Sports

Sports Minister Congratulates Super Falcons on African Women’s Cup of Nations Qualification

Published

1 year ago

December 6, 2023

Joel Ajayi

…Applauds the team’s determination, zeal, and commitment

The Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh extends warm congratulations to Nigeria’s Senior Women’s National Team, the Super Falcons on their successful qualification for the African Women’s Cup of Nations, to be held in Morocco, next year.

Senator Enoh said the Super Falcons displayed an impressive level of determination and teamwork, securing vital victories during the qualifiers to solidify their place in the prestigious African Women’s Cup of Nations.

He lauded the Super Falcons for their remarkable effort in showcasing the nation’s prowess on the continental stage.

“The qualification of our Super Falcons for the African Women’s Cup of Nations is a testament to the dedication and talent of our exceptional players. Their outstanding performance reflects Nigeria’s rich sporting heritage and unwavering commitment to excellence,” expressed Senator John Owan Enoh.

The Minister emphasized the significance of women’s football in Nigeria, highlighting the pivotal role played by the Super Falcons in inspiring young athletes and fostering a culture of inclusivity and sporting prowess across the nation.

“Through their hard work and commitment, the Super Falcons have not only secured a place in this prestigious tournament but have also inspired a new generation of aspiring female footballers. Their success resonates beyond the field, serving as a beacon of hope and empowerment for young women in our country,” added Senator John Owan Enoh.

As the Super Falcons continue to demonstrate exceptional skill and resilience, Senator John Owan Enoh reaffirmed the government’s steadfast support for women’s football.

In their last hurdle, the Super Falcons edged Cape Verde 2-1 in Praia, to claim a 7-1 aggregate win and confirm their ticket for Morocco 2024. The Madugu-led team came from behind through goals from Esther Okoronkwo and Rasheedat Ajibade to pick the win.

Nigeria is the most successful team in the tournament, winning 9 out of 13 editions of the biennial championship.

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Sports

Showtime Flag Football Association Seeks NSC’s Support Ahead of Olympics

Published

2 hours ago

February 13, 2025

The Gleamer

By Joel Ajayi

In its commitment to ensuring Nigeria climbs the podium at international competitions, the Flag Football Association of Nigeria has pledged that flag football will make the country proud at the next Olympics, if given the opportunity.

Flag football is a variant of gridiron football in which, instead of tackling players to the ground, the defensive team must remove a flag or flag belt from the ball carrier (called “deflagging”) to end a down. The sport limits contact between players and has a strong amateur following, with several national and international competitions each year. It is most popular in America, where it was invented.

Manal Nassar, CEO of Showtime Flag Football and leader of the delegation, expressed her enthusiasm during a courtesy visit to the Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko, at his office. She emphasized that the association will do everything within its power to secure a ticket for the 2028 Olympics.

“We are 100 percent ready to make the country proud at the next Olympics. As I mentioned, we have over 500 players in our league, all of whom are extremely talented. So, we know that if we bring them together as a team, and collaborate with Abuja and other areas of Nigeria, we can create an incredible team that can push to accomplish what Nigerian boxing achieved in the last Olympics. We want to do the same with flag football for the 2028 Olympics,” Nassar said.

“We’ve seen the talent on the field and the passion from these athletes, and that’s what motivates us to push it further. We want to showcase Nigerian athletes globally and make flag football a recognized sport, not just in Nigeria, but around the world. It’s about igniting the dreams of the younger generation.”

Adejumo Adebare, Commissioner of the Showtime Coed Flag Football League (SFFL), also expressed optimism about Nigeria’s representation at the 2028 Olympics.

“Flag football has gained popularity globally, and in Nigeria, participation is on the rise. The sport is inclusive, offering opportunities for all age groups, from kids as young as 15 to adults up to 37 years old. The league at Showtime is growing, and it’s easy for people to participate. It’s fast-paced and exciting, making it an ideal sport for Nigerians to get involved in. Our first Showtime Flag Football season was an unforgettable spectacle, especially with the Showtime Bowl events. I truly believe that Nigeria will be well represented at the 2028 Olympics if given the chance,” Adebare said.

Barrister Musa Amadu, the NSC representative, assured the delegation of the Commission’s full support for the growth of the sport in Nigeria.

“On behalf of the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, we are pleased to receive a team from Showtime Flag Football, based in Lagos. They are here to introduce the game to other parts of the country.

Flag football has been included in the Olympic Games, and it will feature at the Los Angeles Olympics. The goal is to make the sport popular among the youth and grow it from grassroots to professional levels. We have assured them of our support, and the NSC will provide all necessary backing to ensure that flag football flourishes in Nigeria,” Amadu promised.

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