By SilverNews

SilverNews Communications and WakaWaka Sports Extra mourn the passing of our colleague, friend, and brother, Mr. Nnadozie Promise Uwaeme, who died at the age of 41.

Mr. Uwaeme was a dedicated journalist, passionate about sports development and community peacebuilding. Known for his commitment, humility, and integrity, he made lasting contributions to sports media and youth empowerment.

He will be laid to rest today, November 12, 2025, in his hometown of Umeubi Orieukwu, Eziudo. The funeral service begins at his father’s compound in Umuzu, Eziudo, at 10:00 a.m., followed by interment at 1:00 p.m.

Our heartfelt condolences go to the Uwaeme family. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.

SilverNews Communications
Publishers of SilverNews and WakaWaka Sports Extra

By SilverNews

The Chief Security Officer of Heartland Football Club, Mr. Osita Udemba, together with his family, has announced the passing and burial arrangements of their beloved mother, wife, grandmother, sister, and aunt — Late Lolo Ngozi Stella Udemba (née Mbah – Nne Okwukwe).

Late Lolo Udemba was the devoted wife of Late Duru Kemjika Udemba of Umuihugba Umuodu Autonomous Community, Owerri, in the Owerri Municipal Council of Imo State. She was a virtuous woman known for her kindness, faith, and commitment to the service of God and humanity. Her life touched many within and beyond her community.

According to the family, a Christian Sing Song in honour of the late matriarch will hold on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at her husband’s compound, No. 81A Amaram Street, Owerri.
Her body will leave Aladinma Hospital on Friday, November 14, 2025, at 7:00 a.m., for interment at her family residence in Owerri.

Speaking on behalf of the family, Mr. Osita Udemba described his late mother as “a woman of unshakable faith and uncommon strength whose prayers and wisdom guided us through life.”

Family members, friends, and associates of the Udemba family, as well as colleagues from Heartland FC, are expected to attend the funeral ceremonies to pay their last respects.
May the gentle soul of Late Lolo Ngozi Stella Udemba rest in perfect peace.

The Chief Executive Officer of the Game On Afrika Tournament, Prince Emeka Nwankwo, has expressed deep satisfaction as the 2025 edition of the competition reaches its climax this weekend in Obowo, Imo State.

The grand finale of the tournament is billed for Friday, November 14, and Saturday, November 15, at Okenalogho Technical School, Obowo, featuring teams representing Abuja, Imo, Enugu, and Lagos. The semi-final playoffs will hold on Friday by 2:00 p.m., while the winners will clash in the final on Saturday.

In a statement, Prince Nwankwo praised the growth of the competition and the talent displayed by players drawn from various state centers.
“I feel deeply fulfilled at this stage of the tournament,” he said. “The passion, talent, and dedication shown by these young players reflect the true spirit of African sports. My drive for grassroots development and cultural connection through this competition continues to be my greatest motivation.”

The eventual winner of the final will be crowned the Nigeria GOAT (Greatest of All Time) and will face the Ghana GOAT in a continental showdown ahead of next year’s Game On Afrika UK Tour.

Prince Nwankwo reaffirmed his commitment to using the Game of Afrika platform to promote grassroots sports development and strengthen cultural ties across Africa, describing the initiative as a bridge between “talent, opportunity, and culture.”

Super Eagles have reportedly boycotted training session ahead of the crucial clash with Gabon.

Nigeria and Gabon senior men national teams go to war on Thursday evening in a 2026 FIFA World Cup African playoff semi-final that promises to raise the roof of the Complexe Sportif Prince Heritier Moulay Al Hassan in Rabat.

The high-stakes encounter provides a second window for both teams to try and qualify for the 2026 finals in the USA, Canada and Mexico after missing automatic tickets in Africa’s 23-month qualifying campaign.

According to latest reports, Super Eagles hasn’t been paid bonuses and. allowances in two years.

It was gathered that he full squad including officials withheld from training today in Morocco because of the unresolved issues with outstanding payments.

The Super Eagles is awaiting for a quick resolution to continue the preparation for Thursday’s game with Gabon.

Janet Akekoromowei and Ramotalahi Kareem were again among the goals as Nigeria’s Falconets routed their Ghanaian counterparts 3-0 on Tuesday morning, to emerge champions of the WAFU B U20 Girls Tournament in Bénin Republic.

The Princesses, 1-3 losers to the two-time FIFA World Cup silver-medallists when both teams clashed at the same Stade Omnisport d’Adjohoun on Saturday, were unable to stop the rampaging Nigerians who were 2-0 up before the 25th minute, courtesy goals by Akekoromowei (17th minute) and Alaba Olabiyi (24th minute). Akekoromowie netted twice against the Ghanaians on Saturday while Kareem got a brace against the Beninoise on Sunday.

