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Barca Kiddies Begins Title Defence as Coach Aliyu Zubairu U-15 Kiddies Cup Kicks off

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Reigning champions of the Coach Aliyu Zubair U-15 Kiddies Cup, Barca Kiddies will begin their title defence against Gidado FA in the opening match of the second edition of Coach Aliyu Zubairu U-15 Kiddies Cup which kicks off tomorrow.

The first and second matches in group A will kick off simultaneously by 8am (tomorrow) Saturday, June 14, 2025 at KFA Pitch, Ilorin.

The two sides were pitched in group A alongside Champions FA , Surprise FA and Gerewu FA.

In Group B, Kingshood FA will lock horns with Apex Star as Makamz FA and Busari FA will face each other as Honeyking takes Bye.

In Group C, Afrikan Kiddies and Alabama FA will trade tackles while Solicitor FA will face Gaa Akanbi with Flash FA on bye.

Future Star FA, Koller FA, Achievers FA, Wisdom FA and La Planet will battle for supremacy in Group D termed as group of death.

The championship was organized to discover hidden talents and harnessing them to the world.

The organising committee tasked all participating teams to show the spirit of sportsmanship before, during and after the tournament.

Nigerian Football and Sports Supporters Group Celebrates Hon. Bukola Olopade on His Birthday

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The Interim Management Committee (IMC) and members of the Nigerian Football and Sports Supporters Group have extended warm birthday wishes to Hon. Bukola Olopade, Director-General of the National Sports Commission, in a heartfelt message celebrating his contributions to sports development in Nigeria.

In a statement signed by Prince Vincent Okumagba, Chairman of the IMC Supporters Group, the organization praised Hon. Olopade’s unwavering commitment to the growth of sports in the country.

“On behalf of the Interim Management Committee and the entire members of the Nigerian Football and Sports Supporters Group, I extend warm wishes and heartfelt greetings on this special day,” Okumagba said.

“May your birthday be filled with joy, love, and celebration. May God bless you with good health, wisdom, and continued success in your endeavors.”

The group also expressed appreciation for Hon. Olopade’s leadership, noting his significant efforts in promoting sports development across Nigeria.

“We look forward to your continued leadership and support,” the statement added. “Wishing you a wonderful year ahead in good health and happiness.”

Hon. Bukola Olopade is widely recognized for his role in advancing the national sports agenda and inspiring a new generation of athletes and sports enthusiasts across the country.

Gateway Games 2024: Redefining the Spirit and Standards of the National Sports Festival and Nigerian Sports

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The 22nd National Sports Festival, also called Gateway Games 2024, will be remembered not only for the medals and milestones but for its atmosphere, excellence, and enduring legacy. More than just a competition, it became a celebration of unity, talent, and what’s possible when vision meets execution.

Held from May 16 to 31 across Ogun State, the festival was a vibrant blend of elite performance, grassroots inclusion, and cultural pride. Abeokuta transformed into a beating heart of national excitement, where athletes, fans, and communities came together under a shared banner of excellence and joy.

At the core of this triumph was the unquestionable commitment of Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun. His determination to leave a lasting legacy translated into the full renovation of the historic MKO Abiola Stadium and significant upgrades to the state’s sporting infrastructure. His leadership ensured that every detail—from logistics to athlete experience—was thoughtfully addressed. This festival didn’t just meet expectations; it raised the bar for what a host state can deliver.

Much of the credit also goes to the National Sports Commission (NSC), led by chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko and Hon. Bukola Olopade, Chairman of the Main Organizing Committee and Director General of the NS), whose hands-on leadership and tireless dedication were instrumental to the festival’s success. The NSC executed a flawless event, the result of months of detailed planning, collaboration, and commitment.

The 2024 National Sports Festival left a lasting infrastructural legacy for Ogun State. The iconic MKO Abiola Stadium received a comprehensive facelift, restoring it to world-class standards, while the Alake Sports Centre and several other venues were upgraded to meet the demands of high-level competition. A standout innovation was the introduction of a centralized accommodation model—an unprecedented move in the festival’s history. All athletes were housed at Babcock University, whose state-of-the-art facilities, including independent power and water systems, provided a seamless living and competition environment. Complemented by a fleet of no less than 80 buses and more than 20 standby vehicles, transportation was efficient and stress-free, marking a new era of planning and execution for multi-sport events in Nigeria.

