Ortom is the major cause of the PDP crisis, says Chief Ulasi
Ortom is the major cause of the PDP crisis, says Chief Ulasi
By: Celestine Ukah
One of the founding members of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, Chief Dan Ulasi has openly accused the former Governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom, of being the cause of the crisis the PDP is facing.
Chief Ulasi made this accusation Thursday, July 24, on the AIT Kakaaki morning show live interview, where he addressed the issue of the coalition with ADC and some PDP members defecting to the ruling APC.
He pointed out further that the throwing open of the PDP presidential ticket in 2023 without zoning caused the problem they have been hit with, just as they zoned the National Secretary position to the South, which Senator Samuel Anyawu is currently occupying, and which was very clear and direct.
Chief Ulasi cautioned that in 2027, if not zoned to the South for the presidential candidate, it will continue to be a problem for the PDP, the main opposition party in Nigeria.
He frowned at suspended Rivers State Governor Sim Fubara over his actions towards his predecessor and FCT Minister, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, describing them as unnecessary and unacceptable, calling on him to adjust his ways.
Nasarawa State Receives 5th FEDUGAM Pre-games Delegation Team
Nasarawa State Receives 5th FEDUGAM Pre-games Delegation Team
By: Eche Amos
The Nasarawa State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Kwanta Yakubu, today, received a two-man delegation from the Federal Ministry of Education, Abuja, ahead of the forthcoming 5th edition of the Federal Education Sector Games, FEDUGAM, in Lafia.
The Commissioner praised the Federal Ministry of Education and Organizers of the Games, for choosing Nasarawa State again as host, and promised that the Governor Abdullahi Sule-led administration would provide a conducive atmosphere for a successful event, having done so for the same Organization in 2017, when it was hosted in Lafia, the State Capital.
Members of the delegation which included FEDUGAM Consultant, Chief Okeyinka Matthew, and Technical Assistant, Comrade Anthony Okoro, disclosed that the visit was in preparation for the forthcoming 5th edition of the Federal Education Sector Games which will hold in Lafia from August 4th-10th, 2025, featuring fifteen Federal Education Sector Agencies participating in various sporting activities.
The delegation presented souvenir kits to the Commissioner, to symbolize the tournament’s endorsement and acceptability in the Solid Minerals’ State.
The team also presented similar kits to the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Ibrahim Adamu Alhassan, and Senior Directors of the Ministry.
Bauchi State hosted the last(4th) edition in 2024.
WAFCON finals: NIS DG, Shaibu Commends Super Falcons
WAFCON finals: NIS DG, Shaibu Commends Super Falcons
**Says, Nigerians are waiting for the cup
The Director General and Chief Executive officer of the National Institute for Sports, H. E. Comrade Philip Shaibu has commended the Super Falcons of Nigeria who edged arch-rivals South Africa 2-1 in a pulsating Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) semifinal on Tuesday evening to book their place in the final and keep alive hopes of a record-extending 10th continental title.
The immediate past Deputy Governor of Edo State and Ex-player of Bendel insurance football club of Benin said thought it was a “final before the final,” match , Rasheedat Ajibade and Michelle Alozie delivered when it mattered most, scoring either side of a Linda Motlhalo penalty to help the Super Falcons avenge their 2022 loss to Banyana Banyana and underline their dominance on African soil.
While tasking the team, the technical crew to be focus ahead of the final match against the host country Morocco, the NIS Director General said he was excited when Ajibade broke the deadlock just before the break with a composed finish from the penalty spot after a handball by Bambanani Mbane in the South African box.
The NIS Boss who promised to be in Morocco for the final match, tasked the Nigeria ladies to put more pressure on the Moroccans , saying,” our ladies need to improve on the game with South Africa.
” We were just lucky to have that additional goal . So, I look forward to seeing them improving on their game against Morocco bearing in mind that , they are the host country.
South Africa, the defending champions, came out fighting in the second half and were rewarded in the 60th minute when Hildah Magaia was brought down by Osinachi Ohale, leading to a penalty.Nigerian traditional art prints
Motlhalo made no mistake from the spot to level the scores and swing the momentum temporarily Banyana’s way.
