Sports: Obasa’s Cup 2023 Talent, Ganiu Olaniyan Makes History with Moldovan Club CSF Spartani Sportul

By Yomi Durojaye 

In a groundbreaking move, an 18-year-old Nigerian midfielder, Ganiu Olaniyan, one of the talents discovered at the maiden edition of the Obasa’s Cup, has been signed in by Moldovan Club CSF Spartani Sportul on a three-year deal. 

This remarkable achievement marks a significant milestone in the young player's career and highlights the success of grassroots football initiatives in Nigeria as perfectly showcased by Kings Sport International during the Obasa’s Cup.

Ganiu's journey to stardom began at the maiden edition Obasa’s Cup in 2023, a prestigious grassroots football tournament organized by Kings Sports International in honour of Rt Honourable Speaker of Lagos State House of Assembly, Dr. Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa. 

During the tournament, Ganiu displayed exceptional talent and skills that caught the attention of spectators and the foreign scouts present, leading to his signing with CSF Spartani Sportul.

Over the weekend, Ganiu debuted for his new club in a match against FC Sheriff, demonstrating his readiness for top-level competition. This achievement is a testament to the effectiveness of Kings Sports International in discovering and nurturing young talented players in Nigeria.

"Ganiu's signing in is a success for Kings Sports International, Agege, Lagos, and Nigeria as a whole,” said Abdu-Ganiyu Vinod Obasa, head of Kings Sports International.  He added, "We are committed to providing a platform for young Nigerian players to showcase their talents and compete favourably at international levels."

Ganiu's three-year contract with CSF Spartani Sportul is a significant step forward in his career, and he is expected to make a lasting impact in Moldovan football.

Congratulations to Ganiu Olaniyan on this remarkable achievement.

Grassroots Football: How Kukushaw FC won Bet9ja Elephant Cup five-a-side grassroots soccer

Grassroots Football: How Kukushaw FC wins Bet9ja Elephant Cup five-a-side grassroots soccer

AgegePulse Magazine 

Kukushaw Football Club of Lagos State has won the 2023/24 Bet9ja Elephant Cup, a five-a-side grassroots soccer tournament.

The team defeated Omo Beta FC 4-0 in the final of the tournament held at the Ashade Ogba Palace Playing Ground, Agege community on Friday.

Kukushaw FC was rewarded with a cash prize of N500, 000 for winning the tourney while Omo Baba FC got N300,000 for coming second.

Twelve teams participated in the competition.

Speaking after the match, the Chairman Bet9ja Elephant Football Committee, Felix Ajanaku, thanked God for the success of the league.

Mr Ajanaku said that the competition had run for 26 years at the same venue and improved greatly since the first edition.

“I appreciate and thank all the teams that participated in the league from the beginning, for their sportsmanship and fair play attitude during the matches. The game went well and the players showed some level of maturity during the tournament. We also thank the supporters and the spectators for their peaceful conduct during and after the matches,” he said.

A former member of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mr Yinka Ogundimu, in his remarks said that the tournament has impacted the youth and Agege community.

According to him, many talented players have been picked from the grassroots football competition to play in higher leagues and in national teams.

A former International, Sylvester Igboun, was once a grassroots player at this playing ground in Ashade Palace, Agege. We implore the youth to take advantage of this opportunity and focus on their God-given skills and talents for a better future.

A veteran actress, Taiwo Ajayi-Lycett, said that more youths would benefit from the yearly tournament if organisations and well-meaning individuals support the initiative.

Ms Ajayi-Lycett also urged the media to give more coverage to grassroots sporting activities to showcase and discover many hidden talents across different communities.

Speaking, Oladele Alabi, who emerged Best Goalkeeper of the tournament thanked God for the success of his team, Kukushaw FC.

“Though it is not easy, God saw us through. We thank our sponsors, supporters and organisers of the game for giving us the opportunity to showcase our talents,” Mr Alabi said.

| ROMELU LUKAKU ONE STEP AWAY FROM JOINING CHELSEA | AgegePulse Magazine

 

By Ayodele Ifasakin 

Lukaku 

Romelu Lukaku’s now one step away from joining Chelsea on a permanent deal, final stages 🇧🇪

- Inter and Chelsea are now close to reach the agreement for €115m as final fee for Romelu Lukaku deal. 

- There’s no player included in the negotiation as of now, Inter turned down Marcos Alonso too. 

- Romelu Lukaku has an agreement on personal terms with Chelsea for €12m + add ons net per season as salary. 📑

- Chelsea hope to conclude Romelu Lukaku deal in the next few days waiting for total agreement with Inter on final details then the board will focus on Jules Koundé negotiations with Sevilla. 🔵

- N’Golo Kanté and Jorginho new contracts are set to be discussed after this summer. 🗣

📲🇮🇹 Romelu Lukaku è a un passo dal Chelsea: parti sempre più vicine per 115 milioni di euro, senza giocatori inclusi. Accordo pronto con Lukaku per 12 milioni all’anno. @gianlucadimarzio 

#inter #cfc #chelsea #lukaku #transfers #epl #romelulukaku #football #herewego 🌟

by Romeo

Sports: Ottasolo Top Group A Table, Zoom to NLO Playoff final despite draw with Remo | AgegePulse Magazine

 

Ottasolo FC came from behind to force Remo Stars to a 2 - 2 draw in one of the NLO final group stage matches (Ilorin Centre) decided at the Kwara State Sports Complex in Ilorin.

