It is cringeworthy to note, with every sense of disappoinment, the ‘watery statement’ issued by the management of Lobi Stars on the recent interview granted by one of Nigeria’s foremost retired goal poacher and astute administrator, Dominic Iorfa.

For context, the club issued a 7-point ‘watery statement’ urging members of the public to disregard the facts stated by the Ex-International on the woes that bedeviled the team in the 2024/2025 football season.

1: “On Alleged Relegation and Begging”

During Iorfa’s tenure as Vice-Chairman of Lobi Stars, he spearheaded the team to unprecedented heights – led the team to the NPFL Super Six finish in the 2023/2024 season, brought stability to the team through reforms and innovations, hired a grassroots coach that accentuated free-flowing and enjoyable game and more importantly, embarked on massive talent discovery across the nooks and crannies of Benue State. It is saddening to see how the current leadership will fail to take responsibility and accountability for leading the illustrious Nigeria clubside to relegation.

On the term ‘begging’, Iorfa has always insisted that the progress and development of Benue State and by extension, Lobi Stars, is his priority. His doors of engagement remain open for any leader, who wish to build and not destroy. So, it’s laughable to read that Iorfa asked the team to ‘beg’ him before he extends his leadership expertise.

2: “On Dr. Philip Nongu’s Competence”

When the former international addressed him as ‘secretary’, it was not targeted at ridiculing him but to state the obvious. On the issue of ‘competence’, it is unfair to ascribe him as competent when the results say otherwise. Administratively, the current leadership failed the people of Benue State and shouldn’t attempt to paint itself as competent.

3: “On The Bendel Insurance Match”

After the unceremonious dismissal of Iorfa, the Ex International left the team in safe hands to continue in the trajectory of progress and development. Sadly, the sheer incompetence of the management failed to utilize the structures he left on ground, allowing the team to sink into the mulky waters of relegation.

4: “On Undermining from Within”

Like it was rightly stated earlier in this rebuttal, failure of the current management of Lobi Stars to take responsibility for the club’s woes is deeply unacceptable in all ramifications. The Ex International, who is well-respected in the country and beyond, moved on to personal projects. Hence, ascribing the team’s incompetence to Iorfa is, quite frankly, laughable.

5: “On Unpaid Salaries and Evasion of Questions”

Administratively, the Ex International, who served as Vice Chairman, had limits to the discharge of his duties. One would have expected the current management of Lobi Stars to channel their grievances to the Chairman of the Club, who in the club’s organogram is the Deputy Governor of Benue State.

The former international addressed the issues of unpaid salaries without mincing words during the course of the interview.

6: “On Government Support”

Like he rightly addressed during the course of the interview, which are verifiable facts, Iorfa cleared the air on the backlog of owed salaries and the failure of the state government to provide the needed support.

Also, the club management failed to address the concerns raised by Iorfa when the governor reportedly gave them N100 million to recruit players and coaches enroute the club’s relegation. Does that mean that the funds went into the whirlwind?

7: “A Final Word on Legacy”

The renowned astute administrator has proved his mettle as far as football administration is concerned and as such, has every right to boast his achievements during his stint with the club.

For emphasis, he met the team during their dark days in battling for survival, rejuvenated the team to stardom, thus becoming the Pride of Benue.

And of course, he brought in a great tactician from the grassroots, who led the team to enviable heights, scouted and promoted youngsters from the grassroots level to the main team.

Interestingly, there wasn’t any need for the response from the club’s management on Iorfa’s interview, rather, their energy should be channeled at restoring the lost glory of the club.

In conclusion, the current management of Lobi Stars, should as a matter of fact take full responsibility. If a club administrator must lead, let him do so with wisdom, facts and integrity.

~ From a Concerned Football Enthusiast

Kun Khalifat FC President and CEO, Michael Chukwudi Amaefula, has called for stronger fans support ahead of matchday four clash against El Kanemi Warriors of Maiduguri on Sunday, September 14, 2025.

The Pride of Imo State will once again play at their adopted home ground, the Enyimba Stadium Aba.

Amaefula has emphasized the importance of fan support as the team prepares to face El Kanemi Warriors. Ahead of their upcoming match, Amaefula expressed gratitude for the fans’ love and solidarity while urging them to provide even stronger support by travelling in large numbers to Aba and also called on Aba fans to troop out en masse and cheer their oriental brothers to victory.

“I once again thank our fans and supporters for the show of love and solidarity. I want our fans to calm down and pray for us. We will do everything possible to make them happy. I am urging the fans to come out in massive to support us, we are 100% ready. Sunday’s game will be a tough one but we are going for maximum points”, he stated.

“KKFC fans, let’s make this a celebration, not just of football, but of resilience and community spirit as we chase our first ever NPFL win. You waved the flags! You sounded the trumpets!