Victory sprang the Falconets to nine points and plus eight goals difference (they have scored thrice in each of their three games) to claim the trophy in the three-team tournament, with Ghana’s Princesses on six points after victories over the host nation.

The Falconets will be up against the host nation on Wednesday morning at the same venue, but the encounter is largely ceremonial as Nigeria have claimed the trophy.

The General Manager of Barau FC, Dominic Iorfa has debunked false reports claiming that the throat of one its players, Nana Abraham was slaughtered in the match day 12 NPFL clash with Katisna United at the Muhammad Dikko Stadium on Saturday.

In a statement on Monday, the former Nigeria International called on members of the public to disregard the misleading reports, saying that the player is stable and will resume training activities on Wednesday.

Iorfa, who recounted the ugly incident during the game in Katsina, revealed that violence broke out after Barau FC equalised through Orji Kalu in the 69th minute, forcing the game to be halted following an attack on Barau FC’s Abraham and team official Jabir Hassan.

According to him, Abraham was seen bleeding from a visible neck wound as a result of the chaos while players and officials of the club scampered for safety.

The former Super Eagles star condemned in its strongest possible terms of the unacceptable actions of Katsina United noting that the peace-loving people of Barua FC have exemplified sportsmanship to their visitors despite the outcome of any home encounters.

He insisted that Barua FC is a club built in integrity and peace, just like its founder, Senator Barau Jibrin and reaffirmed the commitment of the club in upholding the laws of the game.

Iorfa said: “We went to Katsina and had a good game. Before the game in Katsina, we played five games at home, we drew three, won one and lost one and we had no issues and we expected that’s how football ought to be. We didn’t expect there would be of trouble if you go to Katsina and equalised.

“A lot of objects were thrown at us, we ran to the pitch, our media men cameras were seized and ransacked. Everything they had about the match were taken away from them. One of the player was a victim and some club officials were raided.

“Most of the stories about slaughtering are false. The player is fine and had a good sleep. The doctor asked him to rest and he is resting. We brought him out to let the world know that what the media is reporting is false. He is fine and will be back on training on Wednesday.

“It was a bad sight on what appeared on television and some people can come up with every form of lies to tarnish your image.”

On his part, the injured Abraham equally debunked the false reports saying that “it’s a false statement and my throat was never slaughtered. I am feeling a little bit better now by the Grace of Almighty Allah.

“It was during the course of the match when we equalised our goal. The fans of Katisna United started throwing objects towards our bench and due to that, an object hit my chest and lower of my chin. That’s when I saw blood coming out.”

…club Inaugurates New Executive Committee at Dan Anyiam Stadium

By SilverNews

The Imo State Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Obinna Evaristus Onyeocha (Onowu), has been formally inducted as a Grand Patron of the Standard Tennis Development Club, Owerri, during a well-attended ceremony held at the Standard Tennis Courts of the Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri.

The event, which also marked the inauguration of the Club’s new executive committee for the 2025–2026 tenure, drew dignitaries from across the State’s sports and social circles, including past and serving government officials, patrons of the Club, and members of the wider tennis community.

In his remarks, Hon. Onyeocha expressed deep appreciation for the honour bestowed on him, noting that the club comprises individuals he has long admired for their dedication to community development and sports advancement. He pledged his full support towards the growth of tennis in Imo State and commended the club’s efforts in promoting physical fitness, mentorship, and youth engagement through the sport.

“I am particularly delighted to join a club that embodies friendship, discipline, and service. I see this as a platform to contribute to the continued development of sports, especially tennis, within our state,” Onyeocha said.

Welcoming the Commissioner into the club, Sir George Eche, Chairman of ENIC BOT, and former Secretary to the Imo State Government, congratulated him on his induction and encouraged him to take up tennis as a regular sport, describing it as a game that enhances alertness, mental clarity, and productivity in public service.

“The discipline of tennis helps sharpen the mind and improve focus — qualities that are invaluable in leadership,” Sir Eke advised.
The highlight of the occasion was the swearing-in of the newly elected executive members of the club led by Hon. Okey Anyiam as President.

Other members of the executive include:
Chief Laz Okorooha – Vice President
Obinna Uchendu – General Secretary
Ebuka Ezenwenta – Club Captain
Eric Emeka George – Financial Secretary
Ijechukwu Ejipe – Treasurer
Kenechukwu Onyejea – Ex-Officio (Maintenance / Kitchen & Bar Secretary)
Ndubuisi Madu – Ex-Officio (Special Duties)

Also inducted as new members of the club were Sir Amalachukwu Chinedu Emenalo, Barr. Victor Mazi Udegbulem, Barr. Joseph Nwakamma Anyanwu, and Mr. Anayo Ihenna.

In his inaugural address, President Okey Anyiam reaffirmed the club’s commitment to fostering camaraderie and advancing the standard of tennis within the state.

