By Silvernews

September 18, 1994, remains a dark date in Nigeria’s sporting history. On that day, tragedy struck when players and officials of Iwuanyanwu Nationale were involved in a plane crash on their return from a continental engagement in Tunisia.

The crash claimed the lives of star players Uche Ikogu and Omale, along with three crew members of Oriental Airlines. The aircraft was owned by the late Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, then proprietor of the club and one of Nigeria’s foremost sports philanthropists.

Speaking about the remembrance Imo State Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Obinna Onyeocha, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to preserving the memory of the fallen heroes.

“The sacrifices of Uche Ikogu, Omale, and the crew members who lost their lives on that tragic day remain etched in our hearts. They died representing Nigeria with pride, and we owe it to them to ensure their legacies are never forgotten,” Onyeocha said.

The remembrance rekindles painful memories but also stands as a reminder of the resilience of Nigerian football and the enduring spirit of sportsmanship.

Heartland FC Technical Manager, Emmanuel Amuneke, has welcomed the outcome of the Nigeria National League (NNL) draw which placed the Naze Millionaires in the Southern Conference A alongside Crown FC, Edel FC, Sunshine Stars, E-World FC, Inter FC Lagos, Smart City FC, Godswill Akpabio United FC, Abia Comets, and Beyond Limits.

Speaking after the draw, Amuneke expressed confidence in his team’s readiness, stressing that Heartland will compete strongly while respecting every opponent in the group.

“We have been expecting the draw and with what we have done since June when the team resumed rebuilding, we are ready to compete. It is a welcome development and we respect all the teams in our group because they deserve to be there,” the 1994 CAF Player of year told Heartland FC Media.

The former Super Eagles winger noted the significant progress made since the club began its restructuring process, highlighting the blend of new signings and retained players as a key strength ahead of the new season.

“Some of the players we used last season have left, and we have brought in new players. Our objective is to use this new crop, along with the retained ones, to achieve our goal of returning to the NPFL.

“The new players are adapting very well, and I am happy with their commitment. I can categorically say we are much better than last season because we’ve had more time to prepare and assess the team,” Amuneke said.

He further emphasized the role of Imo people in the journey back to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), urging continuous support for the state’s flagship football club.

“Heartland FC remains the team of Imo State. Imolites deserve the best, and we know they want the best for their club. They have the right to express their opinions, and we must listen. But above all, we call on them to stand by their team in good and bad times, because their support will drive us closer to our goal,” he added.

Heartland FC will begin their campaign in the 2025/26 NNL season with renewed determination to secure a swift return to the topflight when they face Crown FC of Ogbomosho in the first game on November 8th, 2025 in Ogbomosho.

In the often turbulent world of Nigerian basketball, Ugo Udezue has carved out a reputation as a stabiliser, a builder, and above all, a visionary. As the South East zonal representative on the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) board and chairman of the Anambra State Basketball Association, Udezue has spent the past three years reshaping the game in his region with a leadership style rooted in win-win.

For Udezue, progress has not been about noise or personal headlines but about results. Under his watch, the South East has enjoyed a revival, with landmark tournaments such as the Owerri Basketball Classic in 2022 and the Oriental Classics Invitational in Enugu in 2023 giving hundreds of young players a chance to shine.

But his impact goes far beyond the tournaments. He has worked tirelessly behind the scenes to build the foundation for lasting growth. Udezue organised the first-ever South East coaching clinic, ushering in a new generation of referees and table officials. He also donated two modern basketball uprights to the Enugu State Indoor Sports Hall, an investment that changed the vitality of the game in the city.

Never one to think small, he has pushed for diaspora involvement, encouraging camps and academies to spring up across the zone, while also ensuring that South East coaches are represented on the national stage.

Those who know him say his secret lies in his style of leadership. Rather than confrontation, he seeks common ground, ensuring that every stakeholder feels carried along. “Consensus is stability,” he often says — and that philosophy has created unity in a zone long plagued by fragmentation.

