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HEARTLAND QUEENS FC RAPS UP 2025/26 NWFL SEASON WITH A VICTORY AT THE EXPENSE OF ADAMAWA QUEENS

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BY KINGSLEY UZOWULU

Heartland Queens of Owerri in match day 18 of the NWFL defeated visiting Adamawa Queens by 1-0 to rap up the season.

The match which was decided at the main bowl of the Dan Anyiam Stadium saw the two sides that maintain a great rivalry lock horns.

At previous meetings, the North East side won 2 while the Owerri land ladies won 1.

The home team in match day 17 against Bayelsa Queens lost by0-2, while Adamawa Queens also trashed Naija Ratel with 2 I replied goals at the Makwada Stadium in Numan.

The Owerri side are sixth on the nine team group A table with nineteen points and a point below their opponent.

The match as commenced by 4pm via a kick off by the home team through Opara Chimaebere.

The Obi Ogbala girls indicated their quest to revenge the defeat they suffered in the hands of the Fresh air queens as they lost in the first stanza of the league in Numan by 0-2.

The home girls kept on mounting the required pressure on the visitors to succumb while keeping the Adamawa Queens in their own half, the visitors did everything to keep Heartland Queens attackers at Bay.

The goal tender of the Fresh air queens , Chinelo Echefu helped her team to contain the pressure by the home team as she stopped every move by the team to score and take the lead until the blast of the referees whistle for the end of the first period after six minutes additional time of play.

Adamawa Queens took the kickoff for the second half and the home wasted no time to seize possession of play with the determination to maintain their invincibility at home, they continued their onslaught into the visitors vital area without any goal to tell the story.

In the 90th minute of the match the home team took the lead off a goal mouth melee through the captain of the side, Opara Chimaebere.

The Fresh air queens came out from their shell after conceding the goal to put up a strong fight as the bench drafted in Amaechi Duru(18) and Akorede(4) to beef up the team .

The home team also sent in Agbaja Abibat and Kalu Onyinyechi to fortify the team.

The changes made by the two teams added some bite into the teams as the two teams fought like wounded lions with good ball possessions and display of soccer artistry.

The match remained in favor of the home team until the referee called for the end of proceedings.

In her reaction at a post match interview, the coach of Adamawa Queens , Heman Dadeino stated that her team played to her instructions while expressing her disappointment over what she called poor officiating by the match officials.

She said that her team is a work in progress and that by the next season of the NWFL Adamawa Queens will play in the Super Six.

Coach Obi Ogbala, commended his team for their resilience, team spirit and endurance in the cause of the match and expressed joy and happiness for their ability to pick the three points at stake.

The coach apologized to football fans in the state and beyond for the failure of the team to qualify for the Super Six but promised that the team will compete favourably in this year’s Federation cup to put smiles on the faces of soccer fans.

 

How 27-year-old Kenyan, Edgah Mitemah is turning scouting in African football into success

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A 27-year-old Kenyan, Edgah Mitemah, is gradually turning scouting in African football into a global powerhouse owing to his tremendous commitment in showcasing some of the most exciting talent in the sport.

The fast-rising agent was born and raised in Kenya, where he earned a diploma in mechanical engineering.

Remarkably, Mitemah began to exhibit passion into football scouting at a tender age of 21 and was already negotiating his first major deal.

After high school, he pushed into the professional game, earning opportunities with Kenyan clubs like Mathare United and Tusker FC.

Known for his strong commitment in changing the narrative in African football, he made a decision that would define his career by stepping away from active football.

He noticed a missing link relating to players’ representation where players often rely on chance, connections, or incomplete guidance to move forward.

His breakthrough came early in players’ representation at 21 when he pulled off a deal that still stands as a personal landmark by identifying Spanish coach Pablo Franco and convincing him to take up a role at Simba SC.

Mitemah sharpened his craft at Euro Africa Connect, a well-known agency in the region. But even in a structured environment, he felt the pull to do things differently. He believed the next generation of agents could offer something more—closer relationships with players, better understanding of modern football, and a more proactive approach to career building.

The 27-year-old began to build a network and a portfolio that reflected both his eye for talent and his persistence.

His client list grew to include players like Junior Lokosa, Ian Otieno, Jesse Were, Duke Abuya, Wasiu Jimoh, and Moses Shumah, among others.

