Sports

Dayo Israel Urges Nigerian Youths to Embrace Sports as a Pathway to Success, Tasks NSC to Do More After Global Sporting Feats.

Published

2 days ago

May 5, 2026

Joel Ajayi

The APC National Youth Leader, Dayo Israel, has called on Nigerian youths to take sports more seriously, describing it as a powerful and viable pathway to personal and national success.

Speaking in the wake of Nigeria’s impressive performances on the global stage across Armwrestling, Wrestling, Athletics, Table Tennis, and other sporting disciplines, Israel noted that the achievements of Nigerian athletes have once again demonstrated the country’s immense potential in sports.

He described the recent successes as a clear signal of what can be achieved when talent meets opportunity, discipline, and proper support, urging young Nigerians to seize the opportunities within the sporting ecosystem.

“Sports is no longer just recreation; it is a serious pathway to success, global recognition, and national pride. Our athletes have shown what is possible. I urge Nigerian youths not to be spectators but active participants in this journey. From Accra to Gaborone and Egypt, and other countries where our youths have made us proud, this is a source of joy for every Nigerian and for me personally as your youth leader. This effort should be a common front for all of us as we work to deliver the Renewed Hope mandate of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” he said.

While commending the efforts of athletes and officials, Israel also praised the National Sports Commission (NSC) for its recent innovations, while urging it to intensify its commitment to sports development, infrastructure, and athlete welfare across the country.

He specifically appreciated the Director General, Bukola Olopade, for his presence and support at international competitions, as well as Anthony Adeboye Adeyinka, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports Development, for his outstanding role and dedication to the success of the Nigerian armwrestling team.

Israel reaffirmed that with sustained investment and increased youth participation, Nigeria can continue to dominate and excel in global sporting competitions.

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Sports

Portable to Light Up NNL Super Four Final with Special Performance

Published

17 hours ago

May 6, 2026

The Gleamer

Joel Ajayi

Afrobeats sensation Habeeb “Portable” Olalomi is set to headline the closing ceremony of the 2026 NNL Super Four, organisers confirmed on Wednesday at the Remo Stars Stadium.

The Ogun State-born entertainer will bring his trademark high-energy performance to Ikenne, delivering a mix of viral dance moves and hit songs as the Nigeria National League (NNL) crowns its 2025/2026 champion.

The finale will not be about music alone, as fans are also in line for exciting rewards. Two lucky spectators will each win ₦500,000 in a live raffle draw to be conducted by Portable himself, while the first 200 fans to arrive at the stadium on the final day will receive ₦5,000 each.

“We’re rewarding the fans who show up early and bring the atmosphere that makes Nigerian football special,” a Toptier Sports Management official said. “From Portable’s performance to the cash giveaways, we want a full festival of football in Ikenne.”

After a rest day on Tuesday, action resumes on Wednesday, May 6, with two crucial fixtures at the Remo Stars Stadium.

The opening day of the tournament attracted several prominent figures in Nigerian sports, including Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle, former Sports Minister Sunday Dare, and Bet9ja chairman Kunle Soname, all present in Ikenne.

This year’s NNL Super Four features Doma United, Sporting Lagos, Ranchers Bees, and Inter Lagos—all of whom have already secured promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League. The tournament will now decide the overall champion of the season

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