Rangers International Football Club Foundation, in collaboration with Cope and Live Mental Health Awareness Foundation, is set to host the inaugural #SAVEOURSPORTSVETERANS event at the Rangers International Training Pitch, Liberty Estate, Enugu.
Starting at 10:00 AM, the event will focus exclusively on former players of Rangers International Football Club, offering psychosocial support to enhance their mental well-being. This initiative seeks to empower these sports veterans to effectively mentor and transfer their wealth of knowledge and skills to young, aspiring athletes.
The program aims to stabilize the mental health of sports veterans, ensuring they remain pivotal contributors to the development of future sporting talents. With plans to expand the engagement to veterans across various sports, the #SAVEOURSPORTSVETERANS initiative aspires to create lasting impact and measurable outcomes in the sporting community.
The Proprietor of Giant Brillar Football Club, Chief Joseph Ebowusim, has been hailed as a blessing to humanity by the club’s Sporting Director, Mr. Isaac Mbika. Speaking during the announcement of the team’s recent relocation to Owerri, Imo State, Mbika commended Chief Ebowusim for his unwavering commitment to football development in Nigeria.
According to Mbika, Chief Ebowusim has invested significant resources into nurturing young talent and advancing the sport across the country. “Chief Joseph has dedicated much of his hard-earned resources to the growth of football in Nigeria. The club is constantly scouting for exceptional players to promote on the global stage,” he stated.
The Amaifeke-Orlu-born football enthusiast, who also serves as the Football Ambassador for the Imo State Football Association, has been pivotal in fostering football development in Imo State and beyond. Mbika emphasized the team’s readiness to compete in every available competition to keep players in peak condition and prepare them for potential transfers abroad.
In a statement to Silver News Online, Mbika expressed optimism about the team’s future under Chief Ebowusim’s leadership. “With his support, we are confident of achieving great success and contributing to the advancement of football in Nigeria,” he added.
After enduring the trauma of a recent unpleasant encounter with police authorities, Maureen Mmadu and her players showcased resilience on the pitch her Football Academy played out an exciting 1-1 draw against Giant FC of Ozubulu.
The game, which marked their third in just six days, demonstrated the determination and fighting spirit of the boys. Despite creating four clear-cut scoring opportunities, Excellent Football Academy was unable to capitalize, a missed chance that could have sealed the victory.
However, the highlight of the match came from Neche “Messi” Okoro, whose stunning free kick secured the equalizer and ensured the team left with a valuable point. The young talent continues to live up to his nickname, delivering moments of brilliance that inspire his teammates and fans alike.
Reflecting on the match, Coach Mmadu remained positive:
“It was a fantastic game from the boys. We had our chances but couldn’t convert them. Nevertheless, we take the positives from this performance and move forward. The team’s effort in this demanding schedule is commendable.”
With such displays of grit and determination, Excellent Football Academy is proving to be a team to watch as they continue to develop their young talents.
On December 12, 2024, the Executive Director of the Cope and Live Mental Health Awareness Foundation, Reverend Chukwudiebube Nwachukwu, expressed optimism about the positive outcomes that will arise from the partnership with the Carmelite Prisoners Interest Organization Nigeria (CAPIONG) on Health Care Intervention For Enugu Custodial Centres. This expression was made in response to the health care intervention shortly after a project planning meeting with the project team members was held in the conference room of CAPIONG’s Bent Lane office, GRA Enugu.
According to Reverend Nwachukwu, the project outlines holistic health care interventions that are supported by psychosocial engagement and medical outreaches. It is anticipated that these interventions will yield desired results by improving the general well-being and existence of inmates.
He commended the efforts of CAPIONG for their significant strides in health care interventions for custodial centers in Enugu, which will commence in January 2025. It was gathered that the partnership team with CAPIONG includes medical professionals, pharmacists, and mental health professionals/counselors from the Cope and Live Mental Health Awareness Foundation.
The stage is set, the excitement is palpable, and all roads lead to the ACTIZ ARENA, opposite Concord Hotel, Owerri, as the grand finale of the 2024 OFC President Cup kicks off tomorrow evening. Football fans and enthusiasts are in for a thrilling double-header packed with drama, action, and unforgettable moments.
