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Minna Football Stakeholders Hail Akor Adams After Scoring on Nigeria Debut

By Silvernews

Football stakeholders in Minna, Niger State, have applauded the outstanding performance of Akor Adams, following his first international goal for Nigeria in their 2–1 victory over Lesotho in the ongoing World Cup qualifiers. The Sevilla of Spain striker marked his debut for the Super Eagles with a calm finish that secured the much-needed win and reignited the nation’s hope of qualifying for the FIFA World Cup.
Adams’ heroics for Nigeria came just days after he scored against Barcelona in the Spanish La Liga — a performance that earned him rave reviews from fans and analysts alike. Speaking exclusively to Silvernews Sports after the match, his grassroots coach, Mr.Ibrahim Adegbola adeshola
Ex banker who discovered him., who discovered him during his time with Giant FC Minna, said he was not surprised by the player’s form and maturity.
“Akor has always been a special player,” Shola said. “Even as a teenager in Minna, his focus and eye for goal stood him out. What he’s doing now for Sevilla and the Super Eagles is what we always believed he could achieve. He’s a player who works hard, stays humble, and delivers when it matters.”
Local football administrators and fans in Niger State have joined in celebrating the young forward’s rise, describing it as a shining example of how grassroots football can produce world-class talent. They urged both government and private investors to channel more resources into youth football development, inspired by Adams’ journey from Minna’s local pitches to the global stage. With his current form for Sevilla and his early impact for Nigeria, many believe Akor Adams is poised to become a key figure in the Super Eagles’ attack as the World Cup qualifiers continue.

FCT Police Arrest 12 Suspects in Armed Robbery, Murder of Arise News Staff and Security Guard

By Silvernews Metro Desk

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has arrested twelve suspected armed robbers in connection with the brutal robbery and killing of Arise News staff, Ms. Somtochukwu Christella Maduagwu, and a security guard, Mr. Barnabas Danlami, at Unique Apartment, Gishiri Village, Katampe District, Abuja. The tragic incident occurred on September 29, 2025, at about 3:30 a.m.
The breakthrough followed the directive of the FCT Commissioner of Police for the immediate arrest of those responsible. Acting on actionable digital and reconstructive intelligence provided by Giga Forensics, a subsidiary of EIB STRATOC, operatives of the Scorpion Squad, led by ACP Victor Godfrey, apprehended the suspects during coordinated operations across several states.
Those arrested include:
Shamsudeen Hassan (Malumfashi LGA, Katsina State)
Hassan Isah, 22 (Zaria, Kaduna State)
Abubakar Alkamu a.k.a. Abba, 27 (Musawa LGA, Katsina State)
Sani Sirajo a.k.a. Dan Borume, 20 (Malumfashi LGA, Katsina State)
Mashkur Jamilu a.k.a. Abba, 28 (Igabi LGA, Kaduna State)
Suleiman Badamasi a.k.a. Dan-Sule, 21 (Malumfashi LGA, Katsina State)
Abdul Salam Saleh a.k.a. Na-Durudu (Katsina LGA, Katsina State)
Zaharadeen Muhammad a.k.a. Gwaska, 23 (Chikun LGA, Kaduna State)
Musa Adamu a.k.a. Musa Hassan, 30 (Malumfashi LGA, Katsina State)
Sumayya Mohammed a.k.a. Baby, 27 (Sammaka LGA, Kaduna State)
Isah Abdulrahman a.k.a. Abbati, 25 (Zaria LGA, Kaduna State)
Musa Umar a.k.a. Small, 31 (Maiduguri LGA, Borno State).


