NPFL adjusts fixtures for clubs on continental engagements

Some consequential adjustments have been made to the Matchday 6 fixtures of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) due to the continental engagement of four of the teams.

Remo Stars, Rivers United are playing in the CAF Champions League while Abia Warriors and Kwara United are involved in the CAF Confederation Cup this weekend.

The NPFL has through a memo signed by the Chief Operating Officer, Davidson Owumi shifted the affected fixtures to new dates.

Abia Warriors will now host fellow continental challenger, Remo Stars on October 1, same day Rivers United has been scheduled to host Niger Tornadoes.

The Kano Pillars versus Kwara United tie will be played at the Sani Abacha Stadium on October 8.

In a related development, Plateau United have joined Bendel Insurance to play their home fixtures on Saturdays and no longer on Sundays. Therefore, Insurance will host Bayelsa United on Saturday, September 27 and Plateau United would host El-Kanemi Warriors on the same date at the New Jos Road Stadium.

All other fixtures remain as originally scheduled.

Chairman TANTITA Security Services, Chief Ekpemupolo, Congratulates Ogbe-Ijoh Monarch Monbene III on his 10th Coronation

The Ibe-Ebidouwei of Ijaw Nation and Chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited,High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo has congratulated HRM, Monbene III the Ama-Okosu of Ogbe-Ijoh, Warri Kingdom on the occasion of his 10th coronation anniversary.

A statement by High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo commended the achievements of HRM Monbene III the Ama-Okosu of Ogbe-Ijoh in areas of peace building, socio-economic well-being of his subjects and the general development of the Kingdom.

The full text of the statement reads;

“On behalf of my family, friends, and associates, I, High Chief Dr Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo, the Ibe-Ebidouwei of Ijaw Nation and Chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited congratulate HRM, Monbene 111, the Ama-Okosu of Ogbe-Ijoh, Warri Kingdom, (Warri South and Warri South West) on your 10th Coronation Anniversary.

It is a thing of joy to celebrate you on your 10 years of ascendancy to the throne of your forefathers.

I also celebrate your achievements in areas of peace building, socio-economic well-being of your subjects, and general development of the Kingdom.

I pray for good health and long life and many more years on the throne of your forefathers and ancestors. Amen!

Once again, congratulations, HRM!

Signed:

High Chief Dr Government Owcizide Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo The Ibe-Ebidouwei of Ijaw Nation and Chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited.

Engr. Clement Ucho Outlines Vision for Southwest Hockey Development

The aspiration of Engr. Clement Ucho for the position of Southwest Zonal Representative on the Board of the Nigeria Hockey Federation has continued to gather momentum as he unveiled his vision for transforming the sport in the region.

In an interview, Engr. Ucho, known for sponsoring and organizing Hockey Zonal Championships and leagues, explained that his decision to contest was driven by a desire to reposition the Southwest as a leading zone in Nigerian hockey. According to him, the region has yet to live up to its potential in terms of innovation, cohesion, and competitive success.

“The Southwest is not where it should be in Hockey development. We should be leading in innovation and laurels, but there is little cohesion among leaders. This should not be a one-man show, but teamwork. That is my inspiration—to fill the void,” he stated.

Engr. Ucho, who’s coming out from Osun State, emphasized that his representation would be inclusive of all six states in the Southwest. He noted his engagement with coaches and General Managers across the region, assuring fairness and equal opportunities for all. “No more ‘Animal Farm’ treatment. All states will be treated fairly and equally,” he added.

On grassroots development, the candidate stressed the importance of early engagement through the “Catch Them Young” initiative, which will introduce Hockey to schools and communities. He pledged to work with relevant government agencies to incorporate Hockey into Physical Education curricula at the primary and secondary school levels, while also supporting schools with Hockey equipment.

To address the challenge of inadequate infrastructure, Engr. Ucho proposed a public-private partnership model to complement government efforts. He expressed confidence in attracting sponsors to invest in facilities and training grounds across the zone.

He further highlighted the need to expose both players and coaches to international best practices. “Our players will attend international tournaments, even if only as observers, to learn how the game is played and organized globally. Coaches too will undergo regular training to bring them up to date with Hockey innovations,” he noted.

