Niger Tornadoes Football Club expresses its heartfelt condolences and deep sadness over the passing of Alhaji Sani Zubairu, President of the Nigeria Referees Association (NRA).

The club joins the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), the Nigeria Referees Association, and the entire Nigerian football community in mourning the painful departure of a committed servant of the game whose contributions to refereeing and football development in Nigeria were truly remarkable and enduring.

In a statement issued through the media department, the expressed heartfelt condolences, describing the late Zubairu as an accomplished referee and administrator who served the game with dedication, integrity, and professionalism.

It noted that the late Zubairu’s legacy would remain a source of inspiration to referees, administrators, and stakeholders across the country.

While commiserating with his immediate family, the Nigeria Referees Association, the Nigeria Football Federation, and the entire football fraternity, Niger Tornadoes FC urged all to take comfort in the impactful life he lived and the lasting legacy he leaves behind.

The club also prays for the peaceful repose of his soul and for Almighty Allah to grant his family, friends, and colleagues the strength and fortitude to bear this great loss.

Signed:
Management,
Niger Tornadoes FC

By Silvernews

Chairmen of clubs in the Nationwide League One (NLO) have formally appealed to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to include direct club representation in its Congress as part of the ongoing statutes amendment process.

In a letter dated March 24, 2026, and addressed to the Chairman of the Statutes Amendment Committee of the Nigeria Football Federation, the group, under the banner of NLO Progressive Club Chairmen, argued that the current structure of the Congress does not adequately reflect the interests of grassroots football stakeholders.

The letter, signed by Nwaeze Prince Chidiebere and routed through the NFF General Secretary, called for the allocation of six permanent seats in the Congress to representatives of NLO clubs—one from each of the country’s six geopolitical zones.

According to the group, it is inconsistent that bodies such as the National Association for Physical and Health Education, Recreation, Sports and Dance are represented in the Congress, while over 600 clubs operating in the NLO, described as the backbone of grassroots football in Nigeria, lack direct representation.

They maintained that NLO clubs are the largest employers of young football talents and among the biggest investors in local football development, yet their voices are limited to representation through a single league body.

To address this imbalance, the chairmen proposed a statutory amendment that would ensure inclusivity and broader participation in decision-making.

They further recommended that nominees for the proposed seats must have a minimum of 10 years’ experience in football administration to guarantee quality contributions.

The group stressed that the reform would align the NFF with global governance standards as advocated by international football bodies and enhance stakeholder confidence in the administration of the game.

They expressed optimism that the committee would give favourable consideration to their request, noting that meaningful inclusion of grassroots investors is vital for the sustainable growth of Nigerian football.

In a significant initiative, a big fan has gifted personalised jerseys to Barau FC captain, Usman Maidubji for his exceptional leadership style with the Kano-based side.

Maidubji, who has received plaudits from different quarters for steering the wheel as skipper of Barau FC, was acknowledged by the fan who traveled 294km from Bauchi to Kano.

Receiving the branded three jerseys in his name, Maidubji commended the fan for recognising his efforts at the club and pledged to work assiduously towards the actualisation of the team’s target.

His words: “This is no small thing to me and it shows how much love and support you have for me. It’s this kind of love that makes me stronger and more confident in this football journey.

“Thank you so much for this honor, God bless you. I will keep giving my best to make you happy.”

Maidubji is leading the Maliya Boys in the ongoing 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League in their quest to finish strong in Nigeria’s top-flight division.

By Silvernews

The Imo State Football Association (Imo FA) has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Alhaji Sani Zubairu, President of the Nigeria Football Referees Association (NFRA), who reportedly died on Tuesday morning.

Described as a disciplined and highly respected football technocrat, Zubairu was widely credited for raising the standard of refereeing in Nigerian football.

In a statement, Barr Ifeanyi Dike, Chairman of Imo FA, said: “Alhaji Zubairu was a thoroughbred professional who restored confidence in football matches across the country.

He ensured that referees are respected and mentored countless officials nationwide. His death is a huge loss to us in Imo State, especially as he shared a strong bond with our brother, Hon Kelechi Mejuobi, his vice president.”

Dike added: “We will miss Zubairu’s commitment, professionalism, and integrity. He upheld the highest standards of the game and left an indelible mark on Nigerian football.”

