By Wakawaka Sports
The Management Committee of the East of the Niger Inter-Club (ENIC) Tennis League has announced Saturday, September 13, 2025 as the deadline for submission of requests for both new players’ licenses and renewals of expired ones for the 2025/2026 season.
General Secretary, Macaulay Udom, stated that the move is aimed at ensuring all players are duly licensed ahead of the new season and to prevent disputes among participating clubs.
Team Imo capped a spirited campaign at the 9th National Youth Games in Asaba with a 16-medal haul (3 gold, 8 silver, 5 bronze), a performance that highlighted the state’s rising profile in grassroots sports under the stewardship of the Commissioner for Sports, Hon. Obinna Onyeocha.
The state’s golden moments came in boys’ cricket, where Imo swept past rivals to claim the T6 title on the final day, alongside victories in shooting mixed doubles and Abula female, pushing the gold tally to three.
Imo’s silver medals cut across multiple sports. Onasanya Samuel delivered in the 80km cycling road race, while Victory Iwuoha picked up two podium finishes in weightlifting. Grace Ebochukwu impressed in darts, with Amarachi Blessing Nkwocha and Chizoba Ohaka shining in para table tennis doubles. Ojike Caleb also stood out in para powerlifting, while the cricket and abula male settled for silver finishes.
The bronze column was equally spread, with medals from Metu Chhinonso (boxing, 51kg), Umeyo Munachi (kokowa), as well as additional podiums in weightlifting, kickboxing, and rugby—a reflection of Imo’s growing versatility across disciplines.
Commissioner Onyeocha, who has championed a clean-sport policy, grassroots talent hunts, and instant rewards for medalists, praised the athletes for their resilience. “This outing shows that with proper structures, our young talents can compete with the best. Imo is building champions for today and tomorrow,” he said.
While Lagos, Delta, and Edo claimed the top three spots nationally, Imo’s 16 medals signal steady progress and potential. The Eastern Heartland departs Asaba with a deeper pool of tested athletes and the confidence that more podium finishes lie ahead.
The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) served up another thrilling weekend as Matchday 3 fixtures produced tight scorelines and derby drama across the country.
In Abeokuta, defending champions Remo Stars FC edged Warri Wolves 1-0 to extend their unbeaten start to the season. In Enugu, Rangers International delighted their supporters with a commanding 2-0 win over Plateau United.
Wikki Tourists earned a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Abia Warriors, while in Minna, Niger Tornadoes also secured maximum points with a 1-0 triumph against Bayelsa United. Former champions, Enyimba FC were left frustrated in Aba, as visiting Nasarawa United forced them to a 0-0 draw. In Maiduguri, El-Kanemi Warriors and Rivers United also settled for a goalless stalemate.
At the Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan, Shooting Stars SC played out a 1-1 draw with Ikorodu City, while Katsina United claimed bragging rights in the northern derby with a 1-0 win over Kano Pillars. In Ilorin, Kwara United produced a solid performance to defeat Kun Khalifat 2-0.
The round concluded in Kano, where Barau FC and Bendel Insurance played out a 1-1 draw, leaving both sides to share the spoils.
With champions Remo Stars setting the early pace, Matchday 3 once again showcased the NPFL’s competitiveness and unpredictability.
….Appeals to Police, Imo Govt for rescue
A female journalist working with Trumpeta Newspapers based in OWERRI and the secretary of Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, Ms. Onyinyechi Amakaulo, has raised alarm over plot to deal with her family and forcefully takeover a landed property belonging to her father, Mr. Nwabueze Christian by one acclaimed cleric, Pastor Sab Amako who based in Aba, Abia State.
She said that pastor Amako was her dad’s kinsman, that both hailed from Umuebi Amuzu in Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State.
Ms. Amakaulo opined that the landed property ,the pastor laying claim was her father’s inheritance. She said in 2000, the pastor came to her dad, Mr.Nwabueze to ask for a space to build a house and out of her dad’s magnanimity and large heart he map out a portion of the land and gave it to Pastor Amako to build his choice house. She said, after some years, the same Amako again asked his dad for another portion to build a fence which her dad blatantly refused, as result of her dad’s refusal, Amako started quarreling with her dad, Mr. Nwabueze.