The games are scheduled to begin at 7 PM, with the first match featuring Team C (Sakura), still searching for their first point, as they clash with Team D (St. Christopher), who sit third on the table with four points. Sakura will be playing for pride and redemption, while St. Christopher will aim to consolidate their position with a strong finish.
At 8 PM, the second showdown promises to be a blockbuster as the league leaders, Team B (Andrian’s Group), who have dominated the tournament with nine points, take on Team A (Muna Suits), who also have four points but boast a superior goal difference. This matchup could be the crowning moment for Andrian’s Group or a stunning upset in the making.
Adding a touch of sentiment and honor to the competition, the late father of the OFC President, Mr. Christopher Madubuko, was commemorated with Team D (St. Christopher) named in his memory. His burial is scheduled for December 20, 2024, at Ubahadara Amaoria Ubulu in Oru East LGA, Imo State.
Speaking to newsmen, the OFC President emphasized that the tournament is more than just football—it’s about fostering community spirit, unity, and sportsmanship.
Mbaise Policy Roundtable (MPR) has announced an ambitious initiative aimed at transforming the economic landscape of Mbaise by connecting local farmers and businesses to global markets. The project seeks to make buying products from Mbaise seamless for customers anywhere in the world, with transactions completed in just seconds. This innovative step underscores MPR’s commitment to leveraging technology and community resources for economic growth.
The groundbreaking initiative will be a major highlight of the 2025 Annual Global Summit, scheduled to take place on January 2 at the Chris VI Hotel. Themed “From Farm to Fortunes; Tech to Cash, Leveraging Acquired Agricultural & Digital Skills for Financial Success and the Development of Mbaise,” the summit promises to showcase strategies and opportunities that will empower farmers and entrepreneurs to achieve financial success while promoting the development of Mbaise.
MPR has called on the support of individuals and organizations to ensure the success of this global vision. Donations are being accepted through two channels: Access Bank, under the account name “Mbaise Policy Roundtable” (Account Number: 1222394025), and Zelle, through Edward Oparaoji at +1 484 619 8919. Contributions will help provide the resources needed to position Mbaise as a significant player in the global market.
With this initiative, MPR is not just fostering economic empowerment but also positioning Mbaise as a hub of agricultural innovation and digital excellence. The community is encouraged to rally behind this vision to create sustainable growth and global recognition for Mbaise farmers and businesses.
Mbaise Nation, known for its exceptional academic achievements and cultural heritage, is set to make history with the establishment of its first university. The groundbreaking ceremony for Mbaise University will take place on January 3, 2025, at its permanent site in Ife, Ezinihitte Mbaise Local Government Area, Imo State.
This monumental project marks a turning point for the people of Mbaise, who have long yearned for a university to call their own. Despite the region’s high academic standards, with numerous Ph.D. holders, professors, and an unmatched number of Catholic priests per capita in Nigeria, Mbaise has, until now, been overlooked by both state and federal governments in the allocation of higher education institutions.
Driven by resilience and a strong sense of community, Mbaise leaders and stakeholders have taken it upon themselves to build the first university in their homeland. Inspired by the legacy of their forebears who established renowned institutions such as Mbaise Secondary School and Aboh General Hospital, the people of Mbaise are determined to fund and construct a world-class university through collective efforts.
The permanent site of the university, located on the picturesque banks of the Imo River, promises to provide a serene learning environment. Prominent academics from Mbaise, including professors and scholars, have expressed readiness to offer their services, with many willing to teach on a pro bono basis.
The Imo State Football Association heartily congratulates Dr. Mohammed Sanusi on his recent reappointment as the General Secretary of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) for another three-year term.
The association described his reappointment as a well-deserved recognition of his invaluable contribution to the growth and development of football in Nigeria.
Chairman of Imo FA, Barr Ifeanyi Dike described Dr Sanusi’s passion for the development of the leather game as unwavering and exceptional, noting that the re-appointment will provide ample opportunity for him to proffer experience and insight into Nigeria football.
Dike said “I commend the re-appointment of Dr Mohammed Sanusi as NFF General Secretary for a second term. His knowledge and experience will no doubt help improve football in Nigeria, and help to move it to greater heights. His passion is a major boost and I’m personally looking forward to how his strategic appointment will boost our wealth of knowledge and experience as football administrators”.