And you cheered us to being among the top fighters in the NPFL. We know you miss OWERRI but we want you to get louder in ABA. Bring your energy on Sunday, let’s win together”, he further solicited.

The ‘Oba Boys’ seek to grab their first win of the season when the Desert Warriors come visiting.

The Nigerian right-back has joined the Czech Republic team after a notable tenure with Dukla Prague, where he made a name for himself as one of the most dependable full-backs in the Chance Liga.

During his time at Dukla, Isife played in 7 league matches and provided two assists, showcasing his offensive capabilities from the right side.

He was spotted by FIFA Agents Cem Sagar and Dan Smejkal at the most recent Lagos Supremacy Cup while representing 36 Lion.

Recognized for his vigor, overlapping runs, and solid defensive skills, Isife is anticipated to vie for a starting position in Slavia Praha’s lineup.

The signing of the 36 Lion’s product by Slavia Praha further emphasizes their confidence in Nigerian talent, as the Lagos Supremacy Cup has proven to be a significant platform for young players making their way to Europe.

Babatunde Akomolede has garnered attention with his four-year contract with Anderlecht FC in Belgium. This skilled left-back displayed his talents during the Jagaban Cup while representing Broad City FC.

Akomolede’s remarkable performance, especially his outstanding throw-ins, has led to comparisons with former Republic of Ireland international Rory Delap, who was renowned for his strong and accurate throws that often unsettled defenses and created scoring chances.

The young player’s strengths include his defensive capabilities, calmness, and knack for providing assists. His throw-ins have proven to be game-changers, often surprising opponents and resulting in important goals.

In his new position at Anderlecht FC, Akomolede is anticipated to contribute a distinctive skill set to the team. His ability to execute precise and powerful throw-ins will certainly be beneficial in set-piece scenarios. Furthermore, his defensive acumen and poise under pressure will serve as significant advantages for the squad.

As Akomolede begins this new phase in his career, he aims to leave a lasting impression at Anderlecht FC. With his commitment and diligence, he has the potential to emerge as a pivotal player for the team. His throw-ins, in particular, could evolve into a crucial element of the team’s strategy, offering a unique edge in set-piece situations.

Akomolede’s transfer to Anderlecht FC highlights the increasing acknowledgment of Nigerian talent in European football. His success story inspires young Nigerian athletes, illustrating that with determination and hard work, they can realize their ambitions and establish themselves in the football arena.

The deal was brokered by FIFA Agents Cem Sagar and Dan Smejkal.

By Wakawaka

All is set for the South-East All-Stars Zonal Elimination scheduled for this weekend in Owerri. The competition will bring together the crème de la crème of ex-internationals who will battle for the zonal ticket to the National All-Stars Championship later this year.

To this end, the host team, Imo All-Stars, has embarked on an intensive drive to strengthen the squad in preparation for what is expected to be the biggest gathering of ex-footballers in the South-East this year.

The matches will take place at Egbu, in Owerri West area of the city, offering the public a rare opportunity to once again watch some of the men who made Nigerian football memorable. Among the stars expected are Mobi Oparaku, Kanu Nwankwo, Rey Ebede, Emeka Nwana, Ndidi Nnumonu, Emeka Ifejiagwa, Chima Seddy, Nat Maduwuba, Zabulom and other great sports personalities from across the country.

The National Sports Commission (NSC) has reaffirmed its support for Team Nigeria as the country’s contigent depart for the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan, scheduled for September 13–21, 2025.

Director General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, urged the athletes to give their best and bring glory to Nigeria, emphasizing that they have the full backing of the Commission and the Nigerian people.

“chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, declared from inception that Nigeria must get it right in athletics,” Olopade said. “This is a moment of pride for our nation, and we trust our athletes to compete with determination and secure podium finishes. The Commission will continue to provide all the support they need and firmly stand behind them as they fly our flag in Tokyo.”

Hon. Olopade will be on ground in Tokyo to provide support from the frontline, ensuring Team Nigeria enjoys a smooth championship experience.

Leading the 15-member squad are world record holder and hurdles queen Oluwatobiloba Amusan and Commonwealth Games champion Ese Brume, who are joined by a talented mix of established and emerging stars across sprints, jumps, throws, and hurdles.

*Nigeria’s 15-Member Team for Tokyo 2025*

Men:

• Kayinsola Ajayi – 100m

• Israel Sunday Okon – 100m

• Udodi Chudi Onwuzurike – 200m

• Samuel Ogazi – 400m

• Chidi Okezie – 400m

• Ezekiel Nathaniel – 400m Hurdles

• Charles Godfred – Long Jump

• Chukwuebuka Enekwechi – Shot Put

Women:

• Rosemary Chukwuma – 100m

• Tobiloba Amusan – 100m Hurdles

• Ese Brume – Long Jump

• Prestina Ochonogor – Long Jump

• Obiageri Amaechi – Discus

• Chioma Onyekwere-Lyons – Discus

• Oyesade Olatoye – Hammer Throw

Nigeria will look to build on its 2022 World Championships performance, when Tobi Amusan set the 100m hurdles world record (12.12s) and claimed gold, while Brume se

cured silver in the long jump.