Team Ottasolo

The Solo Boys have now set up a playoff final for themselves with this result having topped group A table with 16 points.

It was a thrilling and entertaining encounter full of talking points as both teams exhibited a magnificent football artistry. 

The first clear cut chance of the game rested on John Peter just five minutes into the proceedings when Samuel Ogunjimi's through ball beat Remo defense to leave John one-on-one with the goalkeeper but his low effort was parried to safety.

Remo Stars would then have their noses in front with a textbook header by Oyedele Lekan who rose the highest to power home a well taken freekick by Seun Dunsin.

Coach Seyi Elijah Boys poured forward in their numbers as they search for the equaliser but the resolute defense of Remo was a hard nut to break as they thwart Ottasolo attacking moves.

Boluwaji Solumade against all odds put Ottasolo back in the game with a glancing header on 31st minute when he connected well to a lofty cornerkick by Samuel Ogunjimi.

As the game continued to hot up, both teams created some scoring opportunities but could not find  the back of the net

However, Ottasolo FC took the lead just at the nick of halftime stoppage through a clever jabbing  by John Peter off a sumptuous low cross by Megba Tomola.

The Lagosian went to halftime break with a goal advantage

On resumption, there was another begging chance for 'Solo Boys' to double their advange but Hassan Hassan's close range effort missed the target by a whisker.

Oyedele Lekan drawn Remo Stars level from the penalty spot on 51 minute when Moshood Jelili tripped Seun Dunsin in the box.

Remo Stars' coach injected some fresh legs to fortify his team as they continued to search for the winner. 

His compatriot, Olufemi Elijah responded with a double substitutes as he threw Nkwachukwu Samuel and Odeyemi Bolaji into fraw.

The changes could not affect the scorrline as the game ended 2 - 2.

Ottasolo FC who are group A leader will keep a date with Seat of God that top group B table on Friday at the Kwara State Sports Complex in Ilorin 

Boluwaji Solumade was adjudged the man of the match

Sports: Agege Football Star, Samuel Ogunjimi Shines As Ottasolo Earns Maximum point against EKSU | AgegePulse Magazine

 

Ottasolo cruised to top of the league table as they maintained their 100 percent winning record when they defeated EKSU Galacticos 1 - 0 in the ongoing NLO at the Kwara State Sports Complex in Ilorin.

The Lagos based team who are yet to drop point in the ongoing Nationwide League One tournament have now won five out five games played. 

Mercurial midfielder Samuel Ogunjimi scored the lone goal on 33rd minute to ensure that the Solo Boys run away with the maximum points to return to league table summit.

Ottasolo FC have now amassed 15 points in five games to leapfrog Remo Stars who are 2nd on the table with 13 points having played the same number of games

Ottasolo Boys started the game on a very poor note as they looked jaded and ordinary, thereby giving their opponent opportunities to control the tempo of the game in the early minutes

However, Coach Olufemi Elijah boys woke of from their slumbers and could have scored on 5th minute but Mouri Ogounbiyi's diving header could not trouble EKSU goalie who made a comfortable save.

Despite enjoying more of the ball possession, Ottasolo Boys could not transform their dominance into goal scoring as their opponents stood firm to thwart every attacking threat thrown at them. 

Dominc Abah could have scored for Ottasolo on 19 minutes but his long distance strike went inches away from the crossbar 

Samuel Ogunjimi would later break the deadlock on 33rd minute to put Ottasolo ahead with a cool finish off a well crafted pass by Adebayo Adewale.

The University Boys had a golden chance that could have put them back in the game on 43rd minute but Ottasolo goalie, Kuye Ibrahim came out big to deny Oluwatayo Ifeoluwa from point blank.

Ottasolo continued their dominance but could not carve a hole out of the resolute compact defense of EKSU to double their lead as the first half ended 1 - 0 in favour of Ottasolo

The resumption of the the second 45 minutes witnessed some substitutions from both teams.

It was Ottasolo that created the first clear cut chance in the second half  on 61st minute when Mouri Ogounbiyi put food on the plate with a lofty and intelligent cross into the area of the opposition, striker Adeshina Ridwan connected well but his final touch could not find the target.

EKSU goalie, Ogungbade Tomiwa who was busy throughout the game made another clever save on 82nd minute when he parried a goal bound effort by Ridwan Adeshina to corner

Less scoring chances were created in the second half as both teamd could not add to the first half scoreline and the game ended 1 - 0 in favour of Ottasolo

Moshood Jelili who was a rock solid in the defense of Ottasolo was adjudged as man of the match.

