By Silvernews

Southeast representative on the board of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF), Mr. Ugo Udezue, has praised the federation for what he described as an impressive display of domestic basketball excellence at the Super 4 Finals, where Lagos Legends emerged champions.

The Legends clinched the title after a hard-fought 74–72 victory over Rivers Hoopers in a gripping final played in Rivers State — a contest Udezue said reflected the steady progress the sport is making under the current federation.

Speaking on the sidelines of the event, Udezue, who doubles as the Chief Executive Officer of Alpha Sports kits Manufacturing Company, noted that the competition brought out the finest quality of talent on the local scene. He expressed confidence that the standard witnessed at the finals would be replicated in future domestic and international engagements.

He attributed the steady rise in basketball performance nationwide to the sustained efforts of the NBBF led by its president, Engr. Musa Kida, describing the federation’s developmental drive as “a clear indication that basketball is regaining its place among Nigeria’s leading sports.”

Udezue also revealed that the Southeast Zone would intensify its developmental programmes to ensure that teams from the region compete more strongly in subsequent conference playoffs leading to the Super 4.

He commended Rivers Hoopers for their spirited display in the final, noting that their performance contributed significantly to what he described as “one of the most competitive endings in the Nigeria Basketball League in recent years.”

By Silvernews

Renowned Nigerian football coach, Ndubuisi Nduka — celebrated for his stints with Plateau United, Heartland FC, Rivers United and Enyimba International, and widely credited with discovering stars such as John Mikel Obi, Obinna Nsofor and several other notable players — will today lay his mother to rest.

The family announced the passing of their beloved matriarch, Late Mrs Victoria Ahurumuwamaya Nduka, who died at the age of 93. She was a respected mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, known for her humility, faith and strong influence within the Umuchikwe, Odu-Na-Izuoha Autonomous Community of Amuzi Ahiara in Ahiazu Mbaise LGA, Imo State.
Burial activities are ongoing today, Thursday, November 27, 2025.

The programme began at 7:00 a.m. with the departure of her remains from Corpos Christy Hospital Mortuary to the family home at Umuchikwe Izuoha Amuzi. A lying-in-state followed at 9:00 a.m. at her late husband’s compound. The funeral service is scheduled for 10:00 a.m., after which the final interment will take place at 12 noon.

The Nigerian football community, friends and well-wishers are joining the Nduka family today to honour the life of a woman whose values helped shape one of the country’s most respected coaches.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has appointed Issa Sy as referee, with Djibril Camara (Assistant 1), Nouha Bangoura (Assistant 2), and El Hadji Amadou SY as fourth official. Match commissioner Bakary K. Jammeh (Gambia) will oversee the proceedings.

Rivers United will look to bounce back from their opening‑match defeat when they host Renaissance Sportive de Berkane of Morocco on Friday, 28 November, at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.

Rivers United opened their group‑stage campaign with a 3‑0 loss to Pyramids FC in Cairo, despite a resilient performance. RS Berkane, three‑time winners of the CAF Confederation Cup, arrive after a 3‑0 victory over Zambia’s Power Dynamos.

*Kick‑off*
5:00 PM (Nigeria time).

Rivers United fans and stakeholders anticipate a spirited outing as the “Pride of Nigeria” seeks to turn the tide in the group stage.

The 2025/26 Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Premiership season officially kicks off on Wednesday, November 26, with 10 matches across two groups. 20 topflight clubs will battle for early momentum in a campaign expected to deliver high-stakes competition, debutante surprises, and renewed rivalries.

Defending champions Bayelsa Queens will host 2023/24 winners Edo Queens in a mouthwatering South-South derby at the Samson Siasia Stadium, Yenagoa.

This fixture has rapidly become one of the league’s most anticipated matchups.

Historically, Bayelsa Queens hold a superior record, winning four of the last seven encounters, while Edo Queens have secured just one victory. Edo’s most recent 1–0 win during the 2025 Super Six is the only blemish on Bayelsa Queens’ perfect run last season. With both sides boasting experienced squads and national team players, the opening clash could set the tone for a season-long title battle.

Group A Fixtures Preview:

Adamawa Queens vs Pacesetter Queens (Makwada): Pacesetter Queens make their topflight debut after extensive recruitment, blending youthful energy with seasoned campaigners.

Hakeem Busari’s side hope to emulate the survival success of other South West newcomers like Remo Stars Ladies and Dannaz Ladies. Adamawa Queens, aiming to improve on their seventh-place finish in Group B last season, will rely on midfield stability and defensive discipline to counter Pacesetter’s dynamic front line. Expect a tightly contested match with tactical battles across the park.

Heartland Queens vs Ekiti Queens (Owerri): Last season, both clubs secured narrow home wins of 1–0 in their respective encounters. Heartland Queens, looking to rebound from an underwhelming campaign, have strengthened their attacking options, while Ekiti Queens enter their third consecutive topflight season determined to maintain league status. This fixture promises intense midfield duels and strategic play, as both sides will look to assert early dominance.