According to police sources, four of the suspects — Shamsudeen Hassan, Abubakar Alkamu, Sani Sirajo, and one other — were first apprehended after investigators tracked mobile phones stolen from the victims during the robbery.
During interrogation, Hassan confessed to shooting the security guard, Mr. Danlami, when he attempted to resist their entry. Sirajo reportedly admitted that he tried to prevent Ms. Maduagwu from falling off the three-storey building but was unable to hold her weight. Hassan also confessed to driving away the victims’ white Honda CR-V after the operation.
The suspects disclosed that each received ₦200,000 as their share of the proceeds from the robbery.
Recovered exhibits include:
One fabricated AK-47 rifle
Thirty-six rounds of 9mm live ammunition
One locally made pistol
One pump-action gun
Two live cartridges
Four mobile phones belonging to the victims
Two sharp knives
One cutlass
Nine torchlights used during the operation
In a follow-up operation on October 8, 2025, acting on further digital intelligence, police operatives intercepted additional members of the gang — including Musa Umar a.k.a. Small and Hassan Isah — while they were en route to a planned armed robbery in Maitama, Abuja.
All suspects have reportedly confessed to the crimes. The FCT Police Command said investigations are ongoing, with efforts intensified to track down the remaining fleeing gang members.
Photographs of the arrested suspects are being withheld pending the conclusion of the ongoing operations.
Recovered exhibits and a video of one of the AK-47 rifles retrieved at Zuma Rock have been forwarded to the Command for forensic analysis.

TASIEOBI GLOBAL FOUNDATION TAKES BACK TO SCHOOL PROJECT ’25 TO NSIT UBIUM, VOWS TO RETURN NEXT YEAR

By Silvernews

The Tasieobi Global Foundation has continued its drive to support education through its ongoing initiative, Back To School Project ’25, with a visit to Itreto Community Secondary School, Ikot Okobo, in Nsit Ubium Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
The outreach, which took place on Monday, October 6, 2025, marked the second edition of the Foundation’s school intervention this year. The team, led by the Founder and Director, Sir Elvis Tasieobi, arrived from Uyo to a warm reception by the school’s management and students, who assembled in the open field under the calm morning weather.
Addressing the students, Sir Tasieobi urged them to remain determined and focused in pursuit of their dreams, stressing that success often begins with discipline and consistency. He warned against the dangers of procrastination and encouraged the students to take advantage of every learning opportunity available to them.
“Your current situation does not define your future. What matters is your conviction, your daily actions, and how consistently you pursue your goals,” he said.
The Co-founder, Mrs. Oyinche Tasieobi, also engaged the students in an interactive affirmation session, teaching them the importance of positive self-talk and belief in one’s abilities. She led the students in reciting daily affirmations — a practice she said helps her own children stay focused and confident.
The outreach ended with the distribution of learning materials to the students and the school management, as well as photo sessions and short interviews.
Speaking on the impact of the project, Sir Tasieobi described the material donations as “the least of the things we do,” emphasizing that the true goal is to inspire hope and confidence in young learners.
“We are not just helping children return to school; we are helping them return with confidence,” he added.
The visit brought joy and gratitude to both students and staff, with the school management commending the Foundation’s effort in promoting education at the grassroots level.
So far, the Back To School Project ’25 has reached two schools and impacted over 200 students. The Foundation says plans are already in motion to return to Nsit Ubium and extend the initiative to more schools next year.
For partnership and support, the Foundation can be reached at +234 813 709 3266 or via email at tasieobiglobalfoundation@gmail.com.
Follow their activities on social media:
📘 Facebook: Tasieobi Global Foundation
📷 Instagram: @tasieobiglobalfoundation
🌐 Website: www.tasieobiglobal.org
#TasieobiGlobalFoundation #BackToSchoolProject2025 #TransformingLives #ImpactFromTheField

Obinna Onyeocha Hails Governor Uzodimma’s Pilgrimage Sponsorship, Offers Prayers for Imo Sports Community

The Imo State Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Obinna Onyeocha, has described the sponsorship of 1,000 Imo citizens to the 2025 pilgrimage in Jordan and Israel by Governor Sen. Hope Uzodimma as a powerful act of leadership rooted in faith and compassion.

