Sports
Philip Shuaibu Praises Olopade’s Impact On Sports Growth
Joel Ajayi
Former Deputy Governor of Edo State Comrade Philip Shuaibu has expressed delight with the progress and innovations put in place by the Director General of National Sports commission NSC Hon. Bukola Olopade towards restoration of Nigeria sport within the short period of time.
Comrade Shuiabu gave this commendation on Thursday in Abuja when he visited the Director General in his office, where he described Olopade appointment as square peg in square hole.
According to him, I want to thank Mr president for the domestication of sports, the National Sport Commission is the way to go, because sports generally, has limited government influence when it comes to the status of sports in the world.
“So, making the NSC take over running a sport is one major achievement I always saying it, sports can’t be like run other government activities because of the nature of sports.
“And I am here to congratulate my brother Hon Olopade. We have all been in this game, we all have passion to turn Nigeria sport around, because for some of us, Nigeria sports, a sport is another goldmine for Nigeria, and I’m happy that sports is now business venture.
“Sports can be the best oil for Nigeria, and we can take a lot of young boys and girls out of labour markets. There’s a huge number that we can get there. So, I’m happy, and when I got the news of the appointment of the Chairman and my brother here DG, I know we’ve done many together, I know we’ve also boxed ourselves
“So, I am happy, and I decided today that let me physically pay a visit and say Congratulations him. “ he said.
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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