Sports
Water FC CEO Makanjuola Nureni, Kogi Governor Usman Ododo, Youth Minister Olawande, others Named Among 100 Most Influential Nigerians
Joel Ajayi
For nearly three decades, Makanjuola Nureni—fondly known as “Muala” (meaning let’s make it together)—has quietly dedicated himself to grassroots football development in Nigeria. Working behind the scenes, he has helped young talents hone their skills, guided them toward national recognition, and offered them a pathway out of poverty, all while instilling discipline and strong moral values.
Though his efforts have gone largely unnoticed in the public eye, many of the players he has nurtured have gone on to represent Nigeria at the FIFA World Cup, the Africa Cup of Nations, and various youth competitions across the globe.
However, on June 20, 2025, Nureni finally received long-overdue recognition as he was honoured as one of the 100 Most Influential Progressive Nigerians, an award organized by Progressive Media. His name appeared alongside other prominent national figures including the Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Usman Ododo; Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande; and the Director-General of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Salihu Abdulhamid Dembos.
Speaking after receiving the award, Nureni praised the organizers for a well-coordinated event and the impressive turnout of awardees.
“I’m really impressed with the organization and, most importantly, with the large turnout of awardees. It takes a lot to pull off an event of this scale, and the organizers did an excellent job,” he said.
“As for the award itself—it came as a complete surprise. I didn’t see it coming. But when I got the call, I felt grateful. This recognition means a lot to me and to everyone working tirelessly to transform grassroots football in Nigeria and create life-changing opportunities for young Nigerians.”
His daughter,Oil of God Oluwanifemi Makanjuola who accompanied him alongside other family members and friends, also shared her thoughts on the recognition.
“This is long overdue. My dad has done so much for the game at the grassroots level. To see him finally get this kind of recognition is massive—not just for him, but for all the years of hard work and sacrifice he’s put in.”
The award marks a significant milestone in Makanjuola Nureni’s lifelong mission to use football as a tool for national development and youth empowerment.
Sports
NVBF President, Engr Nimrod Urges Families to Embrace Healthy Living at HOBA Novelty Sports
Joel Ajayi
President of the Nigeria Volleyball Federation (NVBF), Engineer Musa Nimrod, has called on Nigerian families to adopt healthy living habits through regular participation in sporting and fitness activities.
Nimrod made the call on Sunday during the third edition of the Hoba Development Association, Abuja Chapter, novelty sports event held at the Indoor Sports Hall of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.
He noted that physical activities such as sports are vital to fostering family bonds, community interaction, and overall well-being.
“The rate of health-related incidents such as slumping is increasing, but regular exercise helps improve the health of both parents and children,” he said. “Events like this bring families together, allowing parents and children to interact and know each other better.”
Also speaking, the stand-in Chairman of the Hoba Community, Barrister Nathan Naandeti, highlighted the significance of the annual novelty games, describing them as a unifying platform for members of the community.
“It’s something we do every year to promote unity, togetherness, and fitness among our people. Sports is part of who we are,” he stated.
Men, women, and children from the Hoba community participated in various sporting activities, including volleyball, badminton, football, and aerobics—all aimed at encouraging relaxation, fitness, and bonding among families.
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