Ms Amakaulo submitted that on June 2025, Pastor Amako invited her dad on the same piece of land, unknown to her dad, Pastor Amako has already hired workers to fence the land, when her dad tried to stop him, he warned him to swear an oath if the land belonged to him and wait if he would not die in 7 days, while threatening to use his spiritual powers to undermine Mr. Nwabueze. He boasted that not even Police, or Army could stop him from getting rid of her dad.
She disclosed that this week, Pastor Amako visited her dad to make peace even when he Pastor Amako has already fenced and taken over the landed property belonging to her dad. He did that by force without her dad’s approval and permission.
He warned her dad to accept his apology by fire or force with some token he offered. Her dad Mr. Nwabueze bluntly refused and advised him to leave his family and his inheritance alone. On this point, Pastor Amako rain fire and stone threatening them that he would dealt with anyone on his way to takeover the aforementioned land, boasting that not even President Tinubu, Gov. Hope Uzodimma, Police can stop him from achieving his aim.
Ms. Amakaulo appealed to Imo State Government, Security Agents, Aboh Mbaise Council boss, Alaribe to come to their rescue, and investigate the matter, adding that Pastor Sab Amako is working tirelessly to get rid of the family.
Nigeria rekindled their interest in a ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals after Tolu Arokodare’s 51st minute goal creamed three points off Rwanda at Uyo’s Godswill Akpabio Stadium on Saturday, and took the Super Eagles’ haul to 10 in the campaign.
They are still in third place and six points off leaders South Africa, whom they confront in Bloemfontein on Tuesday, but the stark possibility of the Bafana Bafana losing three points and three goals due to the use of an ineligible player in a previous game means the Eagles still have a chance.
Benin Republic’s Cheetahs, in second place following their 1-0 win over Zimbabwe in Abidjan on Friday, have a final-day tango with the Super Eagles on 14th October.
The Super Eagles’ win, achieved in a gritty contest with the Amavubi, and South Africa’s 3-0 rout of Lesotho in Bloemfontein on Friday, means Tuesday’s showdown between the Eagles and the Bafana in a freezing evening in South Africa’s judicial capital will be nothing short of a flaming war.
Intense rivalry between both nations on and off the football pitch aside, the encounter at the Toyota Stadium will answer a lot of questions about which of the two teams desires a 2026 FIFA World Cup spot more, the true abilities of the present generation that represents both nations at senior level, and the side that is more resilient and battle-fit in a contest for which second place is no place.
Eternal suspect Victor Osimhen, who got both goals when the Eagles overpowered the Amavubi 2-0 in Kigali six months ago, thought he had given Nigeria the lead in the 8th minute, when he arrived at the end of a left-footed slash by Ademola Lookman to toe-poke the ball past Fiacre Ntwari. But his effort was ruled offside.
The Galatasaray of Turkey forward was taken off the game injured midway into the first period.
In the 13th minute, Ntwali showed why he is one of the most respected goalkeepers in East Africa when he dived full strength to divert a deceptive cross by Lookman, and a minute later, playing captain Wilfred Ndidi saw his belter from the edge of the box fly past the opposition goalpost. Ntwali, who had a very busy evening, denied good efforts by Simon Moses and Alex Iwobi later in the half.
Six minutes into the second half, Nigeria got the dividend that their endeavour merited, when Arokodare, now with Wolverhampton Wanderers in England, slammed the ball against the sticks and into the net from a goalmouth scramble.
The former KRC Genk forward had brilliantly held the ball for Moses to dart past and send it into the box. His initial effort was blocked, but he followed up and reaped just reward in netting his second international goal.
Five minutes later, Cyriel Dessers failed to strike at once from a good Iwobi pass, and Arokodare and Ndidi saw their shots saved by Ntwali, before the Amavubi number one produced a masterclass to divert Simon Moses’ angled free-kick with 14 minutes left.
The Super Eagles will now travel to Bloemfontein on Sunday, for their Matchday 8 confrontation with the Bafana Bafana.
The CCM Medical Centre has launched free medical services for residents of Ukwu Orji in Eziama Obiato, Mbaitolu Local Government Area of Imo State. The outreach marks the hospital’s commitment to improving healthcare delivery in the rural community.