Speaking from the historic site where John the Baptist was beheaded for speaking the truth, Hon. Onyeocha said the spiritual experience has left a deep impression on him and many other pilgrims, noting that the governor’s initiative reflects his belief in the power of prayer and divine guidance.

 

According to him, the gesture goes beyond mere sponsorship — it is a bold statement about the governor’s desire to lead Imo State with both physical and spiritual vision.

“This journey has opened my eyes to the governor’s genuine commitment to God and to the people,” Onyeocha said. “From the moment we departed Imo Airport to our arrival in Jordan, everything was perfectly arranged — our accommodation, meals, and visits to sacred locations. It takes a rare kind of leader to invest this much in the spiritual well-being of his people.”

He lauded the coordination of the pilgrimage team led by Rev. Fr. Prof. Gilbert Alaribe, describing him as a tireless organizer who ensured that the entire trip was smooth and enriching for every participant.

The Sports Commissioner recounted his visit to several biblical landmarks, including the Dead Sea, Sodom and Gomorrah, and the site where Moses struck the rock, saying that seeing these sacred places in person gave him a new perspective on faith and leadership.

“As someone who often reads these stories in the Bible, standing in those very places was beyond words. It has strengthened my faith and reminded me of the power of obedience and humility before God,” he said.

Hon. Onyeocha also used the opportunity to pray for the sports community in Imo State, asking God to protect all Imo athletes, coaches, and sports administrators across the world, and to grant them the grace to excel in their various sporting endeavors.

He further appreciated Governor Uzodimma for sustaining the initiative, noting that the same act of generosity was extended in 2023 when another set of 1,000 pilgrims were fully sponsored on a similar trip.

“The governor believes that prayer changes things — and the results are already visible in Imo. From the twin flyovers to the new power projects, it is clear that God’s hand is upon the state. I believe this year’s pilgrimage will bring even greater blessings,” he said.

Hon. Onyeocha concluded by expressing heartfelt gratitude to the governor for giving him the opportunity to be part of the life-changing experience.

“It is a spiritual awakening I will never forget. I thank His Excellency, Senator Hope Uzodimma, for this gesture and for his continued commitment to the peace, development, and spiritual growth of Imo people.”

Rangers Intl FC Foundation Begins Sports Intervention at Enugu School for Children with Special Needs …Establishes Sports and Referee Clubs for Sustainable Development

The Rangers International Football Club Foundation (RIFC Foundation), Enugu, on October 7, 2025, commenced a sports intervention programme at the Therapeutic (Inclusivity) Secondary School, Abakpa Nike, Enugu State, South-East Nigeria.
According to the Chairman of the Rangers Intl FC Foundation, Coach Ebere Amaraizu, the initiative — carried out in partnership with the United States Government Exchange Alumni Association (Enugu State Chapter), Carmelite Prisoners’ Interest Organization (CAPIO), Grehen Global Care Foundation, and the Enugu State Football Referees Association — is aimed at promoting the physical, emotional, and mental well-being of the pupils and students, including those with special needs.
“We all know what sports can do in terms of strengthening our cognitive, affective, and psychomotor abilities for crucial outcomes,” Amaraizu said. “This intervention, though short-term, is designed to produce measurable outcomes that will be sustainable. We have conducted a needs assessment and gathered data to ensure smooth engagement, and all partners are playing vital roles in this important exercise.”
He further explained that the choice of Therapeutic (Inclusivity) Secondary School was intentional, as it aligns with the Foundation’s mission to promote a compassionate and inclusive community.
“We need to reach out to those who appear abandoned due to several challenges. Sports have the power to bring everyone together under one platform,” he added, while expressing appreciation to Mrs. Ebigbo and her team at the school for their support.
Amaraizu also thanked all partners for their confidence in the Foundation, especially the U.S. Government Exchange Alumni Association (Enugu Chapter), CAPIO, and Grehen Global Care Foundation, for their trust and collaboration.
The highlight of the event was the establishment of Taekwondo, Chess, and Football Referee Clubs in the school — a move designed to make the community-based intervention both sustainable and measurable.
Amaraizu further disclosed that additional clubs would be introduced in the coming months to enhance the holistic well-being, sporting experience, and career development of the students.