Ottasolo will face Remo Stars in their last match of the group Wednesday, 17th March, 2021 by 4pm at the Kwara State Sports Complex in Ilorin

Sport: Agege Sports Competition will positively change youths’ perception- Organiser

AgegePulse Magazine

The 2020 Agege Sports Drive Competition in Lagos State will positively change the narrative perception of youths in the community.

The competition that is set to change the narrative of grassroots football in Agege was tagged "Challenge Cup".

Mr Ademola Oni, Chairman, Local Organising Committee (LOC) of the competition, made the assertion at the Press Conference in Agege.

Oni said that the game slated to begin on Feb. 22 would change the negative perceptions of youths in Agege Community to the outside world.

According to him, what Agege is popularly known for is the production of bread and other social vices among youths in the area.

“We believe we can use sports to change that negative perception of youths in the community.

“The competition will also involve both young and old within the local government area.

“Absolutely, this competition is not only about football, though, is one of the major events, about eight different games are included in the tournament.

“We believe other games that have not been given prominence should be recognised in this year’s completion,” he said.

AgegePulse also learnt that, other traditional games like “Ayo Olopon”, Draft and Ludo would also be part of the competition for the women and elderly people categories.

He said that 16 teams from different streets have signed up for the Challenge Cup Tournament involving over 2,000 youths.

According to him, these games are nearly going into extinction, but the LOC has scheduled them in the competition to bring people together like in the old good days.

The “Ayo Olopon” game is earmarked for 50 years and above, Draft Game is for people from 40 years and above, while Ludo Game is positioned mainly for female participants.

“Snooker Game that has also gone into extinction will also be introduced to bring the good time we have had with the game in the olden days,” he added.

The LOC chairman noted that the competition would kick off with 16 streets in Keke, Agege where the teams would be represented in all the games in the competition, including football.

The list of streets that have registered for the tournament include: Olarenwaju, Shobowale, Ogunipebi, Ifelodun, Oshungboye, Kosoko, Abeokuta, Suru, Adedosu, Lagos and Stadium United.

Others are: Onafuwa, Powerline, Ijaiye, Emiloju and Kajola Street, which fall under Keke Agege Community in Lagos State.

Sports: Pokilee FC wins N500,000 for 2019/20 Bet9ja Elephant Cup

AgegePulse Magazine

Pokilee Football Club of Ifako Ijaiye in Lagos State has won the 2019/20 Bet9ja Elephant Cup, a five-a-side grassroots soccer tournament defeating Oloke FC, Oshodi in the final match by two goals to one.

The match was held on Friday evening at the Ashade Ogba Palace playing ground in Agege Local Government area of the state.

Pokilee FC, was one of the 14 teams, drawn on Oct. 14 to groups to kick start the five-a-side grassroots soccer tournament.

Pokilee FC emerged victorious through penalty kicks after the 20 – 20 minutes encounter could not produce the winner.

The Pokilee FC was rewarded with cash prize of N500,000, while the second Oloke FC, Oshodi and the third place winner, Successful FC got N250,000 and N100,000 respectively.

In his post-match remarks, Mr Alilu Salau, Chairman of Elephant Club, thanked God for the success of the league.

Salau said that the competition had been in existence for the past 22 years at the same venue, and keep improving on it every year.

“I appreciate and thank all the teams that participated in the league from the beginning, for their sportsmanship and fair play attitude during the matches.

“The game went well and the players show some level of maturity during the tournament.

“We also thanked the supporters and the spectators for their peaceful conduct and coexistence during and after the matches,” he said.

Also, Rasheed Olalekan, the Best Goal Keeper of the tournament, thanked God for the success of his team to win the 2019/20 league.

“Though, it is not easy, God saw us through. We thanked all our sponsors, supporters and organisers of the game for giving us the opportunity to showcase our talents,” Olalekan said.

Commenting, Adetobi Osadipe, a representative of Nigerbev, one of the sponsors of the competition, thanked youths in the community for their participation in the grassroots football league.

“In fact, this league is fantastic; it was well organised and all the supporters were very friendly; there was no violence; everything went on smoothly in spite of the venue being crowded environment,” Osadipe

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE RESULT & UEFA EUROPA LEAGUE

