Sports
Jimoh reaches quarter-finals at ITF J30
Nigerian tennis player, Joseph Jimoh, secured a quarter-final spot in the men’s singles event on Wednesday at the ongoing ITF World Tennis Tour Junior J30 in Abuja.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Jimoh earned his place after a dominant 6-2, 6-1 victory over Mevi Irimiya in the round of 16.
In his previous match, Jimoh defeated Michael Prosper 6-0, 6-0 in the round of 32. Irimiya, meanwhile, overcame Mohammed Elsheikh 6-2, 7-6(5) to reach the round of 16.
Jimoh controlled the match, taking an early lead and winning in straight sets, 6-2, 6-1, to secure his place in the quarter-finals.
He showcased his skill and determination, particularly in key moments. He will now face India’s Vyom Shah, who defeated France’s Raphaël Métrailler 6-1, 6-3.
The 17-year-old Nigerian told NAN that he is only competing in singles this week, having won the doubles category multiple times in previous events.
“I am happy to have won, just like in the first week’s event. I want to keep giving my best and finish on top,” he said.
Jimoh added that his training ground, Aurum Tennis Academy, has five players competing in this tournament and another five playing abroad.
“We are really doing great. We hope to make a statement,” he added.
In other men’s singles matches, Sani Inabo beat China’s Haoran Hu 6-4, 6-7(1), 6-2, while Shah overcame Métrailler 6-1, 6-3. Ezekiel Azi defeated Morocco’s Amine Jabrani 7-6(7), 6-3.
The International Tennis Federation (ITF) event, which began on 19 February, is set to conclude on March 1 at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium Tennis Centre in Abuja.
A total of 11 countries are participating, including Nigeria, Egypt, Great Britain, France, the USA, South Africa, Lebanon, Hong Kong, Morocco, India, and China. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
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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