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NSF 2024: Sports Minister inaugurates MOC, tasks them on sportsmanship

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The Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh has inaugurated the Main Organizing Committee (MOC) for the successful hosting of the 22nd Edition of the National Sports Festival, tagged ‘GATEWAY GAMES OGUN 2024’
scheduled to take place next year in Abeokuta, Ogun State Capital.

Director of Press and Public Relations,
Mohammed Manga in a statement quoted the minister who inaugurated the committee in his office at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium Abuja,to have stated that the inauguration of the MOC was a fallout of the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on the 6th of May 2023 between the Ministry and the Ogun State Government which signified the commencement of the hosting of the Sports Festival.

He stated that the inauguration of the Main Organising Committee marks another remarkable milestone for him as the Honourable Minister of Sports Development as well as the National Sports Festival in particular.

He acknowledged that the organization of the National Sports Festival is an enormous task that requires commitment and dedication especially, taking into account that the MOC has short time to put everything in place for the successful hosting of the games.

Senator Enoh expressed the optimism that with the zeal and determination of Ogun State Government as well as the calibre of people who constitute the MOC, the task of organizing the festival will not be insurmountable

He expressed dismay over the fact the nation’s National Sports Festival is fully dependent on the Federal and State Governments for funds, explaining that last year’s festival alone hosted not less than 15000 athletes and team officials; outside the technical officials, sports federation personnel and service providers.
The trend, he said, is unacceptable and must not be allowed to continue.

The Minister explained that although, the tradition was for the funding of the games to be shared between the Federal
Ministry of Sports Development and the state hosting the games, howevet he observed that with the current economic realities and especially with the global practice, sponsorship of sporting events is no longer the responsibility of government alone as sports has become a business the world over, and that Nigeria cannot be an exception.

According to him that the reason the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led Administration in its Renewed Hope Agenda endorsed the National Sports Industry Policy approved by the immediate past administration to drive the Sports Development in the country.
He said it will also provide the teeming youth with job opportunities and alleviate poverty amongst them with a view to ensuring a peaceful and safe society for the benefit of all Nigerians.

The minister added that with the National Sports Industry Policy kicking off, sports should now be seen by all as not only a mere recreation but a business where private sector can invest their resources to yield greater benefits and profits.

He described sports as a multi billion dollar business which is driven successfully by the private sector globally as he expressed the optimism that there is no reason it will not work in Nigeria like other climes.

Senator Enoh stated further that
after 22 years, the National Sports Festival has become a brand capable of attracting corporate sponsorship. He therefore charged the Main Organising Committee to package the Festival in such a way that it will make it attractive for the private sector to sponsor.

The Minister used the opportunity to appeal to all sports loving Nigerians, private and corporate organizations.as well as philanthropists to join hands with the present administration in its determination to ensure the development of sports in the country.

Responding, the Chairman MOC and Permanent Secretary overseeing the Federal Ministries of Youth and Sports Development Alhaji Ismaila Abubakar Thanked the Honourable Minister of Sports Development Senator John Owan Enoh and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in particular for the opportunity given to them to serve the country in this capacity.

He assured that members will bring their wealth of experience to bear in ensuring the successful hosting of the games in line with the policy thrust of the Federal Government.

Also in his remarks shortly after the inauguration ceremony, the Ogun state Commissioner of Sports, Mr Wasiu Isiaka, indicated that the state was fully ready to to put up a successful hosting of the sports festival equal to none in recent times.

Members of the Main Organising Committee (MOC) inaugurated by the Honourable Minister included,Alhaji Ismaila Abubakar, Permanent Secretary Overseeing the Federal Ministries of Youth and Sports Development – Chairman, Bukola Olapade, (Chairman LOC) as Vice Chairman. Other members of the Committee are Dr. Paul Onyeudo, Olufehinti Olusegun, Mohammed Manga, Gregory Zi, Ms Fadeke Fadeyibi, Engr. Abolore Alanamu, Patrick Okeke, Mrs. Amaka Ashiofu, Prof. Olawale Moronkola, Engr. Habu Gumel, Sunday Odebode, Emmanuel Utobo, Bamiduro Olumide, Brendan Ndifon, Adebayo Adeyinka, Amechi Akawo, Waziri Abubakar Mohammed, Mrs Thecla Opara (Member/Secretary) and Dr Kweku Tandoh.