Beyond his exploits to broker deals, Mitemah has developed a broader perspective on the African transfer market.

In his illustrious career as an agent, he noticed a trend that continues to shape careers across the continent where clubs in East, North, and Southern Africa often look westward when recruiting, favouring West African players.

He noted that this singular move is tied to deeper structures like CAF and FIFA rankings, which influence perception and, ultimately, opportunity.

Mitemah is quietly shaping a space in African football that many are only just beginning to understand—one deal, one player, one belief at a time.

Excitement as Ekiti Auditor-General Bows Out of Public Service

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The Auditor-General of Ekiti State, Oluwole Adeuya, has meritoriously retired from the public service of the state after attaining the statutory retirement age.

Adeuya, who hails from Ido-Ekiti in Ido/Osi Local Government Area, was appointed in 2020 as the Auditor-General of the state by former Governor Kayode Fayemi.

Speaking in Ado-Ekiti, on Wednesday, at the meritorious service and pen-down ceremony in his honour, Ekiti State Head of Service, Olufolake Olomojobi, described the former Auditor-General as an amiable professional who ensured financial accountability and probity.

She noted that the former Auditor-General improved the financial management systems in the state public service and urged serving auditors to emulate his top-notch professionalism.

Her words: He is a very amiable professional. He came into office on merit in accordance with the government of Ekiti State principle of merit-based appointment. He has been able to work well with the team to improve our financial management systems. He was able to transform his office physically and has contributed immensely to public service in ensuring financial accountability and probity.

“This is also premised on his strong network with the Ministry of Finance, his predecessors and the entire audit team. As a body in the public service, we are very appreciative for the roles he played in the last couple of years and we look forward to his continuous collaboration in the public service.

“My charge to those in the audit office is to learn from his professionalism, his ability to engage stakeholders very well and to understand that their roles are to prevent incursions in financial management and educate the public service on every occasion they get.”

In the same vein, Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Stephen Aribasoye, recalled with great enthusiasm for the tremendous support from the retired Auditor-General during his stint in public service.

Aribasoye hailed the outgone Auditor-General, describing him as a great unifier who was committed to the progress and development of the public service in the state audit office.

According to him, “Out of my 17 years in service, I spent 14 years in this office. One of the men that made this place so memorable for me is the man we are celebrating. By the time I was leaving the office, my direct boss was Adeuya. Whatever we do today will definitely land at the shore of tomorrow. All of us are mere links in the chain of history

“I recall when I was in school, I was under you. All privileges that I needed to enjoy, you never denied me of any throughout. That was why when it was our turn to stand by you, we stood by you.

“All of us can see what leadership should be and we have seen leadership leading from the front. He is a leader not a boss. It is the impact you have made on the people that will speak after you. I am one of those that benefited from you in the state audit.”

In his valedictory speech, Adeuya expressed appreciation to Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji for his strong commitment to good governance that has greatly strengthened public sector accountability in the state.

He highlighted the significant milestones and landmark achievements during his tenure as Auditor-General to include; granting of operational and financial autonomy to both the state and local government audit offices, the appointment and confirmation of the secretary to Audit Service Commission with the status of Permanent Secretary.

Other milestones include, the appointment of four Deputy Auditors-General in both the state and local government audit offices, the construction of a separate office for the Auditor-General and additional office space, the construction of a perimeter fence and the landscaping of the Office of the State Auditor-General.

The retired Auditor-General equally acknowledged the invaluable contributions of the Speaker of Ekiti State House of Assembly noting that his legislative support helped create an enabling environment for the strengthening of the audit institution in the state.

The former Auditor-General seized the occasion to appreciate the Commissioner for Finance, Akin Oyebode, Chairman of Ekiti State Audit Service Commission, commissioners, ministries, departments, agencies and his colleagues in the office of the Auditor-General for their support and steadfast commitment during his tenure.

He urged public officers to continue to uphold the core values of integrity, accountability and service to the people stressing that the strength of the institutions depends on the character and commitment of public office holders.

In their separate goodwill messages, the Chairman of Audit Service Commission, Ade-Ojo Adebayo and Chairman of Body of Auditors-General and Ondo State Auditor-General, Sunday Adegoke lauded Adeuya for his prudent stewardship to public service.