In a bold and historic initiative, the 2024 edition introduced over 300 Invited Junior Athletes (IJAs), many under the age of 18, to compete alongside seniors. Backed by the NSC, the IJA initiative aimed to bridge the generational gap and expose emerging talents to elite competition. These young athletes didn’t just participate—they impressed, excelling in events like football, athletics, swimming, taekwondo, weightlifting, and wrestling. It was a powerful statement about the future of Nigerian sport and the value of early investment in youth development.

Praise poured in from across the sports community. Dr. Abdul Ibrahim, President of the Nigeria Weightlifting Federation, called the festival a “generational victory for Nigerian sport.” He noted, “From the facilities to the sheer energy of the athletes, this festival brought new life to weightlifting and many other sports. The inclusion of junior athletes is a brilliant stroke that ensures continuity and growth. Ogun State delivered beyond expectations.”

Elder Paul Bassey, Commissioner for Sports in Akwa Ibom State, echoed those sentiments: “This was a sports festival in every sense of the word—well-structured, beautifully organized, and emotionally stirring. The level of professionalism we witnessed, especially from the organizers and volunteers, was world-class. It’s a credit to Ogun State and a challenge to Enugu to raise the bar even higher next time.”

One of the most emotional moments came when wrestling icon Blessing Oborodudu took her final bow. In a poetic full-circle moment, she retired in the same city—Abeokuta—where her journey to stardom began during the 2006 Gateway Games. Nearly two decades later, she leaves the sport as an Olympic silver medalist, multiple-time Commonwealth champion, and a revered ambassador for Nigerian sports. Her farewell underscored how these Games were not only about beginnings, but also about meaningful endings.

While the official fixtures delivered stunning athletic feats, the real magic often happened after the final whistle. Each night, the corridors around the stadiums came alive with activity—vendors, gamers, and revellers turning the evenings into a spontaneous carnival of food, laughter, and shared stories. The gaming zones, table tennis setups, and snooker boards became gathering points, creating an organic, unofficial tradition that captured the very soul of the festival. Though not on the formal schedule, this nightly rhythm became one of the defining features of the Games—proof that sport’s true power lives in the connections it inspires.

Now, the baton passes to Enugu for the 23rd edition of the National Sports Festival. With expectations soaring, the legacy of the Gateway Games serves as both a challenge and a roadmap. Ogun State has shown what’s possible when ambition, support, and community come together with purpose.

The 22nd National Sports Festival was a masterclass in how to blend competition with culture, legacy with logistics, and dreams with discipline. It reminded us all that sport is not just about winning—it’s about belonging, progression, and storytelling. Thanks to the visionaries, athletes, and every cheering voice in Abeokuta, Nigerian sports now stands taller, prouder, and more inspired than ever.

Here’s to Ogun. Here’s to the Games. And here’s to the golden future of Nigerian sports.

 

SportsBeat on Jordan 105.5 FM Lagos Sports Fans Hangout: A Symphony of Sports, Music, and Community

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On Saturday, May 31st, 2025, the city of Lagos pulsed with excitement as Sports Beat on Jordan 105.5 FM hosted its unforgettable Sports Fans Hangout/UEFA Champions League Final Watch Party, a vibrant spectacle of passion, play, and pure football bliss.

The day kicked off with an electrifying novelty football match that brought out the competitive fire in both fans and broadcasters. Held at the scenic Active Zone Hub, Oko Oba — a haven of sport, recreation, and relaxation — the match pitted the Jordan FM Sports Desk team, “The Sports Beat Crew,” captained by Olusola Adebayo, against a spirited assembly of loyal fans.

From the very first whistle, it was a game that lived up to the billing — end-to-end action, flair, and flashes of brilliance. Both teams traded goals in a thrilling 4-4 draw that had spectators on their feet. Ultimately, it was the Sports Beat Crew that triumphed via penalties, sealing bragging rights in a friendly yet fiercely contested showdown.

But that was only the beginning.

As the sun dipped and Lagos’ nightlife came alive, the energy shifted to The Ball Hall of Royal Ascot Hotel and Suites, where all roads — and hearts — led for the grand UEFA Champions League Final watch party. The venue transformed into a football carnival, with fans spilling into the hall, corridors, and even around the poolside — a testament to the gravity of the occasion and the unity it inspired.

