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“Glasgow Has Shown What Nigeria Can Achieve When We Invest in Our Athletes—Now We Must Take That Success Back to the Grassroots” — SSA Adeboye
…Presidential Aide Congratulates Team Nigeria on Historic Commonwealth Games Campaign, Says First in Africa Finish Signals a New Era for Nigerian Sports
The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports Development, Hon. Adeyinka Anthony Adeboye, has congratulated Team Nigeria on its outstanding performance at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, describing the country’s historic campaign as a defining moment in the ongoing transformation of Nigerian sports under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.
Speaking at the conclusion of the Games in Glasgow, where he joined the leadership of the National Sports Commission in supporting Team Nigeria throughout the competition, Hon. Adeboye said the country’s achievement of finishing seventh overall, first in Africa, with 10 gold, 7 silver and 7 bronze medals, was a reflection of strategic leadership, improved athlete welfare, quality preparation and renewed national ambition.
“Glasgow has shown what Nigeria can achieve when we invest in our athletes. Now, we must take that success back to the grassroots. Every medal won here is a reminder that somewhere in our schools, communities and local government areas are thousands of young Nigerians with the potential to become future Commonwealth, Olympic and world champions.”
The Presidential aide noted that beyond the medal count, Team Nigeria’s performances demonstrated that the country is building a broader and more sustainable sporting culture, with podium finishes recorded across athletics, para athletics, para powerlifting, weightlifting and judo.
He described the emergence of young stars and the breaking of long-standing records as evidence that Nigeria is entering a new era where excellence is being driven by deliberate planning rather than chance.
According to Hon. Adeboye, the Games will be remembered for the courage and resilience displayed by athletes who not only won medals but also rewrote history through world records, national milestones and breakthrough performances.
“This has been more than a successful Commonwealth Games campaign. It has been a statement to the world that Nigerian sports is rising again. Our athletes have shown courage, discipline and character, while proving that with the right support they can compete with the very best anywhere in the world.”
The SSA particularly commended athletes who made history during the Games, including those who won Commonwealth titles, broke world records, ended decades-long medal droughts and inspired millions of Nigerians through exceptional performances.
He noted that the achievements of athletes such as Samuel Ogazi, Ezekiel Nathaniel, Goodness Nwachukwu, Chukwuebuka Enekwechi, Temitope Adeshina, Jessica Oji, Kayinsola Ajayi, Udodi Onwuzurike, Ella Onojuvwevwo, Ruth Usoro, Enku Ekuta, and the country’s relay teams have demonstrated the enormous depth of talent available in Nigeria.
Hon. Adeboye also applauded the leadership of the National Sports Commission, under the Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, and the Director General, Hon. Bukola Olopade, for introducing athlete-focused reforms that have transformed Team Nigeria’s preparation and performance.
He said initiatives such as improved training programmes, enhanced welfare packages and instant financial rewards for medal-winning athletes have created a winning culture that is already delivering tangible results on the international stage.
“The success recorded in Glasgow did not happen overnight. It is the product of visionary leadership, careful planning, proper athlete preparation and a renewed commitment to excellence. The National Sports Commission deserves commendation for creating an environment where Nigerian athletes can focus on achieving greatness.”
The Presidential aide reaffirmed that the next phase of Nigeria’s sporting development must be centred on grassroots sports, stressing that sustained international success can only be achieved by strengthening the talent pipeline from schools and local communities.
He disclosed that his office remains committed to implementing programmes that will expand grassroots sports infrastructure, revive school sports, strengthen talent identification and create opportunities for young athletes across all 774 Local Government Areas of the country.
According to him, the success of Team Nigeria in Glasgow should serve as a catalyst for increased collaboration among government institutions, the private sector, sports federations, educational institutions and development partners.
“Our assignment does not end in Glasgow. This success must inspire us to work even harder to ensure that every gifted Nigerian child has access to facilities, quality coaching and opportunities to compete. That is how we will sustain this momentum and build a lasting sporting legacy for future generations.”
Hon. Adeboye further thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering commitment to repositioning Nigerian sports through the Renewed Hope Agenda, noting that the restoration of the National Sports Commission has already begun to produce measurable results.
He expressed confidence that the performances witnessed in Glasgow would mark the beginning of even greater achievements for Nigerian sports on the continental and global stage.
“Finishing as Africa’s number one nation at the Commonwealth Games is a remarkable achievement, but it should also challenge us to aim even higher. With sustained investment, stronger grassroots development and continued support for our athletes, Nigeria can become one of the world’s leading sporting nations.”
As Team Nigeria returns home with 24 medals and the distinction of being Africa’s highest-ranked nation at Glasgow 2026, Hon. Adeboye urged Nigerians to celebrate the athletes and continue supporting the reforms that are laying the foundation for a brighter future for Nigerian sports.
The post “Glasgow Has Shown What Nigeria Can Achieve When We Invest in Our Athletes—Now We Must Take That Success Back to the Grassroots” — SSA Adeboye appeared first on Sports247 Nigeria.
