Cloud Sports Limited has disclosed significant reasons for its investment in Lagos State Football, expressing optimism about the potential returns.

On Friday, February 13th, the Lagos State Football Association (LSFA) made a significant move by officially entering into an Exclusive Broadcast Rights and Production Agreement with Cloud Sports Limited for the 2026 Lagos FA Cup.

This agreement is anticipated to provide various advantages to LSFA, such as enhanced visibility and increased revenue. Cloud Sports Limited will oversee the broadcasting and production of Lagos FA Cup matches, ensuring that high-quality content is delivered to a broader audience.

As per the agreement, Cloud Sports Limited will possess exclusive rights to broadcast and produce Lagos FA Cup matches, which will encompass live games and highlights. This initiative aims to not only improve the experience for fans but also to draw in potential sponsors and investors.

Dr. Sheriff Tajudeen, the CEO of Cloud Sports Limited, stated, “Our investment in Lagos State FA Cup is a strategic initiative that aligns with our vision to foster sports development in Nigeria. We view football as a powerful catalyst for social change and economic advancement, and we are dedicated to contributing to the growth of the sport in Lagos State.”

A primary reason for Cloud Sports Limited’s investment is the vast market potential of Lagos State Football. The CEO elaborates, “Lagos State boasts a large population of young individuals who are enthusiastic about football. With appropriate investment and support, we believe Lagos State Football can emerge as a significant contender in the Nigerian football landscape and even draw international interest.”

“Lagos State has been the birthplace of some of Nigeria’s finest football talents, and we are confident that with adequate support and infrastructure, we can cultivate more stars. Our investment will focus on identifying and nurturing young talents, equipping them with the essential training and exposure needed to excel in the sport,” he concluded.

Additionally, Cloud Sports Limited is investing in Lagos State Football due to the state’s outstanding football infrastructure.

The company is also eager to advance grassroots football development in Lagos State.

Ms. Oreoluwa Alemade, a Co-Director of Cloud Sports Limited, remarked, “We believe that grassroots football serves as the foundation for any successful football program. Our investment will facilitate football development at the grassroots level, creating opportunities for young players to hone their skills and chase their aspirations.”

Cloud Sports Limited is making an investment in Lagos State Football due to the state’s rich football culture.

“Lagos State boasts a dynamic football culture, with numerous fans fervently supporting their local teams. We are confident that our investment will further enhance this culture, fostering a more thrilling and engaging football atmosphere for fans.”

The company’s investment is anticipated to generate new job opportunities within the sports sector. The Co-director remarks, “Our investment in Lagos State Football will provide new job opportunities for the youth in the state, both in sports and related fields. We believe this will contribute to economic growth and development in the region,” she added.

Cloud Sports Limited’s investment in Lagos State Football represents a long-term dedication to advancing the sport in Nigeria.

Barau Football Club defeated Kun Khalifat FC 1-0 in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 26 on Saturday, completing a home-and-away double over the newly promoted side this season.

The match, held at the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kofar Mata, saw the Maliya Boys keep their hopes alive in the league.

New signing Joseph Atule scored in the 75th minute from Sugau Aliyu’s precise crossing, marking his first goal for Barau FC this season.

The first half ended goalless, reflecting the competitive nature of the encounter, with both sides showing determination and skill.

Following the vital three points, Barau FC moved up to 11th position on the NPFL table with 33 points from 25 matches, with one outstanding fixture against Rivers United.

In a post-match interview, Barau FC coach Eugene Agagbe thanked Almighty God for the victory and expressed optimism about the club’s performance and prospects for the remainder of the season.

Meanwhile, striker Joseph Atule was voted Man of the Match by the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Kano State Chapter, for his decisive goal.

Barau FC XI vs Kun Khalifat FC, Chisom Chiaha (GK), Orji Kalu, Bismark Duah, Sugau Aliyu, Jimmy Ambrose, Hillary Ekawu, Usman Maidubji (C), Sunday Antony, Uche Moses, Henry Ezeonye, Muhammad Umar.

