Nigeria Premier League

Senegal, Mauritania Endorse Saudi Arabia’s Bid to Host 2030 Event

In a show of deepening diplomatic ties and shared goals, the leaders of Senegal and Mauritania have officially pledged their support to Saudi Arabia’s bids to host the Expo 2030 and the 2034 FIFA World Cup.

HE President Macky Sall of Senegal warmly welcomed HE Ahmed Al Khateeb, Saudi Minister of Tourism and the Special Envoy of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.

During their discussions, they focused on enhancing bilateral ties and Senegal’s commitment to Saudi Arabia’s global aspirations. HE Ahmed Al Khateeb expressed his gratitude and highlighted the significance of the endorsement, symbolized further when he was honored with the Senegalese National Order of the Lion.

Similarly, in the Presidential Palace of Nouakchott, HE Mohamed Ould Ghazouani, President of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania, received HE Ahmed Al Khateeb and his delegation.

The meeting, attended by dignitaries from both countries, underscored Mauritania’s endorsement of the Kingdom’s initiatives and a mutual desire to strengthen relations.

These endorsements demonstrate the growing international confidence in Saudi Arabia’s vision and its capability to host events of a global magnitude. The Kingdom remains committed to building strong relationships, fostering mutual growth, understanding, and shared objectives on the global stage.

About Saudi Ministry of Tourism (MT)

Founded in 2000, MT is dedicated to championing long-term growth in the Kingdom’s tourism industry. Its primary ambition is to realize the Kingdom’s vision for tourism by creating opportunities and platforms that enrich the tourism experience and promote the development of national human capital. By closely collaborating with government entities, industry stakeholders, and both public and private sectors, MT strives to drive sustainable tourism growth, enabled by forward-thinking policies, targeted investments, and talent development initiatives. MT strategy is deeply rooted in Arabian authenticity, powered by data and integrated delivery systems. At its heart, MT’s mission is to open Saudi Arabia’s doors to the world, making it a hub where unforgettable tourism stories come to life daily.

Nigeria Premier League

Ogunmodede reflects on Emo Stars’ win over Abia Warriors

Emo Stars technical adviser Daniel Ogunmodede admitted his side was fortunate to secure a 3-2 victory over Abia Warriors in Ikenne on Wednesday.

Abia Warriors took a 2-0 lead in the first half, with goals from Ayodele Eziekel and Anthony Ijoma. However, Emo Stars responded with three goals from Olamilekan Adebayo, Jabbar Malik, and Franck Mawuena to clinch the win.

Ogunmodede acknowledged that his team had underestimated their opponents but managed to turn things around. “The game was tense and shocking in the first half on our home ground. Not every time you will be lucky against a great team we played against,” he said in the post-match interview.

“We underestimated the qualities of our opponent, and we were punished for it. But luckily, we identified the problem and readjusted to get the victory.”

Emo Stars will now aim to build on this win as they continue their campaign

Nigeria Premier League

Kano Pillars eye maximum points in midweek showdown with Ikorodu City

Kano Pillars are determined to secure all three points in their upcoming fixture against Ikorodu City in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL).

The Sai Masu Gida will face Ikorodu City at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos on Wednesday.

Usman Abdallah’s side is upbeat and focused ahead of the match, with the players in high spirits.

“Done and dusted with the shake-ups ahead of our NPFL25 Matchday 21 clash against Ikorodu City this Wednesday at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Lagos,” Kano Pillars wrote on X.

“The boys are in high spirits and determined to secure maximum points as we aim to continue our impressive run this season.”

Kano Pillars currently sit in eighth place on the league table with 28 points.

Nigeria Premier League

Brown Ideye criticizes NPFL standards, calls for major improvements

Enyimba striker Brown Ideye has expressed dissatisfaction with the current state of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), stating that significant improvements are needed to elevate its standard.

Ideye, who rejoined the league in December 2024 after signing for Enyimba, has made appearances in both NPFL and CAF Confederation Cup matches, scoring two goals so far.

Sharing his thoughts following Enyimba’s 2-0 defeat to Kwara United in a rescheduled matchday 16 fixture in Ilorin, Ideye voiced concerns about the league’s challenges.

“The system is getting worse; the league is not improving. I feel like we have a long way to go,” Ideye remarked during an interview.

Despite enjoying his time at Enyimba, the former West Brom striker emphasized that much remains to be addressed in the league.

“My time at Enyimba has been wonderful, but there are a lot of things in the league that need improvement and haven’t changed yet,” he added.

On the poor performances of Nigerian clubs in CAF competitions, Ideye highlighted critical areas requiring attention.

“In terms of traveling, feeding, hotel accommodations, and player relaxation — it’s all bad. Nigerians are not ready for continental competitions. We need to put our house in order before going there, instead of embarrassing ourselves.”