The Imo FA extended its condolences to Zubairu’s family, the NFRA, the Bauchi Football Association, the Bauchi Referees Association, the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), and the entire football community.

“We pray that the Lord rest his soul and comfort his family, friends, community, and fans across the country,” the association said.

…advocates club structure across 27 LGAs

By Silvernews

The All Progressives Congress (APC) Chairman in Imo State, Chief Austin Onyedebelu, has pledged support for the development of grassroots sports as part of efforts to harness youth potential and curb social vices, Wakawaka Sports reports.

Onyedebelu gave the assurance when he received a delegation led by the Eze-elect of Odu na Izuoha Autonomous Community in Ahiazu Mbaise, Eze Vitalist Chikere, during a courtesy visit to his office. Also in the delegation were Mr. Chibu Onuegbu Ejere and Mr. Lawrence Ukachi.

Chikere, a board member of the Imo State Football Association, said sustained investment in sports would significantly reduce youth restiveness and other societal challenges, while also serving as a platform for talent discovery and empowerment.

Speaking further, the Football Administrator of Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area, Comrade Kennedy Onwunali, urged the APC leadership to support the establishment of football clubs in all the 27 local government areas of the state. He noted that such an initiative would provide opportunities for young talents to emerge from the grassroots and grow into professional athletes capable of representing both the state and the nation.

Also, the APC Vice Chairman of Ahiazu Mbaise, Hon. Uche Chris Agomuo, stressed the importance of investing in youths through sports, noting that such investments would yield long-term benefits for communities and help build a stronger society.

Responding,
Onyedebelu assured the delegation that their proposals would receive due consideration. He emphasised the need for early identification and nurturing of talents to prevent youths from engaging in activities that could derail their future.

He added that a well-structured sports development framework would enable Imo State to fully harness its abundant human potential and reposition itself as a hub for sporting excellence.

Niger Tornadoes suffered a slim defeat to Abia Warriors in the NPFL Matchday 31 clash at the Enyimba International Stadium in Aba.

The hosts took an early lead through Suraj Lawal, who found the net in the 7th minute. Abia Warriors doubled their advantage in the 65th minute when Casmir Azubuike converted to put them firmly in control.

Niger Tornadoes pulled one back late on, with Joseph Godfrey scoring in the 81st minute after being set up by Ahmadu Liman, but it proved insufficient to change the outcome.

Head coach Majin Mohammed attributed the loss to his side’s inability to convert scoring opportunities, despite what he described as a strong overall performance.

“We played well and were in control of the game. We created several chances, especially in the first half, but couldn’t convert them. They had their chances too and took an early lead.”

Majin also pointed to misfortune and late timing as contributing factors to the defeat.
“We were not lucky. Even when we tried to come back after scoring late, time was no longer on our side,” he added.

Looking ahead, the Tornadoes gaffer emphasized the team’s focus on their next fixture.
“We will return home and prepare properly for our next game against Wikki Tourists with the aim to secure all three points.”

The Rangers International Football Club (RIFC) Foundation is set to establish a STEM Volunteer Team aimed at inspiring and empowering children and young persons to develop innovative and resourceful mindsets through STEM education.

Speaking in Enugu, Coach Ebere Amaraizu, Chairman of RIFC Foundation, stated that the team’s objective is to cultivate a community of innovative and resourceful young minds equipped to drive development through STEM education.

The RIFC Foundation STEM Volunteer Team will leverage the expertise of STEM professionals to provide hands-on learning experiences, mentorship, and guidance, fostering a culture of problem-solving and creativity. The team will:
– Create and share STEM educational resources for schools and communities
– Collaborate with partners to increase access to STEM opportunities
– Organize STEM-focused workshops, competitions, and events

According to Coach Amaraizu, volunteering with RIFC Foundation’s STEM framework offers benefits for both the community and the volunteers themselves, including skill enhancement, networking, and career prospects.

The foundation is welcoming volunteers to join the initiative, which aligns with its “Inspire Me and Mentor Me” program.

Barau FC has secured another vital away point on Saturday, 21 March 2026, after battling Wikki Tourist in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) 2025/2026 season.

The encounter between the two northern clubs was held at the New Jos Stadium, Zaria Road, Plateau State.

