Connect with us

Local News

Amaju Pinnick Backs South West Games 2025

A Historic Sporting Revolution Unfolds as Ex-NFF Boss Declares BAT-SWAG a Game-Changer for Talent Development

In a resounding vote of confidence, former Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President and FIFA Council Member, Amaju Melvin Pinnick, has officially endorsed the South West Games 2025, hailing the tournament as a groundbreaking platform for sports development, youth empowerment, and economic growth in Nigeria.

The highly anticipated competition, set to take place in Lagos, will feature the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Southwest Alliance Games (BAT-SWAG) as its key sub-tournament.

Pinnick, in an endorsement letter addressed to Practagali Limited, the organizers of the South West Games 2025, lauded the initiative as a catalyst for a new era of athletic excellence in Nigeria’s southwestern region. “With great enthusiasm and a firm belief in the power of sports, I proudly extend my wholehearted endorsement of the South West Games 2025, including its key sub-tournament, the Bola Ahmed Tinubu South West Alliance Games.

With a vision that extends beyond mere competition, Pinnick emphasized the transformational impact of the games on the six Southwestern states—Ekiti, Lagos, Osun, Ondo, Ogun, and Oyo—where the tournament will unearth and groom the next generation of elite athletes. “This initiative is a game-changer for sports development, talent discovery, and youth empowerment across the six Southwestern states,” he noted. “More than just a competition, these games will serve as a breeding ground for the next generation of elite athletes while fostering unity, discipline, and national pride.”

The former NFF boss underscored the significance of Lagos as the host city, describing it as both a strategic and symbolic choice. “As the epicenter of Nigerian sports, Lagos boasts world-class infrastructure, a rich sporting heritage, and an unmatched passion for athletics. Its dynamic energy and cosmopolitan spirit make it the ideal stage to usher in a new era of sporting excellence in the region,” Pinnick affirmed.

More than just a sporting event, Pinnick highlighted the economic and career opportunities that the games would unlock for young athletes and stakeholders in the sports ecosystem. “Beyond the thrill of competition, the South West Games 2025 will serve as a catalyst for economic growth, career opportunities, and youth engagement. This is not just a tournament—it is the foundation of a lasting legacy,” he enthused.

Reflecting on the long-term significance of the event, Pinnick declared that the competition would be etched in history as a defining moment for Nigerian sports. “This tournament, no doubt, will not only serve as a paradigm shift but will go down in the annals of history as one of the most pleasurable, memorable, and potent platforms for talent conditioning, nurturing, and development.”

Pinnick commended Practagali Limited for its vision and urged all stakeholders—including government institutions, corporate organizations, and sports enthusiasts—to rally behind the project to ensure its success. “I commend Practagali Limited for spearheading this visionary initiative and urging all stakeholders—governments, corporate organizations, and sports enthusiasts—to lend their full support. Together, we can make history and redefine the future of sports in Nigeria,” he stated.

Pinnick’s endorsement of the South West Games 2025 is a testament to his unwavering dedication to the advancement of Nigerian sports. As a FIFA Council Member and CAF Executive Committee Member, his influence in the global football landscape adds further weight to his backing of this monumental event. His role as Chairman of the Brownhill Group further underscores his commitment to sports development, both at home and internationally.

With Pinnick’s endorsement adding credibility and momentum to the initiative, expectations are high for the South West Games 2025 to set new benchmarks for talent discovery, grassroots sports development, and regional integration. The countdown to history has begun, and all eyes are now on Lagos as it prepares to host what promises to be a transformative sporting spectacle.

As Nigeria continues to harness the power of sports as a tool for national development, Pinnick’s rallying call for unity and investment in grassroots talent serves as an inspiration to all. The South West Games 2025 is not just an event, he said, it is the dawn of a new era in Nigerian sports.

Local News

Ahmed Garba ‘Yaro Yaro’ Backs Super Eagles To Defeat DR Congo After Back-To-Back Goal Fest

Super Eagles players celebrating a goal during World Cup playoff match

Ahmed Garba ‘Yaro Yaro’ Backs Super Eagles To Defeat DR Congo After Back-To-Back Goal Fest

Former Super Eagles forward Ahmed Garba ‘Yaro Yaro’ is buzzing with confidence — and he believes Nigeria is now primed to take down DR Congo in Sunday’s CAF World Cup qualifiers final.

After the Super Eagles thrashed Benin Republic 4-1 and followed it up with another 4-1 demolition of Gabon, the goals are flowing again, and Yaro Yaro says that’s a sign of something special brewing.

Speaking with Footy Africa, the former Wikki Tourists striker admitted he was impressed not just by the scoreline, but by the hunger, chemistry and energy the team displayed.

“I cannot remember the last time we won two straight games with four goals,”
Yaro Yaro said.
“This is a good win and a good omen. The boys could have scored even more, but this is a great confidence booster.”