The match itself? A spectacle. Paris Saint-Germain delivered a footballing masterclass, dismantling Inter Milan in a stunning 5-0 annihilation that sent shockwaves through Europe and waves of joy through the Lagos crowd. Each goal by PSG was greeted with thunderous cheers, hugs between strangers, and chants that echoed through the night.

The evening wasn’t just about football — it was about community and celebration. The DJ kept spirits soaring with pulsating tunes that had fans dancing between halves and long after the final whistle. There were colourful outfits, plenty to eat and drink, and an intoxicating blend of laughter, camaraderie, and shared passion.

It was more than an event — it was a movement. A day that brought together people from all walks of life in a vivid display of “love in motion”, where football served as the universal language.

As the night wound down and the lights dimmed, one thing was clear: Jordan 105.5 FM didn’t just host a Champions League viewing party — they created a memory, etched in the hearts of every attendee, and reaffirmed why Lagos remains the beating heart of African football culture.

The event was packaged by Sportspedal Media and Events while lots of supports came from Royal ASCOT Hotels and Suites, on Olaniyi Street New Oko Oba Lagos,as well Active Zone Hub in Idi Oparun Oko Oba Lagos.

Extensive Media support from Jordan FM, Sports247 and October 9 Photography.

Olopade: A Man With Golden Touch To Change The Narrative Of Nigerian Sports

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The 22nd National Sports Festival, ‘Gateway Games 2024’, has come and gone, leaving an indelible mark on Nigerian sports. One name that deserves special mention for his instrumental role in the success of the games is the Director General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade. As a sports administrator, Olopade has made giant strides in Nigerian sports, and his impact cannot be overstated.

During his tenure as Sports Commissioner in Ogun State under Otunba Gbenga Daniel’s administration (2003-2011), Olopade played a pivotal role in elevating the state’s sports profile. His unique leadership style and vision for sports development earned him recognition as one of the longest-serving sports commissioners in the state.

Olopade’s most notable achievements include preparing and winning the bid to host the National Sports Festival in Ogun State. He successfully hosted the 2006 edition, tagged ‘Gateway Games’, at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta and other notable venues across the state. His efforts paid off again when Ogun State hosted the 22nd National Sports Festival, ‘Gateway Games 2024’, which was a resounding success.

Since he was appointed as the Director General of the National Sports Commission on the 14th of November, 2024, by President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Ozo, as Olopade is fondly called, has transformed the face of Nigerian sports with his strategic initiatives, like;

Elite Athletes Development and Podium Board: Olopade inaugurated this board to focus on nurturing high-performance athletes, aiming for consistent podium finishes in international competitions.

Promotion of Gender Equality in Sports: Olopade has been a strong advocate for women’s participation in sports, supporting events like the Ogun Women Run to empower female athletes and promote gender equality.

Inclusive Sports Development: Emphasizing the importance of all sports disciplines, Olopade has worked towards creating an enabling environment for various sports, ensuring that lesser-known sports receive attention and resources. Few of the lesser sports or unknown sports in Nigeria, which made their demonstration debut at the National Sports Festival in Ogun state this year, are E-Sports, Flag football, and Arm wrestling.

Additionally, Olopade is the brain behind the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, which has placed Nigeria on the world map and showcased the country’s potential in hosting international sporting events. The marathon has become a flagship event, promoting fitness, health, and sports development in Nigeria. His involvement in organizing other mini-marathons across the country has further contributed to the growth of athletics in Nigeria.

Through his tireless efforts, Olopade has demonstrated his passion for sports development and his ability to drive growth and excellence in the industry. As Nigeria continues to strive for greatness in sports, Hon. Bukola Olopade’s contributions will undoubtedly be remembered for years to come.

Hon. Bukola Olopade is a giant in Nigerian sports, and his impact will be felt for generations to come. His dedication, leadership, and vision for sports development have made a lasting impression on the industry, and we look forward to seeing more of his innovative ideas and initiatives in the future.

Former ABS Ilorin FC Defender, Benjamin Frederick Helps Super Eagles to Lift First Trophy in 12-Year

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Abubakar Bukola Saraki (ABS) Ilorin Football Club celebrates our very own Benjamin Frederick who made his debut for the Super Eagles.

