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Barr Udoka led Imo NYCN leadership is tight – Chairman Praises Uzodimma on Road Construction 

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By Patrick Ndukwe

Imo youths have been reminded to disregard those parading as leaders of the Imo State Chapter of National Youth Council of Nigeria, NYCN, as they are not known by the Council as strong members nor as authentic leaders.

The Council rather urged the youth to continue to repose confidence in the Barr. Comr. Ezinwanne Chimuanya Udoka led leadership of NYCN, Imo State, as it is the only recognized leadership produced by the National Executive Council (NEC) of the Council.

This is stated by the Imo State NYCN Chairman, Barr. Comr. Ezinwanne Chimuanya Udoka, in a release signed and made available to the media in Owerri, the state capital city, on Saturday.

He said that he is the authentic Chairman of the Council in Imo State, adding that the Council leadership remains very tightly and has indeed intensified efforts in galvanizing the youth and supporting fully government activities and contributing to the peace, security and tranquility of the state.

Udoka told the youth not to give consent to some persons he termed as impostors parading as leaders of the Council who brandish a ruling which he said is subjudice.

“The leadership of National Youth Council of Nigeria, Imo State Chapter, remains tightly, ably led by Barr. Comr. Ezinwanne Chimuanya Udoka. About a court ruling being paraded by some impostors who claim to be NYCN leaders – such a ruling should be totally disregarded as the matter of NYCN Imo State remains subjudice as the NEC of NYCN continues to recognize the leadership they produced”, he observed.

 

While praising the youth of Imo State for being peaceful, productive, resourceful and law-abiding, Udoka encouraged them to continue to do the right thing as they strive to goodness, prosperity.

Udoka who lauded the Governor of Imo State for doing wonderfully especially in the areas of health, education and road construction, assured him of the unalloyed support of the youth who he said appeal to the Governor to intensify youth rejuvenation such as employment and empowerment.

WAFCON 2024: Madugu picks Ajibade, Nnadozie, Ordega, Oshoala, 20 others

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Head Coach Justine Madugu has selected captain Rasheedat Ajibade, goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie and forwards Francisca Ordega and Asisat Oshoala among a list of 24 players for the Super Falcons’ quest for a 10th continental title at the 13th Women Africa Cup of Nations finals to be staged 5th – 26th July in Morocco.

 

A healthy percentage of the squad started training sessions in the Federal Capital, Abuja on Thursday, and will also train on Friday and Saturday, before their departure to the final training camp in Lisbon, Portugal on Sunday morning.

 

Madugu has also picked Saudi Arabia-based flamboyant defender Ashleigh Plumptre, US-based fans’ favourite Michelle Alozie, veteran defender Osinachi Ohale and midfielders Deborah Abiodun, Jennifer Echegini and Christy Ucheibe.

 

Home-based goalkeeper Rachael Unachukwu and defenders Sikiratu Isah and Miracle Usani also make the cut, while midfield lynchpin Halimatu Ayinde makes a return to the fold.

 

Already, the Nigeria Football Federation has sealed friendly matches for the team with the senior women national teams of Portugal and Ghana, to put them in a competitive mood ahead of their group B encounters against Tunisia, Botswana and Algeria at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca. The Falcons go up against their Portuguese counterparts in Lisbon on Monday, 23rd June, and will then take on the Black Queens of Ghana in Morocco on Sunday, 29th June.

 

SUPER FALCONS FOR 13TH WAFCON FINALS:

 

Goalkeepers: Chiamaka Nnadozie (just finished contract with Paris FC, France); Tochukwu Oluehi (Shualat Alsharqia FC, Saudi Arabia); Rachael Unachukwu (Nasarawa Amazons)

 

Defenders: Osinachi Ohale (Pachucha Club de Futbol, Mexico); Shukurat Oladipo (AS Roma, Italy); Michelle Alozie (Houston Dash, USA); Ashleigh Plumptre (Ittihad Ladies FC, Saudi Arabia); Sikiratu Isah (Nasarawa Amazons); Oluwatosin Demehin (Galatasaray Sportive, Turkey); Miracle Usani (Edo Queens)

 

Midfielders: Rasheedat Ajibade (just finished contract with Atletico Madrid, Spain); Halimatu Ayinde (FC Rosenburg, Sweden); Deborah Abiodun (Dallas Trinity, USA); Jennifer Echegini (Paris Saint Germain, France); Toni Payne (Everton Ladies, England); Christy Ucheibe (SL Benfica, Portugal)

 

Forwards: Francisca Ordega (Ittihad Ladies Club, Saudi Arabia); Chinwendu Ihezuo (Pachucha Club de Futbol, Mexico); Ifeoma Onumonu (Montpellier FC, France); Esther Okoronkwo (AFC Toronto, Canada); Omorinsola Babajide (Coasta Adeje Tenerife Egatesa, Spain); Folashade Ijamilusi (Liaoning Shenyang Shenbei Hefeng, China); Chioma Okafor (University of Connecticut, USA) Asisat Oshoala (Bay FC, USA).

