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Niger State FA reaffirms commitment to transparent, merit-based selection for Governor’s Cup host By Abubakar Hassan The Chairman of the Niger State Football Association (NSFA), Comrade Ahmed Yusuf Fresh, has reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to a transparent and merit-based process in selecting host local government for the 2026 Niger State Governor’s Cup Football Competition. Comrade Yusuf Fresh made this known during an inspection visit to Bida Local Government Area, where he led a delegation to assess available sporting facilities following the council’s expression of interest to host the prestigious tournament. Addressing the council chairman, officials and other stakeholders, he disclosed that Bida formally indicated interest about six weeks ago, alongside other contenders including Suleja and Chanchaga/Shiroro local government areas. He explained that the selection process follows established procedures, beginning with formal applications, acknowled...

Kwara Kiddies League 5th Editon  Kicks Off in Style as Sports Commission Boss, FA Chairman Grace Opening Day The fifth edition of the Kwara Kiddies League officially got underway in grand fashion as top football stakeholders gathered to witness the start of another exciting grassroots football season in Kwara State. The opening day ceremony was graced by the Executive Chairman of the Kwara State Sports Commission, Mallam Bolakale Mogaji, alongside the Chairman of the Kwara State Football Association, Abdullahi Musa Idris, as both dignitaries added prestige to the beginning of the 2026 campaign. Mallam Mogaji, who has served as Patron of the Kwara Kiddies League since 2022, performed the ceremonial opening rituals alongside the Kwara FA Chairman before remaining to watch all four matches played on the opening day. Addressing stakeholders, club officials, coaches, players and supporters, he encouraged everyone to enjoy the excitement and developmental value of what he des...

Lateef Kolawole: The Coach who turns trialists into trophies By Ojomu Idow, Sportspro News  The journey started from Ikorodu Dust to Dubai Floodlights:  Lateef Adebayo’s 25-Year Masterclass in Building Winners with unique coaching methodology stood him out  In a football world obsessed with big names and bigger budgets, Lateef Kolawole Adebayo has built his reputation on something more valuable: transformation of raw talents, brilliant communication skills, integrity and service delivery. For 25 years, the Lagos-born tactician has walked into clubs with problems and walked out with building exceptional players and solid teams.  From coaching boys with torn boots in Ikorodu in 1993, to leading DHL South Africa to the Global World Cup final in Dubai 2022, his career is a blueprint for what happens when experience meets purpose. At 65, Coach Lateef carries the credentials: a B.Ed in Physical & Health Education, CAF License, South African FA A License, pl...

NSSC Chairman Masu Urges Fairness as Niger Super League Draws Hold By Abubakar Hassan The Chairman of the Niger State Sports Commission (NSSC), Hon. Danjuma Abdul Masu, has urged stakeholders to uphold fairness, unity and professionalism as the draws for the 2025/2026 Niger State Super League football competition was conducted. Hon. Masu made the call while addressing participants at the ceremony held at the conference hall of the Commission, where he also formally declared the exercise open. He described the draws as a critical step toward ensuring a smooth and well-structured league, noting that collaboration among stakeholders would determine the success of the competition. The NSSC Chairman emphasized that football remains a unifying force capable of bridging social and cultural divides, but cautioned against the intrusion of personal interests and politics into the administration of the game. He commended participating clubs for their sacrifices in nurturin...

Burglars Break into Radica's Residence, Steal Valuables By Abdul Momoh Mr. Oladele Abolarin  commonly referred to as Radical, is understandably distressed not due to the recent defeat of his football team, but because his residence was illicitly entered by thieves. He confirmed this to Abdul Momoh yesterday 4th June 2026 in Ilorin, while he was in a somber mood.  One might assume that he was still reflecting on Kwara United FC’s defeat to Sokoto United, but he clarified that this was not the case. He had recently returned from the B Division Police Station, where he had officially reported the incident. According to Radical, the thieves targeted his home when all occupants were at work. “They thoroughly searched the premises and removed my valuable possessions,” he stated. “It is particularly distressing during these challenging times. How shall I begin to accumulate funds to replace the stolen items? I entrust the entire matter to God Almighty.” The incident has b...

SSA Adeboye, Polish Ambassador Celebrate Unity and Friendship as Nigeria, Poland Share Spoils in Historic Abuja Watch Party It was an unforgettable evening of friendship, diplomacy, football, and cultural unity as top government officials, diplomats, sports administrators, ex-internationals, and distinguished guests gathered at the VIP Lounge of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, for the historic Nigeria–Poland Football Match Viewing Party hosted by the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports Development in collaboration with the Polish Embassy in Nigeria. The event, which many guests described as one of the most symbolic sports diplomacy gatherings in Abuja this year, delivered a perfect blend of football excitement, networking, entertainment, and international friendship as Nigeria and Poland played out a thrilling 2-2 draw in the international friendly encounter. Nigeria took the lead through Terem Moffi, assisted...