By Silvernews

The Imo State chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) will on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, hold a workshop on ethics in sports reporting alongside its general congress in Owerri.

In a statement jointly signed by its Chairman, Cosmos Chukwuemeka, and Secretary, Tunde Liadi, the association said the workshop is themed “Balancing Truth and Loyalty: Ethical Responsibilities in Sports Reporting.”

The statement added that the session would be delivered by former SWAN President, Fan Ndubuoke, who is also a former Chairman of the Imo State Sports Commission and ex-boss of the Imo State Football Association.

According to the organisers, the workshop is designed to deepen members’ understanding of ethical standards in sports journalism, with emphasis on objectivity, credibility and professionalism.

SWAN noted that Ndubuoke would leverage his vast experience in sports administration and journalism to guide participants on maintaining integrity while fostering professional relationships within the industry.

The association urged members to attend the general congress preceding the workshop and to actively participate in both engagements.
The event will hold at No. 26 School Road, Owerri.

By Akeem Busari

The ancient town of Ossomala in Anambra State is set to witness an influx of dignitaries from across Nigeria’s sports and business circles as family, friends, and associates gather to honour the life of Late Madam Nnedinobi Regina Awogu.

The nonagenarian, who passed on in February 2026 at the age of 90, will be laid to rest in ceremonies beginning on Thursday, April 16, with a vigil Mass at her residence. The burial Mass is scheduled for Friday, April 17, at St. Patrick Catholic Church, Ossomala.

Her son, Owelle Felix Awogu, General Manager and Head of Outside Broadcast at SuperSport, disclosed that several prominent personalities have confirmed their attendance at the ceremonies.

Among those expected are Odofin Adewunmi Ogunsanya; Rt. Hon. Somto Udeze, Speaker of the Anambra State House of Assembly; and Engr. Nnamdi Ezigbo, Chief Executive Officer of Slot.
Also billed to attend are Chief Yemi Idowu, Chairman of Nath Boys; Chikelue Ileonyosi, Chairman of the Anambra State Football Association; and Malam Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission.

The event has continued to generate widespread interest, with many describing it as a befitting celebration of a life well lived.

The late Madam Awogu is remembered as a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose life of grace and service impacted both her community and humanity at large.

Barau FC captain, Usman Maidubji has set sights on beating the reigning champions of the Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, Remo Stars.

The Maliya Boys will confront the Sky Blue Stars in a match day 34 NPFL encounter on Sunday at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano.

Maidubji pointed out the game is very important in the club’s aspirations adding that they would give their best for the maximum three points.

The skipper called on teeming fans and supporters of the club to come out in their numbers to cheer the team to victory.

According to him, “As we reflect on the end of the season, our focus is on winning. This Sunday, we are at the home field to protect the honor of our team.

“This is not just a game, it’s a game of mind, of our fans, and our future goals. We respect our friends, but in our house, we play with the same heart.

“To all Maliya Boys fans: Your courage is what gives us the end. Let’s meet at the field for your support!”

By ASEIN OHIS

Ademola Olajire stands tall as one of Nigeria’s most accomplished and respected sports journalists—a professional whose name has become synonymous with credibility, excellence, and dedication.

With a career spanning decades, Olajire has not only chronicled the evolution of Nigerian sports but has also played a pivotal role in shaping its narrative, particularly through his enduring service with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

As the image-maker of the NFF for over a decade, Olajire has handled one of the most demanding roles in Nigerian football administration with remarkable poise. In a system often characterized by intense scrutiny, high expectations, and constant pressure, he has remained consistent—managing communication, public perception, and media relations with rare professionalism.

His ability to navigate complex situations while maintaining the integrity of the institution speaks volumes about his expertise and calm disposition.

Beyond his practical experience, Olajire has continuously invested in his intellectual growth. Despite the rigours of his schedule, he earned a doctorate degree in Mass Communication from the prestigious University of Lagos—a testament to his discipline and commitment to excellence. Not stopping there, he also obtained a certificate in Sports Management from one of the world’s leading universities, further equipping himself with global perspectives on sports administration.

A true global citizen, Olajire has travelled to about 80 countries, gaining invaluable exposure and experience across different cultures and sporting environments.

This international outlook is complemented by his bilingual ability—he speaks and writes French fluently—which has enhanced his effectiveness on the continental and global stage, especially in engagements involving Francophone countries.

Yet, beyond the accolades and achievements, what truly defines Ademola Olajire is his simplicity and humility. In an industry where ego often overshadows substance, he remains approachable, grounded, and generous with his knowledge.