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APC Appoints SSA Adeboye to Presidential Campaign Council’s Security and Intelligence Directorate
The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports Development, Hon. Adeyinka Anthony Adeboye, has expressed appreciation following his appointment as a member of the Directorate of Security and Intelligence of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council.
The appointment, announced on Monday in Abuja, adds another responsibility to Adeboye’s public service portfolio and reflects his involvement in national assignments beyond his primary mandate of grassroots sports development.
Reacting to the development, Adeboye described the appointment as an honour and a call to greater responsibility, pledging to approach the assignment with diligence, loyalty and integrity.
“I remain committed to serving with diligence, loyalty and integrity. I pray that Almighty God grants me the wisdom, strength and guidance to discharge this responsibility successfully,” he said.
The Presidential aide expressed appreciation to the leadership of the APC and the Presidential Campaign Council for the confidence reposed in him, noting that every responsibility entrusted to an individual demands commitment, discipline and accountability.
“I am deeply honoured by this opportunity and look forward to making meaningful contributions to the success of the assignment,” Adeboye added.
His appointment comes alongside his continuing responsibilities as Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Grassroots Sports Development, where he has been involved in initiatives aimed at strengthening grassroots participation, youth empowerment and talent development across Nigeria.
Adeboye has consistently advocated for a more structured approach to sports development, particularly the establishment of sustainable pathways through which talented young Nigerians can progress from schools and communities to national and international competitions.
He is also involved in preparations for the National Grassroots Sports Development Summit 2026, scheduled for November 18 and 19 at the Banquet Hall, State House, Presidential Villa, Abuja.
The Summit, themed “Creating a New Pathway for Sustainable Grassroots Sports Development,” is expected to bring together stakeholders to examine the challenges confronting grassroots sports and identify practical solutions for long-term development.
Adeboye maintained that his latest appointment would be approached with the same sense of responsibility that has guided his public service engagements.
He expressed confidence that cooperation, professionalism and dedication would remain essential to discharging the duties associated with the new assignment.
The Presidential aide also prayed for wisdom and divine guidance as he undertakes the additional responsibility.
“Every opportunity to serve comes with expectations. I accept this responsibility with humility and a determination to contribute my experience and best efforts towards the assignment entrusted to me,” he stated.
The appointment marks another chapter in Adeboye’s public service career as he continues his work in grassroots sports development while taking on additional responsibilities within the APC Presidential Campaign Council.
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LA 2028 Olympic Qualifiers: Toni Payne, Uchenna Kanu Hit Braces as Super Falcons Thrash Comoros 5-0, Advance 7-0 on Aggregate
Nigeria’s Super Falcons produced a commanding performance to defeat Comoros 5-0 in the second leg of their 2028 Olympic Games qualifying encounter on Tuesday, completing an emphatic 7-0 aggregate victory to advance to the next round.
Sports247 reports that Toni Payne and Uchenna Kanu were the standout performers, scoring twice each, while Christy Ucheibe added another goal as Nigeria demonstrated their attacking quality against the visitors.
The victory followed the Super Falcons’ 2-0 first-leg triumph at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, Ogun State, giving Nigeria a comfortable advantage heading into the decisive encounter.
Despite entering the match with a two-goal cushion, the Super Falcons approached the second leg determined to extend their advantage rather than simply defend their first-leg result.
Their persistence eventually paid off in the 41st minute when Toni Payne broke the deadlock, putting Nigeria ahead and increasing their aggregate lead to 3-0.
The opening goal ensured that the Nigerian side entered the interval in a commanding position, leaving Comoros with an increasingly difficult task.
The Super Falcons returned for the second half with renewed attacking determination, producing four additional goals to complete an impressive victory.
Uchenna Kanu doubled Nigeria’s lead in the 57th minute before Payne completed her brace six minutes later, making it 3-0 on the day. Kanu then grabbed her second goal in the 67th minute, extending Nigeria’s advantage to four goals.
Christy Ucheibe completed the scoring in the 71st minute, putting the finishing touch on a dominant performance that underlined Nigeria’s superiority across both legs.
The five-goal victory also ensured that the Super Falcons finished the two-legged contest without conceding, recording consecutive clean sheets against Comoros. The result represented a successful outing for interim head coach Austin Eguavoen, who had emphasised the importance of winning rather than relying on Nigeria’s first-leg advantage.
Speaking before the encounter, Eguavoen stressed that maintaining the team’s structure remained his priority, although he welcomed the possibility of scoring more goals. His players responded with an impressive attacking display, scoring five times while maintaining their defensive discipline.
Kanu also delivered on her pre-match ambition after expressing confidence in the squad’s ability to secure another convincing victory.
With Comoros eliminated 7-0 on aggregate, Nigeria will now turn their attention to Morocco in the next round of the qualification campaign.
The upcoming encounter represents another important challenge as the Super Falcons continue their pursuit of a place at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
For Nigeria, the comprehensive victory provides a significant confidence boost ahead of the tougher assignments expected in subsequent rounds.
Five goals, two braces, two clean sheets and a 7-0 aggregate triumph — the Super Falcons have delivered a strong statement of intent as their Olympic qualification journey continues.
