Expectedly, Nigeria’s Ademola Lookman scooped the Africa Player of the Year award at the 2024 CAF Awards in Marrakech, Morocco on Monday night, less than 33 months after winning his first cap for Nigeria at international level.

The 27-year-old won the FIFA U17 World Cup with England before committing his future to Nigeria, and helped steer the Super Eagles to the runner-up position at the 34th Africa Cup of Nations finals in Cote d’Ivoire earlier this year. Also, he was key to Italian side Atalanta FC winning the UEFA Europa Cup last season, and this year, has scored 11 goals and notched five assists for the same club in 18 games across all competitions.

Lookman’s triumph was the big cake for Nigeria following goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie’s retention of the Goalkeeper of the Year award, and the Super Falcons again winning the Women’s National Team of the Year award as they did last year.

President of Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, MON and Nigeria’s FIFA Council Member, Mr. Amaju Pinnick, OFR were among the distinguished guests at the Palais des Congrés, as FIFA President Gianni Infantino and CAF President Patrice Motsepe handed the glittering marble to effervescent forward Lookman.

Pinnick was particularly joyous. As President of NFF, he made several attempts to get the player to commit to fatherland before the forward capitulated, and eventually won his first cap in the 2022 FIFA World Cup final round, first leg clash with Ghana’s Black Stars in Kumasi on 25th March 2022, which ended scoreless.

Gusau, who collected the Women’s National Team of the Year award on behalf of the Falcons, dedicated the prize to Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and pledged that his administration will continue to support women’s football in all its ramifications.

Nigeria’s five-time Olympian and Olympic bronze-medallist Mary Onyali, former Nigeria international striker Obafemi Martins and 1996 Olympic women’s long jump gold winner Chioma Ajunwa-Oparah were among the stars of the night as they presented awards.

Four Super Falcons, namely Michelle Alozie, Osinachi Ohale, Rasheedat Ajibade and Asisat Oshoala made the CAF Best 11 Women for 2024, while last year’s Player of the Year winner Victor Osimhen and new King Lookman made the Best 11 Men roster.

THE AWARD WINNERS:

Men’s Player of the Year: Ademola Lookman (Nigeria)

Women’s Player of the Year Barbra Banda (Zambia)

Men’s Coach of the Year: Emerse Faé (Côte d’Ivoire)

Women’s Coach of the Year: Lamia Boumehdi (TP Mazembe; Moroccan)

Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year: Ronwen Williams (South Africa)

Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year: Chiamaka Nnadozie (Nigeria)

Men’s Interclub Player of the Year: Ronwen Williams (Mamelodi Sundowns/South Africa)

Women’s Interclub Player of the Year: Sanâa Mssoudy (AS FAR/Morocco)

Men’s Young Player of the Year: Lamine Camara (Senegal)

Women’s Young Player of the Year: Doha El Madani (AS FAR/Morocco)

Men’s National Team of the Year: Côte d’Ivoire

Women’s National Team of the Year Super Falcons of Nigeria

Men’s Club of the Year: Al Ahly (Egypt)

Women’s Club of the Year TP Mazembe (DR Congo)

Goal of the Year: Mabululu (Goal for Angola against Namibia)

Best Referee (Women): Bouchra Karboubi (Morocco)

Best Referee (Men): Elvis Guy Nguegoue (Cameroon)

Best 11 Women: Andile Dlamini; Michelle Alozie; Karabo Dhlamini; Osinachi Ohale; Lebohang Ramalepe; Linda Motlhalo; Rasheedat Ajibade; Ghizlane Chebbak; Barbra Banda; Asisat Oshoala; Tabitha Chawingwa

Best 11 Men: Andre Onana; Achraf Hakimi; Khalidou Koulibaly; Chancel Mbemba; Mohammed Kudus; Sofyan Amrabat; Franck Kessie; Yves Bissouma; Mohamed Salah; Victor Osimhen; Ademola Lookman

Outstanding Achievement Award:

President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi (Egypt) and; President Paul Biya (Cameroon)

By Silvernews

Ezinihitte Football Club has advanced to the final of the Mbaise Top Seed Football Competition after finishing the group stage with six points from four games. Despite a slow start to their campaign, the team showed resilience to claim the top spot in the standings.

Their journey began with a 0-0 draw against Aboh Mbaise at home, followed by another goalless stalemate with Ahiazu Mbaise. However, Ezinihitte bounced back with a crucial 1-0 victory over Aboh Mbaise in the third game. They concluded the group stage with yet another 0-0 draw, this time against Ahiazu Mbaise, to secure their place in the final.

Ezinihitte finished first in the group with six points, while Ahiazu Mbaise claimed the second spot with four points from four games. Ahiazu’s campaign included a dramatic 3-3 draw with Aboh Mbaise in their opener, but they struggled to maintain momentum, ending their final group game with a goalless draw against Ezinihitte to qualify for the final.