Highlights of the epoch-making event include pen-down formality, special rendition and performance by Audit Voice and Ekiti State Performing Arts Company, and prayers for the celebrant.

Barau FC Beat Bichi First FC to Emerge Kano 2026 FA Cup Winners

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Barau Football Club, for the first time in their history, won the 2026 Kano State Federation Cup following an outstanding 3–2 victory over NNL side Bichi First FC.

The match was played on Monday, 27 April 2026, at the iconic Sani Abacha Stadium, witnessed by fans across the state, including Kano State FA Chairman, Sharif Rabiu Inuwa Ahlan, among others.

The Maliya Boys opened the scoring in the 7th minute through Sa’ad Tijjani, after capitalizing on a well-created chance to put Barau FC ahead.

Bichi First FC responded quickly after the break, equalizing in the 51st minute through Usman Ahmed. However, Barau FC regained the lead in the 56th minute when Sugau Aliyu converted from the penalty spot.

Bichi FC once again levelled the score in the 58th minute through Abubakar Shua’abu, but Henry Ezoenye sealed the victory with a decisive goal in the 71st minute, securing a historic triumph for Barau FC.

The Maliya Boys began their campaign at the semi-final stage, where they defeated Chanji FC 4–0 to book a place in the final, eventually going on to lift the trophy.

Under the leadership of General Manager Dominic lorfa, Barau FC demonstrated quality, dedication, and experience to secure their first-ever Federation Cup title.

Barau FC striker Abdulmajid Aminu emerged as the top scorer of the tournament, netting two goals against Chanji FC, while the technical crew praised the team’s resilience and character.

The trophy presentation was conducted by the Kano State FA Chairman, Sharif Rabiu Inuwa, and received by Barau FC captain, Usman Maidubji.

“We are very happy to win this trophy for the first time. We stayed patient and brave, and when the moment came, we took it,” said captain Usman Maidubji.

Barau FC Lineup vs Bichi First FC: 24. Emeka Nwabulu (GK), 22. Sugau Aliyu, 3. Bismark Duah Dapma, 33. Jimmy Ambrose, 5. Moses Tsehuan, 8. Usman Maidubji (C), 9. Sa’ad Tijjani, 4. Ebuka Nwokorie, 7. Joseph Atule, 39. Adamu Hussein, 9. Abdulmajid Aminu

Substitutes: 31. Oscar Destiny, 33. Nura Ibrahim, 13. Sunday Dapma, 27. Chisom Flavian, 26. Stanley Oganbor, 19. Henry Ezoenye, 34. Ibrahim Yunusa, 12. Muhammad Umar.

Substitutions: 35′ | Stanley Oganbor and Muhammad Umar replaced Adamu Hussein and Abdulmajid Aminu.

46′ | Henry Ezoenye replaced Ebuka Nwokorie 60′ | Nura Ibrahim replaced Sugau Aliyu
73′ | Sunday Dapma replaced Bismark Duah Dapma.

Unused Substitutes: Oscar Destiny, Chisom Flavian, Ibrahim Yunusa.

Barau FC have now emerged as champions of the 2026 Kano State Federation Cup and will represent Kano State in this year’s President Federation Cup.

Final Score: Barau FC 3–2 Bichi First FC.

Goalscorers (Barau FC) ⚽ Sa’ad Tijjani – 7′ ⚽ Sugau Aliyu (Pen) – 56′ ⚽ Henry Ezoenye – 71′

Goalscorers ( Bichi First FC) ⚽ Usman Ahmed 51′ ⚽ Abubakar Shuaibu 58′.

NUSA APPOINTS SPORTS DIRECTOR, SET TO ROLL OUT UNION FOOTBALL PROGRAMME

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By Silvernews

The Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA) has taken a significant step toward strengthening unity and member engagement through sports with the appointment of Hon. Oziegbe Dickson J. as its Sports Director.

The announcement, made by the leadership of the union, underscores a renewed commitment to fostering cohesion among members while promoting healthy competition across its various wards.

In his new role, Hon. Oziegbe will oversee the coordination, supervision and strategic development of all sporting activities within the NUSA structure.

His immediate task includes the preparation of a comprehensive timetable for an inter-ward football programme aimed at bringing members together in a vibrant and inclusive sporting environment.