Substitutes: Emeka Nwabulu (GK), Nura Ibrahim, Moses Tsehuan, Joseph Atule, Nana Abraham, Ibrahim Yunusa, Emmanuel Okoko, Amah Chibundu.

Substitutions: 39’ – Joseph Atule replaces Uche Moses; 73’ – Kabir Abdullahi and Amah Chibundu replace Hillary Ekawu and Henry Ezeonye; 86’ – Nura Ibrahim replaces Usman Maidubji.

Unused Substitutes: Emeka Nwabulu (GK), Moses Tsehuan, Emmanuel Okoko, Nana Abraham, Ibrahim Yunusa Sulaiman.

Barau FC will now focus on Matchday 27, traveling to face Warri Wolves in Ozoro, and also to face the rescheduled Matchday 25 fixture against Rivers United in Port Harcourt.

By Silvernews

The Chairman of the Rangers International Football Club Foundation, Coach Ebere Amaraizu, has expressed optimism that the foundation’s Kick-Off The Limit (KOTL) initiative will help place children and young persons on the path to brighter and more productive futures.

Speaking in Enugu on Friday, Amaraizu noted that the initiative, organised in collaboration with development partners, is designed to empower young people to unlock their potential, build resilience and achieve holistic personal development.

The CBT-certified coach explained that the programme is a structured intervention driven by data-oriented processes and evidence-based methodologies aimed at ensuring measurable and sustainable outcomes among participants.

According to him, the initiative integrates Social Emotional Learning (SEL) with sports intervention frameworks to equip children and young persons with the necessary tools for self-discovery, problem-solving and personal growth.

He said the KOTL programme is focused on helping participants develop self-awareness and self-understanding, while also enhancing their life skills through effective self-management, informed decision-making and positive behavioural choices.

Amaraizu further stated that the initiative is designed to build resilience among youths, enabling them to overcome fear, doubts and other social pressures, while also transforming challenges into opportunities for purposeful living.

He maintained that the foundation remains committed to sustaining a comprehensive framework that blends sports development with emotional and psychological empowerment, noting that such an approach is vital in shaping responsible and well-rounded future leaders.

By Kennedy Onwunali

The torch of the Niger Delta Sports Games on Thursday arrived in Imo State from Abia State as preparations intensify for the forthcoming games scheduled to hold in Edo State.

Receiving the symbolic torch and festival flag on behalf of the state government, the Chief of Staff, Barr. Sir Nnamdi Anyehie, expressed delight over the honour and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to sports development. He urged Team Imo athletes to remain focused and represent the state creditably at the festival.

Anyehie, who was accompanied by the Commissioner for Sports, Hon. Obinna Onyeocha, said the athletes are well prepared and motivated for the competition. Onyeocha formally received the torch from the representative of Dunamis International, Mr. Fred Edore, who led the Abia State delegation that delivered the flame.

Members of the Imo State Liaison Committee, including Hon. Willy Okoloigwe, Lady Justina Akpulo and Kennedy Onwunali, as well as officials of the Imo State Sports Commission, were also present at the ceremony.

Speaking during the handover, Edore disclosed that the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has put in place adequate machinery to ensure a smooth and successful festival in Edo State.

After the ceremony, the torch departed Imo State for Rivers State as part of its relay across NDDC states ahead of its final arrival in Edo State on February 20 for the commencement of the games.

By Silvernews

Nigeria National League side, Nigeria National League outfit, Akwa United, have strengthened their squad with the acquisition of versatile defender, Melvin Ebitimi, ahead of the ongoing league campaign.

Ebitimi joins the Promise Keepers from G Innovation FC and is widely regarded as a dependable defender noted for his composure, intelligence and tactical discipline.

The defender has built a reputation for his calculative style of play, with an impressive ability to read the game and initiate attacking moves from the backline.

The defender is also recognised for his assist-making quality, blending defensive solidity with offensive support through accurate deliveries and overlapping runs. His versatility enables him to fit into different defensive positions, making him a valuable addition to Akwa United as the club intensifies preparations for a competitive outing this season.