Aboh Mbaise finished third in the standings with three points, having suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Ezinihitte in their last group match.

Ezinihitte FC and Ahiazu Mbaise will now face off in what promises to be an exciting final showdown.

By Silvernews

The Imo State Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Obinna Onyeocha, has congratulated Super Falcons goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie, on her remarkable achievement of winning the African Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year Award for the second time. The award was presented during the CAF Footballer of the Year ceremony held in Morocco on Monday evening. Hon. Onyeocha commended Nnadozie’s consistency and outstanding performances, which continue to bring pride to Imo State and Nigeria.

Reflecting on her achievements, the Commissioner highlighted Nnadozie’s heroic displays during the past football season, which earned her recognition as one of Africa’s finest athletes. He recalled her exceptional form that led to an earlier reception by the Governor of Imo State, His Excellency Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma, who hosted Nnadozie alongside other Super Falcons players from the state. Hon. Onyeocha praised the goalkeeper for her dedication and encouraged her to remain resilient despite narrowly missing out on the Women’s Footballer of the Year Award.

Hon. Onyeocha also celebrated Nnadozie’s rise from playing for Heartland Queens to becoming one of the most renowned footballers in Africa and globally. He lauded the role of Coach Chinedu Iwu, who discovered and nurtured her talent, and urged the goalkeeper to continue striving for excellence. “Your dedication and achievements inspire young athletes across the state and nation. Keep the flag of Imo State and Nigeria flying high,” he said.

In addition to congratulating Nnadozie, the Commissioner extended his felicitations to Ademola Lookman, who became the second Nigerian to win the African Men’s Footballer of the Year Award in a row after Victor Osimhen claimed the award last year. Lookman, a striker for Atalanta in Italy, was recognized for his outstanding contributions to football on the continent. Hon. Onyeocha expressed pride in Nigeria’s rising prominence in international football, attributing the successes to the talent and resilience of the nation’s players.

The Commissioner concluded by reaffirming Governor Hope Uzodimma’s commitment to supporting sports development and nurturing local talents. He called on young athletes to draw inspiration from the achievements of Nnadozie and Lookman, emphasizing that hard work and perseverance are keys to global recognition.

The Sports Director of DNC Sports Management, Engr. Chima Umunnakwe, has extended warm congratulations to Chiamaka Nnadozie for being crowned the Africa Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year for the second consecutive time. Nnadozie’s outstanding performance has once again cemented her status as one of the best in African women’s football, bringing immense pride to her home state of Imo and Nigeria at large.

“This is a wonderful achievement for Imo State and Nigeria at large,” Engr. Umunnakwe remarked. The recognition underscores Nnadozie’s dedication and talent, while also highlighting the rising prominence of Nigerian athletes on the international stage. Speaking to www.silvernews.com.ng, he expressed his aspiration for Nnadozie to win the African Women’s Player of the Year award, believing she has the potential to become the first goalkeeper to achieve this honor.

The Executive Director of the Cope and Live Mental Health Awareness Foundation, Reverend Chukwudiebube Nwachukwu, commended the members of the Ex-Rangers International Football Club players on their various commitments and sporting development strides.

He emphasized the importance of their continued efforts and urged them to remain steadfast in their pursuit of excellence. Reverend Nwachukwu highlighted the invaluable skills and expertise possessed by these sports veterans, which can significantly enhance our sporting prospects at various levels by being transferred to our aspiring young talents.

He underscored the significance of prioritizing their mental health for achieving holistic well-being, which will enable them to overcome challenges and lead fulfilling lives. Reverend Nwachukwu emphasized that neglecting mental health principles and practices can have detrimental consequences, particularly for individuals who are no longer actively involved in the sport.
In his remarks, the Chairman of Rangers International Football Club Foundation, Coach Ebere Amaraizu, expressed his gratitude to the participants and Cope and Live Mental Health Awareness Foundation for their ongoing partnership with Rangers International Football Club Foundation. He emphasized that the activity is an integral part of Rangers International Football Club Foundation’s efforts to collaborate with partners to promote the well-being of sports veterans who have made significant contributions to society during their athletic careers. The engagement provided a platform for complimentary counseling, empowering veterans to maintain hope and resilience while coping with their challenges.
Responding on behalf of former Rangers International Football Club players, Coach Kingsley Obiekwu MON, a former Atlanta ‘96 Olympic gold medalist and Ambassador to Cope and Live Mental Health Awareness Foundation, expressed his appreciation for the gesture. He acknowledged the numerous discussions and valuable insights gained, emphasizing the positive impact on their mental well-being. Coach Obiekwu MON pledged to implement the learned knowledge in his daily life activities, striving to maintain emotional and mental strength for optimal performance.