SWAN Condemns Exclusion from LOC of 23rd National Sports Festival

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The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), South East Zone, Enugu State Chapter, and the National Body wish to express serious concern over the inauguration of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) for the 23rd National Sports Festival (NSF), held today, 18th June 2025, in Enugu, without the inclusion of any SWAN member.

This exclusion is not only unfortunate but wholly unacceptable. As a critical stakeholder in the promotion, organization, and development of sports in Nigeria, SWAN plays an essential role in ensuring effective media coverage, public engagement, and strategic communication—key components in the successful execution of any major sporting event.

Speaking on behalf of the association, the Vice President of SWAN South East Zone, Mr. Ikemefuna Asika, and the Zonal Secretary, Mr. Kennedy Onwunali, stated that the failure to include SWAN members in the LOC undermines the association’s long-standing contributions to sports development and disrespects the crucial role of sports journalism in national sporting affairs.

They therefore called on the National Sports Commission (NSC) and the Enugu State Government to, as a matter of urgency, review the committee’s composition and include representatives of SWAN to ensure a balanced, inclusive, and transparent approach to organizing the 23rd National Sports Festival.

Neville Okere Bows Out as ASEF President After Successful Three-Year Tenure

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By Silvernews

After three remarkable years at the helm of affairs, Neville Okere has formally handed over leadership of the Association of Ex-Footballers and Friends (ASEF), marking the end of a transformative tenure as President from 2021 to 2024.

In a detailed handover ceremony held in Owerri, Okere expressed gratitude to God, the club’s patrons, Board of Trustees, and all members who stood by the leadership team through a period he described as “marked by unity, growth, and remarkable resilience.”

We give thanks to God Almighty. Throughout our tenure, we recorded no emergencies or fatalities—a testament to divine guidance,” he said.

When Okere’s administration took office, they inherited just ₦2,500 in the club’s bank account alongside the usual official documents, jerseys, and club paraphernalia. Today, ASEF boasts a solid financial base of ₦1,157,054, is debt-free, and has retained a united membership body.

Healing and Unity

Upon assuming office, Okere prioritized reconciliation, reaching out to previously aggrieved members who opposed his emergence. Thanks to the intervention of the Patrons, BOT, and diaspora members, unity was restored, averting a potential club split.

What once seemed like division became a platform for a stronger, united ASEF,” he noted.

Sporting Achievements

Despite security challenges and a harsh economy limiting opportunities for external fixtures, ASEF remained active through the FA’s veterans’ tournament. Under Okere’s leadership, the team reached the semi-finals in the inaugural edition and finished as runners-up in the next.

He hailed the spirited support from key stakeholders including Chief Eshimaragini (ASEF Young Chief), Patron Austin, Barr. Uzoma, and others. The club’s vibrant supporters club and the technical crew led by Chief Charles Nnadi (Tigana) also earned special praise.

Community Recognition and Club Development

ASEF’s visibility soared during this period with Barrister Ifeanyi Dike, a club BOT member, elected as Chairman of the Imo State Football Association. The club also played host to Imo Sports Commission Chairman, Ambassador Eleazar Ogbonna, who donated ₦300,000 to the club.

The administration also organized an award ceremony honoring key contributors such as Hon. Kema Nze and Hon. Nnamdi Ihionu. New BOT members, including Barrister Dike and Pastor Jude Jieme, were inducted—initiatives that collectively boosted the club’s financial standing.

Seamless Transition

In line with the club’s constitution, a properly constituted Electoral Committee ensured a smooth transition. The new President, who served as Vice President in Okere’s administration, was described by the outgoing President as “a worthy successor who helped rebuild the club to its current status.”

Okere concluded with optimism and gratitude:

We return the club in better shape—financially stronger, united, and debt-free. I am confident that the new executive will soar even higher. To God be the glory!”