Looking ahead, Engr. Ucho expressed optimism about the future of Southwest Hockey under his watch. “By God’s grace, in four years we will be at the top amongst other zones. I wish to be remembered as The Transformer—the one who encouraged the transformation of Hockey in the Southwest,” he concluded.

With this vision, Engr. Clement Ucho presents himself as a candidate committed to fairness, inclusivity, and sustainable development of Hockey in the Southwest zone.

Oborevwori, Ereyitomi, Guwor, African Church Primate, Abbe Others at Funeral of Late Mrs.Grace Agbolayah

By: Celestine Ukah 

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State, the Member Representing Warri Federal Constituency at the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Chief Thomas Ereyitomi, the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, and the Primate of the African Church in Nigeria, His Eminence Julius Olayinka Abbe, were all present during the funeral service and reception in honour of late Mrs. Grace Agbolayah, mother of the Special Adviser to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on Community Development, Amb. Dr. Toyin Agbolayah JP.

The funeral of late Mrs. Grace Agbolayah was held Friday, September 19, with a church service at the African Church, Central Missionary Diocese, Odion Road, Warri, attracting dignitaries from across the country, the diaspora, and Delta State, including members of the Delta State Executive Council.

Governor Oborevwori, in paying tribute to late Mrs. Agbolayah, described her as a shining example of faith, integrity, and commitment to family, adding that Mama came, saw, and conquered. She served God faithfully and raised her children well, with one now a Bishop. “My prayer is that the wisdom with which Mama raised you will also guide you in raising your children,” he said.

Governor Oborevwori used the opportunity to call on leaders and elders of Ijaw, Itsekiri, and Urhobo ethnic nationalities to shun divisive tendencies and embrace peace, stressing that unity remains the only path to sustainable development in Warri and Delta State at large.

He urged critics to exercise restraint, particularly those outside the state who attempt to sow seeds of discord. He also called on parents and guardians to caution their children against misusing social media for hate campaigns.

The Primate of the African Church, His Eminence Julius Olayinka Abbe, in a sermon titled “Fight a Good Fight” from 2 Timothy 4:7, urged Christians to live as beacons of peace and integrity in a world filled with darkness.

He admonished believers to be nation-builders, steadfast in faith, and accountable to God.

The Primate described the late Mrs. Agbolayah as a God-fearing woman devoted to service, who left behind a lasting legacy.

He commended Governor Oborevwori for his contributions to the family, particularly the appointment of Dr. Toyin Agbolayah as Special Adviser on Community Development, which he said strengthened the family during Mama’s lifetime.

While commending the Governor’s leadership, the Primate said: “Your Excellency, you are doing a great job, and from the way you are going, Delta State will soon compete with Lagos in infrastructure. The people of Delta love you, and we pray that God strengthens you to do more.”

Others present during the funeral reception, which was held at Yonwuren College, Ugbuwangue, Warri, included the Chairman of Warri South Local Government Council, Hon. Comrade Weyinm Agbateyiniro, Warri South Local Government Council Vice Chairman, Hon. Kingsley Edafiajebre, Former Nigeria Football Federation President Amani Pinnick, Former Chairman Nigeria Union of Teachers Warri South, Ishmail Ikuejawa, Hon. Matthew Opuoru, immediate past member that represented Warri South Constituency 2 in the Delta State House of Assembly, and Chief Onuwaje.

Brewing emergency in Warri: Delta Online Publishers Forum Calls for Dialogue, Sustained Peace

Asaba, Delta State -The Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) has expressed deep concern over the brewing tension among ethnic nationalities in Warri, particularly in Warri South Local Government Area, stressing that peace remains the foundation for unity, development, and coexistence.

In a statement issued by the Forum’s Publicity Secretary, Mr. Oghenekparobo Ehvwubare, FIMC, ANIPR, DOPF reminded stakeholders that this year’s International Day of Peace, commemorated every September 21, with this year’s theme: “Act Now for a Peaceful World.” According to the United Nations, peace is not a distant aspiration but a present responsibility requiring urgent action from individuals, communities, traditional institutions and governments alike.

The Forum hinted with concern that Delta State is already grappling with the scourge of insecurity unrests, warned that any escalation of ethnic tension in Warri—the commercial nerve centre of the State would have dire socio-economic consequences on the entire region.

DOPF therefore called on the Delta State Government, security agencies, and traditional institutions in Warri and its environs to rise to the occasion by fostering dialogue, promoting inclusivity, and ensuring that peace is sustained through proactive engagement.