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CAF Champions League: Okpebholo backs Edo Queens for Semifinal Spot

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Monday Okpebholo

As Edo Queens prepare for a crucial face-off with South African champions Mamelodi Sundowns in the ongoing 2024 CAF Women’s Champions League, Governor Monday Okpebholo has issued a heartfelt message of support, rallying the team to victory.
The match, set for Saturday, November 16 in Casablanca, Morocco, will determine whether the Queens advance to the semifinals.
The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Fred Itua in a statement quoted Okpebholo to have praised the Queens’ achievements, acknowledging the determination and hard work that has kept them at the top of Group B.
He assured the team of his administration’s unwavering backing. “I want our girls to know that we are fully behind them,” the governor stated.
“They have nothing to worry about — their state and nation stand solidly with them. We want them to defeat Sundowns on Saturday and make Edo State and Nigeria proud.”

Okpebholo also expressed confidence that the Queens could go on to win the tournament, promising that his administration will prioritize sports development across Edo State.
“Go ahead and win the cup and bring it to your fatherland. Sports will surely receive the attention it deserves under my government,” he affirmed.

Edo Queens, champions of the Nigeria Women Premier League, began their CAF campaign with a resounding 3-0 victory over Ethiopia’s Commercial Bank, with goals from Emem Essien, Folashade Ijamilusi, and Goodness Osigwe.
A goalless draw with Egypt’s Masar FC kept them at the top of Group B, positioning them for a semifinal berth if they secure a win or draw against Mamelodi Sundowns.
The much-anticipated showdown is scheduled to kick off at 6 pm local time on Saturday.

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At National Transporters Games Mascot Unveiling, speakers highlight transporters contribution to economy

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National Transporters Games Mascot

**Say games aim to transform negative perception of Transport Sector

As the maiden National Transporters’ Games billed for December 2024 draws closer, the unveiling of the Mascot for the games which took place at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium on Thursday evening highlighted the event’s goal of fostering national unity among stakeholders in Nigeria’s transport sector.
Scheduled to be hosted in Ogun State, the games are designed to encourage collaboration and camaraderie among participants.

The unveiling ceremony, attended by key officials and industry representatives, showcased a mascot symbolizing strength and teamwork.
Senator Prince Gbolahan Dada, a prominent advocate for the event, emphasized that the competition, themed ‘Unity in Motion, Strength in Diversity,’ aims not only to promote national cohesion but also to enhance the economic viability of the transport system.

He emphasized the crucial role of transporters in Nigeria’s economy highlighting the need to challenge negative perceptions associated with transport workers.

Dada stressed that transporters are essential contributors to economic stability, pointing out that a one-day strike by transport unions could lead to widespread disruption.
He called for a repositioning of transporters as vital partners in driving economic growth.
He said the games marked a significant collaboration between the private sector and government, noting the importance of using sports as a unifying force within communities.
He recalled the legacy of Rashidi Yekini, a former transporter and national football hero, to illustrate the untapped potential within the sector.

With Nigeria’s vast population, the senator urged for a focus on nurturing local talents and creating opportunities for business growth through improved partnerships in sports and transportation.
He reiterated the importance of enhancing transport networks and ensuring the well-being of drivers, advocating for safe resting places and greater collaboration with law enforcement.

