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Encomiums Pour in for Cultix PLC at ENIC Tennis League AGM

It was praises all the way for Cultix Cable Manufacturing Company (Cultix PLC) as stakeholders of the Eastern Nigeria Inter-Club (ENIC) Tennis League gathered for their Annual General Meeting (AGM) at Safari Recreation Club, Owerri.
Cultix, described as the “backbone of the league,” has sponsored the longest-running regional tennis championship right from inception, earning applause for its consistency and commitment to grassroots tennis development. The company’s role, under the visionary leadership of its Chairman and Founder, Engr. Gilbert Obiajulu Uzodike (OON, DSc), has remained pivotal to the league’s steady growth.
The meeting also had a fresh spark as Sterling Bank PLC announced plans to partner with the ENIC League. Representing the bank, Mr. Damian Onyegbara, Regional Head of Sterling Bank, said the institution is stepping in to add more value and excitement to the competition. “We see potential in this league and are here to help boost its profile,” he assured.
Last year’s co-sponsor, Chief Emeka Diwe, Patron of ENIC and member of Aba Sports Club, added his voice, commending the vision of Engr Gilbert Obiajulu Uzodike, whose initiative has sustained the league for decades. Diwe, through his foundation, promised to continue supporting the project, stressing that

Ajukuchukwu’s legacy remains an inspiration.
The AGM also witnessed the presence of high-profile personalities, led by the Chairman and overall Patron of the League, Sir George Eche, alongside presidents of clubs across the zone. Notably, the newest entrants – PH Sports Club and Oguta Sports Club – were formally welcomed, while Calabar Sports Club made a celebrated return to the competition. In the same vein, Nkwere Country Club officially completed its registration, further expanding the reach of the ENIC League.


For the first time in the history of the competition, the event was streamed live by the ENIC Media Department to families across the zone. The innovation signals a new season of digital engagement, with plans already in place to broadcast at least one match from every center during the league campaign.
The gathering rounded off on a high note, with clubs and stakeholders reaffirming their readiness to keep the ENIC League not only alive but thriving as the biggest regional tennis showpiece in Nigeria.

ENIC Tennis League 2025/26 Season Serves Off October 11

By Silvernews

The 2025/26 ENIC Tennis League season will officially kick off on October 11, with the draws for the competition conducted at the sidelines of the Annual General Meeting (AGM) held at Safari Recreation Club, Owerri.


Sixteen clubs were drawn into four groups (A–D), setting the stage for weeks of exciting action on the courts.
Group A: Recreation Club Owerri, Owerri Sports Club, Oguta spoorts club Safari recreation club.
Group B: S.T.D.C Owerri, Port Harcourt Club, Recreation Club Owerri, Orlu Sports Club
Group C: Onitsha Country Club, Enugu Sports club Nnewi Sports
Group D: Aba Sports Club, Calabar sports club Uyo sports club.


League Chairman, Deacon Ugboaja Onyekwere Samuel, described the draws as a major step toward another memorable season, adding that the AGM provided an avenue to review progress and consolidate plans for the new campaign.
He assured stakeholders and fans that the 2025/26 edition will deliver thrilling contests and renewed rivalries as clubs battle for supremacy.


With the October 11 kickoff date around the corner, anticipation is already building among tennis lovers across the South East and South-South regions.

CELEBRATING A QUINTESSENTIAL SPORTS ADMINISTRATOR: SIR EMMANUEL ZIRA

It was a moment of joy and reflection as friends, family, colleagues, and admirers joined in celebrating the birthday of one of Nigeria’s most distinguished sports administrators, Sir Emmanuel Zira.
Described by many as a quintessential leader, Sir Zira has, for decades, remained a shining light in the nation’s sporting landscape, devoting his life to service, growth, and the nurturing of talents across Nigeria.
Known for his humility, deep faith in God, and unwavering patriotism, he has continued to inspire generations through his selfless contributions, hard work, and unmatched resourcefulness. A father, husband, and mentor, Sir Zira embodies the qualities of a true servant-leader whose legacy is already etched in gold.
Despite the stormy winds of life, he has remained steadfast, driven by his strong belief in God’s guidance. Those close to him say this faith has been his greatest strength, keeping him resolute in his mission to uplift Nigerian sports.
On this special day, as Sir Emmanuel Zira adds another year to his illustrious life, well-wishers across the country have showered him with prayers, asking God to continue to bless, guide, and protect him.
From the corridors of sports administration to the hearts of the people he has touched, one message rang loud and clear:
“Happy Birthday, Sir Emmanuel Zira. May your new chapter be filled with good health, joy, and more impactful years of service.”