Jobisports FC Amaimo: 20 Years of Building Dreams Through Football

By Silvernews

For two decades, Jobisports FC Amaimo has been doing something special — quietly grooming young boys into footballers, and footballers into men. What started as a small community team in 2005 has grown into one of Imo State’s most respected grassroots clubs, producing players who have gone on to shine on big stages.

Jobisports FC players during an evening training session at the Amaimo community field.

From the under-13s to the senior side, Jobisports FC has built a structure that reflects discipline, consistency, and a deep love for the game. Week after week, the boys train on the dusty Amaimo community field — chasing dreams with passion in their eyes and hope in their hearts.

Over the years, the club has been a regular face at tournaments and scouting programs across Nigeria — Lagos, Abuja, Edo, Akwa Ibom, Kaduna, and other states. Each trip adds to their story of hard work and persistence.

And the results speak for themselves. Some of Nigeria’s biggest football names once wore the Jobisports jersey — Super Eagles defender Kenneth Omeruo and striker Terem Moffi among them. Their journeys from the Amaimo field to international football are proof that something truly special is happening here.

“Our vision from day one was to help these boys believe in themselves,” says Mr. Akujobi, the club’s founder and proprietor. “We’ve been doing this for 20 years, and seeing some of our players play for Nigeria today makes every sacrifice worth it.”

Even now, Jobisports FC continues to make waves. The team is currently taking part in the Game On Africa Tournament (GOAT) — one of the biggest youth football competitions linking clubs in Nigeria and Ghana. Their participation has once again shown the club’s commitment to exposing young talents to higher levels of competition.

Jobisports FC is more than a football team — it’s a family. Coaches, players, and supporters all share the same dream: to see Amaimo become a breeding ground for the next generation of football stars.

As the sun sets behind the hills of Ikeduru, the boys are still out there training, sweating, laughing, and learning. The jerseys may be worn, the pitch may be rough, but the spirit is strong.

For 20 years, Jobisports FC Amaimo has proven that greatness can grow from anywhere — even from a small field in Imo State.

About Jobisports FC Amaimo

Full Name: Jobisports Football Club, Amaimo

Founded: 2005 (20 years of grassroots football excellence)

Location: Amaimo, Ikeduru LGA, Imo State, Nigeria

Proprietor: Mr. Akujobi

Focus: Grassroots football development and youth mentorship (U-13 to senior level)

Notable Alumni: Kenneth Omeruo, Terem Moffi, and other professional players

Major Engagements: Kanu Nwankwo U-15 Competition (Owerri), Game On Africa Tournament (Nigeria & Ghana), national scouting programs across Lagos, Abuja, Edo, Akwa Ibom, and Kaduna

Vision: To train and empower young players with discipline, education, and opportunity to excel locally and internationally.

Mbaise, Ngor Okpala Youths Gear Up for Historic 2025 National Summit

By Silvernews.

