Sports

Gov Bala Mohammed declares 2024 National Beach Volleyball Tour Open

Published

1 day ago

November 13, 2024

…Customs, Emeralds win first Match

The Executive Governor of Bauchi State, Bala Mohammed, on Tuesday officially declared the final phase of the 2024 National Beach Volleyball Star/Open Tour open.

Governor Mohammed, who was represented by the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Salis Gamawa, expressed the state’s commitment to becoming a hub for sports in Northern Nigeria.

Speaking at the event, Gamawa conveyed the Governor’s vision, saying, “This is the first time Bauchi State is hosting a beach volleyball tournament, and His Excellency, Governor Bala Mohammed, is committed to prioritizing sports development in the state.”

He continued, “Governor Mohammed is determined to transform Bauchi State into a sporting powerhouse, one that will be the envy of not just other states, but countries across the world.”

Highlighting the state’s sporting achievements, Gamawa shared, “Bauchi State’s women’s volleyball team has already qualified for next season’s Nigeria Volleyball Premier League, while our men’s team has secured promotion to the National Division 1 Volleyball League. These accomplishments are just the beginning of what we hope to achieve in the coming years.”*

The opening day also saw the defending champions, Kada Emeralds, and Nigeria Customs Service secure their first victories in the women’s competition of the ongoing National Beach Volleyball Star Tour.

Kada Emeralds triumphed over Musa Rifkatu with a dominant 2-0 win, securing set scores of 21-11 and 21-5. Speaking after the match, Pamela Bawa said, “We’re thrilled to start with a strong win. We’ve been preparing for this and we aim to defend our title.”

Meanwhile, Nigeria Customs Service defeated Adamawa Queens 2-0, with set scores of 21-19 and 21-9. “It was a tough match, but our team showed resilience and we’re ready to take on the next challenge,” said Francisca Ikehidie.

In the men’s category, defending champions Kada Kings battled hard to secure a 2-1 (21-11, 21-23, 15-11) victory against Wikki Spikers. Similarly, Nigeria Customs Service triumphed over Kada Stars with a 2-1 victory (21-17, 20-22, 15-11).

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Sports

NFF President Cup Football Tournament Kicks Off in Kaduna with Exciting Opening Ceremony

Published

17 hours ago

November 13, 2024

The Gleamer

Joel Ajayi

The NFF President Cup Football Tournament for Nigeria National League (NNL) clubs began in style on November 12, 2024, marking a key step in promoting football development in Kaduna State and across the league. The tournament, held at the historic Ahmadu Bello Stadium, will run until November 20 and promises fans thrilling preseason action and intense competition among participating teams.

The opening ceremony was a highlight, with Kaduna State’s Commissioner of Sports Development, Professor Benjamin Kumai Gugong, officially launching the event by kicking off the first ball—a symbolic gesture underscoring the state’s commitment to nurturing sports and supporting local football talent. Professor Gugong remained for the inaugural match, where two local teams, Kada Warriors FC and Kawo FA, delivered an exciting performance. In a closely fought game, Kawo FA emerged victorious with a 1-0 win over Kada Warriors FC.

Chairman of the tournament, Hon. Magaji Alhasan, welcomed the teams and officials in his opening remarks, applauding Kaduna’s warm hospitality. He assured all participants that fair and transparent officiating would be a top priority, with oversight directly under his supervision. Alhasan also expressed his hopes for the NFF President Cup to become an annual tradition, providing a vital platform for NNL clubs to prepare for each season.

With four matches scheduled daily from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, the tournament promises a nonstop display of football talent that will captivate fans and further enhance Kaduna State’s reputation as a center for sports.

The tournament serves as an essential preseason platform, allowing clubs to refine their skills and gear up for the forthcoming National League season.

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