League Boss Ugboaja Sets Tone for New Tennis Season

The Chairman of the ENIC Tennis League, Deacon Ugboaja Onyekwere Samuel, has called on all club captains to attend the league’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) slated for Saturday, September 27.
According to Ugboaja, the meeting will serve as an avenue to review preparations and set out strategies for the 2025/2026 season. He noted that each captain is expected to present the official players list of their respective clubs at the gathering.
The chairman reaffirmed the commitment of the ENIC Tennis League to building a stronger platform for competition, enhancing players’ welfare, and promoting the sport at both grassroots and elite levels.

Mbaise Community Drags Federal Government to Court Over Abandoned Power Project

The Incorporated Trustees of the Greater Mbaise Development Forum (GMDF) have filed a suit at the Federal High Court, Abuja, seeking an order of mandamus to compel the Federal Government and its agencies to complete the long-abandoned Mbaise Transmission Power and Transmission Line Project in Imo State.
In the suit, GMDF named the Minister of Power, the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), and the Attorney-General of the Federation as defendants.
The group, made up of Mbaise elites within and outside Nigeria, argued that the project, which commenced in 2009 at Ibeku, Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area, was abandoned midway, leaving the people of Mbaise in “perennial darkness” while other parts of Imo State enjoy electricity supply.
According to court documents, large portions of farmland were acquired from locals for the project with the promise of improved power supply, but the community has since been left without access to both electricity and the seized land.
The GMDF disclosed that it had previously petitioned the National Assembly over what it described as “total neglect, extortion, and blackout” in Mbaise. During hearings in 2023 and 2024, the House of Representatives Committee on Public Petitions confirmed that the absence of a transmission station was the major cause of the blackout. TCN officials admitted to the problem, promising to revive the project, but no significant progress has been made since.
In affidavits deposed to by GMDF representatives, the group said it issued demand and pre-action notices in May 2025 to the Ministry of Power, TCN, and NERC, but the agencies “failed, refused, and neglected” to act.
The suit, supported by affidavits and legal submissions from the group’s counsel, Chief Malachy Nwaekpe and team, urged the court to compel the federal agencies to immediately complete the Ibeku transmission station and power line, stressing that the matter is of urgent public interest.
No date has yet been fixed for the hearing.

Imo Sports Commissioner Onyeocha Congratulates Chiamaka Nnadozie on Ballon d’Or Recognition

By Silvernews

 

The Imo State Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Obinna Evaristus Onyeocha, has congratulated Super Falcons goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie, for finishing fourth in the 2025 Women’s Ballon d’Or Yachine Trophy ranking in Paris, France.

 

Hon. Onyeocha described Nnadozie’s recognition as a well-deserved honour, noting that she has consistently distinguished herself as one of the finest goalkeepers in the world. He recalled that the Imo-born star has been voted Africa’s Best Goalkeeper for two consecutive years and also emerged as the Best Goalkeeper at the last Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

 

The Commissioner further highlighted her outstanding performances for both the Super Falcons and her club in England, where she continues to showcase world-class goalkeeping ability.

 

Hon. Onyeocha also recalled that the Executive Governor of Imo State, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma, had hosted players of Imo origin who represented Nigeria at the WAFCON in Morocco, in recognition of their efforts and to encourage them to achieve greater heights.

 

“Chiamaka is not only a pride to Imo State but also to Nigeria and Africa at large. Her remarkable achievements continue to inspire young athletes, particularly female footballers, to dream big and pursue greatness in their careers,” Hon. Onyeocha stated.

 

He assured that the Imo State Government remains committed to supporting and nurturing sporting talents across the state, with Nnadozie’s success serving as a shining example of what dedication and discipline can achieve.

EBONYI ICT VARSITY LAUNCHES 20 NEW COURSES, SET TO BEGIN 2025/2026 SESSION

By Dr. Ahaotu Ikenna Henry

 

The Ebonyi State University of ICT, Science and Technology, Oferekpe, has announced the introduction of 20 new academic programmes for the 2025/2026 academic session.

 

Vice Chancellor of the institution, Engr. Prof. Ernest Ituma Egba, disclosed this development after receiving approval from the National Universities Commission (NUC). The approval letter was signed by the Acting Director of Academic Planning, Abubakar M. Girei.

 

Prof. Egba expressed delight at the milestone, stressing that the university had made adequate preparations in human and material resources to sustain the new programmes. He also commended Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, for his unwavering support.

 

We appreciate that the Governor understands the importance of quality staff, adequate teaching and learning facilities, and infrastructure. His financial and moral support has been crucial. Our university already boasts a good number of highly qualified staff trained both locally and abroad, and their expertise will greatly benefit our students,” Prof. Egba said.

 

 

 

The approved courses include:

 

ICT & Engineering: B.Sc. Computer Science, B.Sc. Data Sciences, B.Sc. Software Engineering, B.Sc. Cyber Security, B.Sc. Information and Communication Technology, B.Sc. Information Systems, B.Sc. Information Technology, B.Eng. Computer Engineering, B.Eng. Civil Engineering, and B.Eng. Electrical & Electronic Engineering.