His influence extends beyond the region. Udezue has quietly worked with NBBF President, Engr. Musa Kida, to help maintain stability in Nigerian basketball as a whole, lending his experience and credibility at critical moments.

The results are clear. Facilities are improving, young players are getting exposure, and coaches are being recognised nationally. Challenges remain — from limited funding to underwhelming performances of South East clubs in national competitions — but few doubt that Udezue has placed the region on a firmer path.

In the end, Ugo Udezue is more than just an administrator; he is a bridge-builder, a reformer, and, in the eyes of many, the quiet force behind the rebirth of South East basketball.

On Monday, September 15, 2025, Rangers International FC Foundation hosted a successful community-based engagement under its #MentorMe initiative at St. Theresa Catholic Church, Ugbodogwu Community, Trans Ekulu, Enugu, Southeast Nigeria.

Speaking after the event, the Chairman of Rangers Intl FC Foundation, Coach Ebere Amaraizu, expressed gratitude to the Carmelite Prisoners’ Interest Organization (CAPIO) for their support, which played a vital role in the success of the intervention targeted at teenagers—both boys and girls—within the community. He also commended the contributions of the Cope and Live Mental Health Awareness Foundation.

Coach Amaraizu explained that #MentorMe is a community-based initiative of Rangers Intl FC Foundation designed to reach children and young persons, particularly those who are vulnerable and at risk of engaging in delinquent behavior due to environmental and social pressures. He emphasized that the project is a problem-solving initiative that creates safe spaces where participants can learn, share, and grow.

The intervention featured activities such as psychosocial engagement, critical thinking exercises, brain health awareness sessions, as well as sports and physical activities. The collaboration was aimed at building resilience, supporting children’s mental well-being, and equipping them with skills and practical tools to overcome low self-esteem. Ultimately, the program seeks to transform mental and emotional challenges into strengths, enabling participants to make positive life choices and decisions.

Team Nigeria is ready for action at the upcoming Chicago 2025 International Tennis Invitational, with its squad drawn from some of the country’s finest tennis institutions.

Players were selected from FHA Tennis Club, Victoria Garden City Tennis Club, Onitsha Country Club, and Enugu Sports Club, bringing together a blend of experience and raw talent.

Officials and supporters are confident of the team’s chances, stressing that Nigeria’s representatives are well-prepared and determined. With the strength of the clubs behind them, optimism is high that the trophy is heading home.

The 2025/2026 Nigeria National League, NNL, season will kick off on November 8, 2025 with a star match between Lobi Stars and City FC of Abuja while the season is expected to end in April 2026.

Meanwhile, the club owners in the Nigeria National League, NNL, have unanimously abolished Super 8 playoffs.

They reached the consensus agreement during its Annual General Meeting ahead of the new campaign in Kaduna.

The club owners unanimously agreed that four teams from each conferences will automatically secure the promotion ticket to the Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL.

Also, the last three clubs in Conferences A & B will be relegated while the last two teams in conferences C&D will be relegated.

Match Day 1 Fixtures:

Conference A

Abia Comets – Smart City

Beyond Limits FA – Godswill Akpabio FC

Crown FC – Heartland FC

Edel FC – Sunshine Stars

E-World United – Inter Lagos FC.

Conference B

Akwa United – Solution FC

Abakaliki FC – Rovers FC

Ekiti United – Stormers FC

Dakkada FC – First Bank of Lagos

Sporting Lagos -Osun United.

Conference C

ABS – Sokoto United

Basira FC – Might Jets

Doma United – Kada Warriors

Lobi Stars – City FC Abuja.

Conference D.

Bichi First FC – Yobe Desert Stars

Jigawa GS – Kebbi United

Ranchers Bees FC – Gombe United

Adamawa United – Sporting Supreme FC, Abuja .

By Precious Oham

Yesterday, 16 September 2025, the media space went agog with the announcement of the legendary Ex-Nigeria International, Dominic Iorfa, as the new General Manager of Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, newcomers, Barau FC.

Yes, the announcement shook the entire media space in the country, but, to me, it was just a matter of time, for the legendary figure in Nigerian football, widely known as the “Speedstar” during his playing career, to return to football management.