Three years ago, former Super Eagles star and celebrated coach Emmanuel Amuneke returned home to share his expertise with Nigerian coaches. In collaboration with the Imo State Football Association, Amuneke conducted a coaching workshop aimed at enhancing the skills and confidence of local football coaches. He also urged Nigerian coaches abroad to return and contribute to the development of football at home.

Today, Amuneke is leading by example as the Technical Manager of Heartland FC, affectionately known as the Naze Millionaires. Under his guidance, Heartland FC has become a team to watch in the Nigerian football league. Remarkably, the young squad has managed to score in every game this season—whether the goals were allowed or disallowed—highlighting their attacking prowess and resilience.

Today, Heartland FC will face a tough test as they take on Bendel Insurance FC. Fans are encouraged to come out in large numbers to cheer for the team. Supporters can also show their loyalty by purchasing replica jerseys, a crucial way to boost the club’s journey toward becoming a world-class team.

Let’s rally behind the Naze Millionaires and support their push for greatness!

—Wakawaka Sports Extra

Giant Brillars Football Club, a household name in Nigerian grassroots football, has officially relocated from Enugu State to Imo State. The club, now camped in the Avu community in Owerri West Local Government Area, is set to make a significant impact on the local football scene. The move aligns with the vision of the club’s owner, Chief Joseph Ebowusim, to foster football development in his home state.

The transition to Imo State marks a fresh chapter for Giant Brillars FC, as they commence their activities with open trials aimed at recruiting new talents. These trials, designed to scout and nurture prospective players, will form the backbone of the club’s squad for the upcoming Nationwide League One (NLO 1) season and the prestigious FA Cup. To fine-tune their preparations, the club has lined up a series of friendly matches against various teams, offering players a platform to showcase their skills and stake their claim for a spot in the team.

Giant Brillars FC is a subsidiary of Shuttle Sports International, Africa’s leading sports company, chaired by the renowned philanthropist and sports enthusiast, Chief Joseph Ebowusim. Shuttle Sports also manages Jossy United Football Club and Dynamics shuttle sports Football Academy, underscoring its commitment to grassroots football development. Chief Ebowusim, a native of Orlu in Imo State, is driven by a passion for sports and a vision to elevate Nigerian football.

Often compared to the late Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu and Chief MKO Abiola for his philanthropic contributions to football, Chief Ebowusim has been a catalyst for many Nigerian players’ success stories. Through his efforts, numerous players have transitioned to professional football in Europe, cementing his reputation as a game-changer in the Nigerian football ecosystem.

The decision to relocate Giant Brillars FC to Imo State is a strategic move to give back to his roots and create opportunities for local talent. Chief Ebowusim’s vision is clear: to allow Imolites to benefit from the club’s presence and the vast network of Shuttle Sports International. His passion for football is evident, with substantial financial investments drawn from his successful pharmaceutical ventures to support the sport.

As Giant Brillars FC gears up for the new season, they aim to compete fiercely in NLO 1 and secure a slot to represent Imo State in the upcoming FA Cup. The club’s management is optimistic about their chances, given the quality of players expected to emerge from the trials and the structured development programs in place.

Football enthusiasts in Imo State are buzzing with excitement over the arrival of Giant Brillars FC, which promises to add flavor to the local football scene. The club’s relocation is not only a win for grassroots football but also a testament to Chief Ebowusim’s commitment to creating a legacy that transcends sports.

With the new season fast approaching, all eyes will be on Giant Brillars FC as they look to establish themselves as a formidable force in Nigerian football while providing a platform for young players to achieve their dreams. The move to Imo State is set to be a game-changer for the state’s football landscape.

Giant Brillars FC Media

A delegation from the Executive Committee of the Eastern Nigeria Industrial Club (ENIC) on Thursday, December 12, 2024, paid a courtesy visit to the management of CUTIX PLC at the company’s corporate headquarters in Nnewi, Anambra State.

During the visit, the Chairman of ENIC’s Management Committee, Deacon Sam Ugboaja, expressed gratitude to CUTIX PLC for its longstanding support of the league. He also appealed for continued sponsorship to further strengthen the partnership.

In her response, the Chief Executive Officer of CUTIX PLC, Mrs. Ijeoama Oduonye, thanked the ENIC Management Committee for their solidarity, particularly during the funeral ceremonies of the company’s late founder, Engr. Gilbert Uzodike. She assured the delegation that CUTIX PLC remains committed to supporting the league through sustained sponsorship.

The two parties explored opportunities for a mutually beneficial relationship.

Deacon Ugboaja also extended an invitation to CUTIX PLC to attend the Super Four Finals of the 2024/2025 ENIC year, scheduled to take place at the Aba Sports Club in February 2025.