The talented youngster featured against Jamaica in the Unity Cup Final on Saturday, and was instrumental as Nigeria overcome Jamaica lifting a trophy twelve years after the AFCON triumph in South Africa.

After a 2-2 draw in regulation time the Super Eagles emerged champions after coming out victorious 5-4 via penalties.

This feat is a testament to Frederick’s hard work, dedication, and unwavering passion for the beautiful game. As he donned the iconic green jersey, he embodied the spirit of the Super Eagles, showcasing his skills and commitment to the team.

We at ABS Ilorin FC are deeply proud of your progress and we wish you the very best with the Super Eagles.

NNL25: ABS Ilorin FC Trash Madiba FC in Ilorin

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Abubakar Bukola Saraki (ABS) Ilorin Football Club secured a convincing 3-1 victory over Madiba FC in their Nigeria National League (NNL) Matchday 20 clash at the Rashidi Yekini Mainbow George Innih Stadium in Ilorin on Saturday.

The SarakiBoys got off to a flying start, with Ajina Boluwatife scoring the opener in the 17th minute. Ayoku Abdulrahman doubled the lead just before halftime, although Madiba FC pulled one back in the dying minutes of the first half.

The visitors’ hopes were quickly dashed as Jamiu Onikoko added the third goal for ABS Ilorin FC at the start of the second half, sealing the win for the home team.

Coach Anthony Encho expressed satisfaction with the result, saying, “The game was good. I’m happy with the result, even though we lost chances. But we’re improving in terms of goal scoring. This is the first time we’ve scored three goals in the second round, so it’s a huge win for us.”

The win propels ABS Ilorin FC up the ladder in the Nigeria National League (NNL) Southern Conference B. Their next challenge will be an away match against Abakaliki FC.

Flag Football Gets Green Light To Demonstrate At National Sports Festival

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In a landmark achievement for the sport, the Nigeria Flag Football Federation (NFFF) has received official approval from the National Sports Commission to demonstrate flag football at the 22nd National Sports Festival, biggest sporting event in Nigerian sports development, tagged “Gateway Games Ogun 2024”, scheduled to take place from May 16 to 30 in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

This historic milestone is yet another testament to the tireless efforts of Azeez Amida, leader of the NFFF, who has taken bold and strategic steps to transform the flag football landscape in Nigeria.

Under his visionary leadership, the sport has grown from grassroots excitement to national recognition—culminating in this moment of validation on one of Nigeria’s biggest sporting stages.

In an official communication, Mrs. Thecla Opara, Director (NSFPS) and Secretary of the Main Organizing Committee for the National Sports Festival, confirmed the approval and extended the Commission’s support for the Federation’s demonstration plans during the games.

Azeez Amida expressed deep gratitude to the National Sports Commission, including its Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko and DG, Hon. Bukola Olopade for their continued support and commitment to sporting innovation in Nigeria. He also acknowledged the unwavering backing of the Nigeria Olympic Committee, whose endorsement of the Federation helped propel flag football toward national integration.

“This approval is not just a win for flag football, it’s a win for Nigerian youth, innovation in sport, and the belief that new frontiers can be explored. We are honored and excited to showcase flag football at the National Sports Festival, and we remain committed to building a legacy the whole nation can be proud of,” said Amida.

Demonstration status for flag football at the National Sports Festival in Nigeria is a major milestone—it signals formal recognition and paves the way for full inclusion in future editions of the games. It means the sport is being observed for viability, competitiveness, and nationwide appeal. This moment allows flag football to showcase its athletic merit, organizational readiness, and spectator value to state sports councils, the Nigerian Olympic Committee, and national policymakers.

For the Nigerian Flag Football Federation and leagues like Showtime Flag football league Abuja Flag Football league and other leagues, this is more than symbolic—it opens doors to state funding, talent development pipelines, and future medal events. It also provides a strategic platform to unify fragmented efforts across the country and align with international standards, especially ahead of the sport’s debut at the 2028 Olympics.

If executed well, demonstration status could be the turning point that transforms flag football in Nigeria from a niche interest into a nationally backed sport.

As the countdown to Gateway Games begins, all eyes will be on the NFFF’s demonstration—an opportunity to introduce the game to thousands of spectators, athletes, and officials across Nigeria.

