Sports

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

Published

2 years ago

November 13, 2024

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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Sports

NHF President, Board Celebrate Prof. Ediga Agbo’s Sultan Azlan Shah Award

Published

7 mins ago

October 24, 2026

The Gleamer

Cyril Ogar

The President of the Nigeria Hockey Federation (NHF), Engineer Simon Nkom, and members of the federation’s board have congratulated Professor Ediga Agbo on his recognition with the Sultan Azlan Shah Award for his contributions to hockey development in Nigeria.

The recognition comes as the 50th International Hockey Federation (FIH) Congress gets underway in Doha, Qatar, with 112 National Associations in attendance. The congress provides a platform for hockey stakeholders from across the world to discuss the development, growth and future of the game.

Nigeria’s participation, led by Nkom and members of the NHF board, reflects the federation’s commitment to strengthening international collaboration, building strategic partnerships and exploring opportunities to improve the standard of hockey in the country.

Speaking on Professor Agbo’s recognition, Nkom commended his dedication to hockey development, particularly his efforts in mentoring young umpires and building capacity in officiating. He also expressed appreciation to the international hockey community for recognising Agbo’s contributions to the sport.

“Professor Ediga Agbo’s recognition is a proud moment for Nigerian hockey. His commitment to developing the game, particularly through mentoring young umpires, deserves commendation. We appreciate the hockey community for recognising his contributions, and we hope this honour will inspire more stakeholders to invest in the growth of hockey in Nigeria.”

Professor Agbo, in his response, expressed gratitude to the hockey community for the recognition, describing the award as encouragement to continue contributing to the development of the sport. He also acknowledged the support of the NHF, fellow officials and other stakeholders who have contributed to his journey in hockey.

“I am deeply grateful to the hockey community for this recognition. I see this award as an encouragement to continue contributing to hockey development in Nigeria, particularly through mentoring young umpires and sharing knowledge with the next generation of officials. I appreciate the Nigeria Hockey Federation, my colleagues and everyone who has supported the growth of the game.”

Professor Agbo’s recognition highlights the importance of mentorship, knowledge-sharing and sustained commitment to developing hockey officials.

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s participation in the 50th FIH Congress offers an opportunity to deepen international relationships, exchange ideas and promote collaborations aimed at expanding the reach and improving the standard of hockey in the country.

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