This publication is reintroducing itself with renewed vigor. Following a brief hiatus for content enhancement and logistical improvements, we are pleased to present the inaugural edition of the esteemed SMI Magazine. This edition features a detailed examination of the recent AFCON 2025 draw, during which Morocco committed to hosting a memorable tournament and has provided a glimpse of what to expect in December 2025 and January 2026 through an impressive draw.

The content includes a comprehensive group-by-group analysis of the 2025 AFCON participants, categorizing them as Contenders, Pretenders, and offering predictions for each group to build anticipation for African football. In the realm of boxing, we delve into Anthony Joshua’s reportedly £200 million worth, juxtaposed with his continued residence with his mother, despite his financial capacity to explore various lifestyle choices.

Additionally, we provide insights into Nigeria’s striker Victor Osimhen’s forthcoming transfer worth €75 million amid numerous speculations regarding his future. We also analyze the 20 most significant transfers during the January 2025 window, highlighting notable movements such as Moroccan forward Omar Marmoush’s transfer from Eintracht Frankfurt to Manchester City.

On the local front, this edition underscores the significance of sports governance, particularly the promising development of a world-class stadium in Warri, Delta State, an initiative spearheaded by His Excellency Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.

Inside this edition

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The organisers of the maiden edition of President Bola Tinubu U20 Unity football championship, Onengiye Elekima Foundation have come out to explain why they are using football as a tool to propagate their peace and unity agenda, in line with the avowed commitments of President Bola Tinubu towards engendering lasting peace, unity and progress ìn the country.

President and founder of the foundation, Comrade Onengiye Elekima, in a press statement explained that the forthcoming football championship would see male and female U20 football clubs from across the 774 local government areas of Nigeria, participate and battle for the grand prize money of N50 million.

He was quick however, to reiterate the drive behind the competition. According to the soft-spoken youth advocate, the competition is ostensibly targeted at giving the less privileged, the vulnerable and the seemingly maligned and particularly, the displaced members of the society, a sense of belonging, and the opportunity to display their God-given talents.

“We’re very concerned about the lives of the less privileged and particularly, the people of the various IDP camps in the country,” he said.

“Nigeria is a very blessed nation in all of its ramifications and we believe there are millions of talented male and female youths in the villages, towns and even the IDP camps. The Onengiye Elekima Foundation, is set to seek them out and give them a lifetime opportunity to move out of the dark and become better persons by realising their dreams.

“And over several decades, football has become the most veritable tool for promotionbefore peace and unity in the world.  We know the commitment of President Bola Tinubu to engendering peace and unity in the country, and particularly, his love and determination to ensure the Nigerian youths are empowered and encouraged to positively channel their unbridled energies to the betterment of the society. That is why we have keyed into his policies for the youths. And what better tool than football,” he asked rhetorically.

He further disclosed that registration for the competition is free and ongoing, as interested clubsides can visit the dedicated website to download and fill the forms for participation via www.onengiyeelekimafoundation.org.ng

Members of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Lagos State Chapter met with the National Leadership of the Professional body with a view to find lasting solution to the lingering issues.

The meeting which held inside the SWAN Chapter Secretariat located within the National Stadium Surulere, Lagos, had in attendance both Veterans and Young Sports Writing Practitioners, at the instance of SWAN National President, Mr. Isaiah Benjamin.

At the meeting, the President of SWAN while commending members of the sporting media at the Nigeria’s Commercial hub, recalled the high-octane vibrancy SWAN Lagos was known for, being the centerpiece of Journalism practice, particularly Sports Writing.

President Benjamin then urged all interests to sheath their swords and unite for the overall growth and well-being of the revered Association.

The number one sportswriter in Nigeria also reminded them of the need to join hands in restoring needed peace and be united as it were, adding, “For us at the National Executive Committee (NEC), we are committed to ensuring that the various 36 States and FCT Chapters are not only united but formidable.

“Everyone knows that yes all the Chapters are important, but Lagos is the hub of Journalism practice in Nigeria. So, as the privileged SWAN President today, I’m very much disturbed about what Lagos State Chapter has turned out to be in recent years. Since I took over, I haven’t rested. I have kept calling and engaging especially our veterans on best solution to the issues.

“It now for all SWAN members to join hands to restore the height SWAN is known for in Lagos and make it better. The good thing is that majority of Sports Writers, including the Elders are in agreement that there is need to reunite and, in few months, ahead make plans on to conduct fresh election.”

The SWAN President enjoined members to particularly rally round and allow the incumbent Chaper Executive led by Olatutu Oladunni to complete their tenure by October 2025 when a new election will be conducted, with an assurance that those who will form part of the Electoral Committee will be drawn from sides of the divide.

He also assured that the National Leadership will be unbiased in ensuring seamless process, just as it was done in FCT Chapter in 2024.

Some of the Elders and Young SWAN members who spoke during the meeting, including Mr. Kunle Salami, Mr. Patrick Ibeh, Mr. Victor Enyinnaya, Mr. Tony Ubani, Mrs Olatutu Oladunni, Mr. Enitan Obadina, Mrs Oluchi Tobe-Chukwu, Mrs Blessing Nwosu, Mr. Bello Omotunde, Mr. Kaseem Ajibola Mr. Oni Afolabi, Mr. Taiwo Adelu among others were one in echoing that the togetherness of the Association will go a long way in ensuring that the upcoming election in Lagos will be successful.

A number of NEC members including National Ex-Officio Mr. Abiodun Ogundipe, National Treasurer Mr. Femi Amusan, Vice President South-West zone Mr. Ayodeji Ogunsakin and Secretary-General Amb. Ikenna Okonkwo as well as South-West zonal Secretary Mr. Charles Ogundiya accompanied the SWAN President to the meeting.