 

Sciences & Health: B.Sc. Human Nutrition and Dietetics, HIM Health Information Management.

 

Social Sciences & Management: B.Sc. Accounting, B.Sc. Economics, B.Sc. Entrepreneurship, B.Sc. Mass Communication.

 

Built Environment: B.Sc. Architecture, B.Sc. Building, B.Sc. Surveying and Geoinformatics, B.Sc. Quantity Surveying.

 

 

In a statement, the Acting Registrar, Dr. Chukwu Eze-Obia, urged prospective candidates with a JAMB cut-off mark of 150 and above to apply by making the university their first choice on the JAMB CAPS portal. More details are available at www.uicto.edu.ng.

 

Prof. Egba emphasized the institution’s mission of widening access to higher education, particularly in ICT, science, and technology.

 

We aim to provide high-quality education that equips students with the skills to compete in today’s digital world. Our goal is to produce graduates capable of addressing the technological and scientific needs of society,” he stated.

 

 

 

On infrastructure, the Vice Chancellor confirmed that the Ebonyi State Government had made substantial investments in campus development. Key projects such as faculty buildings, the senate building, the university library, student hostels, and staff quarters are either completed or at advanced stages.

 

Established on January 23, 2025, the Ebonyi State University of ICT, Science and Technology is Nigeria’s 66th state university and the 278th institution in the national university system. Its vision is to become a leading ICT-driven centre of learning and research, producing skilled graduates for global impact.

Standard Tennis Development Club Owerri to Induct Imo Sports Commissioner Onyeocha as Patron

The Standard Tennis Development Club Owerri has announced plans to induct the Imo State Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Obinna Evaristus Onyeocha, as a patron of the club.

 

This was disclosed during a working visit to the club by the commissioner, where the club’s president, Mr. Okey Anyiam, formally communicated the decision. The visit was witnessed by top members of the club, including some trustees and patrons as Dr. Kachi Nwoga, Israel Osigwe, Emma Duru, Charles Duruaku, and other notable personalities.

In his remarks, Mr. Anyiam praised the commissioner’s achievements in office, highlighting the “Lighting Up the Stadium” initiative which has enhanced the sports community and provided an enabling environment for athletes. He also commended Onyeocha’s swift reward system for outstanding sportsmen and women from Imo State who excel in major competitions, describing it as one of the best policies by any sports commissioner in the state.

 

Speaking at the event, Dr. Kachi Nwoga and Israel Okigwe congratulated the commissioner for breaking new ground in the ministry. They reiterated the special role of STDC in developing Nigeria’s top tennis players over the years, and pledged the club’s continued support for the growth and development of sports in Imo State.

 

The official induction ceremony, according to the club, will take place soon, at a date to be announced.

SWAN Sets Up Diamond Jubilee National Awards Committee, Appoints Abdulgafar Oladimeji as Chairman

The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has inaugurated a Diamond Jubilee National Awards Committee to oversee the conferment of honours on individuals and organizations that have contributed to the growth of sports and social development in Nigeria.

 

The awards ceremony will form part of activities marking the 60th anniversary of SWAN, the national umbrella body of sports journalists in the country.

 

According to a statement from the SWAN National Secretariat, the committee is tasked with identifying and recommending deserving recipients across various categories of the SWAN National Awards, in line with the association’s statutes.

 

The appointment letters, signed by the National Secretary, Amb. Ikenna Okonkwo, confirmed the composition of the committee as follows:

 

Abdulgafar Oladimeji – Chairman

 

Jibo Zakari – North East representative

 

Eche Emos – North Central representative

 

Akintunde Akinsemola – South West representative

 

Victor Okoye – FCT representative

 

Chigozie Chukwuleta – South East representative (Secretary)

 

Kehinde Ken Osagiede – South South representative

 

 

Okonkwo noted that the committee’s mandate is to ensure a transparent process in selecting outstanding individuals, public figures, and corporate organizations with proven track records in sports development and other areas of social impact.

2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup Race: Falconets return, head to Ibadan

 

 

The victorious Nigeria U20 girls, Falconets, returned to the country from Kigali on Monday morning, after their 1-0 defeat of Rwanda’s She-Amavubi in a 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup qualifying match on Sunday.

 

 

Alaba Olabiyi struck with 20 minutes left of the encounter at the Kigali-Pele Stadium to give Nigeria victory and the advantage in the fixture, ahead of the return leg at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Ibadan on Saturday.

 

 

Players and officials have headed to the Oyo State capital, to continue intensive preparations for Saturday’s final leg of the fixture, with players in high spirit, and eager to impress on home soil and secure passage to the third round of the qualification series