**As he Organises Solidarity walk for Tinubu ahead 2027

By Ungbuku Olaitari

The Bayelsa Solidarity Walk for Renewed Hope lead by Pastor Reuben Initiative for Good Leadership & Accountability for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reelection has taken place in yenagoa Bayelsa state today.

Pastor Reuben who is the initiator of the movement while addressing the supporters said he is using opportunity to call on the National APC body and the amiable President Bola Amend Tinubu to address the issues rocking Bayelsa state APC body adding,that it’s time they settle leaders in the party and that they settling other state’s internal party matters Bayelsa case should not be exceptional.

The event which was designed to show support for President Bola Tinubu and to mobilise citizens around the principles of good governance, accountability, and Renewed Hope for Nigeria. Participants are expected to include community leaders, youth groups, faith-based organizations, political stakeholders, and members of the public who share a common vision for a progressive and accountable leadership.

Addressing the supporters, the Chairman of APC Bayelsa State, Barr Denise Otiotio stressed that Mr President has done well for Bayelsa for appointing sons and Daughters of the state into different positions in federal, regional level, also taking position on Nembe Brass Road that will provide meaningful jobs like deep-sea upsure jobs and the petrochemical refinery that will take place in Brass, calling on Bayelsans to support Mr President Bola Tinubu reelection bid.

Also on his part Apostle Bodmas Kemepadei give insight reason while Bayelsans should support President Bola Amend Tinubu’s reelection bid that Mr President is a visionary leader, a man who knows the pains of Nigerians.Hon. Bodmas also said the youths of Bayelsa State strongly behind Mr President, that victory is asure for 2027 Presidential election for APC ,

He used the avenue to call on youths to queue in for the voters registration (CVR) he also used the medium to advise the youths of Bayelsa State to shun social violence.

Barau FC Edges Kun Khalifat FC, Records First NPFL Season Win

Barau Football Club has recorded its first away victory of the 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season, defeating Kun Khalifat FC 3-1.

The NPFL Matchday 6 encounter was held on Sunday, at the Enyimba International Stadium, Aba, Abia State, in the presence of both clubs’ officials.

This triumph also marked Barau FC’s first win of the current Nigeria Premier Football League NPFL 2025/2026 campaign.

The Maliya Boys’ forward, Yahya Ibrahim, equalised in the 16th minute with a fine finish off Sai’du Salisu’s brilliant assist, after Kun Khalifat FC had taken the lead in the 14th minute.

Midfielder Hilary Ekawu then put the Maliya Boys ahead in the 64th minute, converting from Bismark’s precise cross, before Yahya Ibrahim doubled the lead with his second goal of the match, following an excellent pass from Sugau Aliyu.

The brace for Yahya Ibrahim, took his tally to three goals in the NPFL this season 2025/2026.

Speaking after the match, Barau FC’s Technical Adviser, Ladan Bosso, praised his players for their resilience despite playing away from home.

“Actually, I am so happy with the result. Our club proprietor, the general manager, my coaching staff, officials, and players all did well to secure this victory,” Bosso told the newsmen.

He further emphasized that the team would build on this performance, remain focused, and prepare strongly for their next home fixture against Warri Wolves.

Yahya Ibrahim also expressed his delight at scoring twice, dedicating the goals to his parents for their unwavering prayers and support.

With this victory, Barau FC has moved up to 18th position on the NPFL table, with five points from five matches.

The Maliya Boys will host Warri Wolves on Sunday, October 5, 2025, at the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kofar Mata on NPFL matchday seven.

NFF 81st AGA: Win-at-Home Syndrome in Nigerian League Declining, Says Gov. Makinde

By: Sunday Agunbiade

The Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engineer Seyi Makinde has commended the Board of Nigeria Football Federation, NFF and Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL on the rising global brand of the elite league.

Makinde made the remarks during the 81st Annual General Assembly of Nigeria Football Federation held on Saturday, 27th September, 2025 at Professor Ogunlesi Hall, opposite University College Hospital, Ibadan.

He said he was surprised to see some massive away victories in recent years unlike the hitherto home dominance he used to witness.

“Since the inception of the present board of Nigeria Football Federation, I have been noticing that any team can win anywhere in the league. It is not as we used to experience where home teams were always favoured to win.

“This is a plus to this administration and what this means is that the Nigerian league brand is gradually meeting the global standard.”

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) is witnessing a significant reduction in the “must-win-at-home syndrome,” with a notable decrease in home victories and a rise in away successes, which is seen as a positive sign for the league’s credibility and attractiveness.

This trend is attributed to improved refereeing, prompt payment of match indemnities.

The issue had historically plagued the league, leading to a lack of competitiveness and poor fans turnout, however, recent seasons have shown a shift towards a fairer competition.

