Sports
NFF, Iraqi Football Association to explore avenues for greater collaboration
The leadership of Nigeria Football Federation and that of the Iraqi Football Association will interface and cross-fertilize sometime next month with a view to exploring avenues for greater cooperation and collaboration in the football sphere.
Speaking in Abuja on Wednesday, during a courtesy visit to the Ambassador of Iraq to Nigeria, His Excellency Mr. Anwer Saeed, President of the NFF, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau expressed the keen desire of the NFF to collaborate with countries with pedigree in the game to ensure real growth for the Nigeria game from the grassroots.
“Our country has a solid pedigree in the game of football as well as over 200 million passionate football followers and stakeholders. We are aware of the fact that the people of Iraq are also very passionate about the game of football. It is important to seize the opportunity to explore areas of cooperation and collaboration that will benefit our two nations.
“Football is that big unifying factor that keeps getting bigger and stronger in holding the world together and assuming a greater role in international relations. It is also a soft power with a booming economy, and collaboration is needed to accomplish great things and attain higher levels.”
Iraq’s senior men team, nicknamed the Lions of Mesopotamia, won the Asian Cup in 2007 and have won the Arab Cup four times, and the country of 44 million people is known for its passion and high-decibel support for its football teams and clubs.
Responding, His Excellency Saeed congratulated the NFF President on his victory in the elections and assured him that the Iraqi Football Association would be delighted by the offer to explore ways of greater collaboration, given Nigeria’s accomplishments in the game globally. He also mentioned the fact that a number of Nigerian footballers are presently plying their trade in the Iraqi league.
Also on the courtesy visit were the NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi; Director of Communications, Ademola Olajire; Director of Competitions, Ruth David; Chief Protocol Officer, Emmanuel Ayanbunmi and; special assistant to NFF President, Abubakar Barde. Mr. Ibrahim Al-Badri (Consul/Administrative Manager) and Mrs Sakina Al-Khalifa (Secretary to Head of Mission) were with HE Saeed.
Sports
13 DAYS TO GO: Abuja Is Ready For Premium Trust Bank Abuja City International half Marathon
It’s 13 days to the PremiumTrust Bank Abuja City International half Marathon, and Nigeria’s capital is about to show the world what it is made of. The clock is ticking, the streets are being prepared, and the medals are waiting as the capital gears up for one of its biggest days.
Organized by Nilayo Sports Management Limited, the race has grown into one of Nigeria’s biggest and most respected road races. Elite athletes, recreational runners, fitness lovers, corporate teams and families from across Nigeria and beyond are all coming to run in the Federal Capital Territory.
It is not just about the race. It is about athletics, fitness, entertainment and sports tourism, and what Abuja represents to the world. What started as a marathon is now a movement. A movement for healthy living. A movement for youth engagement. A movement for national unity. Every year, thousands of people take to the streets of Abuja not just to run, but to be part of something bigger than themselves. This year will be no different, only bigger.
The Managing Director/CEO of Nilayo Sports Management Limited, Mrs. Yetunde Olopade, has assured that this year’s edition will build on past successes and meet international standards.
“We are focused on athlete welfare, world-class logistics, medical support, security and a memorable experience for runners, volunteers, spectators and partners. This year’s race will be bigger, better and more immersive for everyone.”
With improved route management, entertainment zones along the course, better medical and security arrangements and a richer spectator experience, the 2026 edition promises to deliver a day of competition and celebration that promotes healthy living, youth engagement and sports tourism in the nation’s capital.
On race day, Abuja will come alive. From the early morning start to the final finish, the streets will be filled with energy, music, colour and cheers. Hotels will be full. Businesses will thrive. The city’s hospitality, tourism and creative sectors will feel the impact. It is a day when Abuja shows the world its beauty, its organization and its spirit.
Whether you are an elite athlete chasing a podium finish and a personal best, or a first-time runner chasing a healthier life, this race is for you. Whether you are running for fitness, for fun, for family or for fame, there is a place for you on the road.
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