According to a statement signed by George O. Sylvester, Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to the President General of NUSA, the forthcoming football initiative is designed to encourage active participation and deepen unity among members.

“The objective is to create a lively and inclusive atmosphere that strengthens our bond through sport,” the statement noted, adding that details of match fixtures and venues will be communicated in due course.

Members across all wards have been urged to remain actively engaged, support their respective teams and contribute to the success of the programme.

The union expressed optimism that the football initiative would not only enhance recreational activities but also serve as a unifying platform for its diverse membership.

Philanthropist donates over N12million to Imo community

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Chief Magnus Agara, a philanthropist and community leader, has donated the sum of N12,500,000 to the Amurie Omanze ancient kingdom, Isu council area of Imo, where he hails from.

Agara, a chemical engineer and Chief Executive Officer of Nymagx Energy Services Limited made to donation following the conferment of a chieftaincy title on him by his traditional ruler, Eze Charles Nnajimere, in the latter’s palace, on Saturday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Agara was conferred with the traditional title of ‘Okpata enye ohanaeze 1’ (the people’s benefactor), in recognition of his outstanding service, leadership and commitment to community development.

He donated the sums of N7 million to the palace, N1 million to the cabinet members and chiefs, N2 million to traditional rulers, and N2.5 million to wives of traditional rulers at the event.

Agara thanked his people for demonstrating their appreciation for his gestures adding that he was spurred to do more.

“ I feel happy for this appreciation from my people and I promise to do more in the areas of medical sponsorships, youth empowerment, education and infrastructure “, he said.

Agara’s wife, Mrs Pamela who was conferred with the title of ‘Ugosimba 1’ (the kingdom’s precious jewel), thanked the town for their “show of love and acceptance “.

She promised to support her husband, more than ever before, to keep moving the town forward.

Also, Eze Nnajimere said that Agara was honoured for his generous assistance to the people of Amuri Omanze, Isu and Imo at large, and advised other privileged individuals across the country to emulate his generosity.

“ High Chief Agara has donated vehicles to both the Anglican and Catholic communities in our LGA, installed solar lights across various communities and released a business grant of over N12 million before this time, to the LGA as part of his empowerment initiative.

“ Government cannot do it all, so I advise privileged persons and good spirited members of society to emulate this our illustrious son”, he said.

The President-General of Amuri Omanze town union, Chief Ositadimma Onu, commended Agara’s humble disposition and prayed for God’s blessings, guidance and protection on him.

Also, Chief James Ibe, a cabinet chairman and friend of the celebrant, thanked him for “bringing development to the grassroots “ and urged him to keep putting smiles on the faces of his people.

NAN reports that the event, spiced up with music from various cultural troupes, was attended by no less than 12 traditional rulers from the council area and others from across Imo and beyond.

NPFL Promotion: Gold Cup Organisers Congratulate Sporting Lagos

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The organisers of Nigeria’s renowned off-season tournament, Gold Cup, have extended their congratulations to Sporting Lagos for securing a spot in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL).

Jeffrey Butler and his team made history after clinching the South-West bragging rights by defeating Osun United in the season finale fixture of the Nigeria National League at Lanreleke Township Stadium, Ileogbo.

Alex Leme scored the winning goal in the 17th minute, helping Sporting Lagos finish at the top of Conference B with 36 points from 18 matches.

Tunde Shamsudeen, the General Coordinator of the Gold Cup Pre-season Tournament, expressed his joy on Thursday evening.

“Congratulations to Sporting Lagos for earning a well-deserved promotion.

“As reigning champions of the Gold Cup pre-season tournament, we are very proud of their achievement.

“Twice they have used the Gold Cup platform to assess their team during the pre-season, and both times, they have earned promotion to the top-flight league.

“The significance of Sporting Lagos’s promotion, is a testament to the rigorous work Coach Butler, his players and backroom staff have put in.

“This feat cannot also be achieved without the administrative acumen of Godwin Enakhena. We also pour encomiums on Shola Akinlade, co-founder and CEO of Paystack, for his relentless support.”

We will shutdown unregistered hotels in Nigeria, NHA warns

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The Nigeria Hotel Association (NHA) has warned that it would soon begin the shutdown of unregistered hotels in the country.

The Association’s President, Eze Patrick Anyanwu, said this while addressing newsmen during a parley of its national executive and state chairmen in Owerri, on Thursday.