Over the years, he has mentored countless young journalists and media professionals, guiding them with wisdom, patience, and a genuine interest in their growth.

Ademola Olajire’s story is one of quiet excellence, resilience, and service. He is not just a chronicler of sports history but a builder of its legacy—an inspiration to both his peers and the next generation of sports professionals.

Yesterday, 8th April 2026, the Benue State FA, Lobi Stars FC, Fidei Polytechnic, Hon. Torhile Uchi, and other prominent figures from Benue State threw their weight behind Flight FC at its 2026 jersey unveiling ceremony in Gboko, Benue State.

The event, held at 5 Stars Exclusive Lounge, brought together people from all walks of life, united by their love for football and their support for Flight FC, the town’s only NLO club.

Declaring the event open, the Benue State FA, ably represented by Barr. Lubem Ukpo, commended Flight FC for its consistent efforts to put Gboko and Benue State on the football map. He particularly praised the club for stepping up to fill the vacuum left by the now defunct BCC Lions. The FA assured the club of maximum support as it pursues promotion to the Nigeria National League (NNL).

Lobi Stars FC, represented by its chairman, Mr. Simon Ikya, also applauded Flight FC for its progress and reaffirmed his continued support as the “mother club.” He further appealed to football lovers and stakeholders in Gboko to support both Lobi Stars FC and Flight FC as they strive for promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) and Nigeria National League (NNL), respectively.

Hon. Torhile Uchi, the chief unveiler, made a significant impact by announcing a staggering donation of one million naira toward the unveiling. His gesture was complemented by his associate, Haakyav Tombu Peter, popularly known as Ordubu Deli, who contributed five hundred thousand naira.

In his remarks, Hon. Uchi encouraged Flight FC and the football loving youth of Gboko, while commending the visionary leadership of the club’s president, Dr. Solomon Andiir, and the management team for their commitment to sports development despite economic and logistical challenges. He also pledged continued support for the club’s growth and success, both now and in the future. His associate, Tombu, similarly urged the youth to remain engaged in productive ventures such as sports and business.

Dr. Awuhe Patrick Orbanga, Rector of Fidei Polytechnic, Gboko, also praised the club and demonstrated his support by launching the jersey with a donation of one hundred thousand naira.

Other stakeholders followed with additional contributions during the jersey launch.

Key highlights of the event included the installation of Zaki Charles Akough, Chairman of the Gboko Local Government Football Association, as Patron of the Flight FC Supporters Club, as well as the official unveiling of the Flight FC Supporters Club, then the continuous unveiling/lunching of the Flight FC Jerseys.

The unveiling ceremony marks a significant moment in the club’s journey, reinforcing strong community backing as Flight FC continues its push for greater heights in Nigerian football.

By Silvernews

The Progressive Club Chairmen Forum has urged its members to remain steadfast and united ahead of the 2026 Nationwide League One (NLO) season, which kicks off April 10.

In an internal memo dated April 9, the Forum addressed concerns arising from a recent communication by the NLO declaring the body “non-recognised,” assuring members that its mission remains intact.

The Forum said it was established to advocate the rights and welfare of clubs, insisting it had maintained professionalism in its engagements with the NLO Board.

It dismissed allegations of misconduct, noting that its actions have been driven by the desire to improve the league and ensure transparency.

Describing the development as an attempt to weaken a collective voice, the Forum called for unity among members, stressing that strength lies in solidarity.
It also reaffirmed respect for the NLO leadership, stating that its objective is collaboration, not conflict.

The Forum, however, maintained that membership is voluntary, advising any chairman not aligned with its principles to withdraw.

As the new season begins, it urged clubs to focus on performance, professionalism and fair play, adding that on-field success remains the ultimate priority despite administrative challenges.

By Silvernews

A new chapter has begun for basketball in Imo State following the official assumption of office by the newly appointed Chairman of the Imo State Basketball Association, Hon. Johnbosco Ekezie Okeahialam.

The brief but significant ceremony took place at the office of the Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Obinna Onyeocha, who formally presented the appointment letter to the new chairman.

In his remarks, the Commissioner reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to the development of sports and youth engagement, urging the new chairman to hit the ground running by introducing innovative ideas that will reposition basketball in the state.

Responding, an elated Hon. Okeahialam expressed gratitude for the warm reception and pledged to restore the lost glory of basketball in Imo State.

He assured stakeholders of his determination to transform the sport into one of the most attractive in the state, promising to deliver on the objectives of the present administration.

The ceremony was attended by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Sports Development, Dr. Dorothy C. Utazi, and the Association’s Media Manager, Comrade Kennedy Onwunali.