Iorfa’s legendary status in Nigerian football, over the years, has transcended beyond his illustrious playing career to significant contributions to the growth of Nigerian football through various administrative positions.

Notably, in March 2022, the Benue-born astute administrator was recalled by the then governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom as Vice Chairman of Lobi Stars, when they were threatened by relegation in Nigeria’s top-flight.

Of course, his leadership expertise ensured that the team escaped the drop, after they were stuck in the 19th position, which led to enviable heights in subsequent seasons.

Fast-forward to today, the towering and physically-imposing striker, during his playing career, is back to football management with Kano-based side, Barau FC.

Coincidentally, the NPFL newcomers, who are languishing in the basement of the league after four matches in the ongoing 2025/26 season, are about to witness remarkable milestones under the astute leadership of Iorfa.

In sum, fans, supporters, partners and associates of Barua FC should anticipate a huge turnaround of results under his leadership alongside the coaching crew led by Ladan Bosso.

Grassroots football in Nigeria is taking a major leap forward with the official launch of Acquire Football Academy (Acquire FA) in Awo Omamma, Imo State. This football academy, fully registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and licensed by the Imo State Football Association, Delta State Football Association (DFA), and the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), is set to become a game changer for youth football development in Nigeria.

*A Vision Rooted in Grassroots Development*

Acquire FA was founded by Nwaobi Izuchukwu Daniel, a native of Umuokwe Umuorji in Awo Omamma. His vision is to give young Nigerian players the opportunity to build a professional football career without being forced to leave their communities in search of opportunities.

Unlike many football academies in Nigeria that operate only in big cities, Acquire FA brings structured grassroots football training right to the heart of local communities.

*The Academy’s Journey So Far*

Acquire FA has already proven its commitment to nurturing young football talent in Nigeria. The academy first operated in Nekede, Owerri, for two years, before moving to Agbor, Delta State, where it spent another two years grooming players and building a solid reputation.

Now, the academy has returned home to Awo Omamma, Imo State, to focus on grassroots football development across different age categories: U-10, U-13, U-15, and U-17.

*Official Launch Event in Awo Omamma*

The official launch took place on 15th September 2025, attracting more than 600 attendees from across the community. The event featured an exciting friendly match between Acquire FA and Global Stars of Owerri, giving fans a preview of the academy’s unique playing style.

Adding royal honor to the day, His Royal Highness, Eze Barrister Christian Amukamara (EziAwo 1 of Awo Omamma), graced the event. He commended the vision behind the academy, offered his blessings, and pledged his support to ensure the project becomes a lasting success.

*More Than Football: Building Lives and Careers*

At its core, Acquire FA is about much more than just football. It’s about:

Providing opportunities: Screening and trials are completely free, ensuring that every child, regardless of background, gets a chance. Developing talent: Players who pass trials can enroll in the academy at a very affordable fee, with special discounts for Awo Omamma indigenes. Shaping character: Beyond skills, the academy teaches discipline, teamwork, and resilience. Creating pathways: With recognition from major football bodies, Acquire FA connects players to real opportunities in the wider football world.

*Training Schedule and Location*

Time: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM (different sessions per age group) Venue: Acquire FA Home Ground, Counting Umuokwe, Awo Omamma, Imo State

*Why Acquire FA Matters for Nigerian Football*

Nigeria has always been blessed with raw football talent, but lack of proper structure has held many players back. With initiatives like Acquire FA, grassroots football academies in Nigeria are giving hope to thousands of young people who dream of playing professionally.

By combining structured training, local community involvement, and official recognition from the NFF, Acquire FA is positioning itself as one of the most promising football academies in Nigeria.

*Contact & Social Media*

For parents, guardians, and sponsors who want to join this movement, here’s how to connect with Acquire FA:

📞 +2348106789696 | 09019341919

📧 Acquirefootballacademy@gmail.com

👉 Instagram: @AcquireFA2

👉 Facebook: @AcquireFA2

Acquire Football Academy – The future Starts Today