Sports
OYO STATE set to host Ibadan Marathon Nov’ 2.
By Tolulope Oguntimehin
The historic and culturally rich city of Ibadan is making a mark on the global road race stage with Grand Ibadan Marathon scheduled for November 2nd, 2024. Revered Nigerian playwright and Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, poetically immortalized Ibadan as the “land with golden roofs,” a testament to its profound heritage and pivotal role in shaping Nigerian history.
This monumental undertaking by the Oyo State government, in partnership with Savvy Events aspires to showcase Ibadan’s multifaceted allure as a hub for sport, tourism and commerce. Fresh from an unprecedented electoral triumph sweeping all local government elections in the state, Governor Seyi Makinde positions the marathon as an opportunity to illuminate the city’s manifold achievements and magnetic charm. Despite its illustrious historical landmarks, from hosting West Africa’s first TV station to pioneering Nigeria’s premier newspaper and radio station. Ibadan remains steadfast in its resolve to showcase its boundless potential for hosting world-class events.
The Ibadan Marathon transcends mere athletic competition; it is a jubilant celebration of community spirit, well-being, and social enterprise. The playful but resounding theme, Ere idaraya captures the inclusivity and solidarity, beckoning individuals of all fitness levels to participate in this people-centric idea.
Whether you are a seasoned marathoner, leisure jogger, or fitness enthusiast, this event extends an open invitation to all. The curated course introduces the sights and sounds of the ancient city, unraveling the city’s rich cultural tapestry and storied heritage with every stride.
Governor Makinde envisages the marathon as a potent catalyst for socio-economic development, youth engagement, and promotion of Oyo State tourism master-plan. Savvy Events , revered for their second to none commitment to organizational excellence, will set the stage to redefine the benchmark for marathons across Nigeria and beyond.
The Ibadan Marathon boasts an array of race categories, ranging from the grueling full marathon (42.195km) to the spirited 10K fun run, ensuring there is something exhilarating for every participant to savor and cherish. Omi tuntun is refreshingly different leadership…
Sports
Speaker House Reps, Abbas, Others Thumbs NFF President Over NFF-FIFA Players’ Hostel and New Training Pitches
…Says It Will Boost Nigeria’s Economy
By Joel Ajayi
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, has commended the President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, for initiating the NFF-FIFA Players’ Hostel and new training pitches, describing it as a transformational project that will boost Nigeria’s economy.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony on Tuesday at the MKO Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, Speaker Abbas praised the initiative and pledged the National Assembly’s full support.
“This is a noble project, and the National Assembly will give it full support. I congratulate the National Sports Commission and the Nigeria Football Federation, and I thank FIFA for agreeing to fund this project,” he stated while cutting the ceremonial tape.
He also assured the House of Representatives’ support for the visionary leadership of Engineer Ibrahim Musa Gusau and the NFF in other key areas where assistance is required.
Leading the FIFA delegation, Gelson Fernandes (Deputy Chief Member Associations Officer/Regional Director, Africa) reiterated FIFA’s commitment to funding the project, emphasizing that infrastructure development has been a priority since the tenure of President Gianni Infantino began.
Expressing his excitement, NFF President Ibrahim Gusau stated that the hostel and training pitches will serve all Nigerian national teams, leagues, and academies.
“Indeed, my joy knows no bounds. From the day my Executive Committee and I were sworn into office in Benin City on Friday, 30th September 2022, I was determined to push this project forward as a legacy for Nigerian football.
“For sustained success, we must provide a conducive environment, infrastructure, equipment, and support systems that enable players and officials to perform at their best.
“Building a players’ hostel and having new training pitches will not only enhance team management but also reduce costs, allowing us to invest more in grassroots development programs.”
Several dignitaries present at the event applauded Gusau’s leadership, determination, and commitment to football development in Nigeria.
The event was well attended by local and international stakeholders, including sports enthusiasts, who witnessed the groundbreaking ceremony of the NFF-FIFA Players’ Hostel and Training Pitches.
In addition to the hostel, the project includes:Two new training pitches (one synthetic and one natural grass). Reconstruction of the existing synthetic pitch.
Also, Spectators’ sitting terraces with 1,838 seats.Two dressing rooms for players, each accommodating 27 players.Two dressing rooms for officials.
The construction is expected to last 24 months and is fully funded by FIFA under its FIFA Forward 3.0 programme.
-
Featured6 years agoLampard Names New Chelsea Manager
-
Featured5 years agoFG To Extends Lockdown In FCT, Lagos Ogun states For 7days
-
Featured6 years agoNYSC Dismisses Report Of DG’s Plan To Islamize Benue Orientation Camp
-
Featured5 years agoChildren Custody: Court Adjourns Mike Ezuruonye, Wife’s Case To April 7
-
Featured3 years agoTransfer Saga: How Mikel Obi Refused to compensate me After I Linked Him Worth $4m Deal In Kuwait SC – Okafor
-
Sports2 years ago
TINUBU LAMBAST DELE MOMODU
-
News3 months agoZulu to Super Eagles B team, President Tinubu is happy with you
-
Featured5 years ago
Board urges FG to establish one-stop rehabilitation centres in 6 geopolitical zones