MATCH DAY 1

Wednesday 19th Sept 2018

5:55 pm - Ajax 3 VS AEK Athens 0

5:55 pm - FC Shakhtar Donetsk 2 VS Hoffenheim 2

8:00 pm - Benfica Lisbon 0 VS Bayern Munich 2

8:00 pm - Manchester City 1 VS Lyon 2

8:00 pm - FC Viktoria Plzen 2 VS CSKA Moscow 2

8:00 pm - Real Madrid 3 VS Roma 0

8:00 pm - Valencia 0 VS Juventus 2

8:00 pm - BSC Young Boys 0 VS Manchester Utd 3



UEFA EUROPA LEAGUE

FIXTURES

MATCH DAY 1

Thursday 20th Sept 2018

5:55 pm - PAOK VS Chelsea

5:55 pm - Vidi FC VS FC BATE Borisov

5:55 pm - Villarreal VS Rangers

5:55 pm - SK Rapid Vienna VS FC Spartak Moscow

5:55 pm - Marseille VS Eintracht Frankfurt

5:55 pm - Lazio VS Apollon Limassol FC

5:55 pm - Stade Rennes VS FK Jablonec

5:55 pm - FC Dynamo Kiev VS FC Astana

5:55 pm - Besiktas VS Sarpsborg

5:55 pm - KRC Genk VS Malmo FF

5:55 pm - Sevilla VS Standard Liege

5:55 pm - Akhisar Bld Spor VS FC Krasnodar

8:00 pm - AEK Larnaca FC VS FC Zurich

8:00 pm - Ludogorets  Razgrad VS Bayer Leverkusen

8:00 pm - RB Leipzig VS RB Salzburg

8:00 pm - Celtic VS Rosenborg BK

8:00 pm - FC Copenhagen VS FC Zenit St Petersburg

8:00 pm - SK Slavia Prague VS Bordeaux

8:00 pm - FC Spartak Trnava VS RSC Anderlecht

8:00 pm - GNK Dinamo Zagreb VS Fenerbahce

8:00 pm - Sporting Lisbon CP VS Qarabag FK

8:00 pm - Arsenal VS FC Vorskla Poltava

8:00 pm - F91 Dudelange VS AC Milan

8:00 pm - Olympiacos VS Real Betis

SPORTS: UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FIXTURES: MATCH DAY 1

Tuesday 18th Sept 2018

Inter Milan VS  Tottenham

Barcelona VS PSV

Monaco VS Atletico Madrid

Club Brugge VS Borussia Dortmund

 FK Red Star Belgrade VS Napoli

Liverpool VS PSG

Schalke VS FC Porto

Galatasaray VS FC Lokomotiv Moscow

Chelsea must let Courtois join Real Madrid, says agent

Christophe Henrotay has appealed for the Blues to do the decent thing and allow the goalkeeper to move closer to his children in the Spanish capital

Thibaut Courtois’ representative has urged Chelsea to allow the goalkeeper to join Real Madrid.

The Belgium international shot-stopper holds a desire to move back to Spain, where he spent two years on loan at Atletico Madrid, in order to be closer to his family.

Los Blancos have been keen to make a move, but thus far the Blues have refused to budge on their £40 million (€45m/$52m) valuation of the player. 

While no deal is in place, manager Maurizio Sarri did not appear confident on Friday that the Stamford Bridge will be able to retain their No.1, while former Belgium coach Graeme Jones says that a move is "definitely" on the cards.

“I have been reading everywhere that Chelsea are saying it is up to Thibaut, but he has made it clear to the club that the best option for him is to move to Madrid,” Christophe Henrotay said, according to The Sun.

“For him this is a big decision because he wants to be near his family, and there is an offer in place for Chelsea to accept.”

Some supporters have criticised the 26-year-old as they feel that his desire to move to the Bernabeu is being financially driven, but Henrotay has dismissed those claims out of hand.

“We have seen suggestions that it is about money, and it is true he could get an increase with a move.

“But he has turned down a better offer elsewhere because this is more than a financial decision.

“Throughout this it has important for everyone to be reasonable, and the buying club has come up with a reasonable offer for a player who has one year left on his contract when they know they could sign him without a fee in 12 months.

“Chelsea could get a fair fee for him now and sign a replacement. Or they would still have to sign a replacement next summer, but without getting a fee for Thibaut.

Goal

Juventus director reveals how 'crazy' Ronaldo move happened

Goal

An incredible overhead kick in April gave the Old Lady the idea to make an effort to land the Portugal star

Juventus sporting director Fabio Paratici said his club got the idea to sign Cristiano Ronaldo after his stunning bicycle kick against them in April.

The then-Real Madrid star lit up the Champions League quarter-final first leg in Turin with two goals, including a sensational overhead kick in the second half.

Ronaldo's strike was so stunning that it even caused fans at the Allianz Stadium to stand up and applaud the visiting player's effort.

In addition, Paratici has revealed it was the moment that set the move in motion.

"The crazy idea started after the crazy goal he scored against us," Paratici told Sky Italia.

"(Ronaldo's agent) Jorge Mendes told us that Cristiano was stunned by the attention he received, he said that one day he would like to come to Juventus."

That vision became a reality earlier this month, when Ronaldo signed for Juve in a deal worth €100 million (£88m/$117m).

Headline News

*AgegePulse Magazine... The mouthpiece of Agege/Orile Agege
* *Headlines Today*[Thu-14-Dec-2017]*

Safiya Lawan wins maiden Edition of Happy Home School Spelling Bee Competition

...Becomes One Day Principal

Agege LG Boss, Egunjobi Bestows Scholarship On Indigent Pupil

Agege LG Begins Distribution of Exercise Books to Primary School Pupils...