The Forum also appealed to youths, community leaders, and stakeholders to act with restraint, reminding them that conflict leaves scars that take decades to heal, while peace strengthens unity and attracts growth and prosperity.

“Warri has long been the economic and social heartbeat of Delta State. Allowing ethnic tensions to escalate in such a vital hub is unacceptable. The path to lasting peace lies in dialogue, inclusivity, and mutual understanding. As we observe this year’s International Day of Peace, we are reminded to ‘act now for a peaceful world’—choosing conversation over conflict, tolerance over division, and unity over discord,” the statement concluded.

**As he donates water project to the back of Old Airport residence

***Lion DG, Okoro, commends members for their support

By: Celestine Ukah 

A member of the Warri Opal Lion Club, Lions International District 404-A4 Nigeria, Lion Dickson Adebisi says Warri has blessed him and that he’s happy to give back to the environment and beyond.

Lion Dr. Adebisi stated this Friday, September 19, during the commissioning of a mono pump water project he donated to the people of Ejukolemu Layout at the back of Old Airport in Ugborikoko, Uvwie LGA, Delta State, which is to service residents of the area who are having a shortage of water.

Lion Adebisi expressed appreciation to other Lion club members for their support of the vision, assuring that more projects will be commissioned soon, adding that his NGO is paying about 50 less privileged indigent people monthly to support them.

He noted that the recently commissioned water project makes it the third project he has embarked upon and he will sustain it by the grace of God.

The District Governor, DG, District 404-A4 Nigeria, Region 9, Lion Omonigho Okoro showered praises on the donor, Lion Adebisi, describing the water project as very needful in the area as it will alleviate the water shortage in the locality.

Lion Okoro also commended members for their support, solidarity, and service, as the club is all about service to humanity.

According to Lion Okoro, Lion Club is a global organization dedicated to service in Nine key areas, promoting the well-being of individuals internationally with the aim to improve the world and our communities, adding that their initiative will ensure a consistent flow of water without needing electricity, provided it is properly managed, charging community members to address minor issues independently.

President Warri Opal Lions Club, Emiko Faith, lauded Lion Adebisi for the donation; she urged the beneficiaries to protect it in order to make it last long.

Lion Dora Adebayo, District Chairperson, Family Ties Day, and Lion Barry Eboma, Founder Hope Alive Food Bank Initiative, both commended the donor and members for their service to humanity.

Chairman of the Ejukolemu Layout, back of Old Airport residence Ugborikoko Uvwie, Antonia Sadoh, and other beneficiaries lauded the Lions Club and Lion Adebisi for remembering them with their basic need, which is water, assuring them that it will be put to good use.

Other Lions present during the commissioning include Lion Elohor Enibuetan, Lion Okito, and Lion Ozadede Benedict.

Best Talent FC Share Spoils With Baraka FA In a 4-Goal Thriller

By: Sunday Agunbiade (Mr VAR)

Seventy two hours after annihilating All Sufficient FC 6-0 ,Best Talent Football Club of Mowe has once again refused to relinquish their good form of run as they were held a 2-2 all draw against a hard fighting Baraka Football Academy.

Being the runner-up in the 2024 NLO1 group fixture with a goal difference, the Mowe giants have been on a roaring tour with relatively young and exciting players dominating and beating all the teams across League tiers in the pre season tour in South West, Nigeria.

The pulsating results recorded on Friday against Baraka Football Academy held at Redemption City Temple Arena, Car Park C, Mowe produced two net shakers from the Ogun state outfits: Odubiyi Joseph and Akinola Jamiu maintaining unbeaten run in the new season.

Adeyinka Adeyemo’s boys may have themselves to blame, losing concentration and allowing a moment of corresponding response from their opposing sides to tie the results.

The Nationwide League One outfit under the tutelage of Coach Farouk Yusuf has so far played 6 matches, winning 5 drawing 1. This makes the exciting run distinguishes the former Coca-Cola coach from other tacticians in modern day football in Nigeria.

Widely respected for producing youthful players in Nigeria league, Best Talent Football Club prides itself with young and exciting players within the age bracket of 14-18 years as they have recorded the highest victory, winning the last two scouting programmes in Lagos and Ogun states respectively.

