Nasarawa State government has presented a brand new 2025 Toyota Hilux official vehicle to Technical Adviser of Nasarawa United Football Club.

At a brief ceremony held at the Office of the Secretary to the State Government, in Lafia, the SSG, Labaran Magaji(SAN), presented the vehicle’s keys to the Chairman of the Club, Mr. Solomon Babanjah, who extended same to the gaffer, Mangut Mbwas.

According to the Secretary to the Nasarawa State Government, Labaran Magaji, the gesture was Governor Abdullahi Sule’s poignant display of support for sporting endeavours aimed at alleviating the transportation constraints faced by the Coach and to enable him channel his energies unhindered into crafting victories and steering the Solid Miners toward great feats.

Chairman of Nasarawa United, Solomon Babanjah, who was led to the event by the State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Kwanta Yakubu, appreciated Governor Abdullahi Sule and the Nasarawa State Government for the sustained support and prioritizing the welfare of the team and its members, adding that the gesture would further boost the team’s performance in the ongoing Nigeria Premier Football League campaign.

He also commended the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Kwanta Yakubu, for constantly standing by the team to achieve success.

Director of Administration and Supplies of the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, Helen Ken Madaki, Senior Special Assistant to Governor Abdullahi Sule on Sports Affairs, Hamza Moyi, as well as Board Members of the State Football Association led by its Chairman, Salisu Usman Galadima, attended the presentation ceremony.

Nasarawa United currently tops the NPFL table after sixteen matches with 30 points, and will travel to neighbouring Plateau State to take on Plateau United on match-day seventeen tie, coming weekend.

By Akeem Busari

Former President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Amaju Melvin Pinnick, on Monday, December 8, 2025, appeared before Hon. Justice A. Lewis-Allagoa of the Federal High Court, Lagos, over allegations of contempt of court in an ongoing N10 billion fundamental human rights suit.

Pinnick’s lawyer argued that his client had not been served with Form 48 and Form 49, which are statutory notices required for contempt proceedings.

Justice Lewis-Allagoa, presiding over suit number FHC/LS1916, had earlier issued an order directing the police to ensure that previously frozen accounts belonging to Egbe were unfrozen by the concerned banks with immediate effect.

Counsel to the applicant, Chief Rumson Victor Baribote, urged the court to proceed with the substantive matter, insisting that they possess sufficient evidence to prove the alleged violation of fundamental human rights.

The case was subsequently adjourned to January 23, 2026, for hearing, as Baribote maintained that there is a clear case to answer regarding the alleged rights violations.

By Silvernews

Ten-man Umueze delivered a masterclass in resilience and counterattacking brilliance as they stunned Amike 2–0 to win the maiden Hon. Obinna Onyeocha Orlu Unity Cup, in a gripping finale played on Sunday at St. Mary’s Primary School, Amifeke, Orlu, Imo State.

The final sprang to life in the 20th minute when Uchenna Nzerem calmly converted a penalty after an Amike defender was penalized for handling the ball inside the box. The early breakthrough energized the Umueze supporters and set the tone for a highly competitive encounter.

The second half opened with both sides trading attacks, but the momentum appeared to swing in Amike’s favour in the 50th minute when Umueze’s Nnadi Chiamaka received a second yellow card and was sent off, reducing his team to ten men. Smelling blood, Amike introduced fresh legs and piled forward in search of an equalizer, but their profligacy in front of goal would prove costly.

Against the run of play, Umueze delivered the knockout punch in the 88th minute. A swift breakaway found Roland Elvis, who finished with precision to double the lead—sparking wild celebrations and silencing the Amike stands as the underdogs sealed an unforgettable victory.

At the closing ceremony, outstanding performers were recognized for their contributions throughout the tournament.
Best Goalkeeper: Chidi Oduenyi (Amike Community)
Highest Goal Scorer: Prince Dike (Umueze Community)
Most Valuable Player: Nso Ekweme (Orlu Community)
Tournament sponsor and convener, Hon. Obinna Onyeocha—fondly known as Onowu—expressed profound gratitude to everyone involved in making the inaugural edition a resounding success.

“I am very delighted for the success of this first edition. I thank God Almighty, my principal the Executive Governor of Imo State, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma, the LOC Chairman Coach Emeka Okoronkwo ‘Taribo West,’ the participants, communities, referees, and the press. Words cannot truly express my appreciation,” he said.

In a major development for young talents, Onyeocha announced that six standout players discovered during the tournament will be invited to join the Heartland FC feeder team—an opportunity that could launch their professional careers.

Umueze, as champions, received a cash prize of ₦500,000. Runners-up Amike earned ₦300,000, while Mgbee Community claimed ₦200,000 for finishing third.

The inaugural Hon. Obinna Onyeocha Orlu Unity Cup delivered on its promise of showcasing grassroots football brilliance, promoting unity, and strengthening community bonds—setting a solid foundation for what is poised to become one of Orlu’s most anticipated annual football events.

Niger Tornadoes were unable to avoid another away loss as they fell 2–0 to neighbours Kwara United in their NPFL Matchday 16 clash in Ilorin.

