Sports
Abia Warriors Will Play Her Second Round Matches In Umuahia-Obu
The Chairman of Abia Warriors FC Coach John Obu has assured the teeming fans and supporters of the club that their darling team Abia Warriors FC, will continue to play their matches at their home ground, Umuahia Township Stadium.
Speaking on the state of the Umuahia Stadium concerning the recent pronouncement of the NPFL, banning the Umuahia-based team from using the Umuahia Township Stadium for the second stanza of the league until such a time that the areas of deficiencies are tied up.
Quoting his words, the former U-17 & U-20 Head Coach said “Actually we have done a lot of work on the pitch since we received the NPFL directives. We have improved on the state of the pitch, and it will be very okay to host matches as soon as the league resumes.”
Giving a background on the decisions of the NPFL to banish his team, Obu who tutored the Golden Eagles to win the silver medal at the FIFA U-17 World Cup in 2009, said “this issue started when we went for the draws of the league. The management of the League body called me and said that they would not approve the Umuahia stadium for us to use unless we improved on certain things. This we worked on, and at the end of the inspection, the team that came gave us a thumbs up and encouraged us to improve on the seating arrangements and the entrance.
“It is baffling that after we have invested money in putting everythinh in order at the stadium, before the first stanza of the league could end, the NPFL came up with that directive. The annoying aspect of it is that they base their claims on what they read on social media or what the teams said. None of the bosses at the NPFL have visited the stadium to see things themselves. Even with what we are doing now, nobody gave directives on where to improve. It is very disheartening that it is only when teams come to Umuahia and get beaten that they will realize that the pitch is bad. But you hardly hear comments from those who got positive results from the pitch. We have the worst astro turf pitches that teams are using for matches, and no one is looking at that. Everyone is interested in killing the grass pitches”.
Obu, however, insisted that they will put the pitch in a better shape before the commencement of the second stanza of the NPFL season “before then, we intend to conduct a media tour of the stadium, and invite the leadership of the NPFL to come for a first-hand inspection before the resumption of the league” he concluded.
Sports
Ibadan Marathon Will Drive Business Growth, Foster Community Spirit, Spotlight Local Talents-Gov Makinde
Joel Ajayi
Oyo State Governor, His Excellency Seyi Makinde, has emphasized that the Ibadan Marathon will boost local businesses, create jobs, and strengthen community bonds.
He made this statement during a world press conference in Ibadan, where he was represented by the Honourable Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Wosilat Adegoke.
“This initiative not only promotes health and fitness but also supports our local economy while showcasing the beauty of our vibrant city,” he remarked. “The Ibadan Marathon is an opportunity for runners, families, and spectators to unite in celebration of sportsmanship and community spirit. Through this event, we demonstrate our commitment to public health, active lifestyles, and progress.”
The governor further highlighted the marathon’s role in promoting Ibadan’s cultural heritage, attracting visitors from across Nigeria and beyond, and spurring economic growth.
Savvy Events Limited CEO, Miss Arinola Idowu, and franchise owner of the Ibadan Marathon, shared that the 2024 event is designed to celebrate the city’s unity, strength, and rich history, with the theme ‘ERE IDARAYA.’ She emphasized that the event aims to support small businesses, engage youth, and elevate the city’s brand.
The Ibadan Marathon is a joint initiative between the Oyo State Government and Savvy Events to position Oyo State as a hub for sports, commerce, and entertainment, in line with the governor’s agenda for infrastructural development and youth empowerment.
This maiden edition will feature a 42.195km race and a 10km fun run. The routes have been certified by GRADE A measurer Norrie Williamson and World Athletics, offering an exciting journey through Ibadan’s iconic landmarks. Both races will conclude at Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, on Saturday, November 2, starting at 7 am for the marathon and 10 am for the fun run.
Registration is now open at www.ibadanmarathon.com for both the 42.195km full marathon and the 10km fun run.
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