The traditional ruler who spoke on the first day of the two-day meeting said that the unruly activities of criminals who lodged in unregistered hotels was a major contributor to insecurity in the country.

He called on all hotel owners to identify with the NHA or risk shutdown through the use of legal force, describing the hospitality industry as “one of the most important drivers of economic growth in Nigeria “.

“ In the near future, hotels that refuse to register with the NHA will face penalties and may risk being shut down as part of efforts to sanitize the industry.

“ We cannot continue to allow any hotel that is not registered to operate and damage the reputation of our association because they use such facilities to commit crime that affects the nation in general “, he said.

He further urged the government at all levels to provide interventions such as grants or bail out funds to support the association and its members nationwide.

He commended the Federal Government and the Imo government for their efforts in promoting tourism and creating an enabling environment for the growth of the hospitality sector.

He however decried the multiple taxation of hoteliers across and called for caution, while urging various state governments to work cooperatively with hoteliers in their domains.

“ In consideration of our huge contribution to employment, revenue generation, accommodation of government visitors from all over the world and national development, it is only fair that the government supports us.

“ The recent action of the National Institute of Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) has been seriously affecting the hospitality industry, especially hotels over implementation of NIHOTOUR Act 2022, and this is not in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government.

“ This is against the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria that put tourism services under a residual list and has to stop, as we will not allow any agency or group to harass or intimidate our members “, he said.

Ex-National Sports Commission Director Dr. Patrick Ekeji Hails Rangers Intl FC Foundation’s ‘Life-Changing’ Community Drive

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Former Director of the National Sports Commission, Dr. Patrick Ekeji, has applauded Rangers International Football Club for establishing the Rangers International Football Club Foundation, describing it as a bold step toward greater community impact and sustainable development.

Dr. Ekeji gave the commendation in his hometown during a courtesy visit by Amb. Kennedy Onwunali, Community Ambassador of Rangers International FC Foundation, Imo State.

The visit briefed him on Onwunali’s new dual role as Local Government Football Administrator for the Imo State Football Association and as Community Impact Ambassador for the Foundation.

Noting that Rangers International FC Foundation is Nigeria’s first football club foundation delivering life-changing programs for children and young persons, Dr. Ekeji expressed delight at the initiative.

A former player of Vasco Da Gama and Rangers International FC, he said the Foundation aligns with international best practices and is a welcome development for Nigerian football.

He commended Rangers International FC management for the initiative and pledged his support through the Community Impact Ambassador to expand outreach to children and young persons across communities.

Dr. Ekeji also praised Amb. Onwunali for his steadfast commitment to sports development and youth empowerment, using sports to disrupt factors that drive offending behaviors — a hallmark of Rangers International FC Foundation’s work.

Imo Police Command Partners Patricklingo Pharmaceutical Limited, Receives Pharmaceutical Support

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The Imo State Police Command has partnered Patricklingo Pharmaceutical Limited to strengthen healthcare support for police personnel across the State, with the company donating pharmaceutical supplies to the Command’s Medical Department.

Speaking during the presentation, the Chief Executive Officer of the company, Chief Onwuelingo Patrick Uchechukwu, stated that the donation reflects a strong commitment to supporting officers who risk their lives and health in the line of duty. He noted that the initiative is aimed at enhancing the capacity of the Police Medical Department and improving access to essential medications.

The donated items include cartons of Babatem, Rellxtra (gel and tablets), Babadol, Baba, Chakapain, Babafam, and Lopramax, which will be utilized by the Medical Department to meet the healthcare needs of officers and men of the Command.

Receiving the items on behalf of the Inspector-General of Police, the Commissioner of Police, Imo State Command, CP Audu Garba Bosso, psc(+), mnips, expressed appreciation for the gesture. He described the support as timely and impactful, noting that it will significantly improve the health, morale, and operational effectiveness of personnel.

The Commissioner of Police assured that the Medical Department will ensure proper distribution and utilization of the supplies at no cost to officers, while reaffirming the Command’s commitment to personnel welfare.

The Command encourages well-meaning individuals and organizations to emulate this initiative, as collective support remains vital in strengthening policing and ensuring public safety across Imo State

DSP OKOYE HENRY, ANIPR
Police Public Relations Officer
Imo State Police Command

15th April, 2026

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