He assured that his administration would consolidate ongoing initiatives aimed at developing grassroots tennis and strengthening the club’s partnerships with both public and private institutions.

The ceremony featured prayers, cultural displays, light refreshments, and music, bringing together sports lovers in a convivial atmosphere that underscored the club’s unity and shared vision.

Ikorodu City secured their first away win of the season after beating Warri Wolves 2-0 in Ozoro in a match day 12 NPFL clash.

Rivers-born Michael Atata extended his number of clean sheets to 8 to help Ikorodu City side pick the three points to extend their unbeaten run to seven games.

Kano Pillars at their adopted home ground failed to beat Bayelsa United after it ended goalless while Abia Warriors and Enyimba FC shared the spoils in the Abia derby.

The match tagged “Abia derby”, by pundits and football followers lived up to its billing as it was tough, entertaining and intriguing.

In Enugu, Rangers International defeated Shooting Stars by a lone goal while Niger Tornadoes suffered a heartbreaking defeat to Wikki Tourists, conceding a late goal via Auwalu Naziru’s close-range effort.

Nasarawa United were held to 1-1 draw by visiting Kwara United at the Lafia City Stadium.

Match Day 12 Results:

Katsina United 1-1 Barau FC

Rangers Int’l 1-0 Shooting Stars

Abia Warriors 0-0 Enyimba FC

Kano Pillars 0-0 Bayelsa United

Wikki Tourists 1-0 Niger Tornadoes

Warri Wolves 0-2 Ikorodu City

Nasarawa United 1-1 Kwara United

Tomorrow Matches:

Remo Stars Vs El-kanemi Warriors

Kun Khalifat FC Vs Rivers United

Plateau United Vs Bendel Insurance

…Imo Commissioner Commends Organizers, Promises

74 athletes from four south eastern states battled it out for top honours at the just concluded South East Taekwondo Championships, which held at the Indoor Hall of the Dan Anyiam stadium on 7th and 9th November 2025.

Hosts Imo emerged medal table toppers with a top of 41 medals including 13 Gold, 15 Silver and 13 Bronze medals. Abia came narrowly behind in the golden run with 28 medals including 12 Gold, 11 Bronze and 5 Bronze medals.

Team Ebonyi went home with 8 medals including 4 Gold, 3 Silver and 1 Bronze while Enugu boasted of 4 medals including 2 Gold, 1 SIlver and 1 bronze.

Imo State Honourable Commissioner of Sports, Hon Obinna Onyeocha, who was on hand to witness his state emerge victorious, commended organizers during the medal presentation ceremony.

“I applaud this event that brings grassroots development and exposure rights to our youths in the region. It should be sustained so in years to come, it can produce national and international champions that would bring pride to the region and the state”

Olympic Medalist, Chika Chukwumerije, who was making his return to the Taekwondo management scene after a four-year hiatus connected the event.

“I am happy to see people come together to push the grassroots development agenda. Our youth deserve this exposure and investing in their exposure is certainly the way forward. This is how to produce future champions, one brick at a time. ”

Gold medalist in the Cadets -49kg, 13 year old Ikechukwu Chidiebere of Abia state, expressed his delight at his victory and spoke of the impact on his development.

“I won two brone medals at the National Youth Games, but I have not competed since then. I was worried at the lack of competition. But this event helped me correct some mistakes I made that lost me the top position at the National Youth Games, and this has boosted my confidence”

For Enugu state Assistant Taekwondo Coach, Musa Enakheme, the event was a starting prep-up for the National SPorts Festival.

“As hosts of the National Sports Festival, we are working hard to put together a state team. We have not participated in any event for so long. This event was an eye-opener and shows us the areas we have to work hard.”

Next Regional competition is scheduled to hold 20 – 21 February in Umuahia, Abia state.

Katsina Utd have been charged for breaching the Framework & Rules of #NPFL in the course of their Matchday 12 fixtures vs Barau FC on Saturday.

The club failed to provide adequate & effective security resulting in unauthorised persons gaining access to restricted areas.

Katsina Utd also failed to ensure proper conduct of their supporters leading to the harassment of Barau FC players & match officials.

Supporters of Katsina Utd also threw harmful objects onto the pitch resulting in the injuries of Barau FC players.

Furthermore, Katsina Utd supporters displayed conduct capable of bringing the game into disrepute.

Katsina Utd will play all their subsequent home matches at the stadium in Jos & behind closed doors.

The club have been fined N1m each for throwing objects towards the pitch, failing to ensure proper conduct of their supporters & bringing the game into disrepute, totalling N3m.

A N2m fine has also been placed on Katsina Utd for failing to provide adequate & effective security.

The club will further pay N2m each as compensation for treatment of injuries & damages to the away team’s buses; & for holding the match officials & away team hostage for hours after the match, totalling N4m.

Katsina Utd have 48 hours within the date of the notice to appeal the sanctions.