— By Silvernews

In a landmark move to safeguard the rights and welfare of professional footballers in Edo State, key stakeholders converged on Monday, June 30, for a high-powered joint meeting initiated by the National Association of Nigeria Professional Footballers (NANPF), an affiliate of the Trade Union Congress (TUC).

The meeting, held in Benin City, brought together officials of the TUC Edo State Council, the Edo State chapter of NANPF, and the Edo State Sports Commission — the supervisory body for Bendel Insurance FC and Edo Queens FC.

Top on the agenda were pressing issues relating to the welfare, working conditions, and fundamental rights of professional footballers, discussed within the dual frameworks of Nigerian Labour Law and FIFA regulations governing the status and transfer of players.

Speaking at the session, Comrade Asemota Iyke, Chairman of the TUC Edo State Council, emphasized the importance of aligning footballers’ employment conditions with established labour rights. He was accompanied by the Vice Chairman, Comrade Alabi, and State Secretary.

NANPF was strongly represented by its Edo State Chairman, Comrade David Aigbovo; Secretary, Uwaifo John; Public Relations Officer, Ngozi Blessings; National Executive Secretary, Austin Popo; and Protocol Officer, Kevin Etemike.

On the part of the government, the Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Desmond Enabulele, led a delegation of Board members, expressing the Commission’s willingness to engage collaboratively in addressing the concerns raised.

The deliberations reflected a growing awareness of the unique status of footballers as both workers and athletes, with all sides agreeing on the need for structured dialogue, fair contracts, and adherence to national and international labour standards.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to set up a joint committee to further streamline communication and policy implementation aimed at improving the working environment for players under the Edo State sports system.

The National Association of Nigeria Professional Footballers (NANPF) has appointed Mr Obinna Okoro Kennedy as the Secretary in Enugu State.

In a letter of appointment addressed to Okoro Obinna, which was sighted by our reporter and signed by the Executive Secretary of NANPF, Comrade Austin Popo, he was appreciated for accepting to work in order to help achieve the mandate of improving Nigerian professional footballers welfare and general well being in line with the mandate of NANPF.

Before his appointment, Kennedy is serving as the children and youth intervention Coordinator of the Rangers International Football Club Foundation (RIFC Foundation) Enugu and also the Project Manager with Cope and Live Mental Health Awareness Foundation.

The Lagos State Football Association board has swiftly acted to address a blemish on the otherwise impeccable organization of the 2025 President Federation Cup finals, which took place last Saturday at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos.

During the highly charged final match between Abakaliki FC and Kwara United, it was observed that the General Manager of the victorious Kwara United, Mr. Bashir Badawiy, violated the stringent security measures in place. He made reckless attempts to run and celebrate in front of the five state governors seated in the VVIP section of the stadium, thereby jeopardizing their safety as well as that of other prominent dignitaries and industry leaders present.

Badawiy has been banned for two years from all Lagos Stadia and LSFA related activities following a security breach and unethical behavior during the Federation Cup final against Abakaliki FC. The ban is pending further sanctions from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

According to eyewitnesses, Badawiy’s behavior was unacceptable, and he was seen threatening members of the LSFA and a board member of the NFF. This incident has sparked widespread condemnation, with many calling for severe penalties.

The LSFA has taken a firm stance, emphasizing that such behavior will not be tolerated. “We cannot have individuals compromising the integrity of our competitions and threatening our officials.”

The NFF is expected to review the matter and decide on additional sanctions. Badawiy’s actions have brought shame to Kwara United, and the club may face further repercussions.

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining professionalism and respect in sports. The football community is waiting to see how this situation unfolds and what consequences Badawiy will face.

The Lagos State Football Association board has swiftly acted to address a blemish on the otherwise impeccable organization of the 2025 President Federation Cup finals, which took place last Saturday at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos.

