Sports
Hosting African U18/U20 Athletics Championship a Big Win for Nigeria – NSC DG Bukola Olopade
The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, has described Nigeria’s hosting of the 3rd African U18/U20 Athletics Championship as a “win-win” for the nation’s sporting development and economy.
Speaking at a world press conference in Abuja on Wednesday, Olopade—who also chairs the Local Organizing Committee—highlighted the significance of Nigeria stepping in to host the championship after Algeria withdrew.
The event is scheduled to hold in Abeokuta, Ogun State, from July 16 to 20, 2025.
According to him, the Federal Government’s decision aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda to transform Nigeria into a hub for international sports events.
“We’re shifting from just sending athletes abroad to hosting major competitions here at home. This helps in building local capacity, creating opportunities for small businesses, and improving sports infrastructure across the country,” Olopade said.
He credited NSC Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko for securing hosting rights during a visit to Algeria, where the Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) sought a new host.
Olopade assured that preparations are in full swing, covering accommodation, transportation, feeding, technical support, and media logistics. “We are on course to deliver a world-class event that reinforces Nigeria’s reputation as Africa’s sports powerhouse,” he added.
He also expressed hope that the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) will use the event to unearth fresh talent ahead of major competitions like the Islamic Games, Commonwealth Games, and the Los Angeles Olympics.
So far, 583 athletes from 30 countries have confirmed participation, with the number expected to rise to 900 as more entries come in.
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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