“We at Imo FA pledge our readiness to work with him and the entire team by extension, especially as we reclaim our position as the biggest exporter of footballers in Nigeria. We assure him of our total support and readiness for success”, Dike said.
Ahead of the 2024/2025 NNL season, the leadership of Lagos State Football Association has once again reiterate its avowed support and encouragement for all Lagos State teams participating in the various cadres of the male and female national football league championships.
Speaking on the new league season, the Lagos FA boss, Hajji Gafar Olawale Liameed, stated that it is very important that the teams representing Lagos in the NPFL, NNL and the NLO perform very well, for the benefits and development of the game in the state.
“We also believe in the capabilities of the Lagos teams in the different national football leagues to make us proud. And towards achieving the set goals, we’ll continue to provide them with the needed technical support, at all times,” he said.
“Lagos State is not only the centre of excellence, it is also the home of football. And with the peaceful and enabling environment provided by His Excellency, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, we want to ensure that Lagos State retains its enviable pride of place in Nigeria football,” Liameed added.
“We are earnestly looking forward to two other clubsides get promoted to join Ikorodu City FC in the NPFL next season,” the highly-regarded football administrator enthused confidently.
Six Lagos State teams including Smart City, Madiba FC, 1472 FC, Inter Lagos FC, First Bank FC and Sporting Lagos FC are participating in this year’s NNL season.
The Provost of St Joseph College of Nursing Sciences, Ekwerazu Town, Ahiazu Mbaise, Imo State, Mrs. Bibiana Anyanwu, has reiterated the institution’s commitment to producing professional nurses and midwives.
In an exclusive interview with Silvernews.com.ng, Mrs. Anyanwu stated that the newly established College of Nursing would contribute to the economic growth of the Mbaise nation.
According to her, the college has opened up opportunities for the people of Mbaise and the entire country to advance their education in nursing and midwifery for global relevance. She encouraged residents to seize the opportunity by enrolling in one of the country’s top institutions, adding that the college boasts a team of top-notch academic staff committed to imparting knowledge and expertise to students.
Her words:
“I am amazed and actually surprised because by the time the accreditation was concluded, we had a short period of time to start for the 2024/2025 academic season. It was a short time to run through the application process, sell forms, recruit staff, and then get the students commenced.
This is a welcome development. Anything can be achieved in Mbaise, and I am proud to say that the first College of Nursing has come to stay in Mbaise. It is for the people of Mbaise who desire to advance their education in this noble field.
“It is a privilege for them to have this college so close. Beyond Mbaise, we have candidates from other tribes who have gained admission into this community. However, we urge the good people of Mbaise not to miss out on this opportunity.
“This is a clarion call that there is a college of high reputation and standard here. The aim is to be at par with global standards and to rank among the top colleges in Nigeria, offering general nursing and midwifery programs.
“This college is for all Mbaise people who aspire to become nurses or midwives. At the end of their studies, the college is equipped to prepare students for international opportunities. Whether you wish to practice in Nigeria or abroad, the college includes programs to groom students for international examinations, enabling them to work anywhere in the world.
“We have seasoned lecturers from both within and outside Nigeria on our academic team. Being an Mbaise person and not taking advantage of this college at your doorstep would be a missed opportunity.
“Currently, there is an ongoing collaboration with a university in the United Kingdom. Our students in their second year will participate in exchange programs. While the collaboration has not yet started, discussions are underway to include this as part of the training.
“We have a professor affiliated with a UK university assisting with the collaboration. Through this, our students will have the opportunity to learn clinical practices abroad, boosting their knowledge and competence. This will ensure a smooth transition into their professional practice upon graduation.
“As a registered nurse practicing within the NHS in the UK, I bring both Nigerian and international training expertise to this institution. One of our goals is to groom students to be globally competitive. The curriculum is comprehensive and designed to prepare students for practice anywhere in the world.
“For anyone aspiring to be a nurse or midwife, with a passion for saving lives, caring, and serving humanity, this is to inform you that a College of Nursing has just begun in Mbaise.
“This college is built to a high standard, with the mission of rebranding the image of nursing and ensuring students graduate as registered professionals who can practice worldwide. You are welcome to be part of this institution.”