Naija Ratels vs Ibom Angels (Abuja): Naija Ratels aim to shake off a disappointing Super Six showing, where they lost all matches, extending their losing streak to 10 games. Ibom Angels, under veteran tactician Edwin Okon, narrowly missed Super Six qualification last term and will look to begin their title challenge with a confident performance. Both teams won their respective home fixtures 2–1 last season, suggesting a competitive encounter with fine margins likely deciding the winner.

Castmog Ladies vs Rivers Angels (Abeokuta): The scheduled Castmog Ladies vs. Rivers Angels fixture in Abeokuta has been called off, as Rivers Angels were granted a bye following Castmog’s relegation due to failure to meet registration and club-licensing requirements. Before the cancellation, the matchup had been billed as a potential upset, with debutants Castmog Ladies having impressed during qualification and Rivers Angels entering as favourites despite their recent 1–1 draw with Remo Stars Ladies in Ogun State.

Group B Fixtures Previews:

Nasarawa Amazons vs Delta Queens (Lafia): Nasarawa Amazons, perennial contenders, launch their title quest after narrowly missing out last season. Delta Queens, 2022/23 champions, missed the Super Six for two consecutive years and are eager to reclaim their place among Nigeria’s elite. Both sides won their home meetings 1–0 last season, hinting at a tactical battle where finishing efficiency could prove decisive.

Confluence Queens vs Abia Angels (Iyamho): Confluence Queens suffered a difficult campaign last season with 11 losses in 14 games but hold a favorable historical record against Abia Angels—four wins, one draw, two losses. Abia Angels, however, won the last two encounters, including a narrow 1–0 victory, and will look to continue that momentum. Fans can expect a high-tempo match as Confluence attempts to reverse last season’s fortunes while Abia seeks consistency.

Sunshine Queens vs FC Robo Queens (Akure): Newly promoted Sunshine Queens aim to avoid an immediate relegation struggle. FC Robo Queens hold a slight edge in recent head-to-head meetings, winning three of the last five encounters, though Sunshine secured a convincing 3–0 victory in their last clash. The matchup could hinge on Sunshine’s defensive organization against Robo’s attacking fluidity.

Ahudiyannem Queens vs Remo Stars Ladies (Abiriba): Debutants Ahudiyannem Queens, coached by former Super Falcons assistant Ann Chiejine, face Wemimo Matthew’s Remo Stars Ladies, who reached last season’s Super Six.

The tactical battle between the only two CAF-A licensed women’s coaches promises sharp strategy, adjustments, and positional discipline. Last season’s 2–2 draw in Umuahia highlights the potential for another tight contest.

Dannaz Ladies vs Osun Babes (Lagos): The fresh South West derby sees Dannaz Ladies, in their third consecutive topflight season, clash with newly promoted Osun Babes.

Historically, Osun Babes have struggled in Lagos, losing their last trip 3–1 to FC Robo Queens in the 2020/21 season. Both teams will seek to build momentum, with tactical maturity and set-piece efficiency likely to play a key role.

With new teams, renewed rivalries, tactical upgrades, and several coaches with national team pedigree, the 2025/26 NWFL Premiership promises drama and surprises from day one.

From heavyweight clashes to debutant ambitions, fans can expect a thrilling season that will deliver intense competition across both groups at various venues.

BY KINGSLEY UZOWULU

The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) Imo State Chapter is happy to announce her end of the year get together slated to hold as follows:

DATE: Saturday 13/12/25.

TIME: 3 pm prompt.

VENUE: Crest Suites Hotel, Okwu Uratta New Kanu Nwankwo Sports complex Owerri.

The event will not just mark the end of another year but also an opportunity for members to relax, wine and dine together after hard work and impactful story telling and writing.

The association will appreciate the presence of corporate bodies, brands, sports lovers and philanthropists , including well meaning individuals to take advantage of the event to partner with SWAN.

The evening will feature some side attractions including networking opportunities, Games, entertainment and light refreshments.

The occasion promises to stand the taste of time and an unforgettable experience as we celebrate unity and togetherness in sports journalism.

In a move aimed to improve Clubs ,stability,players development and overall League structure .The Nigeria National League (NNL),has stressed the importance of Feeder teams or Academies for its clubs.

The Chief Operating Officer of NNL Mr.Danlami says Feeder teams can provide the platform for younger players to develop and horn their skills ,and potentially get promoted to the main team .

This can also,generate revenue and create a sustainable talent pipeline for the various clubs ,Mr.Danlami cited article 6:9.1 of the codified rules and regulations governing the League.

The clubs are to submit to the Secretariat details of their Feeder Team players to for directory and authentication claims purposes for each club .

It is equally important to note that compliance to this portion of the NNL rules is mandatory and a good fulfillment of clubs registration requirment.

Clubs who are yet to have Feeder Team have been given one month to adhere to this or may face sanctions from the League body.

The NNL’s emphasis on Feeder teams will encourage clubs to invest in youth development,leading to a robust Nigeria Football landscape.

The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, Imo State Chapter (Imo SWAN), is pleased to announce the commencement of the Imo SWAN–Heartland Queens Player of the Month Award, instituted through a new partnership between Imo SWAN and Heartland Queens FC.