Shortly after, the chairman paid a courtesy visit to the Director of the Imo State Sports Commission, Lady Justina Akpulo, who assured him of her unwavering support.

She also called on stakeholders to shun divisive tendencies and work collectively for the progress of basketball in the state.

Lady Akpulo noted that the chairman’s rich curriculum vitae reflects his vast experience in basketball and other key projects across the globe.

She expressed confidence that the former Commissioner for Commerce in the state would be a valuable asset to the development of the game in Imo State. She further introduced members of the coaching crew to the new chairman.

Addressing the basketball community, Hon. Okeahialam said he has a clear mandate from the President of the federation, Engineer Musa Kida, to unite stakeholders and advance the culture of the game in the state.

He added that he would work closely with the South-East leadership of basketball to upgrade facilities and promote grassroots development across Imo State.

He thanked members of the basketball family for the reception and emphasized the need for unity, urging them to put past differences behind and embrace a shared vision for the future.

He concluded the day with an inspection tour of the association’s facilities, reaffirming his commitment to grassroots development and expressing optimism about restoring Imo State’s prominence in basketball at the national level.

In football, some heroes make the headlines, while others quietly build the foundation of success. For Barau FC, that silent force is Chisom Chiaha, a goalkeeper whose brilliance has become the backbone of the team’s impressive second stanza in the NPFL.

Chisom Chiaha, former Nigerian U-17 and U-20 international, has once again stepped into the spotlight, not with noise, but with performance, his numbers speak louder than words.

In just 11 matches in goal, he has recorded a staggering 8 clean sheets, conceding only 3 goals, showing a level of consistency that is rare for goal keepers in a competitive league like the NPFL, even more remarkable is where some of those clean sheets came from.

Five of them were from away games against strong opposition, including Enyimba FC, Bendel Insurance, Warri Wolves, Wikki Tourist, and Rangers International. To those familiar with these teams they know, these are not just teams, they are battlegrounds where experience and composure are tested, but indeed Chisom passed every test.

The only goals he has conceded came against Niger Tornadoes at home, then Rivers United, and Kano Pillars away, a testament to how difficult it has been to break him down.

With his current performance Chisom who first gained national recognition in 2015 and 2016 as being part of Nigeria’s victorious U-17 World Cup squad alongside stars like Victor Osimhen and Samuel Chukwueze in 2015. Then earning a place in the Nigerian U-20 team in 2016, has returned to the spotlight.

Though his brief return to spotlight came in 2023 with Heartland FC, where he played a key role in their unbeaten run in the NNL, securing promotion to the NPFL and winning Best Goalkeeper in the NNL.

Today at Barau Football Club after a move from Bayelsa United, Chisom has elevated his game to a new level, his performances have not only stabilized the team but also attracted attention from scouts, clubs, and agents both within and outside Nigeria.

Despite the growing interest, the marriage between Chisom and Barau FC feels like it is just beginning, and may last for long as both sides are just enjoying their honeymoon.

By Wakawaka Sports

The Imo State Football Association has released an adjusted fixture list for the ongoing Imo FA Cup, with matches slated to hold from April 7 to April 9, 2026.
According to the revised schedule, Okpotemba will face Markan FC at 1pm on April 7, while Akonye FC will take on Oisa FC at 3pm the same day.

Fixtures for April 8 will see Campos FC clash with Kun Khalifat B at 1pm, before Kun Khalifat FC confronts Campos B at 3pm.

On April 9, Giant Brillars are billed to meet Jossy Lad at 1pm, with Heartland FC set to tackle Egbema United in the day’s closing fixture at 3pm.

The FA stated that the adjustment is aimed at ensuring a smooth conduct of the competition, urging all teams and match officials to comply strictly with the new dates and kick-off times.

Heartland FC is deeply saddened by the shocking and untimely demise of the Team Manager of Kun Khalifat FC, Chijioke Ekpemandu.

We received the news of his passing in a road accident with great pain and a heavy heart. His death is not only a huge loss to Kun Khalifat FC but also to the entire football community.

Ekpemandu was a remarkable leader, a dedicated professional, and a passionate servant of the game. His immense contributions, both as a former captain and Team Manager, reflected his unwavering commitment, discipline, and love for football. He inspired many with his leadership qualities on and off the pitch, and his legacy will continue to live on.

On behalf of Heartland FC, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the management, players, and supporters of Kun Khalifat FC, as well as to his family, friends, and loved ones. We share in your grief during this very difficult time.

May God grant CJ’s soul eternal rest and give all who mourn him the strength to bear this irreparable loss.

*Signed* :
Maduabuchi Osuorji
Team Manager, Heartland FC