Speaking during the exercise, the Chief Executive Officer of the hospital, a foreign-trained medical doctor, explained that the center was established to complement the healthcare needs of the people. He assured that the hospital is equipped with modern facilities capable of handling complex medical cases.
According to him, CCM Medical Center is dedicated to offering first-class services to residents who patronize the hospital. He further emphasized that the initiative is part of efforts to bridge the gap in access to quality healthcare within Imo State.
Reacting to the development, an indigene of the area, Engr Chima DNC Umunnakwe expressed confidence that the hospital will greatly benefit the people. He noted that many residents who previously lacked access to adequate healthcare now have an opportunity to receive professional medical attention.
Engr Chima also commended Doctor Destiny Chibuike Ujunwa] and Doctor Lucka Ujunwa and his Indian wife for investing in the health sector of the community, describing the gesture as timely and impactful. He called on the people of Eziama Obiato to take advantage of the services provided by the new facility.
Football fans will pay the sum of N3,000 and N1,000 respectively to watch Saturday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match between the Super Eagles of Nigeria and the Amavubi of Rwanda at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.
Tickets for the VIP section will go for N3,000 and the popular seats will sell for N1,000 at designated centres within the Uyo metropolis from Friday morning.
NFF’s Director of Marketing and Sponsorship, Alizor Chuks, said on Wednesday: “It is important to let the general public know that the NFF Security Committee has declared total war on all ticket manipulators this time. Ticket fakers and racketeers will be dealt with.
“All tickets will be scanned at the gates. All intending spectators are advised to buy their tickets from accredited ticket sellers. Fake ticket sellers or holders will be arrested and prosecuted.”
Ahead of Saturday’s match, the Amavubi contingent landed at the Victor Attah International Airport, Uyo at 5.28pm on Tuesday. The delegation was led by the newly-elected President of the Federation Rwandaise de Football Association (FERWAFA), Fabrice Shema Agoga. The contingent was well-received by a team from the local organizing committee, and is staying at the Ibom Hotel and Golf Resort, Uyo.
They are scheduled to train at the practice pitch of the Nest of Champions by 4pm on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian camp at the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel, Ikot-Ekpene has been further enlarged with the arrivals of Africa Player of the Year, Ademola Lookman, and new Panathinaikos of Greece forward Cyriel Dessers. Both arrived in Uyo on Wednesday morning.
The remaining five players, viz Victor Osimhen, Christantus Uche, Tolu Arokodare, Samuel Chukwueze and Raphael Onyedika were being expected on Wednesday evening.
By Vivian Iwu
It was a day of Faith, Culture, and Heartfelt Tributes at St. Charles Catholic Church, Enyiogwugwu, Aboh Mbaise LGA, as Family, Friends, Clergy, Traditional Rulers, and Well-wishers gathered in their numbers to bid farewell to Late Mr. Festus Nnodim Ndunaka.
The Premises was filled with Cars and activities, drawing questions from Passersby. The answer was simple yet profound: “Rev. Fr. Ulonna’s father is being laid to rest today.”
The funeral Mass was presided over by the Catholic Bishop of Ahiara Diocese, Most Rev. Simeon Okezuo Nwobi, who described late Mr Festus Nnodim Ndunaka as a man who lived well and urged the family to bear their loss with fortitude.
In his Homily, Rev. Fr. Prof. Philip Igbo reminded the Congregation of the Christian hope of Resurrection, testifying that the deceased was not only a dedicated Teacher and Commercial Farmer—rearing Livestock including Pigs—but also a man who raised a united and successful family.
“The Bible assures us that he who stands firm in faith till the end will receive the reward. Both life and death belong to God,” he preached.
Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Celestine Ekennia, thanked the Bishop and all present, prayed for safe Journeys, and announced the remaining burial Programs.
His first son, Rev. Fr. Stanley Ulonna Ndunaka—former Assistant Rector of Enyiogwugwu Spiritual Year Formation of Ahiara Mbaise Catholic Diocese, now on Studies Abroad—delivered an Emotional Vote of Thanks. He expressed gratitude to the Bishop, Clergy, Religious Sisters, Classmates, Seminarians, Traditional Rulers, Teachers, Parishioners, and Friends from across Mbaise and beyond.