The post LA 2028 Olympic Qualifiers: Toni Payne, Uchenna Kanu Hit Braces as Super Falcons Thrash Comoros 5-0, Advance 7-0 on Aggregate appeared first on Sports247 Nigeria.
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Lagos or Uyo? Why the Tanzania double header has Nigerian fans in Britain planning their November early
Nigeria’s road to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations now runs through Tanzania, twice in five days. The collapse against Guinea-Bissau on 29 September left Eric Chelle’s side second in Group L on three points, and the November double header against the Taifa Stars has become the window that decides whether this campaign recovers or drifts into another anxious spring.
For Nigerian supporters in Britain, a Wednesday night qualifier means juggling work shifts and hunting down a reliable stream long before kickoff. The group chats in Peckham and Salford are already arguing about team selection, and in between the debates some fans scroll through slot sign up offers from UK licensed sites, treating them as one more bit of casual entertainment while the build up runs.
The Lagos question
The Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo has been the Super Eagles’ main home since it opened in 2014. Its first Nigeria match was a 2 all draw with South Africa in an AFCON qualifier on 19 November 2014, and the team has rarely strayed far from Akwa Ibom since.
That could change. BSNSports has reported that the Nigeria Football Federation is weighing the renovated Teslim Balogun Stadium in Surulere for the home leg against Tanzania on 11 November, and GateKeeper News picked up the story on 13 October. The NFF has not confirmed anything. Approval from the football authorities would still be needed.
The case for Lagos rests on the ground itself. Lagos State has ripped out the old artificial turf and laid a natural grass pitch built on four sub surface drainage layers, according to a Federal Ministry of Information report from 25 September. The stadium holds roughly 24,000 to 25,000 people after its upgrades, and the contractor behind the pitch has openly pitched it as a candidate for FIFA accreditation.
Supporters who favour Lagos talk about the noise a Surulere crowd can make on a big night. Those who prefer Uyo point to more than a decade of familiarity for players who know every blade of that pitch. Both camps agree on one thing: wherever the game lands, anything other than a win would be hard to explain.
Why only one ticket is on the table
The arithmetic is unforgiving. Tanzania have already qualified for the finals as co hosts alongside Kenya and Uganda, which leaves a single qualifying place for the best placed non host team in Group L. Guinea-Bissau lead on six points after two wins from two. Nigeria have three. Madagascar and Tanzania sit on one apiece.
The fixtures make November even more important. The group leaders play Madagascar home and away in the same window, while Nigeria host Tanzania on 11 November and travel for the return four days later. Then comes March 2027, when the Super Eagles visit Madagascar on 24 March before hosting the leaders on 28 March. Six points from Tanzania would turn that last game into a genuine decider. Two draws would hand the initiative back to the leaders.
Rankings have already moved. The October FIFA list dropped Nigeria from 26th to 30th in the world and out of Africa’s top five, with Morocco, Senegal, Egypt, Algeria and Côte d’Ivoire all ahead.
A young squad that showed some fight
The friendly in Nizhny Novgorod on 6 October offered a little hope. With captain Wilfred Ndidi carrying a knock and several clubs withholding players, Chelle named a squad in which 13 of 18 players were 22 or younger and handed five international debuts. Nigeria twice came from behind to draw 3 all with Russia, Kelechi Iheanacho and the teenager Peter Edokpolor scoring before Akor Adams equalised in the 94th minute.
Fans in Britain have a closer view of part of that new generation than most. Benjamin Fredrick, 21, plays his club football at Brentford and Chibuzo Nwoko, 20, is on Fulham’s books, which means plenty of London based supporters have already watched them up close. The question for November is whether Chelle trusts them in a competitive match or goes back to the senior core once Ndidi and the others are fit.
A quick check before signing up anywhere
Fans who do look at slots welcome deals during the international break should start with the licence, not the headline offer. A UK Gambling Commission licence brings audited games and a complaints route, and the regulator explains how to check that a gambling business is licensed on its public register in a couple of minutes. Since 19 January 2026, wagering requirements on UK casino bonuses have been capped at ten times the bonus, so any site advertising heavier terms to UK customers is a warning sign.
The licence covers play from Great Britain. Supporters flying home to watch the Tanzania game in person should not assume a UK account travels with them.
How the double header could play out
Nigeria have the stronger squad on paper, but the Bissau result showed what happens when the midfield loses its shape and the back line is left exposed. A first leg win by two clear goals, wherever it is played, would steady nerves and put pressure straight back on the leaders. The away leg is the harder test, against a Tanzania side with nothing to lose and a home crowd that will treat it as a dress rehearsal for hosting the finals.
The sensible prediction is four points: a home win and a hard fought draw on the road. Seven points by the end of November would keep the 28 March meeting alive as a winner takes all night. Anything less, and the supporters setting alarms across Britain for a Wednesday kickoff may be watching Nigeria play for pride rather than a place in East Africa.
The post Lagos or Uyo? Why the Tanzania double header has Nigerian fans in Britain planning their November early appeared first on Sports247 Nigeria.
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