Two first-half goals proved decisive, leaving the Ikon Allah Boys empty-handed on the road once again.

Speaking after the match, head coach Majin Mohammed attributed the defeat to an overall off-day for his side.

“If there is anything called a bad day in football, I think Tornadoes had one today. Kwara United scored twice and we suffered two injuries, all in the first half, which destabilised our game plan,” he said.

“Kwara United showed class. They were clearly well prepared for this game—perhaps because of recent scorelines—and it also shows that the position of a team on the log doesn’t always matter.”

The Ikon Allah Boys will look to regroup and correct their shortcomings as they prepare for their next league outing against El-kanemi Warriors in Minna.

In a gripping “War of the Blues” that lived up to its billing at the MKO Abiola Stadium, Abeokuta, Enyimba FC fell 2–1 to hosts Remo Stars on NPFL Matchday 16 — but interim gaffer Coach Lawrence Ukaegbu has assured fans that the People’s Elephant will return “stronger and hungrier.”

Former Enyimba hitman Victor Mbaoma came back to haunt his old side with two first-half goals that handed the Sky Blue Stars the advantage despite a strong, determined showing from the nine-time league champions.

Enyimba refused to fold, and their pressure was rewarded when in-form forward Ezekiel Edidiong struck a superb equaliser — his third of the season — briefly turning the contest on its head and igniting belief among the travelling supporters.

Despite a spirited second-half spell where Enyimba dominated possession, created big chances and forced Remo Stars into desperate defending, the People’s Elephant couldn’t find the equaliser their performance richly deserved.

A visibly disappointed but confident Coach Ukaegbu praised his players’ spirit and admitted that defensive lapses made the difference.

“It was a good game but for the careless mistakes at the back. We have seen the errors and we will go home and correct them,” he said.

Ukaegbu also acknowledged the quality of the home team.

“They are not a bad side and they played well like we did, but the mistakes gave them the edge,” he added.

Far from discouraged, the former Nigerian youth international spoke with defiance and belief, promising a strong, immediate response as the title hopefuls continue their push up the NPFL ladder.

“The fans should be calm. We will come up — that’s how Enyimba reacts to such situations. There are still more games to come,” Ukaegbu submitted.

His message was clear: Enyimba may stumble, but they never stay down.

Up Next: Kwara United Storm Aba

Attention now shifts to the next battle as Enyimba return to their fortress in Aba on Sunday for a crucial tie against Kwara United. With Ukaegbu’s rallying call echoing through camp, the People’s Elephant will be on a mission — not just to win, but to make a statement.

Rangers International thrashed visiting Bayelsa United 4-1 in an NPFL match day 16 encounter decided at the Cathedral in Enugu.

Fidelis Ilechukwu led side returned to winning ways in a scintillating fashion over the visitors.

In Maiduguri, Barau FC secured a point off El-Kanemi Warriors after it ended goalless while Abia Warriors rescued a point from Rivers United in Umuahia after it ended one apiece.

Kwara United defeated Niger Tornadoes 2-0 in Ilorin while defending champions, Remo Stars beat Enyimba FC 2-1.

Other results include; Wikki Tourists 0-0 Ikorodu City, Kano Pillars 2-1 Kun Khalifat FC.

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‎Fidelis Ilechukwu of Rangers International has set sights on securing the maximum points against Bayelsa United.
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‎Speaking during a pre-match press briefing on Friday ahead of the game, the coach emphasized that the encounter will be tough, but expressed confidence in his side’s readiness.
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‎“We have trained well and the players understand what is at stake,” he said. “Bayelsa United are not a team to underestimate. We expect a difficult match, but I believe we will have a good game on Sunday.”
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‎On Squad Update and Injury news,  Ilechukwu confirmed that the squad is in good shape, with no major injury concerns ahead of the tie.
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‎“Everyone is available; the medical team has worked incredibly hard”.
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‎”Those who suffered long-term injuries are also improving and may return soon. But for now, we have strong replacements.” he noted.
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‎He admitted that the loss to Enyimba in Aba, was disappointing, especially after creating several chances. However, he said the team has moved on psychologically.
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‎“That defeat affected the players mentally, but we have worked on it. We’ve put the game behind us and focused fully on this match.”
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‎Responding to questions about some players not being regular starters this season, the coach noted that selection is based on tactical decisions, fitness, and unpredictability.
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‎Further praising Kenechukwu Agu, stating that, he’s the best in the league assured fans that, “he will start on sunday,”.
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‎”He is one of the best passers in the league. Sometimes we start him, other times he comes from the bench to avoid being predictable.”
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‎Also responding to the issue of coaching and staff relationship, the coach dismissed rumours of misunderstandings within the technical crew, insisting that the bond remains strong.
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‎“My assistants are like family. We eat together, work together, and support each other. People outside may misinterpret things, but inside we are united,” he stressed.
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‎He added that he has full confidence in his assistant coach, Ekenederichukwu Eke.
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‎“In my absence, my assistant can lead the team and win matches. That is what good leadership means—training people to take over when you’re not there.”
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‎The flying antelopes, seating in the 8th position with twenty two (22) points host Bayelsa United on Sunday at the cathedral.
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Seven-time Olympian Olufunke Oshonaike has made history as the first Nigerian appointed to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Athletes’ Commission, following her nomination by IOC President Kirsty Coventry.