Meanwhile, the Lagos-based talent development club has expressed confidence in Ebitimi’s ability to make significant impact in the league.

Speaking to Wakawaka Sports, Chigozie Nwagwu, a former footballer and chairman of the club, said the academy remains committed to producing outstanding players capable of excelling on the global football stage.

The Nigerian Union of Journalists, (NUJ), Ogun State Council announces the passage of a distinguished media professional and former SWAN Chairman, a versatile broadcaster and respected sports guru, Alhaji Akeem Akintunde.

His passage tonight after a protracted illness, marks the end of a remarkable career defined by dedication, excellence, and an unwavering passion for journalism and sports.

Throughout his career, Akeem Akintunde demonstrated exceptional commitment to the media profession, serving with distinction as Director of Programmes at OGTV.

He lived and breathed journalism and sports until his last moments, earning admiration for his depth of knowledge, professionalism, and enduring contributions to the broadcasting industry.

Burial arrangements will be announced as soon as they are made available by the family.

Meanwhile, we call on all colleagues, friends, and well-wishers to pray for the repose of his soul and to remember his family in this difficult time, asking that they be granted the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.

By Silvernews

The Abia State Government has intensified work on the remodeling of the Umuahia Township Stadium as part of efforts to upgrade sports infrastructure in the state.

The stadium, which has hosted several national sporting events in the past, is undergoing a comprehensive facelift aimed at giving the facility a modern outlook.

The project engineer, Chukwu S. Chukwu of Iconslai Eu-Empire Ltd, disclosed this while conducting Wakawaka Sports round sections of the stadium currently undergoing renovation.

He explained that the remodeling project is designed to reposition the stadium as a modern sporting arena, with special attention given to making the facility accessible to physically challenged athletes and sports enthusiasts.

According to Chukwu, part of the upgrade includes re-grassing of the pitch and tartan track at the stadium to allow for full refurbishment.

He added that although the project will take some time to complete, the renovation will enable the stadium to host major sporting events and provide a suitable environment for families, athletes, and sports lovers from the South-East and South-South regions.

As an independent writer and a committed supporter of Enyimba FC, I have followed with deep concern the unnecessary noise, power tussle and distractions trailing our dear club in recent days.

Truth be told, some of these issues are self-inflicted, fueled by ego, personal ambition, and lack of respect for constituted authority.

Let me say this clearly: you may like Kanu Nwankwo or not, but he is a FIFA legend, and more importantly, he was appointed by the Governor of Abia State to oversee the affairs of Enyimba FC. That authority must be respected. We respected it during the Anyansi Agwu era, even as had a free hand to run the club. Why should it be different now?
Football has evolved. Even so called African superpowers are struggling.

Egypt with all their stars didn’t dominate the last AFCON, The hosts, Morocco stumbled in the final even with help (story for another day), and big clubs everywhere go through rebuilding phases of their players. Enyimba is not immune to that reality.

Under Kanu Nwankwo, the journey may not have been as smooth as many expected, but facts remain facts. In his first season, Enyimba finished third on the NPFL table while juggling domestic league duties and continental commitments. In his second season, Enyimba was Nigeria’s sole representative in the CAF Confederation Cup and finished third in their group, earning points that helped Nigeria’s CAF coefficient.

This same season, other Nigerian clubs crashed out of Africa without much noise. So why is Enyimba always the punching bag?

*Now to the crux of the matter;*
The recent drama surrounding appointments and counter-statements is both unfortunate and dangerous. Football clubs are not run by press releases and counter rebuttals driven by personal interest. In the NPFL framework, appointments such as Sporting Director fall squarely under the authority of the Club Chairman. Anything outside that process only creates confusion and embarrassment.

What worries me most is the reckless use of the Governor’s name. Is the office of the Governor now so cheap that anyone can invoke it to push personal agendas? If truly the Governor made an appointment, (don’t get me wrong ooh) why not let it come from him officially. Dragging his name into internal club disputes is disrespectful and unnecessary.

