Sports
HiFL 2021: How UNIMAID Conquered Nigerian Universities and Shut Down Maiduguri Airport
The University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) soccer team, the UNIMAID Desert Warriors have emerged champions of the 2021 Nigerian Higher Institutions Football League (HiFL) after defeating debutant AAUA Luminaries from the Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba, by 1-0 at a thrilling final played at the Yaba College of Technology Sports Complex, Lagos.
The game started at a fast pace with the AAUA Luminaries pushing hard to score the first goal. However, the defence of the Desert Warriors led by the Desert Warriors defence marshals- Abdulrahaman Musa and Ochei David Michael thwarted every move by the attacking front line of the Luminaries led by Ologbon Emmanuel and Rotimi Ayomide to end the first half goalless. On resumption of the second half, the Desert Warriors took the initiative and succeeded in the 62nd minute of the game when the team captain and StanbicIBTC Man-of-the-Match, Ochei Elijah Francis headed in a cross from the right to beat Isaac Phillip in goal for the Luminaries.
The AAUA Luminaries turned on the heat on the Desert Warriors but it was too little too late as the Borno Boys held their nerves till the end of the game.
Victory for the Desert Warriors was a masterstroke pulled off by the University authority. Having identified the need for an experienced coach to thinker the team, the school management recruited a former Elkanemi Warriors FC star, Dauda ‘Ziko’ Daniel as the coach. Ziko revamped the team and molded them into a solid attacking team.
The Dessert Warriors thrashed the Bayero University Kano (BUK) home and away in the round of 32 before dispatching the UAM Tillers 3-1 on aggregate in the quarters. FUTMINNA fell 3-3 on aggregate in the semi-final before beating the AAUA Luminaries 1-0 in the final match.
The victorious UNIMAID Desert Warriors on arrival in Maiduguri with the trophy
In his reaction, the Coach of the UNIMAID Desert Warriors, Dauda ‘Ziko’ Daniel, explained the strategy behind their victory.
“We had a very good preparation from the beginning of this competition and we have been supported financially and morally by the school authority. This is the result of their support. At some point, my players, most of whom are visiting Lagos for the first time were jittery.
However, I pointed at the trophy and told them that that is the sign of glory for them if only they could hold their nerves and win the match. It was difficult but we thank God”, he concluded.
Victory for the Maiduguri team brought temporary succor for a city under siege. On arrival in Maiduguri with the trophy, the champions were received by a cheering mammoth crowd at the Maiduguri International Airport before proceeding through the city with the trophy.
The school authority also declared Monday a work-free day to celebrate the gallant warriors from the desert city.
Chatting with journalists after the game, the Chief Operating Officer, PACE Sports and Entertainment Marketing, Goodness Onyejiaku was full of gratitude: “We appreciate StanbicIBTC, Nivea Men, Bold and Minimie, and the Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA) for their support. We have all enjoyed this season and look forward to a more interesting HiFL in 2022”.
The UNIMAID Vice Chancellor (m) on hand to receive the victorious Desert Warriors on arrival at the Maiduguri Int. Airport. Jubilant crowd celebrating the team’s victory on a victory parade round the city.
Sports
“Aderonke Atoyebi Wins Big in Denmark, Inspires Global Recognition for Nigerian Women in Sports
Joel Ajayi
Nigeria’s own Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi has brought immense pride to the nation after being named the International Sport and Culture Association (ISCA) Role Model of the Year at a ceremony held in Copenhagen, Denmark.
The biennial ISCA Awards honour individuals and organizations that use sports and physical activity as tools for social change, inclusion, and empowerment across the globe. This year’s edition drew nominations from several countries, spotlighting outstanding figures who have transformed their communities through the power of sports.
Atoyebi’s unwavering commitment to gender equality and youth empowerment has made her a prominent voice in the sports-for-development space. Through her advocacy and leadership, she continues to demonstrate how sports can serve as a bridge for education, unity, and hope—especially among young women in Nigeria and beyond.
As part of the recognition, Atoyebi received a €3,000 cash prize along with the global visibility that accompanies the prestigious ISCA honour.
Speaking shortly after receiving the award, she expressed deep gratitude and excitement, dedicating the recognition to her team and everyone who has supported her journey.
> “This award means a lot to me. It’s a testament to the hard work my team and I have put in over the years,” Atoyebi said. “Being recognised on such an international stage proves that no effort toward positive change ever goes unnoticed. It motivates me to keep pushing boundaries and reaching more girls who need hope and opportunity.”
Atoyebi’s global recognition further strengthens Nigeria’s growing influence in the global dialogue around sports, development, and women’s empowerment. Her story continues to inspire a new generation of African women to believe that with passion, dedication, and purpose, they too can create lasting change.
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