Sports

Illegal betting: NPFL Upgrades inquest to full Investigation

Published

2 months ago

August 27, 2025

Joel Ajayi

The case of a former Plateau United goalkeeper whose identity is being shielded, has now been raised to full investigation that will involve the invitation of some players whose names were mentioned during the inquest. However, the suspension of the goalkeeper from registering by any club for the season has been lifted pending the outcome of the escalated investigation.

An inquest to ascertain the veracity of the allegations was held on Thursday last week during which the goalkeeper appeared with his legal representative at the NPFL office in Abuja.

“The NPFL has now written to commend the player for cooperating with the panel and offering further insights that has necessitated a wider investigation involving some others” disclosed Davidson Owumi, the NPFL Chief Operating Officer who led the inquest.

In a written communication to the player, the NPFL stated that the information obtained during the inquest and other independent findings has led to the expansion to a full investigation that will involve all those whose names featured in some WhatsApp exchanges that are in the possession of the league.

“It is only fair that your career is not jeopardised while investigation hasn’t been concluded, hence the suspension placed on your registration in the NPFL has been lifted. You are free to register for any club of your choice. We thank you for your prompt response and cooperation”, a letter to the player read.

The goalkeeper had been invited to an investigative panel set up by the NPFL to determine his culpability or innocence in allegations of involvement in illegal betting.

The NPFL had received a report that the player declined to sign a contract form at Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) which had a clause forbidden participation in betting activities.

The player had his registration with any NPFL club suspended pending the conclusion of investigations.

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Sports

Thrills as 2026 National Hockey Super League Opens in Abuja — NHF President Promises Greater Innovation

Published

4 hours ago

November 1, 2025

The Gleamer

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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