Prof Eddie Oparaoji Appeals for Unity in Iriji Mbaise Dispute

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By Silvernews

In a heartfelt appeal to prominent figures in the Mbaise community, Professor Eddie Oparaoji has called for peace and reconciliation amid growing tensions between Ndi Ezeji Mbaise and Ezuruezu Mbaise over the Iriji Mbaise Festival.

In a message addressed to respected community leaders, including Kachi Nwoga, Steve Onu, and Austin, Prof Oparaoji expressed deep concern over the ongoing conflict, which has spilled over into the Mbaise Policy Roundtable (MPR) forum, a platform dedicated to fostering dialogue and development among Mbaise sons and daughters.

“As members of our esteemed community, it is vital that we prioritize harmony and understanding over conflict,” Oparaoji stated. “Disagreements are a natural part of any community, but how we address them speaks volumes about our commitment to unity.”

Prof Oparaoji urged both parties to put aside their differences and reflect on the broader interest of the Mbaise nation, emphasizing the need for a united front in preserving the cultural heritage that binds the people of Mbaise together.

To that end, the MPR leadership has announced plans to initiate peace talks in the coming days, with the aim of fostering dialogue, mutual respect, and lasting reconciliation between the two groups. According to Oparaoji, the objective is to “broker peace and establish a way forward that honors the concerns of all involved while fostering a spirit of collaboration.”

He expressed optimism that with open minds and sincere intentions, the community could overcome its differences and set a positive example for future generations.

“I look forward to the possibility of working together for the betterment of IRIJI Mbaise and the exaltation of our cultural heritage,” he concluded.

The call for peace comes at a time when the sanctity and unity of Mbaise traditions are being tested by internal disputes, and many within the community are hopeful that reason and reconciliation will prevail.

BDFA DECORATES ABRAHAM SANTHOSH WITH A LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

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Mr. Abraham Santhosh, an inspirational, dynamic, and creative entrepreneur, and the Managing Director of the ALZICO GROUP (ATLAS), is beaming with joy following his decoration with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Badagry Divisional Football Association (BDFA). He has also been named one of the Association’s Ambassadors.

This prestigious award will be officially presented to him at the finals of the BDFA-RAK Tournament, which will be held at Badagry Grammar School Sports Pitch, Badagry, on 15th June 2025.

Mr. Santhosh is well-known for his innovative leadership and unwavering passion for football development at the grassroots level. For the past 13 years, he has been a strong supporter of the division, playing a crucial role in promoting and nurturing football talents through the ATLAS CUP.

The ATLAS CUP, which has run annually from 2010 to 2024, has become a cornerstone football development program within the Badagry Division. Over 25,000 football players across Lagos State have benefited immensely from the initiative. More than 64 football clubs — including male, female, and Under-13/15 categories — have received free sets of jerseys and other essential support.

According to Dr. Osondu Martins Ibegbu, Chairman of the BDFA, this Lifetime Achievement Award is a well-deserved honor. He expressed heartfelt appreciation to Mr. Santhosh for his unwavering support to the Badagry Division and Lagos State at large, through football.

Our youth are no longer on the streets committing crimes and engaging in social vices. For 13 consecutive years, the ATLAS CUP has kept them meaningfully engaged. All thanks to Mr. Abraham and his company, ATLAS. This title is a powerful acknowledgment of his tireless efforts to uplift the game in Badagry. Youth engagement has soared, and the division has gained more national attention because of individuals like Abraham Santhosh who have stood by us,” said Dr. Osondu.

On behalf of the Board, Coaches, Referees, Club Owners, and the passionate Players of the Badagry Divisional Football Association, we say a resounding thank you to Mr. Abraham Santhosh for his consistent support and dedication to the vision of the BDFA.

BDFA Honours Sesi Toku With Lifetime Achievement Award

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Mr. Sesi Toku, a renowned philanthropist, founder of ECAS Football Club, Lagos, and President of Amuwo Odofin All-Stars, has been honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Badagry Divisional Football Association (BDFA). This recognition comes as part of the association’s effort to celebrate key figures who have made significant contributions to football development in the division.

 

Fondly known as “Presidor” by friends and associates, Mr. Toku is widely respected for his integrity, charisma, and commitment to grassroots football. He has consistently given back to the Badagry Division through various charitable acts and unwavering support for the region’s football development.