*Factors contributing to the decline of the Must Win at Home Syndrome*

Improved Officiating:
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and NPFL have been working to ensure fair and firm refereeing, which are helping curtail clubs from unduly influencing match outcomes.

The Gbenga Elegbeleye led NPFL board received plaudits for implementing changes to address issues preventing clubs from having total control over referees.

GTI rather than the NPFL has been persistently paying referees indemnities and whoever falls short of the standard pays through their nose.

“However, it’s important for the management of the league to seek more corporate sponsors to enable them stand financially on their feet,” Makinde submitted.

What Elegbeleye also brought to the league is Fairness and Safety. There is an increased emphasis on safety at match venues, with swift punishments for crowd troubles, making our stadiums safer for families and contributing to better atmosphere.

Increased Competitiveness:
A balanced home and away record creates a more competitive and unpredictable league.

Improved Fan Engagement:
Away victories are becoming more common, making the league more engaging and giving fans reasons to attend matches.

Enhanced Credibility:
The reduction in home advantage strengthens the league’s reputation and makes it more attractive to investors.

Declaring the AGA open, Governor Makinde said:
“It is my pleasure to declare the 2025 Annual General Assembly of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) which is holding in Ibadan today, open.

“I thank the NFF for their interest in Ibadan and Oyo State, and for giving us the opportunity to host the Nigeria vs Rwanda FIFA U-20 Women Qualifier match this evening.

“My administration has been working to develop the sports economy in our dear state, and I informed the NFF that we are interested in hosting bigger football matches in Ibadan and will put all in place to ensure that it happens.”

Bayelsa Sanitation: Lack of toilet facilities, taskforce arrests defaulters in Yenagoa as tenants blame landlords

By Ungbuku J. Olaitari

The Bayelsa State Environmental Sanitation Authority has arrested defaulters in this month’s sanitation exercise held today across the state.

Some of those defaulters arrested put the blame on their landlords, saying they have refused to make provisions for toilet and soakaway facilities in their various buildings, hence forcing tenants to pay to use makeshift facilities.

The defaulters were picked up at Onopa, Ebis Road, Biogbolo, and Kpansia, both tricycle operators, charged with offenses ranging from lack of proper waste disposal facilities in their area.

While engaging with newsmen, the Paramount Ruler of Onopa Community, HRH Tamama Morris, promised to hold a meeting with landlords in the area to address the issue of non-availability of toilet construction in the houses, also blaming landlords for not providing toilets in their houses.

The Chairman of the Bayelsa State Environmental Sanitation Authority, Hon. Timothy Diekivie, emphasized the need for residents to obey sanitation laws, giving reasons for landlords to provide toilets in their houses, stressing that environmental issues are paramount for everybody, and if any landlords refuse to provide toilets, the authority will not take it lightly with that person.

The Chairman used the medium to call on property owners in Yenagoa metropolis to clear abandoned vehicles, heaps of sand, and chippings from the streets within two months, warning that failure to comply would leave the authority with no option but to remove them.

Rising ethnic tensions: Ereyitomi calls for calm among Itsekiri, Urhobo in Warri 

By: Celestine Ukah 

The Member Representing Warri Federal Constituency at the House of Representatives, Honourable (Chief) Thomas Ereyitomi JP, has called for calm among Itsekiri and Urhobo youths in Warri, Delta State, due to rising ethnic tensions.

Chief Ereyitomi made this call today, 27th September 2025, following a recent clash between some Warri Urhobo youths and some Itsekiri youths around the Iyara axis in Warri.

Rep. Ereyitomi called for continuous peaceful coexistence among the different ethnic nationalities in Warri, while noting that continuous tension will be inimical to development and also discourage investors.

The Warri Federal lawmaker assured his constituents that the government is already tackling the root cause of the issues and pleaded for patience and tolerance among them.

The Warri Federal lawmaker, Chief Ereyitomi, said that with peace and love, all issues can be resolved without confrontation. He cautioned against violence and physical confrontation, just as he appealed to stakeholders and traditional institutions in Warri to engage the youths on the need to live in unity instead of divisive threads.

2026: Delta Proposing To Present Over One Trillion Naira Budget – Oborevwori

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has said the state government is proposing a budget of over ₦1 trillion for the 2026 fiscal year to consolidate the socio-economic and infrastructural development drive of his administration.

Governor Oborevwori made this known on Thursday during the state government’s citizens’ engagement on the preparation of the 2026 budget, held at the Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba.

Represented by the Commissioner for Economic Planning, Mr. Sonny Ekedayen, the Governor explained that 67 per cent of the budget estimate would be allocated to capital expenditure, while 33 per cent would go to recurrent expenditure.

He said the projected distribution was designed to channel more resources into infrastructure, education, healthcare, and other developmental projects, while also sustaining obligations such as workers’ salaries and the running costs of governance.

