Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria – The management of Kwara United Football Club has announced the dismissal of its head coach, Kabiru Dogo, following a string of poor results in both the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) and the CAF Confederation Cup qualifiers.   In a statement issued on Sunday, the club’s media department confirmed that the decision was reached after an emergency meeting between the management and the Kwara State Sports Commission, citing “unsatisfactory performance and lack of tactical direction” as key reasons.   Kwara United suffered back-to-back defeats, including a 2-0 loss in their NPFL opener and a 3-1 aggregate defeat in the Confederation Cup qualifiers, which sealed the coach’s fate.   “We appreciate Coach Kabiru Dogo for his commitment and service to the club, but the current results do not align with our vision for the season,” the statement read.   The club announced that assistant coach Adewale Yusuf will take over in an interim capacity while a new head coach is being considered.   Fans have expressed mixed reactions to the sacking, with some supporting the decision as necessary for a mid-season turnaround, while others believe Dogo deserved more time to rebuild the team.

Abuja, Nigeria – Captain of Nigeria’s U-20 national team, the Flying Eagles, Daniel Bameyi, has declared that the squad is fully focused on winning the FIFA U-20 World Cup, stating their ambition to bring glory to the nation.   Speaking ahead of the team’s preparations, Bameyi emphasized that the Flying Eagles are not just participating to make up the numbers but are determined to fight for the trophy.   We are not here to play for fun. Our aim is to be world champions. We have the talent, the drive, and the spirit to make Nigeria proud,” the skipper said.   He highlighted the players’ commitment and praised the technical crew led by Coach Ladan Bosso for instilling discipline and tactical awareness in the squad.   Football analysts say the Flying Eagles, who have a rich history in youth competitions, must combine their attacking flair with defensive stability if they are to achieve their dream of lifting the trophy for the first time.   Nigeria has reached the U-20 World Cup final twice, in 1989 and 2005, but fell short on both occasions. The team now hopes to finally break the jinx and etch their names in history.

Abuja, Nigeria – As Nigeria marks its 65th independence anniversary, leading socio-political groups, Ohanaeze Ndigbo and Afenifere, have expressed deep concerns over the state of the nation, describing the journey so far as one filled with “dashed hopes and unfulfilled promises.”   In separate statements on Tuesday, both groups highlighted insecurity, economic hardship, corruption, and political instability as factors undermining the country’s progress despite its vast human and natural resources.   Ohanaeze Ndigbo called for a renewed commitment to restructuring, equity, and justice to address the nation’s challenges, while Afenifere urged leaders to embrace policies that would truly reflect the aspirations of citizens and restore public trust.   Both organizations stressed that Nigeria’s 65th anniversary should serve as a moment of sober reflection and a call to action for leaders at all levels to chart a new course for unity, peace, and prosperity.

Abuja, Nigeria – No fewer than 400 golfers from across the country and beyond are set to participate in the Nigeria @ 65 Golf Tournament, billed to hold in the Federal Capital Territory.   Organizers say the competition is part of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary, providing a platform to showcase golfing talent while promoting unity and tourism. The event will feature top amateurs, seasoned professionals, and international players, making it one of the largest golfing gatherings in recent years.

Accra, Ghana / Ilorin, Nigeria – Ghanaian giants Asante Kotoko are gearing up for a decisive showdown against Nigeria’s Kwara United in the return leg of the CAF Confederation Cup. Kotoko, who trail after the first-leg encounter, are determined to overturn the deficit and secure progression to the next stage of Africa’s second-tier club competition. Coach Prosper Narteh Ogum expressed confidence in his squad’s ability to rise to the occasion, stressing discipline, teamwork, and precision in front of goal as key to their qualification hopes. Kwara United, on the other hand, will be banking on home advantage and fan support in Ilorin to protect their lead and knock out their Ghanaian rivals. The high-stakes clash has generated excitement across both countries, with football fans eager to see which West African side advances further in the continental tournament.