 

Mr. Toku has been a constant source of motivation for the BDFA, always standing by the division and supporting its programs and initiatives. His dedication to the growth of football in the area has not gone unnoticed.

 

The Lifetime Achievement Award will be formally presented to Mr. Sesi Toku on June 15, 2025, during the finals of the BDFA-RAK League, to be held at the Badagry Grammar School Sports Pitch, Badagry.

 

Speaking on the award, Dr. Osondu Martins Ibegbu, Chairman of the Badagry Divisional Football Association, described the honour as “well-deserved” and a reflection of Mr. Toku’s enormous contribution to the growth of the game in the division.

 

Mr. Sesi Toku has been a pillar of support for our association. His passion, generosity, and commitment to youth development through football are truly commendable. This award is a token of our sincere appreciation,” said Dr. Osondu.

 

 

 

Thanks to supporters like Mr. Toku, the BDFA has continued to grow in national prominence, creating platforms for young talents and promoting positive engagement within the community.

 

On behalf of the Board, Coaches, Referees, Club Owners, and the dedicated players of the Badagry Divisional Football Association, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Mr. Sesi Toku for always championing the vision and mission of the BDFA.

BDFA Honours Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlede, Others with Lifetime Achievement Award

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The Badagry Divisional Football Association (BDFA) will honour Honourable Mobolaji Ogunlede, the Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development and founder of the RAK Foundation (Real Act of Kindness), with a Lifetime Achievement Award.

 

Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlede has been a key figure in the development of football in the Badagry Division. Through his initiative, the RAK League, launched in 2019, he has consistently promoted, empowered, and rewarded grassroots football development in the region.

 

Since its inception, the BDFA-RAK League has produced outstanding talents who are now making waves in both local and international football scenes. Notable alumni of the league include:

 

Solomon Agbalaka – playing in Georgia’s top division

 

Ibrahim Olawoyin – Turkish Premier League

 

David Dorusinmi – Czech Republic Super League

 

Emeka Eze – Turkish League

 

Paul Ebere Onuachu

 

Raphael Onyedika – Belgian League

 

 

Several others are currently plying their trade across Europe, Asia, and Africa.

 

Additionally, grassroots clubs such as RoRo FC and Youngstars FC have gained promotion to the Nationwide League One and Two respectively, thanks to the opportunities provided through the RAK League.

 

The Badagry Division remains one of the most respected DFAs in Nigerian football, with a long history of producing top-tier national talents including:

 

Emmanuel Amunike

 

Sunday Oliseh

 

Samson Siasia

 

Victor Agali

 

Odion Ighalo

 

Nnamdi Oduamadi

 

Ikpe Ekong

 

Alfred Poto

 

Benson Edema

 

Henry Nwosu

 

Ifeanyi Udeze

 

Tarila Okorowanta

 

Monday Odiaka

 

Jonathan Akpoborie

 

Dele Bob Emmanuel

…and many more.

 

 

Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlede, a true champion of youth, has spent over a decade dedicating his time and resources to youth empowerment through the RAK Foundation.

 

As part of its annual celebration, the Badagry Divisional Football Association will present Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlede with a Lifetime Achievement Award on June 15, 2025, during the finals of the BDFA-RAK League, held at Badagry Grammar School Sports Pitch.

 

According to Dr. Osondu Martins Ibegbu, Chairman of BDFA:

 

This award is a token of our appreciation for Hon. Ogunlede’s unwavering support and contributions to football and youth development in Badagry and Lagos State at large. Our youth are no longer idling on the streets or involved in social vices, thanks to the positive engagement and programs driven by the RAK

Foundation.”

 

 

 

Dr. Osondu added that youth participation in meaningful ventures has skyrocketed, and the division continues to gain national attention thanks to the commitment of leaders like Hon. Ogunlede.

 

On behalf of the Board, Coaches, Referees, Club Owners, and the passionate players of the Badagry Divisional Football Association, we say a heartfelt thank you to Abraham Santhosh for his unwavering support of BDFA’s vision.

BDFA DECORATES CHIEF CHEKWUBE UZOEGBO WITH A LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

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Chief Chekwube Uzoegbo (Eze-Chinechendo), the CEO of Chekas Group of Companies and proprietor of Chekas United Football Club, Lagos, is a man of few words but remarkable impact. His dedication and unwavering support to grassroots football development have earned him the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award from the Badagry Divisional Football Association (BDFA), honoring him as one of its esteemed Ambassadors.