... Tagged Support Mechanism To Aid Education

How Assumption, Oversight Caused Nigeria's FIFA Sanctions - NFF Boss, Amaju Pinnick Reveals

...Apologises For Disreputing Nigeria

Ambode Opena Johnson, Jakande, Tinubu Park in Alausa
…Says Former Govs, True Legends Of Lagos


*Punch Newspaper*
LASU emerges best at NITIMUN Conference

BREAKING: May loses key Brexit vote in British parliament

2019: I can't be Buharis running mate, says Tinubu

Club World Cup: Returning Bale rescues Real from Al Jazira upset

Osinbajo meets APC govs ahead of NGF meeting

$250m unremitted fund: Reps threaten oil firms with arrest warrants

Surgeon admits branding patients liver with initials

FG approves $500m for coaches, locomotives for Lagos-Ibadan, Itakpe-Warri railways

PDPs national leaders will excel Metuh

Nigeria still investors destination, IMF says

Police corporal shoots commercial bus driver dead in Ekiti


UK surgeon admits branding patient livers with initials

Okorocha presents N190bn budget for 2018

Neymar returns to Paris after Brazil trip

Trump unfit to clean toilets at Obama library US newspaper

Man agrees to acid attack, impersonates girlfriends slain husband

Fabinho to leave Monaco next year

Jail IGP for contempt,Peace Corps tells court


*Vanguard Newspaper*
Rotimi Amaechi is an ignoramus: Here are facts to prove it ' Reno

Dozen DR Congo child rapists handed life sentences

World e-waste rises by 8%

Apapa gridlock: Ambode raises concern over ports location, states why traffic gridlock persists

Wike, Ibori commission Projects in Asaba

Wike an 'outstanding leader', says Jonathan

Timaya may become first Nigerian-based act to win Grammy award, bags nomination

Global Alliance against pollution gets USD 35 Million support

Photos: Ruines of fuel tanker fire in FESTAC

White House aide Omarosa Newman resigns

Police corporal kills bus driver, arrested in Ekiti

FG to demolish Jibowu, Costain bridges in Lagos ' Ambode

Netanyahu 'not impressed' by Muslim leaders' Jerusalem statements

Okowa says MSMEs sure way out of poverty

Brazilian president to undergo new health tests

Trump 'not fit to clean toilets' at Obama library ' Newspaper

OIC declares East Jerusalem Palestine capital, flays Trump

Northern Senators want primary education be compulsory in Nigeria


*The Nation Newspaper*
Monarch throws weight behind anti-human trafficking fight

Aubameyang ready to sale Lamborghini for 250,000

Tokyo 2020 to organise innovative and engaging Games

Updated: Two injured, 21 vehicles razed in Lagos tanker explosion

El-Rufai inaugurates poultry diseases diagnostic laboratory

Apapa Customs generates N36.2bn

Poly student kill friend in Kogi

Arsenal agree 35m deal for Steven N'Zonzi

Udoma says labour matters high on FG's priority matters

50% of Nigerians living with HIV are adolescents ' UNICEF

800 to benefit from ENT medical outreach in Kaduna

Ayade has failed workers ' NLC

UNICEF, NOA mobilises journalists to fight HIV in Kaduna

Breaking: Many feared trapped as tanker explodes in Lagos

6 Sure Signs Your Visa will Be Denied (And What to Do about Them)

Motorists lament as fuel scarcity bites hard in Kano

FIFA Sanction: Pinnick apologises to Nigerians

FIFA sanction: NFF sets up 4-man committee


*Thisday Newspaper*
Petroleum Tanker Explodes in Lagos, Razes 20 Cars

NYSC Appeals to Bauchi to Reconnect Camp to National Grid

Tension as Policeman Shoots, Kills Commercial Driver in Ekiti

N-Power Beneficiaries Commend FG, Beg for Permanent Jobs

Nigerian Military Directed to Fight Boko Haram without Infringing on Human Rights

RAMP: Some States Won't Meet 2018 Deadline for Completion of Projects

Fresh Batch of 142 Libyan Returnees Arrive Nigeria

Petroleum Tanker Explodes in Lagos, Razes 20 Cars

NYSC Appeals to Bauchi to Reconnect Camp to National Grid

Tension as Policeman Shoots, Kills Commercial Driver in Ekiti

N-Power Beneficiaries Commend FG, Beg for Permanent Jobs

RAMP: Some States Won't Meet 2018 Deadline for Completion of Projects

Fresh Batch of 142 Libyan Returnees Arrive Nigeria

Nigerian Military Directed to Fight Boko Haram without Infringing on Human Rights

The Sugar Daddy Syndrome


Lawyers Welcome Appeal Court Judgment on Prosecution of Judges

A'Court Affirms CCT Ruling on 15 Charges Against Saraki

How Assumption, Oversight Caused Nigeria's FIFA Sanctions - NFF Boss, Amaju Pinnick Reveals

...Apologises For Disreputing Nigeria

Agege Pulse Magazine

Yesterday, Agege Pulse regaled the ugly news of how the Technical Committee of the Federation of International Football Association, FIFA read riot act on the Nigeria Football Federation for fielding an ineligible player (Shehu Abdullahi) during the last 2018 World Cup qualifier against Algeria.