But just as extra time loomed, Michelle Alozie struck a sensational long-range winner deep into stoppage time.
Harmony Boys Set to Test Tactical Readiness Against House of Prayer
Harmony Boys Set to Test Tactical Readiness Against House of Prayer
It was a full house on Tuesday evening as Kwara United Football Club ramped up preparations for the 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season with a spirited training session at the club’s training pitch beside the swimming pool, George Innih Stadium, Ilorin.
Led by Coach Tunde Sanni, the session featured high tempo drills, tactical rehearsals, and positional play, with the players displaying urgency, tenacity, and attacking flair that earned applause from fans who turned up to witness the action.
Coach Sanni was visibly engaged throughout the session — issuing tactical instructions, correcting positional errors, and urging the players to maintain maximum intensity. His hands-on approach highlighted the technical team’s determination to leave no stone unturned as the Harmony Boys gear up for a pivotal season.
The pre-season program continues on Wednesday, with training scheduled to begin at 3:00 PM, followed by a friendly match against House of Prayer FC at 4:00 PM on the same pitch.
With the new season fast approaching, Kwara United is clearly focused on fine-tuning tactics, building cohesion, and evaluating player fitness and form — all in a bid to hit the ground running and make a strong impression when the NPFL campaign kicks off.
FUPRE VC, Agbalagba moves to stop planned protests in Varsity, warn organizers
FUPRE VC, Agbalagba moves to stop planned protests in Varsity, warn organizers
The Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, FUPRE,Prof. Ezekuel.O. Agbalagba has moved to stop a planned protest against injustice in the institution.
This is contained in a circular the University Don address and sent to all Staff and Students on Monday July 21.
In the Circular with Ref: VC/STAF&STD/25/Vol 1, the Delta State Governor,Sheriff Oborevwori, Commissioner of Police,CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, Director of Department of State Security,DSS, the Chairman of Uvwie Local Government Council, Hon. Ofoni, the Warri Area Commander of the Nigeria Police Force,ACP Imade, the Commander, Operation Delta Sweep and others were copied.
The Circular was tagged,”Security Alert”, Prof. Agbalagba cautioned all staff and students.
According to him,This is to notify the university community that Management has received credible security intelligence indicating that certain individuals or groups are planning to block access, cause disruptions, instigate a crisis, and inflict catastrophic damage to both lives and property within the University premises.
“Be advised that the University Management will not tolerate any action that will jeopardize the peaceful academic environment or undermine the significant achievement of the Visitor,President Bola Ahmed Tinubu(GCFR)administration in maintaining an uninterrupted academic calendar across Nigerian Universities.”
Prof. Agbalagba noted that the Federal University of Petroleum Resources operates as a legal government entity, governed by its established Act, laws, statutes and regulations.
He also warned that,”Any act disrupts the peace of our university community will face severe consequences.
“Every action that contravenes the university’s rules and regulations, carries repercussions and Management will not hesitate to apply the full weight of the law. Be warned!”
Our Correspondent who has been monitoring activities in the institution reports that the Vice Chancellor dragged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori into this matter instead of negotiating with the organisers of the planned protest ahead of the date of protest.
This political watchers said will not be good for the image and reputation of Mr. President especially if he(VC) does not have any skeleton in his cupboard. They said, he should be properly investigated over the issues leading to the planned protest which has kept everyone in suspense.
Pomp, Pageantry, Performance: CAA U18/U20 Championships Ends on a High in Abeokuta
Pomp, Pageantry, Performance: CAA U18/U20 Championships Ends on a High in Abeokuta
**KCee, 9ice light up closing ceremony
The 3rd CAA U18/U20 African Athletics Championships came to a thunderous close in Abeokuta, Ogun State, on Sunday, July 20, with a colorful display of African music, culture, and sportsmanship.
Top Nigerian music stars KCee and 9ice were the cynosure of all eyes as they electrified the packed MKO Abiola Stadium with energetic Afrobeat performances that left the crowd roaring in delight.