Oshonaike, one of Africa’s most decorated table tennis players, is among five new members appointed to ensure the Commission reaches full composition ahead of the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games.

Oshonaike competed in seven consecutive Olympic Games from Atlanta 1996 to Tokyo 2020. She currently serves on both the Nigeria National Olympic Committee Athletes’ Commission and the Nigeria Table Tennis Athletes’ Commission.

Expressing excitement, Oshonaike pledged to represent Nigeria and Africa with pride:

“I am so excited because during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games campaign, I was impressed by the huge support from my country and athletes across the world. This appointment confirms that my efforts did not go unnoticed. It has been my dream to impact the sport that has given me the rare opportunity to live well in life”, she said.

The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Imo State Chapter, is delighted to announce Murphy Ndukwu as the Imo SWAN Heartland Player of the Month for November, following his outstanding performances for the club in the ongoing Nigeria National League (NNL) campaign.

In a historic moment for both the club and the association, Ndukwu becomes the first Heartland FC player to win the monthly award this season, continuing the positive momentum in the second season of the partnership between Imo SWAN and the Owerri side.

In a press statement written by the scribe of Imo SWAN, Tunde Liadi, Ndukwu secured the award through a transparent voting process by Imo SWAN members, earning the highest number of votes for the month ahead of equally impressive Uchenna Odeh and Melody Idase.

The Naze Millionaires winger delivered a standout performance in Heartland’s season-opening home win against Edel FC, scoring the club’s first goal of the campaign after just 45 seconds—a moment that set the tone for the Owerri side.

He later provided the assist for the second goal, further underlining his value and influence in the attacking department. Ndukwu also posted commendable performances against Crown FC and Gateway FC.

Despite the Owerri side’s frontline showing signs of underperformance in their first three games, Ndukwu has remained the most positive spark, demonstrating quality, consistency, and hunger that gives confidence for improvement as the season progresses.

Reacting to Ndukwu’s emergence as the winner, the Chairman of Imo SWAN, Cosmos Chukwuemeka, praised the player’s brilliance and commitment:

“Murphy has been a bright light for the Naze Millionaires so far. His early goal and assist in the opening game lifted the team and gave fans something to cheer about. This award is well-deserved, and we hope it motivates not just him but the entire squad to push harder in the coming fixtures. Our partnership with Heartland FC continues to grow stronger, and recognitions like this are part of our commitment to encouraging excellence.”

The Imo State Chapter of SWAN congratulates Ndukwu, our Heartland Player of the Month for November, and encourages him to continue leading by example as the Scientific Boys pursues a successful NNL campaign.

The former Enyimba winger will receive the recognition on Saturday during the club’s home game against Inter Lagos in a Matchday 4 tie.

Signed
Tunde Liadi
Secretary, Imo SWAN

Heartland Queens’ Chizoba Johnson has etched her name into the club’s history books after emerging as the first-ever recipient of the Imo State Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) Heartland Queens Player of the Month Award for November, 2025.

In a press statement authored by Imo SWAN Secretary, Tunde Liadi, the newly introduced monthly award, designed to recognise excellence, consistency, and impact among the Queens, saw Johnson secure a commanding victory in the poll conducted by members of Imo SWAN. She topped the four-player shortlist which included James Emmanuella, Otika Chisom, and Samson Faith with a landslide margin.

Johnson’s composed finish from the spot, alongside a dominant all-round display in the Owerri Landladies’ 2–1 home victory over Ekiti Queens on Matchday One of the NWFL Premiership last midweek, proved decisive in the voting.

Her calmness under pressure, leadership in attack, and tireless work rate were central to the club’s winning start to the season. The penalty she converted and the assist she rendered for the second goal not only restored confidence to the team but also set the tone for a spirited performance that thrilled the home fans at the Dan Anyiam Stadium.

The award recognises her growing influence in coach Obi Ogbala’s setup and her commitment to leading the team’s charge for this new campaign.

Speaking after the announcement, the Chairman of Imo SWAN, Cosmos Chukwuemeka, praised Johnson’s professionalism and highlighted the importance of institutionalised recognition for women’s footballers in the state.

“This award is not just about celebrating a player, it is about inspiring a culture of excellence within Heartland Queens and promoting women’s football in Imo State. Chizoba earned this honour through hard work, precision, and a standout performance in the season opener,” Chukwuemeka stressed.

“We are proud to begin this initiative, and even prouder that the first-ever winner is a player who embodies dedication and consistency.”

He further assured that Imo SWAN will continue to support the Obi Ogbala Girls and elevate narratives around women’s football, noting that monthly awards help deepen engagement, competitiveness, and visibility for the athletes.

The recipient of the Inaugural award, Johnson will be presented with the recognition next midweek during the Owerri sides’ second home game of the season.

*E-Signed*

*Tunde Liadi*

*Secretary, Imo SWAN*