The world football governing body stripped Nigeria of the one point they earned from their final 2018 World Cup qualifier against Algeria and subsequently fined NFF 6,000 CHF (about N2,162, 923) for the development.

Now, NFF President, Amaju Pinnick, has apologised to Nigerians and fans of the Super Eagles for the sanctions slammed on the country by FIFA.

Pinnick, in several tweets on his handle, @PinnickAmaju, on Wednesday, apologised for the sanctions blaming assumptions and oversight on the part of NFF as rationale behind it.

He said, “Good morning. I’ll start by tendering my wholehearted apology to Nigeria and Nigerians for the Shehu Abdullahi error. It is unforgivable and could have undone months of hard work. As head of the Federation, I take responsibility for this. It happened on my watch.

“While accepting the Federation’s fault here, let me quickly explain how this went by unnoticed. It doesn’t change the fact that we didn’t keep our eyes on the ball and will help us in our planned restructuring of the Technical & Competitions Department.

“Shehu Abdullahi got his first yellow card in our very first preliminary match against Swaziland away. When the draws for the Group Stages were made, the Technical staff made a grave error; assumption.

“To be fair to them, throughout the qualifying series, official match documents didn’t even show that Shehu Abdullahi was on a yellow card. For instance, when we played Cameroon, Mikel, Moses and Balogun were put on notice that they had yellow cards.

“Team meetings were even held about how to handle their cards so they wouldn’t miss crucial games. Shehu Abdullahi was never in the mix. Shehu then recieved a yellow against Zambia in our penultimate game, two years after the Swaziland match.

“Another grave mistake then occurred. Fifa sent an email to the technical officer in charge, that Shehu Abdullahi was suspended for the Algeria match. In a twist of fate, that officer was in hospital, with a severe heart condition, battling for his life.

“The biggest knock to our system is the fact that his official correspondences should have been forwarded to more than one person. It wasn’t. We went into our last match not knowing about Fifa’s notice. Not acceptable, I agree, but these are the facts of the matter.

“On the match day, we were unaware, the match officials were unaware and our opponents were unaware. It was a horrendous error and we at the Federation are truly apologetic. We thank God it did not undue years of hard work.

“It was a lack of due diligence in and by one of our departments and we are ensuring that errors like these never happen again. On behalf of all of us at the @thenff; I apologise, Nigeria. Our focus remains. We will soar higher.”

Headline News - AgegePulse

*AgegePulse *Headlines Today*
*[Mon-04-Dec-2017]*

*Punch Newspaper*
Convention: PDP removes ex-govs, deputies as automatic delegates

