News

Deputy Governor Shaibu To Amusan: You A Lioness That Roars Again

The Edo State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Comrade Phillip Shaibu has described weekend’s feat recorded by Nigerian sprinter, Tobi Amusan at the weekend’s Diamond League as a record one that would further propel the athlete in her career.

Amusan regained her glory from last month’s woeful outing at the World Athletics Championship in Budapest with a win in her 100m hurdles race with a time of 12.33 seconds,at the Diamond League in Oregon, the same place she won the title last year.

The Deputy Governor, who could not hide her excitement says, Amusan was just like a lioness, saying “The lioness Roars Again!

“Tobi, you have demonstrated what many had never expected from you and you have displayed to the world that you are what you are.

“Turning your challenges to a podium finish ahead of the likes of Jasmine Camacho-Quinn, Kendra Harrison and others, which has made you equal the record of Dawn Nelson-Harper as the only two women in the history of the Diamond League to have won three 100m hurdles titles in a row – you are indeed a Lioness and you have roared again and this time, in a remarkable manner.

“I wish you more of these landmark achievements and more podium finishes in your career.

The sports-loving deputy governor also congratulated Ese Brume for her podium finish at the league.

“Dear Ese Brume, thank you for making our day bright with the silver win – I really appreciate this and commend you for that, thanks for flying the flag high.

“Keep pushing and keep working hard, soon, you will hit that gold you have been digging for for years – just keep it real and remain focused.

“Dear ladies, let this be the stepping stone for you ladies to tell the world once again that the Power of Naija is strong,” he said.

News

AFCON 2025: Yobo to serve as draw assistant

Former Super Eagles defender Joseph Yobo has been selected as one of the draw assistants for the final draw of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The draw ceremony is set to take place today at the Mohammed V National Theatre in Rabat, Morocco, where the 24 qualified teams will discover their paths to the trophy.

Yobo will be joined by other African football icons, including Mustapha Hadji, Serge Aurier, and Aliou Cisse.

The quartet will not only oversee the draw by selecting balls from the pots but will also share their insights on the tournament groups.

The 2025 AFCON finals will be hosted in Morocco from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026.

News

Super Eagles will succeed under Eric Chelle – Sadiq Umar

Super Eagles forward Umar Sadiq has expressed his support for the team’s new head coach, Eric Chelle, and is optimistic about his success in the role.

Chelle was appointed as the Super Eagles’ head coach earlier this month, a decision that has sparked criticism directed at the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

Despite the backlash, Sadiq is confident in the 47-year-old’s ability to lead the team effectively.

“You can see what he did in the last AFCON. Everyone thought Mali was one of the favorites,” Sadiq told Sporty TV.

“You can see how they played. They were so good, but they got knocked out in the quarterfinals because, sometimes, it’s not the best team that wins.

“But I can tell you, I watched a lot of Mali’s games because I have a teammate there. You can see how they play, and it’s clear the coach (Chelle) has a lot of great ideas.”

Chelle’s impressive work with Mali during the previous AFCON has given Sadiq confidence that the coach can bring similar success to the Super Eagles.

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‘I’m happy to be out there’ — Dessers opens up on Rangers exit

Cyriel Dessers has expressed his intention to remain at Rangers beyond the winter transfer window despite speculation about his future.

The Nigerian international began the season as Rangers’ first-choice striker but has since lost his spot to Hamza Igamane.

Dessers has been linked with a return to Italy, with reports suggesting interest from Cagliari and Empoli. Spanish club Leganes is also reportedly keen on signing the former Feyenoord forward.

In a recent interview, Dessers acknowledged plans to discuss his status at the club with senior officials. However, the 30-year-old revealed that no such talks have taken place yet.

“No talks at all. I don’t mind that. I try to focus on the football and the things that are happening on the pitch,” Dessers told the Daily Record.

“Those are the things that I can control. And like Sunday at Tannadice, I’m just happy to be out there with the guys, fighting for the points and being important.

“That’s what I want. There’s a lot of unfinished business at Rangers for me. That’s why I kept pushing in the last weeks—in the gym, in training, and in the minutes that you get.”

Despite his recent challenges, Dessers has had an impressive season, scoring 18 goals across all competitions under manager Philippe Clement.