 

Over the years, Chief Chekwube has made it his mission to give back to the youth of the Badagry Division through the CHEKAS KIDS CUP—a grassroots football tournament that caters to Under-10, Under-13, and Under-15 categories during the summer holidays. This initiative has positively impacted over 10,000 children within the division, providing them with opportunities to develop their talents in a structured and supportive environment.

 

In February 2024, Chief Chekwube further demonstrated his commitment by singlehandedly sponsoring the logistics for the visit of foreign experts from the USA. These experts conducted a 3D Institute Coaching Program for over 200 local coaches, further enhancing the technical capacity of football development in the region.

 

A well-established businessman and philanthropist, Chief Uzoegbo has consistently channeled his resources toward the growth of football in the Badagry Division and Lagos State at large. His selfless contributions have inspired many and created pathways for young talents to thrive.

 

The Lifetime Achievement Award will be formally presented to him during the BDFA-RAK Finals, scheduled to hold at Badagry Grammar School Sports Pitch on the 15th of June, 2025.

 

According to Dr. Osondu Martins Ibegbu, Chairman of the BDFA, “This honor bestowed on Chief Chekwube Uzoegbo is not only well-deserved but a significant acknowledgment of his dedication to football development in Badagry. Our children are now constructively engaged during the holidays, and parents are filled with joy, all thanks to the CHEKAS KIDS CUP and Chief Uzoegbo’s unwavering support.”

 

He continued, “The BDFA has gained national recognition due to individuals like Chief Chekwube, who believe in our vision and stand by us at every step.”

 

On behalf of the Board, Coaches, Referees, Club Owners, and the passionate players of the Badagry Divisional Football Association, we say a heartfelt Thank You to Chief Chekwube Uzoegbo for his continued support and commitment to the vision of the BDFA.

BDFA Honours Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlede and Others with Lifetime Achievement Award

By
Silvernews Silvernews
-

The Badagry Divisional Football Association (BDFA) will honour Honourable Mobolaji Ogunlede, the Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development and founder of the RAK Foundation (Real Act of Kindness), with a Lifetime Achievement Award.

Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlede has been a key figure in the development of football in the Badagry Division. Through his initiative, the RAK League, launched in 2019, he has consistently promoted, empowered, and rewarded grassroots football development in the region.

Since its inception, the BDFA-RAK League has produced outstanding talents who are now making waves in both local and international football scenes. Notable alumni of the league include:

Solomon Agbalaka – playing in Georgia’s top division

Ibrahim Olawoyin – Turkish Premier League

David Dorusinmi – Czech Republic Super League

Emeka Eze – Turkish League

Paul Ebere Onuachu

Raphael Onyedika – Belgian League

Several others are currently plying their trade across Europe, Asia, and Africa.

Additionally, grassroots clubs such as RoRo FC and Youngstars FC have gained promotion to the Nationwide League One and Two respectively, thanks to the opportunities provided through the RAK League.

The Badagry Division remains one of the most respected DFAs in Nigerian football, with a long history of producing top-tier national talents including:

Emmanuel Amunike

Sunday Oliseh

Samson Siasia

Victor Agali

Odion Ighalo

Nnamdi Oduamadi

Ikpe Ekong

Alfred Poto

Benson Edema

Henry Nwosu

Ifeanyi Udeze

Tarila Okorowanta

Monday Odiaka

Jonathan Akpoborie

Dele Bob Emmanuel
…and many more.

Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlede, a true champion of youth, has spent over a decade dedicating his time and resources to youth empowerment through the RAK Foundation.

As part of its annual celebration, the Badagry Divisional Football Association will present Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlede with a Lifetime Achievement Award on June 15, 2025, during the finals of the BDFA-RAK League, held at Badagry Grammar School Sports Pitch.

According to Dr. Osondu Martins Ibegbu, Chairman of BDFA:

This award is a token of our appreciation for Hon. Ogunlede’s unwavering support and contributions to football and youth development in Badagry and Lagos State at large. Our youth are no longer idling on the streets or involved in social vices, thanks to the positive engagement and programs driven by the RAK
Foundation.”

Dr. Osondu added that youth participation in meaningful ventures has skyrocketed, and the division continues to gain national attention thanks to the commitment of leaders like Hon. Ogunlede.

On behalf of the Board, Coaches, Referees, Club Owners, and the passionate players of the Badagry Divisional Football Association, we say a heartfelt thank you to Abraham Santhosh for his unwavering support of BDFA’s vision.

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