Both sides created several chances, but all efforts to break the deadlock proved unsuccessful as the match ended goalless.

It could be recalled that the first round of fixture this season between the two clubs ended 0–0 in kano.

Barau FC continue to impress with their determination and dedication as they push to finish strongly among the top teams in the 20-club league.

Muhammad Umar, who scored twice in our previous match, came close to scoring on several occasions but could not find the target.

Substitute Henry Ezeonye also made efforts to give the Maliya Boys the lead, but his attempts were unsuccessful.

Goalkeeper Chisom Chiaha was outstanding once again, extending his run to five consecutive clean sheets with several crucial saves that contributed to the goalless draw.

The result moves Barau FC into the top ten of the NPFL table, with 41 points from 31 matches, strengthening the club’s push for a strong finish at the end of the season.

Reacting after the match, Barau FC Technical Adviser, Eugene Agagbe, thanked God for the result despite the team’s missed chances.

“We thank God for the result. The injuries we suffered from the first half affected our chances of scoring. We take it one match at a time, and our focus has now shifted to our next home match against Katsina United. We believe we will secure victory.” Agagbe said.

Barau FC XI vs Wikki Tourist: Chisom Chiaha (GK), Orji Kalu, Bismark Duah, Nura Ibrahim, Jimmy Ambrose, Hillary Ekawu, Usman Maidubji (C), Sunday Antony, Uche Moses, Stanley Oganbor, Muhammad Umar.

Substitutes: Emeka Nwabulu (GK), Sugau Aliyu, Moses Tsehuan, Sunday Dapma, Henry Ezeonye, Nana Abraham, Emmanuel Okoko, Ibrahim Yunusa, Sulaiman Adamu, Adamu Hussain.

Substitutions: 46’ | Sugau Aliyu, Sunday Dapma, and Henry Ezeonye replaced Nura Ibrahim, Sunday Antony, and Bismark Duah. 69’ | Adamu Hussain replaced Stanley Oganbor, while Nana Abraham replaced Hillary Ekawu.

Caution yellow cards: Sugau Aliyu (59’)

Barau FC will now host Katsina United in a Northwest derby on Sunday, 28 March, in NPFL Matchday 32 at the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kofar Mata, by 4:00pm.

Signed:

Ahmad Hamisu Gwale
Director of Media
Barau Football Club
22/03/2026

Niger Tornadoes goalkeeper Ifeanyi Nchekwube delivered another standout performance on Thursday, producing a string of fine saves to deny Rivers United in the NPFL rescheduled Matchday 26 encounter.

The former Sporting Lagos shot-stopper has enjoyed an impressive debut season with the Minna-based side, establishing himself as one of the league’s most reliable goalkeepers. Nchekwube has made 26 appearances so far, keeping 12 clean sheets and playing a pivotal role for the “Ikon Allah Boys.”

Against Rivers United, the Anambra State-born goalkeeper was at his best, reacting sharply to multiple attacking threats and frustrating the visitors with his composure, reflexes, and command of the penalty area. His intervention proved decisive in preserving a valuable result for his side.

Nchekwube’s performances this season place him among the league’s top goalkeepers. He currently trails Ikorodu City’s Michael Atata, who leads with 15 clean sheets, and Rivers United’s Osagie Onusodumeya, who has recorded 13.

Known for his strong reflexes, aerial presence, and distribution, Nchekwube continues to grow in confidence and influence.

His consistent displays have not only strengthened Niger Tornadoes’ defensive unit but have also endeared him to the club’s supporters, whose vocal backing has further boosted his performances.

Ifeanyi attributed his uprising to Atuga Ndanusa, the Goalkeeper Trainer, for playing a key role in sharpening his skills between the posts, noting that the coach’s wealth of experience in the league has had a profound impact on his development.

Ifeanyi also expressed his gratitude to Technical Adviser Majin Mohammed for the trust and confidence reposed in him, adding that such belief continues to motivate him to give his best whenever called upon.

The young shot-stopper further assured fans of his commitment to continuous improvement, emphasizing that he remains focused on helping the team achieve its objectives this season. He highlighted the importance of teamwork, discipline, and consistency as crucial elements in their pursuit of success.

If he maintains his current form and continues to refine his game, Nchekwube is widely regarded as a promising candidate for future national team consideration.