During the highly charged final match between Abakaliki FC and Kwara United, it was observed that the General Manager of the victorious Kwara United, Mr. Bashir Badawiy, violated the stringent security measures in place. He made reckless attempts to run and celebrate in front of the five state governors seated in the VVIP section of the stadium, thereby jeopardizing their safety as well as that of other prominent dignitaries and industry leaders present.

Badawiy has been banned from all Lagos State Football Association (LSFA) related activities following a security breach and unethical behavior during the Federation Cup final against Abakaliki FC. The ban is pending further sanctions from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

According to eyewitnesses, Badawiy’s behavior was unacceptable, and he was seen threatening members of the LSFA and a board member of the NFF. This incident has sparked widespread condemnation, with many calling for severe penalties.

The LSFA has taken a firm stance, emphasizing that such behavior will not be tolerated. “We cannot have individuals compromising the integrity of our competitions and threatening our officials.”

The NFF is expected to review the matter and decide on additional sanctions. Badawiy’s actions have brought shame to Kwara United, and the club may face further repercussions.

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining professionalism and respect in sports. The football community is waiting to see how this situation unfolds and what consequences Badawiy will face.

The Lagos State Football Association board has swiftly acted to address a blemish on the otherwise impeccable organization of the 2025 President Federation Cup finals, which took place last Saturday at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos.

During the highly charged final match between Abakaliki FC and Kwara United, it was observed that the general manager of the victorious Kwara United, Mr. Bashir Badawiy, violated the stringent security measures in place. He made reckless attempts to run and celebrate in front of the five state governors seated in the VVIP section of the stadium, thereby jeopardizing their safety as well as that of other prominent dignitaries and industry leaders present.

As a result of Mr. Bashir Badawiy’s disruptive behavior, the Lagos FA board has decided to impose a sanction and fine on him.

In an official letter signed by Lagos FA Secretary, Mrs. Vera-Hycient Okechukwu, Mr. Bashir Badawiy has been instructed to pay a fine of N10million and to submit a letter of apology to the Lagos FA, with copies sent to the Nigeria Football Federation, by Monday, July 15, 2025.

Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Imo Chapter is delighted with the appointment of the immediate past Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Imo Chapter, Rev. Dr. Eches Divine Eches who has now been named Special Adviser on Religious Affairs to Governor of Imo State.

Governor Uzodimma’s pronouncement contained in a press release from his Chief Press Secretary/ Special Adviser Media, Oguwike Nwachuku said the appointment of the 2013 AFCON-Winning Super Eagles Chaplain was with immediate effect.

SWAN, Imo in a press statement sanctioned by its Chairman, Cosmos Chukwuemeka felicitates with Rev Dr Eches over his new appointment and charges him to continue his good works in his new designation providing the bridge between the Governor and all religion denominations in the state without fear or favour.

Chukwuemeka encouraged Rev. Dr. Eches to use his position to ensure the peace and tranquility enjoyed by various religion denominations is maintained while also canvassing for unity and oneness among the various religious organisations.

Rev Eches was elected Chairman of CAN, Imo State in 2020, a position he relinquished this month following a successful hand over to a successor.

In the five years that Rev Eches held away as CAN boss in Imo State, he acquitted himself creditably, discharging his roles in ways that also brought accolades to him from his superiors working in God’s vineyard, both within and outside.

*Signed*

Tunde Liadi

SWAN, Imo Secretary

By Silvernews

The Emmanuel Ekeji Sports Academy, located in the heart of Owerri, Imo State, has officially opened its doors to a new generation of athletes, with admissions now ongoing for boys and girls aged under 8 to under 18.

With a mission to “Train Today, Shine Tomorrow,” the academy is calling on parents and guardians to seize this opportunity to enroll their children in a dynamic sporting environment designed to discover and develop champions.

Specializing in football, tennis, and basketball, the academy offers not only access to professional coaches and mentors but also structured talent development programs and scholarship opportunities. The institution prides itself on its commitment to providing a safe and friendly training atmosphere while instilling critical life skills such as discipline, teamwork, and leadership.

“We are offering more than just sports training,” said a spokesperson for the academy. “This is a platform for greatness — a place where children can build their futures beyond the classroom.”