Owerri witnessed football nostalgia at its finest as the legendary Emmanuel Amuneke lit up the Dan Anyiam Stadium practice pitch with a trademark goal that sealed victory for Team World Best XI in a star-studded novelty match celebrating the birthday of pharmacist and ex-footballer, Anderson “World Best” Anyiam.

The one-time CAF African Footballer of the Year and Olympic gold medalist needed just 25 minutes to remind fans of his golden left foot, curling home the decisive strike that drew thunderous applause from the packed crowd. His lone effort handed Team World Best XI a memorable 1–0 win over Owerri Fitness Club (OFC) in a game that brought together football icons, friends, and family.

The celebrant, Anyiam—himself a former player for Ebedei FC, Ekiti United, and Bussdor United—stood tall on the sidelines, soaking in the atmosphere. Beyond his playing past, Anyiam proudly carries the mantle of his bloodline as a descendant of Dan Anyiam, Nigeria’s first national team captain, whose name graces the stadium where history was made once again.

The glitter of the day went beyond Amuneke’s goal, as a galaxy of stars graced the pitch. Olympic gold medalist Mobi Oparaku was in action alongside crowd favorites like Casmir Mbachu, Ike ThankGod, Friday Onyeukwu (Ekpo), and Sampson Chuki. They were joined by a formidable list of seasoned ex-professionals including Chijioke Ejiogu, Chinedu Efugh, Oguchi Uche, Emma Amuneke, and Barr. Ifeanyi Dike, among others—transforming the friendly encounter into a reunion of Nigeria’s football aristocracy.

Speaking after the final whistle, an emotional Anyiam struggled to hold back his gratitude:>

“I wish to thank all my friends, ex-internationals, and football greats who came out to celebrate with me. Words cannot express how delighted I felt. This is more than football—it’s friendship, gratitude, and the joy of being alive.”

The festivities didn’t end on the pitch. On Sunday, September 7, 2025, the celebration moved to Christ Embassy, Ogbaku in Mbaitoli LGA, where a thanksgiving service capped off a weekend drenched in joy, camaraderie, and unforgettable memories.

For Owerri’s fans, it was more than just a birthday—it was the revival of cherished memories. And for Emmanuel Amuneke, that magical 25th-minute goal was proof that class, indeed, is permanent.

Others ex-professionals who graced the novelty encounter include; Oguchi Uche, Marcel Nwachukwu, Ekene Iwuorie, Chima Ewurum, Coach Chidi, Isaac Mbaegbu, Ikechukwu, Kelechi Ahazie, Chinedu Efugh Chicago, Heartland Asst Coach Emeka Amadi

Heartland Sporting Director Sewuse, Barr. Ifeanyi Dike, Chijioke Ejiogu, Barr. Alinno, Basil Nnadi, Sinima Pongo, Onyekwere, George, Dr. Henry Orji, World Best

By Silvernews

The maiden edition of the Imo State Under-13 Football Tournament came to a colourful close at Amato, with the sponsor, Archbishop Prof. Amb. Lawrence Luba, hailing the event as a historic milestone for grassroots football development in the state.

In his closing address, Archbishop Luba expressed gratitude to God for making the tournament a reality, describing it as the fulfillment of a dream to provide young talents with a platform to shine.

He lauded the Special Guest of Honour, HRH Eze Michael Utoko Ogbenna and his Traditional Council, as well as coaches, referees, parents, and organizers for their collective roles in making the competition a success. Special praise went to the Tournament Coordinator, Comrade Chris Onyedika, whom he described as the “brain behind the tournament,” for managing the event professionally from start to finish.

Amato Academy FC emerged champions of the inaugural competition, defeating strong opposition to etch their names in history. Chika FC of Orji and Silver Sports Academy, Mbaise, finished second and third respectively, with Archbishop Luba declaring them “champions in spirit” for their spirited performances.

The cleric emphasized that the tournament was “only the beginning,” revealing plans to expand the next edition to cover more communities across Imo State, with stronger scouting links to expose discovered talents to professional opportunities.

“It is my vision that this platform will produce the next Kanu, Amuneke, or Iheanacho from Imo State,” he declared.

Encouraging the young players, Archbishop Luba urged them to stay disciplined, respect their parents and coaches, and never stop dreaming, stressing that their talent combined with character would open doors to global opportunities.

The Archbishop officially declared the maiden edition closed, promising that the second edition would be “bigger, better, and more impactful.”