IBADAN, September 15, 2025|GMTNewsng

Oyo State has announced no gate fee for Falconets match against Rwanda under-20 team slated for Sept. 27 at Lekan Salami Stadium, Ibadan.

The state’s Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Wasilat Adegoke announced this on Monday in Ibadan while briefing newsmen on the preparations for the FIFA World Cup qualifier match.

Adegoke said a projected audience of about 20,000 Falconets’ fans were expected at the stadium during the match.

She said hosting the match at the Lekan Salami Stadium , Ibadan would make Ibadan “once again shine as a centre of culture and unity.

“Entry to the stadium for this historic match will be free for all spectators.”

According to her, the gesture by Gov Seyi Makinde is to give every football loving Nigerian, especially our people in Oyo State, the opportunity to be part ofo molly njomjnng lol luyoopbbhuiuy up the global event.

She, therefore, called on the people of the state to come out in their numbers to fill the stadium and cheer Falconets to victory.

“Let the world see the strength and hospitality of Oyo State reflected in the energy of our people.

“The match is more than 90 minutes of football, but an opportunity to showcase our pride and identity as  people,” she said. GMTNewsng

The state government had on Tuesday approved the sum of N110million for camping and hosting of the match.

ABUJA, July 28, 2025 – In a dazzling ceremony at the State House today, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu formally conferred the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) on all 24 Super Falcons players and members of the team’s technical crew, in recognition of their historic 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) victory.

At the reception, President Tinubu unveiled a sweeping reward package: each player will receive a three‑bedroom apartment at the Renewed Hope Estate in Abuja, alongside a cash award of US $100,000 (paid in naira equivalent), while each member of the technical staff will be awarded US $50,000 and also allocated a three‑bedroom apartment within the same housing estate.

“This team has lifted our spirits and our flag higher than ever,” President Tinubu declared. “Your resilience, skill, and unity have brought honour to Nigeria, and I am proud to award these OON honours and life‑changing gifts. You deserve every bit of this recognition.” He added: “I hereby allocate a three‑bedroom apartment to each of the players and technical crew … and a cash award of the naira-equivalent of $100,000 to the players and $50,000 to the technical team”.

First Lady Senator Oluremi “Remi” Tinubu delivered her stirring tribute to the champions. “My beautiful and lovely Super Falcons, I celebrate you for this landmark victory,” she said. “You have written your names in gold, inspired millions across the continent, and reminded us all that Nigerian women are queens of African football.” She also emphasised that their win “is not just a trophy – it is a testament to your hard work, consistency, and the indomitable Nigerian spirit”.

Captain Rasheedat Ajibade thanked the President and the First Lady during her remarks, saying: “This title is for you, Mr President, it is for Nigerians – it is for every Nigerian girl who dares to dream. Today, we celebrate not just a win, but hope for the future.” Her heartfelt words underscored the deeper significance of WAFCON beyond sport.

In closing, President Tinubu urged continued national support for female athletes. “You will be celebrated, and I congratulate the coaches, management, and officials. I pray for even greater success ahead,” he said. Meanwhile, the First Lady encouraged young girls across Nigeria to be confident in their identity and to continue supporting national heroes. The ceremony capped weeks of national jubilation following the team’s dramatic 3‑2 comeback in Rabat. GMTNewsng

The Enugu State Government has formally constituted a Central Planning Committee (CPC) to coordinate the funeral arrangements for Nigerian football legend, Christian Chukwu, who passed away recently at the age of 73. The announcement was made in collaboration with the family of the late former Super Eagles captain and coach, signaling the beginning of activities lined up to honour one of Africa’s most iconic sports personalities.

The Commissioner for Youth and Sports in Enugu State, Barrister Lloyd Ekweremadu, has been appointed as the chairman of the Central Planning Committee, while Barrister Alexander Egbo will serve as the committee’s secretary. According to the government, the committee comprises individuals drawn from both the public and private sectors, particularly seasoned figures in the sports community and public service, to ensure a befitting farewell is accorded to the football legend.

Christian Chukwu, fondly known as “Chairman,” made history as the captain of the Green Eagles squad that won Nigeria’s first African Cup of Nations (AFCON) title in 1980. His death in early July 2025 drew tributes from across the globe, including from FIFA, CAF, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), former teammates, and countless admirers. The Enugu-born football icon is celebrated not only for his achievements on the pitch but also for his mentorship and administrative roles in Nigerian football.

The Enugu State Government, in concert with the bereaved family, also unveiled a comprehensive weeklong funeral programme to celebrate Chukwu’s life and legacy. The activities will commence on Sunday, August 10, 2025, with a special memorial church service in Enugu and will culminate in a thanksgiving service on Sunday, August 17, 2025, in his hometown, Obe, in Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State.

Highlights of the funeral programme include a public lecture and colloquium in his honour, a novelty football match involving ex-internationals and Enugu Rangers legends, a lying-in-state ceremony at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, and a night of tributes. The actual burial will take place on Saturday, August 16, 2025, following a funeral mass at St. Vincent Catholic Church, Obe. These events are expected to attract prominent figures in Nigerian sports, politics, and religious circles.

The Enugu State Government called on all well-wishers, football lovers, and members of the public to participate in the activities, describing Chukwu as “a symbol of excellence, discipline, and unity.” Governor Peter Mbah, in an earlier condolence message, had described Christian Chukwu as a national treasure and promised to work with relevant stakeholders to give him a hero’s farewell. With the inauguration of the burial committee, preparations are now in full swing to honour the life and contributions of one of Enugu State’s most illustrious sons. GMTNewsng