Their manic artistry, backed by lyrical flair and thumping beats, brought a thrilling close to a championship that has lived up to every expectation.
On the track, it was a final day of drama and dazzling competition. Team Nigeria, buoyed by home support, jostled for final medals in a bid to top the table. Despite spirited effort, South Africa emerged overall winners winning more medals to sit atop the standings.
Reflecting on the success of the event, Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko, described the tournament as “a masterpiece that showcased Africa’s finest talents and the power of sports to unite.”
“This championship was more than a sporting event; it was a celebration of Africa’s youth, energy, and future. From the competition to the culture, it was a masterpiece in every sense. We thank the CAA, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Ogun State Government, and all the LOC led by Hon. Bukola Olopade who made this vision a reality,” Dikko said.
Furthermore, Director General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, hailed the organizational success, support of the NSC chairman and the hospitality of Abeokuta.
“We’ve not only proven our capacity to host world-class sporting events but have also set a new standard for youth championships across the continent. The energy, the culture, the unity — this is what Africa stands for. Our gratitude goes to the Chairman of the NSC, Mallam Shehu Dikko, as well as the Governor Dapo Abiodun for their immense support,” he stated.
In the high point of the closing day, Team Nigeria extended its stronghold in the relays by clinching the gold medal in the women’s U20 4x400m event.
The formidable quartet of Odot Udoh, Toheebat Jimoh, Anita Enaruna, and Favour Onyah delivered a commanding performance, smoothly passing the baton and leaving South Africa and Zimbabwe in their wake.
With over 35 countries participating and thousands of fans in attendance, the Abeokuta 2025 CAA Championships will be remembered as a benchmark for future continental youth competitions with its blend of athletic excellence and African pride.
Kano Pillars FC receives new kits ahead of NPFL 2025/2026 Season
Kano Pillars FC receives new kits ahead of NPFL 2025/2026 Season
As Kano Pillars FC prepares for the 2025/2026 season of the Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL), I am delighted to announce that today, in a significant show of support, I had the honor of presenting brand new sports kits to our esteemed team, Hon. Mustapha Rabiu Kwankwaso the commission speak out.
This generous contribution, courtesy of His Excellency, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, reflects the unwavering commitment of this administration to the welfare and progress of our athletes.
The presentation was officially signed by Mustapha Rabiu Kwankwaso, Honorable Commissioner, Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, on the 20th of July, 2025.
Notably present at the handover ceremony were:
The Chairman of the Kano Pillars Management Board, Ali Muhammad Umar
The newly appointed General Manager of Kano Pillars FC, Ahmed Musa MON.
WAFU B U20 Boys Tourney: Flying Eagles edge Niger Republic 4-3 on penalties to reach final
WAFU B U20 Boys Tourney: Flying Eagles edge Niger Republic 4-3 on penalties to reach final
Nigeria’s U20 boys, Flying Eagles, have qualified for the Final of the ongoing WAFU B U20 Tournament in Ghana after a tense encounter against theirNiger Republic counterparts, culminating in a penalty shootout that ended 4-3 following a scoreless 90 minutes.
Throughout the match, the Flying Eagles exhibited determination but faced challenges in converting several scoring opportunities. On the other hand, the Nigeriens adopted a strong defensive stance.
The first half saw the Flying Eagles record three shots off target, while the opponents did not have any sight of the Nigerian goal. In the second half, the Cup holders stepped up their attacking efforts, showcasing robust intent to break through the organized Nigerien defence, which utilized a solid formation with seven players focused on containment.
With the encounter still goalless after regulation time, the teams moved to a penalty shootout. The Nigerien side saw their first kick saved by Nigerian goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt. Similarly, Nigerian defender Tahir Maigana missed his kick.
However, the Flying Eagles displayed resilience and confidence in the shootout, successfully converting four of their penalties while Niger Republic managed to score only two. The result means the Flying Eagles are in the Final of the competition, and will confront the winner of the second semi final, between Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire, in the Final.
National Division One League To Hold in Umuahia, In August