The academy promises competitive exposure both locally and internationally, a unique offering that positions it as one of the leading sports development institutions in the South-East region.

With limited slots available, parents are encouraged to act swiftly. For more information or to secure a place, interested parties can contact the academy via +234-8035391452 or 234-9130 099 099452.

Discover the champions in your children — let their greatness begin at Emmanuel Ekeji Sports Academy.

By Silvernews

The Chairman of the National Association of Nigerian Professional Footballers (NANPF), Enugu State Chapter, Coach Ebere Amaraizu, has called on football club owners and sports administrators to shift focus beyond just technical and tactical training and begin to prioritize the holistic welfare of athletes.

Coach Amaraizu, a certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) practitioner and the Lead Consultant at Cope and Live Mental Health Awareness Foundation, made this call while addressing the growing concern over players’ mental, emotional, psychological, social, and spiritual well-being.

According to him, the welfare of players should be treated as a fundamental pillar for sports development and athlete productivity. “It is no longer acceptable to rely solely on tactical and technical preparations while ignoring the psychological and emotional needs of our players,” he stated.

Amaraizu emphasized that many athletes have unresolved personal struggles which, if unattended, can negatively impact their performance regardless of their technical abilities. “Studies have shown that every human being has a struggling history. This struggle affects athletes emotionally, psychologically, and socially — and can significantly hinder productivity on and off the field,” he noted.

He condemned the name-calling and undue pressure players often face from coaches, club management, and even fans, adding that such behavior, combined with inconsistent salary payments and poor welfare conditions, contributes to the mental health challenges faced by many professionals in the sport.

“Too many players are left to their fate after sustaining injuries, often becoming burdens to themselves and their families. This must change,” he stressed.

To address these issues, Amaraizu advocated for the creation of comprehensive welfare frameworks within clubs. This includes prompt payment of salaries and allowances, establishment of trauma and counseling units, and dietary and psychological support programs to complement medical departments.

“Holistic well-being is not a luxury; it is a necessity,” he said. “We must create systems that support the emotional, psychological, and spiritual health of our athletes if we are serious about advancing Nigerian football.”

He concluded by urging clubs to collaborate with NANPF in promoting athlete welfare, stressing that supporting players through their career and beyond is essential for sustainable sports development.

“Injury to one is injury to all. Let’s give our athletes the care and support they truly deserve,” he added.

The Management of Abubakar Bukola Saraki FC Ilorin have sent a hearty Congratulatory message to their sister Club Kwara United FC for lifting the 2025 President Federation cup trophy .

Kwara United FC defeated Abakaliki FC 4-3 on penalties at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena Onikan stadium Lagos on Saturday to emerge victorious, winning the trophy for the first time in the history of the North central state.

ABS FC Director of Football Chief Alloy Chukwuemeka in a goodwill message described the historic feat as a clear indication of the many years of synergy and collaboration between the relevant stakeholders in Football in kwara state in supporting structures to encourage growth and development of Football.

He further congratulated the Management, players, officials, Supporters, fans of kwara United and entire kwarans for making history with the coveted trophy.

” We are all Happy for the Football history being made today , it shows that all of us Football stakeholders in kwara have done our best as it is happening in our own time” he told journalists in Lagos.

“I rejoice more because about 6 of the players in the historic team were products of ABS FC, including the head coach Tunde Sanni who is also a former coach of ABS FC “.

” Personally, I have been here in Lagos for some days working closing with the Management led by my good friends Kumbi Titiloye and Bashir Badawiy as well as the FA chairman Idris Abdulahi Musa Thuraya to give strategic support to the team and psychological boost to my ex players like Suraj Ayeleso, Wasiu Alalade, Nurudeen Badmos, Shola Abdulraheem, The Gata brothers Ismaila Gata and Adesina Isa Gata, and others who were in the squad “.

“Like I said earlier, this historic victory is for the government and the good people of kwara state and I congratulate them”. He concluded.