Sports
Embattled Goalkeeper Adewale Welcomes NPFL’s Assurance of Fair Hearing, Urges Swift Resolution
By: Chinedum Ohanusi
Respite is underway for goalkeeper, Adewale Adeyinka, as the Disciplinary Committee of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) have accepted to give the embattled keeper an opportunity to defend himself of the charges of a betting infraction, that resulted in his provisional suspension by the league body.
Goalkeeper Adewale had in a plea for a fair hearing to clear himself of the betting allegations, leveled against him, noted that linking him with betting was strange, and requested that officials of his former club Plateau United FC, and those of the club he intended to join, 3SC of Ibadan be present at hearing.
Speaking exclusively to veteran Sports Journalist and Head of Sports Radio Nigeria, Chinedum Ohanusi, a staff of the NPFL said it is within the rights of the player to be given a fair hearing, but the date for the panel to sit cannot be fixed by the player in the eye of the storm.
“I am indeed happy that the NPFL Committee said they will grant me the opportunity to prove my innocence
I’m not into gambling or betting, so I am very upset with this rumours and false assumptions. With just a week before the season kicks off, I think they can make it faster, and also invite officials of Plateau United and Shooting Stars to be present”, said Adewale.
With exactly one week before the transfer window closes, the 27-year-old Adewale who stands at 1:88 metres tall noted that football has always been part of his life; and from representing top clubs across Nigeria to wearing the country’s colors, he has given everything to this beautiful game, which has brought him fame and some fortune.
He added that it would be both uncharitable and stupid for him to indulge in any act capable of bringing the League, or football as a whole to disrepute.
Adewale’s travail started when he was about to sign for 3SC aka Oluyole Warriors, but he objected to a clause that he can only be held liable, if allegations of betting are proven by 3SC; an objection he said may have not gone down well with the Oluyole Warriors, who appeared to have relied on unfounded rumours from Plateau United in concluding that he, Adewale was into match-fixing.
The club subsequently notified the matter to the NPFL, who in turn slammed the keeper with a suspension.
Sports
Thrills as 2026 National Hockey Super League Opens in Abuja — NHF President Promises Greater Innovation
Cyril Ogar
The atmosphere was electric on Saturday at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, as the 2026 National Hockey Super League officially kicked off in grand style.
The championship, which runs from November 1st to 9th, features 13 male and 8 female teams from across the country competing for supremacy in Nigeria’s top-tier hockey competition.
In the opening fixtures, Police Machine dominated IGP Flickers 9–1, Kada Stars overwhelmed Adamawa 13–0, Plateau edged Ekiti 1–0, while Niger Flickers crushed Team Katsina 10–0.
Speaking at the ceremony, President of the Nigeria Hockey Federation (NHF), Engr. Simon Nkom, expressed satisfaction with the smooth start, describing the league as a key milestone in the Federation’s renewed drive to strengthen grassroots hockey and promote national development of the sport.
“This is indeed a proud moment for us. We are here to witness a national event that we hold in very high esteem,” he said. “It’s a great way to end the year, return to our grassroots, and continue developing the game.”
Nkom, who also serves as an Executive Member of the African Hockey Federation Board, assured that the Federation will sustain its current momentum and introduce more innovations in 2027 to further elevate Nigerian hockey both locally and internationally.
“Our focus remains on building a strong foundation for our players and promoting discipline, teamwork, and fair play,” he added.
“Beyond monetary rewards, the experience gained here is invaluable. We will continue to recognize excellence through awards for Best Player, Best Goalkeeper, Youngest Player, and Most Disciplined Team.”
The Tournament Director, Mr. Falore Olajuyigbe, confirmed that the league will run for one week, ending on November 8th, with teams departing the following day. He praised the level of play and organization so far.
“The matches have been exciting and competitive. Attendance has been encouraging, and we’re confident that the quality of play will keep improving,” Olajuyigbe said.
He added that the tournament is benefitting from lessons learned during Nigeria’s participation in the African Club Championship in Ismailia, Egypt, noting that two Nigerian umpires who officiated at that continental event are also part of the officiating crew in Abuja.
As the 2026 National Hockey Super League unfolds, excitement continues to build among fans and players alike, with Abuja firmly at the center of Nigeria’s hockey action.
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