Flag football is ready for the spotlight. Nigeria is ready for flag football.

Defending champions dethroned as new winners emerge at 2025 National Table Tennis Championships in Osun

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The 5th Michael and Felicia Alabi Memorial National Table Tennis Championships will crown new champions on Friday, May 2, following the exit of defending champions Jamiu Ayanwale and Sukurat Aiyelabegan. The finals of the five-day tournament are being held at Otan Ayegbaju, Osun State.

Sanctioned by the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation (NTTF) and organized by the Osun State Table Tennis Association, the tournament boasts a prize pool of ₦11.5 million. Players from Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Akwa Ibom, Rivers, Taraba, Nasarawa, Abia, Adamawa, Anambra, Delta, Edo, Kwara, Kogi, Ekiti, Katsina, Niger, Zamfara, and the host state, Osun, are competing for honors in various events.

Clubs such as Aruna Sports Club, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Nigeria Police Force are also vying for top honors at the national ranking championships.

In a major upset, Kwara’s Matthew Fabunmi defeated 2024 champion Jamiu Ayanwale of Rivers in the quarterfinals of the Men’s Singles with a 3-1 (11-9, 8-11, 11-8, 11-8) victory. Number one seed Abdulbasit Abdulfatai continued his dominant run, securing a 4-1 win over Abdulraheem Sanni of Edo in the semifinals. Fabunmi also triumphed over Joshua Oladiran of Ondo 4-1, setting up an all-Kwara final.

In the Women’s Singles, veteran Halimat Hussein of Oyo used her experience to edge out 2024 champion Sukurat Aiyelabegan. Hussein then defeated national champion Bose Odusanya of Lagos 4-3 to reach the final, where she will face Hope Udoaka of Cross River. Udoaka had a smooth path to the final, overcoming Aishat Raibu of Oyo 4-1 in the semifinals.

In the Men’s Singles para event, Class 1-5, Paris 2024 Paralympics bronze medalist Isau Ogunkunle of Ogun emerged as the champion. In Class 6-10, Abiola Adesope claimed the title by defeating Tokyo 2020 Paralympics bronze medalist Olufemi Alabi.

Lagos Knights Dominate, Panthers Roar in Flag Football Showdown

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In an action-packed Showtime Flag Football Summer Series Week 6, teams showcased grit, determination, and explosive performances that kept fans on the edge of their seats. The competition is intensifying as teams push to secure their spots ahead of the playoffs, all under the sanctioning of the Nigeria Flag Football Federation.

Panthers Sports put on a clinic with a dominant 52-0 win over Off-Szn Athletic. Despite the emphatic victory, the Panthers remain in 6th place in the standings with no change in their position. Off-Szn, still in search of their first win, couldn’t keep up with the Panthers’ offensive and defensive prowess.

Warriors Flag Football continued to solidify their place in the upper echelons of the league with a 47-20 triumph over the Lagos Raptors. Despite the loss, the Raptors still put up a fight, but it wasn’t enough to topple the second-placed Warriors. The defeat saw the Raptors slip from 4th to 5th place, with the Warriors maintaining their hold on 2nd place.

In a thrilling match, Ikan Sports narrowly defeated Greenbacks Flag Football 19-14. It was a hard-fought battle, but Ikan’s resilience saw them claim victory and maintain their position in 3rd place. However, the Greenbacks saw a slight improvement, moving up from 5th to 4th place, showing growth despite the loss.

The biggest score of the day came from the Lagos Athletic Knights, who crushed Lagos Alpha Flag Football 58-0. The Knights’ offensive juggernaut was in full force, leaving no room for Alpha to mount any significant attack. The Knights remain firmly in 1st place, continuing their dominance. Alpha, unfortunately, remains at the bottom of the table with no change in their ranking.

Final Scores:

Off-Szn Athletic 0-52 Panthers Sports

Warriors Flag Football 47-20 Lagos Raptors

Greenbacks Flag Football 14-19 Ikan Sports

Lagos Athletic Knights 58-0 Lagos Alpha Flag Football

Week 6 saw some exciting shifts in the standings as the Greenbacks and Raptors swapped places, but the top and bottom positions remain steady. With only a few weeks left before the playoffs, the intensity is only expected to rise as teams fight for positioning in the Showtime Flag Football Summer Series.