Ethiopian runner Habtamu Birhane has made history by winning the inaugural Yenagoa City International 10KM Race in Bayelsa State, Nigeria. He crossed the finish line with an impressive time of 29:23 minutes, claiming the top prize of $5,000.

Birhane’s victory was followed by Nigerian runners Gang James (29:59 minutes) and Francis James (30:16 minutes), who secured second and third places, respectively. They will take home $3,000 and $2,000, respectively.

In the women’s category, Ethiopian athletes dominated the podium, with Shewaye Dugo Tolosa (33:50 minutes), Tigist Girma (34:07 minutes), and Gacasho Jilo (34:57 minutes) taking the top three spots.

Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri congratulated the organizers, Nilayo Sports Management, and the State Sports Ministry for putting together a successful event.

“This race has come to stay in Bayelsa, and we’ll do our best to improve on the next edition,” he said, praising the event’s potential to put the state on the global sports map.

Nilayo Sports Management CEO, Mrs. Yetunde Olopade thanked Governor Diri for his support, saying, “We’re committed to organizing remarkable long-distance race events that showcase Bayelsa’s hospitality and sports excellence.”

As the runners crossed the finish line, the atmosphere was electric, with spectators cheering and chanting for more.

The event has undoubtedly set the stage for a thrilling annual tradition, with athletes and fans eagerly awaiting the next edition.

With its stunning venue, competitive tracks and generous prize purse, the Yenagoa City International 10KM Race is ready to make waves on the African athletics scene, leaving a lasting impact on the continent’s sports landscape.

The post Ethiopian Habtamu Birhane Wins Maiden Edition of Yenagoa City International 10KM Race appeared first on Sports247 Nigeria.

Former Nigeria international Baldwin Bazuaye has urged the leadership of the Nigeria Football Federation to show patience with Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle, warning that rushing decisions could hinder the team’s rebuilding process.

READ ALSO: Transfer Race Heats Up: ‘Top Clubs Want Him’ — Etafia Reveals Chiefs, Pirates And Simba Target Nwabali Move

Amid ongoing debates about the future of the national team and its technical direction, Bazuaye believes stability is crucial at this stage.

“Give him time,” he stressed, emphasizing that meaningful progress cannot be achieved overnight.

According to the former international, the Super Eagles are currently in a transition phase — one that requires careful management rather than drastic changes.

He cautioned against the temptation to overhaul the team or replace the coach too quickly, arguing that such moves could disrupt whatever progress has already been made.

“It could be counterproductive,” he implied.

Bazuaye highlighted the importance of allowing the rebuilding process to evolve naturally, with gradual improvements rather than forced transformations.

For him, continuity is key.

Starting all over again, he warned, would only delay progress and make it more difficult to build a cohesive and competitive team.

“We don’t need to restart,” he suggested.

His comments come at a time when pressure is mounting on the NFF to make decisions regarding the future of the coaching setup, especially following recent performances.

While some have called for immediate changes, Bazuaye’s stance offers a more measured approach — one focused on long-term stability.

He believes that with the right support and time, Chelle can guide the team through its transition and lay the foundation for future success.

For Nigerian football, the challenge will be balancing patience with expectations.

But as Bazuaye insists, rushing the process could do more harm than good.

Because in football, rebuilding is not just about change.

It’s about timing, and trust.

The post ‘Give Him Time’: Bazuaye Backs Chelle — Warns Against Rushing Eagles Rebuild Or Sacking Coach appeared first on Sports247 Nigeria.

Former Nigeria international Loveday Omoruyi has proposed a structural shake-up in Nigerian football development, suggesting that experienced coaches like Daniel Ogunmodede should be entrusted with leading youth teams to build a stronger pipeline of talent.

READ ALSO: CAF’s Image Is Suffering’ : Sodje Blasts Morocco-Senegal Row — Says Ongoing Dispute Damaging African Football

Omoruyi believes that Nigeria must rethink how it develops players, particularly by strengthening its youth systems and ensuring a smoother transition from grassroots to the senior national team.

“We need better structure,” he emphasized, pointing out that the current system does not fully maximize the country’s vast talent pool.

According to him, assigning capable coaches to handle teams like the Flying Eagles (U-20) and the U-23 side would create a more organized pathway for identifying and nurturing players, especially those based in the domestic league.

“Let them discover talents locally,” he suggested, highlighting the importance of tapping into homegrown potential.

Omoruyi also addressed the role of players from the diaspora, arguing that they should not be rushed directly into the senior team.

Instead, he believes these players, many of whom are developed in European youth systems, should first be integrated into Nigeria’s youth teams, where they can gain experience and gradually grow into the senior squad.

“Let them develop properly,” he implied.

For Omoruyi, this approach would not only strengthen the national team but also create a more balanced and sustainable system.

By blending domestic and diaspora talent through structured development, Nigeria can build a stronger foundation for long-term success.

His proposal comes at a time when calls for reform in Nigerian football are growing louder, particularly following recent disappointments on the international stage.

For many, the solution lies in investing in youth development and creating clear pathways for progression.

As Nigeria looks to rebuild, ideas like Omoruyi’s offer a blueprint for the future.

Because in football, success is not just about finding talent.

It’s about developing it the right way.

The post ‘Let Youth Coaches Lead’ : Omoruyi Proposes New Structure — Wants Ogunmodede To Drive Talent Development appeared first on Sports247 Nigeria.