Sports
Nigeria’s 64th Independence: Sports Icon Igoche Mark Calls for Shift in Perspective
Joel Ajayi
As Nigeria celebrated its 64th independence anniversary, renowned basketball promoter and initiator of the Mark D’ Ball Basketball Championship, Igoche Mark, emphasized the crucial role sports have played in shaping the country’s image since 1960.
Mark urged the Federal Government to prioritize sports, recognizing its potential beyond recreation to a viable business and career opportunity. He highlighted the achievements of Nigerian athletes on the global stage, showcasing the nation’s talent and potential.
“Sports have been Nigeria’s image marker since independence. Investing in sports and supporting athletes can enhance our reputation and create opportunities for youth,” Mark stated.
Mark’s vision for sports-driven positive change and development resonated with many. With his unwavering dedication to basketball, he hopes to inspire others to champion sports’ transformative power in Nigeria.
As Nigeria continues to celebrate its independence, Igoche Mark’s message serves as a call to action. By embracing sports as a driving force for positive change, Nigeria can unlock its full potential and inspire a brighter future.
Sports
NSC Hails Nigerian Badminton Team as Eniola Bolaji Strikes Gold, Men’s Doubles Team Secures Bronze in Spanish International Tourney
Joel Ajayi
The National Sports Commission (NSC) has applauded the Nigerian contingent at the 2025 Spanish Parabadminton International, after another impressive outing that saw the team secure a gold and a bronze medal in Toledo, Spain, on Sunday.
Paralympic medallist Eniola Bolaji continued her dominance, winning her second gold medal in two weeks with a commanding 2-0 (21-7, 21-10) victory over Turkey’s Halime Yildiz in the women’s SL3 final. Bolaji had won gold a week earlier at the Spanish International in Victoria, Spain.
In the men’s SL4 doubles event, Nnana Jeremiah and Eze Chukwuebuka delivered a strong performance, battling their way to a well-deserved bronze medal.
NSC Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, commended the athletes for making Nigeria proud and praised the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, led by Francis Orbih, for ensuring the team’s optimal performance on the international stage.
“These athletes have once again showcased the resilience and talent that define Nigerian sports. Their success is a lucid indication of their hard work and the strategic leadership we demand from the Badminton Federation and other sports federations. We are proud of them and remain committed to supporting their journey to greater heights,” Dikko said.
Director General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, emphasized that the achievements align with President Bola Tinubu’s vision of strengthening grassroots sports while ensuring Nigeria competes favorably on the global stage.
“As part of our mandate under President Tinubu’s administration, we are committed to developing talent from the grassroots and supporting our elite athletes to bring home international laurels. The NSC will continue to back the strategic vision of sports federations as we work towards building a strong and sustainable sports ecosystem,” Olopade stated.
Since the National Sports Commission leadership took office, Nigerian contingents have continued to impress internationally including international successes in cricket and basketball recorded thus far. The NSC leadership stated that no stone will be left unturned until Nigerian sports reaches its full potentials.
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