Ajimobis chieftaincy review is reversible Olubadan

Im still entitled to $800m compensation, says Kanu

Presidential ticket: Ex-VP Atiku rejoins PDP, Makarfi says I may contest

20 more exotic cars for Reps arrive

SERAP urges Buhari to probe privatisation process

Buhari will know his friends after leaving power Sani

IGP: FG amends falsehood charges against Misau

Yuletide: LASG urges vigilance

Oyintiloye bags award

Osun has resolved 5,000 herdsmen, farmers clashes

Tourism master plan coming, says Ambode

Prepare for 2019 elections

Lagos promises support to investors

Minibus smuggling people into Turkey crashes, kills 11

PDP should focus on recapturing Presidency 'Dickson

PDP chair: S'West consensus candidate not possible, says George

PDP will become solid after convention 'Jonathan


*Vanguard Newspaper*
Ugwuanyi flags off construction of 4 more rural roads

Don't politicise Ogoni clean-up, ex-Deputy Speaker tells Wike

Otuaro remains my running mate in 2019 'Okowa

Miyetti Allah threatens legal action over Benue, Taraba grazing laws

Nigeria has deep cultural issues affecting insurance growth ' CIIN boss

Insurers should create products that customers need ' COO, AIICO

INVESTMENT: Tambuwal, Chinese envoy seek closer ties

PDP Convention: North backs Odeyemi for Deputy National Publicity Secretary

Olubadan chieftaincy review reversible ' MONARCH

LG autonomy: Ex-chairmen beg NUT to suspend nationwide protest

PDP CHAIR: It's late for consensus S-West candidate ' George

Nigeria suffering from broken public finance ' Soludo

PDP National Chairman: IBB warns against monetisation of contest

Jonathan not maintaining dignity after leaving office ' Oyegun

How Atiku took over PDP

DBIR office, others sealed off over alleged 2 years rent

PDP Chairmanship: IBB decries money politics

Atiku return to PDP a welcome development ' Ekweremadu


*The Nation Newspaper*
Universidad de Oviedo's move excites Okoye

IBB, Jonathan reject PDP governors choice for chair

IBB frightened by deployment of cash to 'buy' PDP chair

No cause for alarm over terror alert, says Fed Govt

Olubadan: chieftaincy law review reversible

Emefiele is best CBN Governor ever, says Ovia

Recovered weapons in Ondo unsettles Presidency

Turai Yar'Adua's N10b Abuja cancer centre abandoned

Nigeria committed to leading role against extremism, says Buhari

ACF condemns Biu attack

PDP members defect to APC in Gboko

Investors gain N4tr in equities

Libya: Action, not rhetoric

Retirees to get increment on monthly pension

Bad loans

Why I believe power sector 'll be fixed, by Fashola

EFCC vs DSS

Nigeria owes World Bank Group $7.8b

Why we are raising N131.65b, by Lafarge Africa

Law Union achieves 60% target

Fed Govt implements revised import, export guidelines next month

Onyema, Ezekwesili stress financial literacy

Sterling Bank donates items to Cross River

Nigeria eyes over N240b from cocoa export

Whistleblowing made tough

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Headline News -AgegePulse

*AgegePulse Magazine* ...the mouthpiece of Agege/Orile Agege
*Headlines Today*[Thu-30-Nov-2017


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.. To complete Taiwo Dada Street Soon

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TGPS Dr Ayandele Lauds Asisat Oshoala Football Clinic

As the Football Clinic organised by Asisat Oshoala Foundation continues to attract commendation across the state, the Tutor General/Permanent Secretary of Lagos Education District One, Agege, Dr. Yinka Ayandele has praised the initiative as an invaluable platform for female students with abundant football talent.

Dr Ayandele who is an advocate of talent discovery and tapping of creativity deposited in students alongside Western education, said the football clinic is an indication that the reigning Female African Footballer of the year, Asisat Oshoala is planning for the future of the round leather game in Nigeria.

She stressed that apart from discovering new markswomen like herself, the Super Falcons goal poacher is also giving hope and reassurance to an average girl child that if their talent is effectively nurtured, they could make a respectable living from football. Hence, deter them from social vices in the society.

"We are grateful to Super Falcons star, Asisat Oshoala who through her Football Clinic, is looking into the future and building an empire of young girls who will keep flying the flag when she bows out of active service for the nation.

"Indeed, the Asisat Oshoala Foundation Football Clinic final held inside Agege Stadium yesterday, has given impetus to our female students who see Asisat as a worthy role model to achieve their soccer ambition." Dr Ayandele said.

Also, the award winning educationist used the medium to felicitate with the First Lady of Lagos State, Her Excellency, Mrs Bolanle Ambode and the Chairman of Agege LGA, Mr Ganiyu Kola Egunjobi who were recognised for their unflinching supports towards grassroot sports development by the foundation.

Today's Headline News

*AgegePulse Magazine* ...the mouthpiece of Agege/Orile Agege
*Headlines Today*[Thu-09-Nov-2017]*

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Obafemi Martins donates 200 Wheel Chairs, 3,240 Crutches, other health equipment to LASG

AgegePulse

Governor Ambode described it as a Good Gesture, Act of Selfless Service, Commitment To Humanity.

Nigeria Football international, Obafemi Martins on Thursday donated health equipment worth several millions of naira to the Lagos State Government, saying it was part of his philanthropic gestures to give back to the society.

Among the equipment donated by Martins, through his foundation, Obafemi Martins Foundation (OMF), include 200 Wheel Chairs, 3,240 Crutches, 100 Baby Courts, 60 Hospital Beds, 13 Electric Wheel Chairs and 3200 Blind Sticks.

Presenting the equipment to the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode at a short ceremony held at Lagos House in Ikeja, Martins, who currently plies his trade with Shanghai Greenland Shenhua F.C in China, said the mission of his Foundation is to assist members of the community who are in need as a result of being handicapped.

I am grateful to announce that the Foundation is currently prepared to donate a lot of wheel chairs, electronic wheel chairs, clutches and other equipment. I am confident that this contribution will impact lives in our communities. Through service to our community, we can all make a difference, Martins said.

He, however, said that the Foundation would not only stop at the donation, adding that there would be more interventions in the nearest future.

Receiving the equipment on behalf of the State Government, Governor Ambode commended Martins for the gesture, saying that it was not only a worthy and noble act of selfless service, but a clear demonstration of his commitment to Nigeria and most especially Lagos State.

We are all delighted to welcome Obafemi Martins back home. As you are aware, he is a true born Lagosian and through his Foundation, he has deemed it necessary to extend selfless service back to his community.

We are, on behalf of Lagosians, saying a big thank you to you. Apart from the fact that you have become an excellent ambassador for Lagos, you’ve done extremely very well in your chosen career. You’ve also deemed it fit that it’s time to pay back to humanity. Apart from the fact that these are things that we would use in our hospitals, there are also things that we are going to use for people living with disabilities.

This actually complements the efforts of the government to support our less privileged brothers and sisters. You have shown yourself to be a true role model on and off the pitch and Lagos State is very proud to associate with you. Once again, I commend you for your philanthropic gesture and wish you more successes in your endeavours, the Governor said.

