Sports

NPFL Club Owners Pay Courtesy Visit to NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko

Published

7 hours ago

November 8, 2024

…Says Elite league can drive Nigeria’s sports economy – Says Dikko

The chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko has has stated that the Nigeria’s elite football league has the potential to play pivotal role in Nigeria’s sporting economy.

Dikko made the statement while addressing the NPFL Club Owners delegation that paid him a courtesy visit, on Thursday in Abuja.

“What happens with the league and how we ensure it works effectively will be instrumental in building a viable sports economy,” Dikko stated, emphasizing that football has the potential to be a powerful driver in realizing this vision.

Dikko, who led the Nigerian Professional Football League as the chairman of the League Management Company (LMC), warmly welcomed the delegation, describing them as “a family” and members of his primary constituency.

Expressing his joy over the visit, Dikko emphasized the importance of unity and shared responsibility for the development of Nigerian sports, particularly the football league.

“Now that we’re in the driver’s seat, we have no excuse anymore not to bring growth,” he stated. “All the plans we’ve discussed over the years on paper —this is the time to take action and make them a reality. We all need to be on deck for the growth of sports in Nigeria.”

“What happens with the league and how we ensure it works effectively will be instrumental in building a viable sports economy,” he added.

Chief Dr. Okey Kpalukwu, chairman of the Forum congratulated Shehu Dikko on his well-deserved appointment and applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for fitting a square peg in a square hole. He adviced that the NSC should prioritize sports infrastructure and grassroots development programs.

Ex commissioner of Sports, Gombe State, Mallam Farouk Yarma expressed appreciation to the NPFL Club Owners, emphasizing that all hands must be on deck for all-encompassing growth in the sports industry.

The club owners’ contingent included prominent figures such as Dr. Okechukwu Kpalakwu (chairman, Rivers United), who serves as the Chairman of the NPFL Club Owners Forum, along with Secretary, Barr. Amobi Ezeaku (chairman, Enugu Rangers).

Other members of the NPFL delegation include:

•   Mr. Habila Hosea Mutla (Vice Chairman, North)
•   Hon. Olaniyan Babatunde (Board Member, South West)
•   Mr. Solomon Babanjah (Chairman, Nasarawa United)
•   Mr. Kumbi Titiloye (Board Member, NPFL)
•   Mr. Bashir Badawir (General Manager, Kwara United)
•   Mr. Dominic Iorfa (Board of Trustee Member)

The visit underscored a renewed commitment to advancing Nigerian sports through strategic initiatives, enhanced governance, and stakeholder collaboration under the NSC’s guidance.

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Sports

NWFL Backs Edo Queens’ Historic Quest at 2024 CAF Women’s Champions League

Published

6 hours ago

November 8, 2024

The Gleamer

The Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL) Board has thrown its full weight behind Nigerian champions, Edo Queens, as they prepare to compete for glory in this year’s CAF Women’s Champions League in Morocco, beginning on November 9, 2024.

In a statement on Thursday, NWFL Chairperson Nkechi Obi expressed her confidence in the team’s ability to represent Nigeria with excellence, stating, “Edo Queens’ journey to this prestigious stage is a testament to their hard work and resilience. As they take on Africa’s best clubs, we are offering our unwavering support and belief in their potential to achieve historic success.”

The NWFL Board has pledged its backing to boost WAFU-B champions Edo Queens in their quest and encourages the players to approach each match with pride, determination, and unity. The Board further reiterated its belief in Edo Queens’ ability to showcase Nigerian football’s strength and talent on the continental stage.

“As you face Africa’s elite, remember you carry the dreams of Nigerian women’s football with you,” the chairperson stated. “We are proud to stand behind you and are confident you will make Nigeria shine.”

With Rivers Angels (2021) and Bayelsa Queens (2022) as previous Nigerian representatives—Edo Queens now set their sights on history, aiming to become the first Nigerian side to reach the final and capture the coveted title on their first attempt.

The Benin Arsenals will begin their maiden campaign in Group B against fellow debutantes Central Bank of Ethiopia (CBE) on November 10, 2024, and square up against first-timers, FC Masar of Egypt three days later before tackling title holders Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa on November 16.

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