Senator Dada’s address is a call to action to honor and support transporters, reinforcing their pivotal role in Nigeria’s economic landscape.
National Coordinator of the National Transporters games, Wale Shodeinde outlined the event’s structure, revealing that athletes from eight transport organizations will compete in six sports: football, draughts, athletics, table tennis, swimming, and Ayo.
Shodeinde explained that the decision to unveil the mascot in the northern part of the country, while holding competitions in the south, underscored the event’s commitment to national unity. He assured attendees that the next edition will be hosted in the north.
He said the games are targeted at reshaping the narrative around transport workers in Nigeria. “This groundbreaking event, set for December, is poised to be the first of its kind in Nigeria and potentially in Africa.
Shodeinde expressed gratitude for the federal government’s support in organizing the event, which wl bring together 12 national transport unions across the country.
He highlighted the importance of fostering unity among transport workers, emphasizing that sports can serve as a powerful unifying force.
“The games will feature various competitions and will be hosted in different regions”
Shodeinde affirmed that the initiative is not just about sports but also about enhancing the image of transporters, who have often faced negative perceptions.
He acknowledged the contributions of various stakeholders, including the National Association of Road Transport Owners and the National Union of Road Transport Workers, in making this event a reality.
The event aimed to promote national cohesion and celebrate the contributions of transport workers to the economy.
The unveiling of the mascot marks a significant step towards the upcoming games, which are expected to showcase the talent and dedication of transport workers while promoting unity across the sector.

Shodeinde concluded by urging the media to help convey the importance of the National Transporters Games, asserting that this initiative is here to stay and will play a vital role in transforming the narrative surrounding the transport sector in Nigeria.

Also in attendance, Honourable Solomon Bamola, Chairman of Miss Football Nigeria, highlighted the significant economic implications of the games, noting the opportunity to reshape public perceptions of transport workers.

The National Transporters’ Games are set to serve as a pivotal platform for enhancing unity and collaboration within Nigeria’s transport sector, promising a bright future for its participants and the industry at large.

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T2Bet Unveils Innovative Online Betting Platform to Engage Users, Boost Earnings

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In a groundbreaking move for the online betting industry, T2bet has launched a new segment of its platform, allowing users to engage in a diverse range of betting options across 4,000 games daily.
This innovative offering, presented by CEO Theo Ubani, is aimed to enhance user experience by combining gaming and potential earnings in a fun and secure environment.

During a recent press briefing in Abuja, Ubani emphasized the platform’s commitment to redefining the online betting landscape. “For the first time, users can bet on a wide variety of games, not just limited to football or premier leagues. This is a unique opportunity for fun and gaming while having the potential to win real money,” he stated.

The platform stands out by addressing common pain points experienced by users in the betting industry, particularly concerning payout delays. Users can create a secure wallet on the platform, with funds automatically linked to their accounts for swift payouts. Ubani reassured attendees that T2bet is collaborating with reputable international providers, ensuring the reliability and security of transactions.

“Our goal is to not only create a fun environment but also to add value to the economy,” Ubani remarked. “We’re bringing new solutions to existing market challenges, including the need for faster payments and more engaging betting experiences.”

Another key feature of T2bet is its affiliate program, which allows individuals to earn money by driving traffic to the platform. By participating as affiliates, users can earn income by referring others, creating a potential income stream without needing significant investments or prior experience.

Ubani pointed out that the platform is accessible to everyone, with betting options starting as low as 15 Naira. “Even a small deposit can turn into substantial earnings,” he explained. “If you bet 15 Naira and win, your return could be substantial, making this an exciting opportunity for users to engage and potentially benefit financially.”

The platform also offers extensive online resources for new users, including guides and tutorials to help them navigate their betting options. “We’ve designed this platform to be user-friendly and educational,” Ubani noted. “Once users log in, they will find everything they need to make informed decisions and enjoy their experience.”

With a vision to reshape the online gaming experience, T2Bet is set to lead the way in the industry by providing an engaging, fun, and secure environment for users.
The official launch of the platform is expected to generate excitement among both seasoned bettors and newcomers alike, paving the way for a new era in online gaming.

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