In a touching moment, he thanked his mother for years of Dedicated Care to their father during his illness, as well as his siblings for their Unity and Support.
Born in 1951, Late Mr. Festus Ndunaka attended St. Charles Primary School, Amuzi Community Secondary School, TTC, and Michael Okpara College of Agriculture, Umuagwo. He taught at Community School Umuopara and Emeabiam Comprehensive Secondary School, among others.
A devout Catholic and committed member of the Catholic Men Organization (CMO), he was married to Mrs. Adaku Fidelia Ndunaka (née Iroegbu) and blessed with seven children—two sons and five daughters—including Rev. Fr. Ulonna.
In his tribute, Fr. Ulonna described his father as “gentle, wise, humble, disciplined, and compassionate.”
After the burial, Mr. Ndunaka’s Compound, which was adorned with his Flex Banners, saw Priests, Religious, Cultural Dancers, and Community Groups celebrating him with Music, Prayers, and Colorful Displays—a reflection of the impact of a man who left behind not only a family, but a Legacy.
The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has honoured two outstanding performers from the 2024/25 season with cash awards of ₦2 million each.
Nasarawa United striker Anas Yusuf, who netted 18 goals to finish as the league’s top scorer, received the award alongside Daniel Ogunmodede, head coach of Remo Stars, who guided his side to a historic first NPFL title. Remo Stars clinched the championship with 71 points, becoming the first privately-owned club from the South-West since 2000 to lift the league trophy.
Speaking during the award ceremony, Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, represented by Secretary General Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, commended the NPFL board for its progress.
“The league is improving week in and week out. Every day, I receive not less than 20 invitations from clubs abroad. Instead of castigating our league, let us support and rally around it because the growth is obvious. The NFF fully supports what the NPFL board is doing,” Sanusi stated.
NPFL Chairman Otunba Gbenga Elegbeleye reaffirmed the league’s commitment to raising standards despite challenges.
“We continue to work around the teething issues that could disrupt the smooth running of the league. Over the last three years, we’ve been able to start and finish the season as scheduled. This consistency has built confidence from the private sector, which is now willing to work with us. Our dream is to raise the quality and standard of the NPFL, ultimately increasing revenue for clubs and organisers,” Elegbeleye said.
Award recipient Anas Yusuf expressed gratitude for the recognition, describing it as a motivation to aim higher.
“I’m happy to be recognised by the NPFL. This award motivates me to push harder, and I hope to surpass my goal-scoring record from last season hopefully score more than 20 goals ,” he said.
Team Bayelsa Increased their medal haul on day four at the ongoing National Youth Games in Asaba, Delta State .
In shooting, Eko Miracle Etim delivered a standout performance in the Pistol Riley event, clinching the gold medal for Team Bayelsa as her composure and precision reaffirmed Bayelsa’s growing dominance in marksmanship.
In football, it was a tale of mixed fortune as the male Team pipped Team Enugu one nil to secure a spot in the semifinals, while their female counterpart were not so lucky, losing 3-0 Team Delta.
The swimming pool proved fruitful yet again for Team Bayelsa as young swimmer, Daniel bagged a bronze medal in the 200m freestyle event, while the quartet of Daniel Odoh, Richman Bedford, Miebi Tobi, and Zion Agebed put on a remarkable show to capture silver in the 4x100m medley relay event, drawing loud applause from the crowd and the watching Bayelsa State Director of Sports, Mr. Andrew Aye.
In handball, Bayelsa’s male Team played out an intense 18-18 draw against Team Kano, but advanced to the quarterfinals by virtue of superior goal difference.
In traditional wrestling (Kokowa), both the male and female teams from Bayelsa cruised into the semifinals, showcasing strength, skill, and strategy.
Team Bayelsa also recorded success in Taekwondo, as Velary Akhogba advanced to the quarterfinals in the Boys’ -48kg category,defeating his opponent from Jigawa.
In Para Weightlifting, ThankGod Ayebainemi Goodluck lifted his way to a bronze medal in the Male 54kg category.
Day five promises to be exciting with the commencement of Athletics, as Team Bayelsa looks set to make a mark on the track and field.