All roads will lead to Chris IV Hall 1 next year as preparations gather momentum for the maiden edition of the Mbaise–Ngor Okpala National Youth Summit, tagged “Youths Decide.”
The much-anticipated summit is expected to bring together over 700 young delegates from Ahiazu, Aboh Mbaise, Ezinihitte, and Ngor Okpala Local Government Areas to discuss issues bordering on history, identity, political representation, and development within the Mbaise Nation and its sister LGA, Ngor Okpala.
According to the convener, Chukwuemaka Frank Erege, the event is designed to provide a platform for young people to reconnect with their heritage, interrogate past political and cultural developments, and engage directly with community, religious, and political leaders on matters affecting their future.
“Our goal is to awaken consciousness among our young people. Every gathering of youths must not be seen through a political lens. This summit is about identity, unity, and the future of our generation,” Erege said in Owerri while unveiling the summit theme.
Key Issues on the Table
Discussions at the summit will focus on several thought-provoking questions, including:
Why was Mbaise divided into two federal constituencies — Ahiazu/Ezinihitte and Aboh/Ngor Okpala — unlike Owerri, which maintains three LGAs under one constituency?
Is there an ancestral or historical link between Mbaise and Ngor Okpala?
Has the political division been beneficial or detrimental to the region’s development?
Why do several communities in Ngor Okpala share names with Mbaise towns, such as Nguru?
Why has the strategic road connecting Ngor Okpala, Aboh, Ezinihitte, and Ahiazu remained in disrepair for over 16 years?
Should Ngor Okpala be officially recognized as a developmental partner to Mbaise?
Participation Breakdown
The organizers have released a target breakdown for the expected delegates:
Ahiazu Mbaise: 200 youths
Aboh Mbaise: 200 youths
Ezinihitte Mbaise: 150 youths
Ngor Okpala: 150 youths
This brings the total expected attendance to 700 participants.
Beyond Politics
Erege clarified that the summit is not politically motivated but a youth-centered cultural and educational engagement aimed at rebuilding unity and understanding among neighboring LGAs.
“This initiative is about creating a space for honest dialogue. Our people share deep historical roots, and it’s time we revisited those bonds to chart a better course for our youth,” he added.
With several community leaders, academics, traditional rulers, and development advocates expected to grace the event, the Mbaise–Ngor Okpala National Youth Summit 2025 is already shaping up to be a landmark moment in the collective journey toward unity, cultural pride, and socio-political renewal in the region.

NASARAWA UNITED EXTEND LEAD ON NPFL TABLE, SHOCK BENDEL INSURANCE IN BENIN

The Solid Miners continued with their formidable form in the ongoing 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League Season, securing a 0-1 away win against Bendel Insurance on match-day seven at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City, Edo State, on Saturday evening.

 

Prodigy, Garba Mohammed, came off the bench in the hour mark, and lasted thirty-four minutes, before scoring the only goal that separated both sides in the 4th minute after regulation time in the fiercely contested affair, silencing the home fans.

 

It was the winger’s second goal of the season, and second consecutive win for the Solid Miners on the road this campaign, after winning against Bayelsa United in Yenagoa, a fortnight ago.

 

Nasarawa United remain unbeaten in six out of seven games, winning five, drawing one, and losing once, solidifying their first place position on the league table with sixteen points, four more points ahead of second-placed and nine time league winners, Enyimba FC, who have played a game lesser, as the Benin Arsenal as Bendel Insurance are nicknamed, are just a point above the drop zone, with six points.

 

Nasarawa United will return to Lafia, where they will host former league Champions, Rangers International FC of Enugu, on Sunday, 12th October, 2025, at the Lafia City Stadium, by 4pm, before being hosted by Ikorodu City, in Lagos, a week after.

 

Meanwhile, players and officials of Nasarawa United received cash rewards following their impressive result against Bendel Insurance in Benin City today.

 

Nasarawa State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Kwanta Yakubu, rewarded the team with five hundred thousand naira(N500,000.00), while the Club’s Chairman, Mr. Solomon Babanjah, together with an ardent supporter of the team, Mr. Peter Pepsy Anyebe, each boosted the team’s morale with two hundred thousand naira(N200,000.00).

 

POST-MATCH REACTIONS:

 

COACH MANGUT MBWAS(NAS): “It’s a thing of joy to get the maximum points, either home or away.

 

“After drawing their last home game, Bendel Insurance were all out, aggressively searching for the maximum points today.

 

“But we kept on resisting and pushing toward the last minutes of extra-time, and we got the goal.

 

“I am so happy with the performance of my boys – all credits to them.

 

“We started slowly in today’s game, but we adjusted as the game progressed, and the changes we effected in the second-half made a lot of differences.

