientation Camp
-
Featured4 years agoTransfer Saga: How Mikel Obi Refused to compensate me After I Linked Him Worth $4m Deal In Kuwait SC – Okafor
-
Sports3 years ago
TINUBU LAMBAST DELE MOMODU
-
News9 months agoZulu to Super Eagles B team, President Tinubu is happy with you
-
Featured6 years ago
Board urges FG to establish one-stop rehabilitation centres in 6 geopolitical zones
