Sports

Tijani Babangida Celebrates 51st Birthday, Expresses Gratitude to Nigerians

Published

1 year ago

September 25, 2024

Former Nigerian international, Tijani Babangida, marked his 51st birthday on September 25, 2024, with heartfelt appreciation for God’s goodness in his life. Babangida, who survived a devastating car accident that claimed the lives of his brother Ibrahim and son Fadir, acknowledged the significance of this milestone.

“This birthday is about thanking God for sparing my life,” Babangida said from the Netherlands, where he and his wife are undergoing final rounds of treatment. “I’m grateful for the outpouring of support and prayers from Nigerians during this challenging period.”

Babangida reserved special thanks for individuals and organizations that contributed to his and his wife’s treatment:

“I appreciate the Governor of Kaduna state, Senator Uba Sani; the president of Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau; my former clubs, Ajax Amsterdam and VVV-Venlo; and numerous well-wishers who have stood by me. Your kindness and generosity have been overwhelming.”

“I want to also single out Alhaji Sadiq Mamma Lagos, commissioner for the Ministry for local government chieftancy affairs. He has been a brother indeed to me.

“I want to also express my deepest gratitude to the president of the Nigeria football federation, Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau for all his shows of love and care. Not also forgetting my friend, Alhaji Shehu Dikko.

“Let me also express my heartfelt thanks to my friend Engr. Mike Auta for all his support. He is a friend indeed.

“I also do not want to forget members of the players Union, retired and current players. They were very supportive to me and I really appreciate them all.

“I know that there are lots and lots of people who contributed in several ways towards making me recuperate from the accident but there is no way I can mention all their names. They should have it at the back of their heart that I am highly grateful for,” TJ stated.

As he celebrates, Babangida emphasized his focus on spirituality and gratitude:

“This birthday is not about grand celebrations but about appreciating God and those who have been instrumental in my recovery. I’m humbled by the love and support.”

Babangida’s testament to resilience and faith serves as an inspiration to many.

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Sports

Lagos State Sports Commission, Abbey Rangers FC Seal Groundbreaking Partnership for Grassroots Football Development

Published

49 mins ago

November 5, 2025

The Gleamer

The Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC) has unveiled a groundbreaking partnership with Abbey Rangers Football Club, a renowned community football institution in the United Kingdom, marking a new era in grassroots football development in Nigeria.

Under this strategic alliance, Abbey Rangers FC will collaborate with the Lagos State Sports Commission to implement a robust seven-pillar framework focused on:
talent development, coaching enhancement, sports science, community engagement, policy support, resource mobilization, and infrastructure growth.

The partnership is a first of its kind between Nigeria and a UK-based community football club and aims to create a sustainable, inclusive, and globally competitive football ecosystem in Lagos State. It promises to unlock new international opportunities for young athletes and coaches, offering pathways for advanced training, mentorship, and global exposure.

Speaking at the official unveiling, Director General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, Mr. Lekan Fatodu, described the partnership as “a landmark step in Lagos’ mission to build a sustainable and inclusive sports ecosystem.”

“This collaboration represents a deliberate effort to connect Lagos with global best practices in grassroots football development,” Fatodu stated.

“Abbey Rangers brings proven expertise and community-driven values that align with our vision to nurture world-class talent and position Lagos as a continental hub for youth sports excellence.”

In his remarks, Abbey Rangers Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Nick Riley, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, noting that it reflects the club’s long-standing commitment to community-driven sports development.

“We are proud to partner with Lagos State on this visionary initiative,” Riley said.

“Abbey Rangers has always believed that community football is a powerful tool for development, inclusion, and opportunity. This collaboration allows us to share our grassroots model and experience with one of Africa’s most dynamic cities.”

The LSSC–Abbey Rangers partnership is a reflection of Lagos State’s strategic commitment to developing the next generation of football talent through international collaboration, innovation, and community-based sports programs. It also reaffirms the Commission’s leadership in driving sports diplomacy and youth empowerment across Africa.

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