If Mr Daniel Eke has supporters around him, they owe him sincere advice: slow down. Football administration requires patience, humility and structure. Nobody eats all the soup at once. There is room to grow without setting the house on fire.

And let’s ask the honest question many are afraid to ask: is Enyimba FC the only club in Abia State that needs capable personnel? We have sister clubs doing well, pushing for promotion and continental places. Why not deploy experience there? If indeed Mr Eke’s CV is as strong as advertised, Abia football as a whole should benefit, not just Enyimba.

On the issue of Uche Okechukwu “Gentle Giant” being named Sporting Director, this should not even be controversial. He is a respected name in Nigerian football, a former international, and someone who understands the corridors of power in the game, who would be readily accepted by NPFL. Rather than fight such appointments, younger administrators should see it as an opportunity to learn, collaborate and grow.

*Lets End This infighting.*

People are already predicting relegation for Enyimba, forgetting history. This same club has been in tight corners before and bounced back stronger. Mark my words, although I’m not in the management, Enyimba will not be relegated. What the club needs now is support, stability and time to rebuild, not constant sabotage from within and outside.

You may not like Kanu Nwankwo, but if you truly love Enyimba FC, show it positively. Criticism is fine, but destruction is not. Not everyone can be in the management at the same time, and that should not translate into bitterness.

If you believe you have superior knowledge and can perform miracles, there are many clubs that need help. Go there and prove your point. Big clubs all over the world have off seasons, yet their fans stick together until the storm passes.

Please, let us remove the monkey’s hands from this soup before it spoils.
Enyimba FC is bigger than individuals, bigger than ego, and bigger than today’s noise.

Let the management work. Let confusion stop. Let Enyimba rise again.

Former Plateau United defender, Andrew Ikefe has signed for Jaish Sports Club in Iraq for the 2025/26 season, Silvernews.com.ng reports.

The dependable hard-working centre-back equally played for several club sides in Nigerian top-flight division including; Niger Tornadoes, Katsina United and Kwara United in Nigeria.

His featured for various top sides outside the country including; Shabab Al Sahel in Lebanon, Al Ahed in Lebanon, and Diyala in Iraq.

During his stint in Lebanon, the defensive maestro was one of the most sought-after defenders with his outstanding performances.

Ikefe, a commanding centre-back, joined the Iraq side to mark another significant step in his illustrious career having proved his mettle spanning over two decades of professional football.

This transfer reflects Akefe’s progress as a player as he is expected to bring his wealth of experience to his new side in the Iraq league.

The versatile defender, who is known for his work ethic, spacial awareness and technical skills will undoubtedly make him a significant asset to the team.

By Silvernews

The Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Imo State chapter, defeated members of the Imo State House of Assembly 1-0 in a novelty football match organised as part of activities marking the state’s 50th anniversary celebration.

The entertaining encounter was played at the Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri, attracting top government officials, political stakeholders and sports enthusiasts.

Speaking after the match at the Coach Emmanuel Amunike refurbished Dan Anyiam stadium pitch, the Executive Chairman of Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area, Barrister Ihukwumere Alaribe, said the ALGON team came well prepared for the friendly encounter.

Alaribe, who was brought in during the first half to strengthen the team’s combativeness in the midfield, was instrumental to the stability of the chairmen’s team in the encounter.

He noted that the match was a symbolic event designed to promote unity and celebrate the achievements of the state over the past five decades.

He described the competition as a platform that strengthened the bond among leaders across different arms of government.
Alaribe stressed the importance of sports in fostering peace, unity and healthy relationships among leaders and citizens.

He commended the organisers of the novelty match, noting that sporting activities remain a vital part of the golden jubilee celebrations. According to him, such engagements also provide inspiration for young athletes and encourage grassroots sports development across the state.

The ALGON side secured victory through a lone goal in a closely contested match that thrilled spectators at the stadium.

Alaribe, therefore, urged the people of Aboh Mbaise and Imo State at large to continue supporting the state government’s anniversary celebrations, expressing optimism that the future of the state remains bright through sustained collaboration and development efforts.