DR Congo Will Be Tough — But Nigeria Is Ready

The next hurdle is DR Congo, a side that shocked many by eliminating Cameroon. Yaro Yaro acknowledged that the Leopards will not be an easy opponent, especially with their physical style and organized play.

But he still believes Nigeria will rise to the occasion.

“Our next game against DR Congo will be difficult… but I like how the team is developing. The Super Eagles have got their confidence back, and I see them defeating DR Congo.”

With Victor Osimhen on fire, the midfield finding rhythm, and the defence stabilizing, momentum is finally swinging in Nigeria’s favour at the perfect time.

A New Wave Of Confidence For The Super Eagles

The recent turnaround under coach Eric Chelle has reminded fans of the attacking identity Nigeria used to be known for. After struggling earlier in the qualifiers, the Super Eagles now look sharper, deadlier, and more unified.

Eight goals in two matches?
That doesn’t happen by accident — and Yaro Yaro believes it’s the fuel the team needs to take one more big step.

If Nigeria can defeat DR Congo on Sunday, they’ll move one step closer to booking their spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

And judging by Yaro Yaro’s optimism, Nigerians might just witness another thrilling performance.

Continue Reading

Local News

Mario Lemina Reacts Emotionally As Gabon Crash Out Against Super Eagles

Mario Lemina Looking Frustrated During Gabon Vs Nigeria Match

Mario Lemina Reacts Emotionally As Gabon Crash Out Against Super Eagles

Thursday night was a tough one for Gabon, and no one felt it more deeply than Mario Lemina. The midfielder, who also plays alongside Victor Osimhen at Galatasaray, wore every emotion on his sleeve as Gabon fell 4–1 to the Super Eagles in the World Cup qualifying playoffs.

The match had started on a shaky note for the Panthers, with Akor Adams pouncing on a mistake from Gabon’s captain to give Nigeria the early lead. Still, Lemina kept pushing, kept fighting, and with just one minute left in the first half, he delivered Gabon’s brightest moment—an equaliser that momentarily reignited hope for a historic World Cup qualification.

But football can be cruel.

The second half swung sharply in Nigeria’s favour, with Victor Osimhen unleashing a deadly brace and Chidera Ejuke sealing the win with a composed finish. For Gabon, it was the end of a dream they had fought tirelessly to chase.

After the final whistle, Lemina turned to his X handle to pour out his frustration—and pride.

He admitted feeling a mix of rage, disappointment, and determination, acknowledging that the team had sworn to fight till the end but fell short. Still, he urged his teammates and fans to see the loss as a lesson, a stepping stone toward future success.

Now, Gabon will shift focus to the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, where they hope to bounce back stronger and more united.

Meanwhile, the Super Eagles move on to face DR Congo in the playoff final on Sunday, with Victor Osimhen looking unstoppable and Nigeria eyeing a path to next year’s intercontinental playoffs in Mexico.

But for Lemina, this moment will linger—an emotional reminder of how much the game means, and how deeply he believes in his nation.

Continue Reading

Local News

Shakirat Moshood Makes Final Three Nominees For 2025 CAF Young Player Of The Year (Women)

Shakirat Moshood celebrating during a Flamingos U-17 match

Nigeria continues to shine on the African football stage — and this time, it’s Flamingos captain Shakirat Moshood grabbing the spotlight.

The young forward has been named among the final three nominees for the 2025 CAF Young Player of the Year (Women) award, a major recognition of her sensational rise in African women’s football.

Joining her on the shortlist are:

  • Moha El Madani (Morocco)

  • Adji Ndiye (Senegal)

Moshood’s Brilliant Year In Review

Shakirat Moshood has had a standout year — the type of year that puts a teenager firmly on the continental football map.

She was one of Nigeria’s brightest performers at the 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, where the Flamingos battled their way to the Round of 16 under coach Bankole Olowookere.

But her success didn’t end on the global stage.

The young star also played a big role in Bayelsa Queens’ NWFL title triumph earlier this year. In addition, she emerged top scorer at the WAFU B Women’s Champions League qualifiers in Côte d’Ivoire, proving she’s not just talented — she’s consistent.

This blend of leadership, goals, and maturity is what earned her a place among Africa’s elite young stars.

Nigeria’s Success Extends To The Super Falcons

Nigeria’s dominance wasn’t limited to youth level.
The Super Falcons also made the final three nominees for the Women’s National Team of the Year after winning their 10th WAFCON title in Morocco.

Their competitors for the crown are:

  • Morocco’s Atlas Lionesses

  • Ghana’s Black Queens

It’s clear: Nigerian women’s football is thriving across every level, from U-17 to the senior national team.

A Big Moment For Moshood — And A Bigger Future Ahead

Making the final three nominees is already a massive achievement, but Moshood’s trajectory suggests this is just the beginning.

With her skill, composure, and eye for goal, she is shaping up to become one of the future pillars of the Super Falcons.

Whether she wins the award or not, Nigeria has found a gem — and Africa is paying attention.

Continue Reading

Trending