 

“We are highly motivated from all rounds, starting with self-motivation, the push from our sports-loving Governor, Engr. Abdullahi Sule, the Honourable Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Kwanta Yakubu, and the Club’s Management led by Solomon Babanjah, not forgetting our wonderful supporters, the local Football Association, fans, and others.

 

“Concerning our next game against Rangers in Lafia, next weekend, we approach every game with the respect it deserves. We hope to maintain our momentum, going forward.”

 

GARBA MOHAMMED (GOALSCORER/NAS): “Coming off the bench to score the only goal that gave my team the win today makes me feel truly excited.

 

“I am happy for my team, and we hope to keep winning because we are chasing a continental slot at the end of the season.

 

“Before today’s game, I had told my teammates that if I was given a chance on this turf, I would score, and I am glad I did.

 

“I love natural grass, and the Sam Ogbemudia Stadium provided the perfect setting to make my expectation come real.”

 

CAUTION(YELLOW CARD):

 

Utake Emmanuel(NAS)58′

 

John Joshua(NAS)77′

 

NASARAWA UNITED LINE-UP: Ameh Godwin, Abubakar Abdullahi, Mubarak Hussaini, Chidera Nduka, Ekeson Okorie(Salomon Chigoziem 70′), Anas Yusuf (Garba Mohammed 60′), Utake Emmanuel(Moses Tsetuan 70′), Victor John, Collins Onovuke(Ada Umar 60′), John Joshua, Jofrank Istifanus(Akanni Lawal 90+6′).

 

UNUSED SUBS: Chinemerem Olughu, King Osanga, Ojo Johnson, Prince Ikemdinachi.

TezRobert Foundation Set to Stage Basketball Tournament in Owerri

By Silvernews

Basketball enthusiasts in Imo State are in for an exciting weekend as the TezRobert Junior Foundation, in collaboration with the Imo State Basketball Association, is set to host a two-day basketball tournament in Owerri.
The event, tagged TEZRJ 2025 Tournament, will dunk off from October 18 to 19, 2025, at the basketball court of the Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri.
Speaking ahead of the competition, the founder of the foundation, Robert Okoro, described the initiative as his way of giving back to his home state and appreciating the unwavering support he has received over the years.
“This tournament is my little way of showing appreciation to my dear state and my people for their encouragement and support,” Okoro stated.
He expressed confidence that with the backing of the Imo State Sports Commission, the tournament will further strengthen grassroots basketball development and inspire young athletes across the state.
The TEZRJ 2025 Tournament is expected to attract teams and players from different parts of Imo and beyond, promising fans two days of thrilling basketball action and sportsmanship.

Nze/Ekwueme FC Edge Jobi Stars as Onyeocha Flags Off Game on Africa Tournament in Owerri

By Silvernews

Owerri West was bursting with excitement on Saturday as the Game on Africa Tournament (GOAT), sponsored by Afreximbank, kicked off in spectacular fashion at the Avu Primary School Field. The event attracted football fans, cultural enthusiasts, and community leaders from across Imo State.
The tournament was officially declared open by the Imo State Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Obinna Onyeocha, who set the tone with a ceremonial kickoff. In a lively and memorable moment, Onyeocha took a penalty against the tournament’s founder, Prince Emeka Nwankwo, who gamely stood in goal to the delight of spectators.
Adding a colorful dimension to the occasion were vibrant cultural performances, as traditional dancers, drummers, and entertainers infused the event with the rich heritage of the region. The fusion of sports and culture created a festive atmosphere that celebrated both talent and tradition.
On the field, Nze/Ekwueme FC edged Jobi Stars FC 1–0 in a tightly contested opening match, setting the pace for a competition expected to uncover some of the finest grassroots football talents in the state.
Organizers revealed that ten teams are participating in the Owerri center, divided into two groups of five, with winners advancing to face champions from other host centers.
With strong backing from Afreximbank and the support of the Imo State Ministry of Sports Development, the Game on Africa Tournament promises to inspire young athletes and strengthen the link between culture, community, and sports development in the region.