Emphasising that the capital focus underscored his administration’s priority on growth and development, Governor Oborevwori reiterated his commitment to accountability, transparency, and prudent management of public resources.

“This gathering is not only a moment for reflection, but also a platform to share the progress of our administration, reaffirm our commitment to transparency, and present our vision for the future.

“Over the past two years, this administration has worked tirelessly to ensure fiscal discipline, transparency, and accountability in governance.

“We have put in place stringent financial control measures, reduced waste, and ensured that every kobo spent by government delivers value to our people.

“Through prudent financial management, our public debt profile has been reduced significantly, creating room for more sustainable growth and development. One of the key achievements of this administration is in revenue generation.

“Without imposing additional taxes or creating undue burdens on citizens, we have expanded our revenue base by improving compliance, blocking leakages, and widening the tax net.

“Internally Generated Revenue has grown consistently, ensuring that government can fund critical projects without over-reliance on federal allocations. This fiscal responsibility has translated into tangible development across the state.”

On agriculture and private sector investment, Ekedayen disclosed that initiatives were underway to develop carbon markets, expand agricultural opportunities, and provide land to encourage private investment.

Reviewing the performance of the 2025 budget, he said the state had performed creditably, achieving 69 per cent implementation of the capital budget and 86 per cent of the recurrent budget.

“We are hopeful and confident that the trend will continue until the end of the year as more payments are being processed and more deliveries are being taken,” he stated.

Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the College of Commissioners, the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, thanked Deltans for their sustained support and partnership with the state government.

He stressed that the administration’s success was tied to citizens’ contributions, feedback, and trust, assuring that transparency and accountability would remain central in project execution.

“This is why mechanisms such as public monitoring and feedback channels have been established to ensure that projects are delivered to standard,” Aniagwu added.

Representatives of civil society organisations, community leaders, and professional bodies, including Mr. Rex Anighoro, Prince Igwe, and Mr. Voke Ighorodje, commended the Oborevwori’s administration for its people-oriented policies and programmes.

They noted that the engagement was a clear demonstration of the government’s commitment to transparency and participatory governance, stressing that by involving stakeholders in the budget process, policies and projects would continue to reflect the true needs of the people.

Falconets Camp Update: Aduku Harps on High intensity, Quick Transition and Positional Play in Ibadan

By: Sunday Agunbiade (Mr VAR)

Head coach of the Nigeria’s Women Under 20 team, Moses Aduku on Thursday took his lass on 2 hour drills, emphasizing on high intensity, team build up and positional play ahead of the Saturday’s 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup second round, second leg showdown against She-Amavubi of Rwanda, Varsportnow.blogspot.com can report

The Edo Queens handler did not mince words with his team on his ideas and game plans, taking them on energy sapping session that had all the entire team present. They are goalkeeper’s trainer, Lateef Yusuf, Media Coordinator, Zulfa’at Rano ,team physio and the entire backroom staff at Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan.

The former Bayelsa Queens manager said fans should expect a system that stimulates a high pressing, quick transition in counter attack and angry build up against their opponent on Saturday.

“We knew what led to the low scoring on the road and we are addressing it to give the fans a beautiful game on Saturday”.

The Falconets are actively training for a crucial World Cup qualifier focusing on tactical drills, fitness, and team cohesion after their 1-0 win in the reversed fixture.

Aduku, while emphasizing on high up intensity drills, set-piece tactics aimed at securing a crucial qualification for the 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup, enhancement of player performance and conditioning was also noticeable.

The team is also focusing on improving shape and movements for better attacking flow and better team cohesion.

Nigeria/She Amavubi game comes up on Saturday, 27th September, 2025 at Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan by 4pm.

INEC CVR: Alliance Movement Coordinator Itoje Urges Delta Youths to Participate, Collect PVC

The State Coordinator of the Alliance Movement, Hon. Okiemute Itoje, has charged citizens of Delta State, particularly the youth, to use the opportunity of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ongoing Continuous Voter Registration exercise to participate and collect their Permanent Voter’s Cards (PVCs).

He made the call during the group’s inaugural meeting held in Effurun, Uvwie LGA, near Warri, emphasizing that young people constitute a significant portion of the voting population in Nigeria, estimated to be about 60%.

In his address, Hon. Itoje highlighted the Alliance Movement’s core mission, describing it as an organization and development partner committed to mobilizing civic-minded citizens, political parties, and grassroots movements into a unified, progressive force. He stated that the group’s aim is to promote inclusive governance, social justice, and people-first policies. He confirmed the group’s widespread presence, with coordinators established across all 25 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and wards in the state.

“We serve as a voice and a mirror for the people, dedicated to identifying and supporting credible representatives in the forthcoming elections,” he stated.

“The group also acts as a watchdog, holding both current and aspiring public office holders accountable. We will continue to commend those who are performing well and challenge those who are not meeting the expectations of the public.”