Harare, Zimbabwe – The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has made a sudden U-turn by selecting South Africa as the venue for their upcoming World Cup qualifier clash against Bafana Bafana.   The development comes after earlier uncertainties regarding Zimbabwe’s choice of venue due to stadium approval challenges. With this decision, the Warriors will now face South Africa on neutral ground, ensuring compliance with Confederation of African Football (CAF) regulations.   ZIFA noted that logistical arrangements are underway to secure smooth preparations for the match. Football fans across the region are expected to turn out in numbers for the highly anticipated clash.

Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria – The Kwara State Sports Commission has announced the dissolution of all sports associations operating under its jurisdiction.   The commission, in a statement issued on Monday, said the decision was part of ongoing reforms aimed at repositioning sports development in the state. According to officials, the restructuring will allow for the reconstitution of associations with improved frameworks to enhance grassroots participation and athlete development.   The commission added that fresh guidelines will soon be released for the reformation of the affected associations, assuring stakeholders that the move is geared towards improving transparency, accountability, and performance.

Abuja, Nigeria — The Federal Capital Territory is set to host the fifth edition of the Oakleaf Fitness Fiesta, an annual event that promotes health, wellness, and active living.   Organizers say the fiesta will feature fitness challenges, aerobics sessions, health talks, and networking opportunities for enthusiasts and professionals in the wellness industry. The event aims to encourage Nigerians to embrace healthier lifestyles while fostering community engagement through sports and fitness.   The Oakleaf Fitness Fiesta has grown into one of the most anticipated health events in Abuja, drawing participants from across the country.

Lagos, Nigeria — Over the years, a select group of Nigerian footballers have etched their names in history by earning spots on the prestigious Ballon d’Or shortlist, standing tall among the world’s finest players.   From Finidi George’s rise in the 1990s to Victor Osimhen’s recent recognition in 2023, these players have carried the hopes of millions of fans, showcasing Nigerian talent on football’s biggest stage.   The recognition highlights not just individual brilliance but also Nigeria’s growing impact on global football. Each nomination has been a testament to hard work, consistency, and the ability to shine in Europe’s top leagues.   With Osimhen breaking barriers as one of Africa’s most celebrated strikers today, many believe Nigeria could one day produce a Ballon d’Or winner.

Budapest, Hungary — Nigeria’s Ezekiel Nathaniel has made history by blazing into the men’s 400m hurdles final at the World Athletics Championships.   Nathaniel’s qualification marks the first time a Nigerian male athlete has reached the final of the event at the global stage. His performance has been widely celebrated as a milestone for Nigerian athletics, boosting the country’s hopes for a medal in the competition.   Athletics officials and fans alike have hailed his achievement, describing it as an inspiration for upcoming athletes across Nigeria.

Ilorin, Kwara State,  – The Kwara State Government has expressed confidence in its readiness to host the Confederation Cup in Ilorin, assuring football stakeholders of adequate facilities and logistics to ensure a smooth competition.   Officials noted that the state’s modern stadium infrastructure, coupled with government support and the enthusiasm of local fans, positions Kwara as a suitable host for the continental tournament.   They emphasized that hosting the Confederation Cup will not only boost the profile of Kwara but also contribute to the growth of football in Nigeria, providing opportunities for local players and economic benefits for the community.

Accra, Ghana — Ghanaian football clubs are set to benefit from FIFA’s record-breaking Club Benefits Programme for the 2026 World Cup, which will see an unprecedented pool of funds distributed to clubs worldwide.   The programme, designed to reward clubs whose players participate in the World Cup, is expected to provide significant financial relief and investment opportunities for Ghanaian teams. FIFA has increased the total amount earmarked for the initiative, ensuring that clubs across Africa, including Ghana, will receive more than ever before.   Sports analysts note that this funding could help strengthen local leagues by improving infrastructure, enhancing player development, and supporting club operations. The move is also seen as a way to bridge the gap between African clubs and their European counterparts in terms of resources and competitiveness.   Officials from the Ghana Football Association (GFA) welcomed the announcement, stressing that the funds, once allocated, should be used responsibly by clubs to foster long-term growth and sustainability in Ghana’s football ecosystem.