Speaking with Best Talent Media Coordinator, Sunday Agunbiade, Coach Farouk expressed optimism that his boys would make a mark in the global football space in time to come. He used the occasion to seek more cooperation and support from teeming fans to actualize their team aspirations in the forthcoming season.

In his words, “ Without mincing words, I sincerely believe that my boys will take the Nigerian football space by storm soon and with the support I receive from the management, particularly, the chairman, Mr Adeyinka Adeyemo, the sky is the starting point for these boys. They all played well and stuck to instructions. I am very proud of them.

“We are not unaware of the preparation of other teams but we are focusing on building these young lads mentally, physically and emotionally for the forthcoming NLO1 Season. We wI thank you all,” Coach Farouk submitted.

Business growth: Renewed Hope Initiative, Delta State Govt. Elumelu foundation, empowers 1000 Women with financial grants

The Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), in partnership with the Tony Elumelu Foundation and the Delta State Government, has empowered 1,000 women traders in Delta State with financial grants to support and expand their businesses.

The programme, held in Asaba, is part of the nationwide women’s empowerment initiative launched by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu. It aims to strengthen small-scale businesses and provide sustainable economic support for women at the grassroots.

In her remarks, Senator Oluremi Tinubu explained that the scheme is not a loan but a grant designed to recapitalize existing businesses. She stressed the importance of women’s empowerment in driving family and community growth.

“It is my firm belief that when you empower a woman, you empower a household, a community, and indeed, a nation,” the First Lady stated.

She also commended the Tony Elumelu Foundation for donating ₦1 billion to the initiative, which will directly benefit 18,500 women across Nigeria. Each state, including the FCT, will have 500 beneficiaries receiving ₦50,000 each.

Wife of the Delta State Governor, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, praised the inclusivity of this year’s edition and noted the support of her husband’s administration, which sponsored the recapitalization of an additional 500 women traders, bringing the total beneficiaries in Delta to 1,000.

Deaconess Oborevwori further explained that the beneficiaries were drawn from diverse religious, professional, and community backgrounds.

“Among the 1,000 beneficiaries are Christian and Muslim women groups, wives of military and paramilitary personnel, journalists, and women from the Yoruba, Igbo, and Hausa communities,” she said.

“This inclusivity reflects the true spirit of the Renewed Hope Initiative.”

She urged the women to use the grants wisely, support their families, and contribute to the growth of their communities. She also encouraged continued prayers and support for her husband, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as they create opportunities for women.

The highlight of the event was the symbolic presentation of ₦50,000 each to selected traders, witnessed by dignitaries, community leaders, and women’s organizations.

The elated beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the gesture, describing it as timely support that would help them expand their businesses and provide for their families.

NYG 2025: Edo State Disqualified, Abia Upgraded to Bronze in Boys’ Rugby Sevens

The Nigeria Rugby Football Federation (NRFF) has announced a medal reallocation in the Boys’ Rugby Sevens event at the 2025 National Youth Games, following the disqualification of Edo State for fielding an ineligible player.

According to the NRFF Judicial/Disciplinary Committee, Edo State breached eligibility rules by using a player who had been screened out by the National Youth Games Screening Committee. The violation was first protested by Imo State during the pool stage. Although Imo later refused to continue in the competition, the Main Organising Committee (MOC) upheld their protest and voided the Edo vs Imo result.

Despite the breach, Edo went on to win the Bronze Final against Abia State. However, after the competition, Abia petitioned for the bronze medal, citing Edo’s disqualification.

The NRFF ruled that:

Edo State is disqualified from the tournament.

All matches involving the ineligible player are recorded as forfeits.

The Bronze Medal is officially reallocated to Abia State, while Kano State and Delta State remain Gold and Silver medalists respectively.

The Federation emphasized that its decision aligns with World Rugby regulations and Olympic precedent, which mandate that when a disqualified team forfeits a medal, it is awarded to the next eligible team rather than replaying matches.

The NRFF also confirmed that Edo State must return the bronze medals and accreditations, while a formal re-presentation will be conducted in favour of Abia State.

Looking ahead, the NRFF said pre-match ID checks and team-sheet verifications will be strictly enforced in future tournaments, warning that any team fielding ineligible players should expect immediate disqualification.

This ruling takes immediate effect but remains subject to the NYG’s general right of appeal to the MOC within the stipulated timeframe.