Governor Ambode, who later presented a letter of commendation personally signed by him to Martins, also seized the occasion to encourage other well-meaning Nigerians and organisations that have the opportunity to contribute back to the community to emulate such gesture.

I have been reliably informed few weeks back that we also had this kind of gesture from the proprietor of Ebeano Supermarket for the giant stride he did for us at Ibeju-Lekki General Hospital, I want to also use this opportunity to say a big thank you to him and also to let others willing to support us and complement the efforts of government to do the same, the Governor said.

He said Martins’ gesture has reinforced his administration’s belief that sports remains a veritable tool that can be utilized to touch humanity, just as he assured that the equipment would be put to judicious use especially at the Primary Healthcare Centres across the State.

I think that there is no thank you that is enough. It would go into our history books that you are one of the firsts of our people that would actually give back to the community and to the society, Governor Ambode said.

Earlier, Special Adviser to the Governor on Sports, Mr. Deji Tinubu, said the donation by OMF was a testament to what can be achieved through sports, stating that it was for this reason the present administration is advocating the use of sports for development of the State.

Also speaking, Commissioner for Health, Dr Jide Idris said the State Government welcomes such gestures, noting that aside government’s determination to make available all essential equipment in public hospitals, donations by public-spirited persons out of their sheer will of commitment to support government’s effort are worthy of emulation and indeed commendable.

Today's Headline News

AgegePulse Magazine * ...the mouthpiece of Agege/Orile Agege
Headlines Today* *[Thu-02-Nov-2017]*


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Gov. Ambode to make Agege Stadium fit for CAF Champions League

Receives MFM FC, Donates N50M To Club

…Says Lagos Games Village To Commence In 2018

Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode on Wednesday heaped praises on the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM) Football Club for returning the State back to the prestigious CAF Champions League sixteen years after a team from the State participated in the tournament.

Speaking at Lagos House in Alausa, Ikeja when he received MFM FC alongside top officials of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) as well as some ex-internationals, Governor Ambode said it was gratifying that a team from the State would be participating in the 2018 edition of the continental tournament after such a long time, just as he pledged to assist the team with the necessary support to ensure successful campaign at the championship.

While congratulating the team for the feat, Governor Ambode particularly acknowledged and saluted the vision of MFM General Overseer, Pastor Kayode Olukoya who founded the team ten years ago, saying that the State Government was proud to associate with his idea of meaningfully engaging the youths to contribute positively to the society.

Responding to some requests by the MFM FC, Governor Ambode donated N25milion to the footballers and officials of the club for qualifying for the CAF Champions League and another N25million to ensure hitch-free campaign, as well as adequately prepare for the tournament.

Already, the Governor said the State Sports Commission had been directed to ensure that the Agege Stadium, which is the home-ground being used by MFM FC, be put in good shape to meet up with CAF standard before inspection in December.

I want to also say that we have directed our sports team and the Sports Commission to make sure that everything needed, just as earlier requested, to ensure that Agege Stadium is certified by CAF is done, Governor Ambode said.

While recalling the promise he made to the people during electioneering to use tourism, hospitality, entertainment and arts as well as sports for excellence, Governor Ambode said the feat by the team aptly conform with the vision and plan of the State Government to use sports to advance the economy and positively engage the youths.

According to him, We need sports to use it as an instrument to build the economy of Lagos and also direct the energy of our younger ones to things that are very positive as exemplified by what is happening today. Beyond football, they continue to use it for their own mental ability to be able to be proud future leaders in this country and that is what we are trying to say.

It is a way of propagating new leaders and people who are properly disciplined because you need a lot of discipline to play football. There are things that are not taught in schools that you actually find in sports and that is the direction we are trying to go with youth development in this State and so I like to commend the team and the officials, the Governor said.

While speaking on other plans for sports development in the State, Governor Ambode said aside the ongoing transformation of Onikan Stadium to world class standard, a major upgrade of the Teslim Balogun Stadium would soon be carried out, while efforts were already ongoing for the Lagos Games Village located along the Lekki-Epe axis to commence in 2018.

Also, the Governor said his administration would soon invite stakeholders in the sports sector to discuss modalities for the Lagos Premier League which, according to him, would have twenty teams.

However, Governor Ambode charged the MFM FC to be good ambassadors of the State and be at their best at the tournament.
Earlier, MFM Director of Sports Worldwide, Mr Godwin Enakhena commended Governor Ambode and indeed the State Government for the support so far extended to the team, saying the assistance contributed to the feat achieved by the team to play at the continental level.

He recalled how the State Government released Agege Stadium to MFM FC free of charge for use as home-ground and other security arrangements, as well as logistics, adding that the immense support of the government was well appreciated.

Enakhena, who spoke on behalf of Pastor Olukoya, however, urged the State Government to continue to support the team especially financial support and also make Agege Stadium suitable for CAF Champions League, the requests which were instantly granted by the Governor.