This initiative follows the successful execution of a similar award by Imo SWAN last season with Heartland FC, which ran seamlessly throughout the entire campaign and further strengthened the bond between the media and the club. This will also continue this season.

The Chairman, SWAN, Imo, Mr. Cosmos Chukwuemeka, expressed profound delight at the association’s extension of this partnership to Heartland Queens. According to him, the collaboration underscores Imo SWAN’s commitment to promoting excellence, boosting player motivation, and supporting the growth of women’s football in the state. He noted that the award will not only spotlight outstanding performances but also enhance the club’s visibility and competitive spirit in the Nigeria Women’s Football League Premiership this season.

Beginning this Wednesday, Imo SWAN members covering Heartland Queens’ matches—both home at the Dan Anyiam Stadium and away fixtures—will have the responsibility of selecting the standout performer after each game. Their votes will accumulate into the monthly recognition that will celebrate consistency, impact, and professionalism on the pitch.

Heartland Queens will open their 2025/2026 NWFL Premiership campaign on Wednesday at the Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri, against Ekiti Queens. The fixture is a repeat of last season’s opener in Ado-Ekiti, where the Owerri side narrowly lost by a lone goal. The newly instituted award is expected to further energize the players ahead of the fresh season.

Imo SWAN remains committed to fostering initiatives that uplift sports development across the state, ensuring that athletes and clubs continue to receive the recognition they deserve.

SIGNED:
Tunde Liadi
Secretary, Imo SWAN

The Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Secretariat has formally confirmed the relegation of Castmog Ladies from the 2025/2026 NWFL Premiership after the club failed to meet essential licensing and registration requirements for the new season.

The decision, in a statement by its Media Director Samuel Ahmadu on Monday November 24, 2025, follows earlier issued clear warnings to three Premiership clubs, including Castmog Ladies, to comply with all registration and licensing obligations, but the Abeokuta-based outfit failed to meet the stipulated deadline despite the reminders.

While confirming the development, NWFL Chief Operating Officer, Ms. Modupe Shabi, revealed that the Secretariat has begun adjusting competition logistics to reflect the revised structure.

“We have a responsibility to protect the integrity of the league, and compliance with registration and licensing requirements is a non-negotiable part of that process,” she said.

The NWFL COO emphasised that adherence to registration and licensing rules is essential to maintaining a credible and competitive league system while supporting the long-term growth and sustainability of women’s football across the country.

She added that revised season schedule and operational details will be released in coming days.

“Our focus is to ensure the season proceeds smoothly on Wednesday, November 26, 2025. Updated fixtures and communication will be issued to all clubs, and we remain committed to transparency and professionalism at every stage,” Shabi stated.

According to the NWFL Secretariat, all other affected clubs complied with the stipulated requirements within the allocated timeframe, leaving Castmog Ladies as the only Premiership side unable to satisfy the compulsory standards.

With the Ogun State based club now officially relegated, the Premiership season will proceed with the approved number of 19 teams. As a direct consequence, every club, including Rivers Angels originally scheduled to face Castmog Ladies in the opening and subsequent fixtures will now observe a bye on those matchdays.

REVISED NWFL PREMIERSHIP MATCHDAY ONE FIXTURES – NOVEMBER 26, 2025

Group A

Bayelsa Queens vs Edo Queens

Adamawa Queens vs Pacesetters Queens

Heartland Queens vs Ekiti Queens

Naija Ratels vs Ibom Angels

Group B
Nasarawa Amazons vs Delta Queens

Confluence Queens vs Abia Angels

Sunshine Queens vs Robo Queens

Ahudiyannem Queens vs Remo Stars Ladies

Dannaz Ladies vs Osun Babes

Barau FC Chief Coach, Eugene Agagbe has attributed the 2-0 defeat to Remo Stars in Abeokuta to his side’s poor first half performance.

The defending champions ended the three-match unbeaten run of the Kano based side in Match Day 14 NPFL encounter in the ongoing 2025/26 season.

According to him, “in the first minutes of the game, they lost concentration, they were slow and not quick on the ball and that is why we conceded those cheap goals in the first half.”

Agagbe, who doubles as the NPFL National U19 head coach, noted that attention has shifted to their next league encounter at home to Kwara United.

“Normally, games are won and lost. We will go back home and work hard so that we win other games.”

Technical Adviser of Niger Tornadoes, Majin Mohammed has shifted focus to Remo Stars clash after his side suffered a narrow loss to Rangers International.

Niger Tornadoes lost to Rangers in Enugu through Kenechukwu Agu’s free kick goal in the 70th minute which won the match for the Flying Antelopes in the NPFL MatchDay 14 encounter held at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium.

Rangers’ substitute, Agu came off the bench to score the decisive goal in the 70th minute with a well-taken free kick that beat the Tornadoes defense. The goal turned out to be the only one of the encounter, securing the win for Rangers.

In his post-match reaction, Majin said: “We came with a game plan and it nearly worked for us but it turned out the other way, that’s football for you, it’s either you win draw or lose.” We will put the defeat behind us, go back home and plan on how to get our own three points at home.”

The Ikon Allah Boys will next hosts defending champions, Remo Stars in a match day 15 encounter.