World News Update

The Commonwealth Games remains one of the most prestigious sporting fiesta in the World and unarguably ranks among the top three global sports competitions after the Olympics games and the FIFA senior World cup. And Nigeria's intention to stage this monumental Sports gathering speaks volumes of how much the current administration of President Bola Tinubu sees Sports in the overall success of the renewed hope agenda. Sports is one sector the current administration has continued to yield positive trajectory in terms of reforms and upscaling after the President took a bold step to scrap the bureaucratic Ministry of sports and replaced it with a more professional framework - the National Sports Commission, NSC, just a year ago. And the aftermath results of this decision has been very swift for even the blind to see, from the first day Mallam Shehu Dikko and Hon Bukola Olopade were appointed to pilot the sector as Chairman and Director General respectively. And one of the core mandates ...

_Settles allowances and bonuses  for all athletes_ The National Sports Commission (NSC) has successfully intervened in the recent challenges in Team Nigeria’s camp at the ongoing 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan. The leadership of the NSC, led by Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko and Director General, Hon. Bukola Olopade, has ensured the swift payment of all athletes’ bonuses and allowances in Tokyo. Director General Hon. Bukola Olopade held a crucial meeting with the athletes and officials of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) in Tokyo, where he reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to the welfare and well-being of the country’s athletes at all times. The meeting also provided the DG with the opportunity to resolve outstanding issues between the athletes and the AFN, fostering optimism for a stronger and more collaborative relationship going forward. “The mandate given to us by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, is to prioritize the welfare of every Nig...

NATIONAL SPORTS COMMISSION INTRODUCTION 1.0 The Election of members into the National Sports Federations (NSF) Boards is a critical process that impacts the governance, performance and development of sports within a nation. In Nigeria, the need for a robust, transparent, and credible election guidelines is vital to the growth and repositioning of the Sports Sector in line with international best practices.  1.1 These election guidelines outline comprehensive details for the conduct of elections into the respective NSFs Boards recognized by the National Sports Commission (NSC) ensuring that only qualified, credible and passionate individuals are elected to serve. 1.2 The guidelines spell out the composition of the respective NSF Boards, Eligibility of Membership, Election Regulations, Electoral Committees, Elections Petition Committee, Electoral Appeals Committee, Inauguration, etc.  1.3 The elections shall be conducted using these election guidelines, under the supervi...

PRESS STATEMENT Nigeria’s track queen, Tobi Amusan, has won silver medal in the women’s 100m hurdles at the Tokyo 2025 World Athletics Championships, clocking a brilliant 12.29s in the final. Amusan powered through the high-pressure final at the National Stadium, finishing just behind Ditaji Kambundji of Switzerland, who struck gold in a new National Record of 12.24s.  The National Sports Commission (NSC) hailed Amusan’s remarkable achievement, noting that her consistency and fighting spirit continue to inspire millions. Hon. Bukola Olopade, Director General of the NSC, stated that “Tobi Amusan has made Nigeria proud once again. Winning silver at the World Championships is no small feat, and doing so with such class shows her world-class ability and resilience.  “She remains a symbol of hope, determination, and excellence for our nation. The entire country stands tall in celebration of her achievement.” The USA’s Grace Stark took Bronze in 12.34s, while fellow American Masai R...

PRESS STATEMENT The National Sports Commission (NSC) joins millions of Nigerians in celebrating sprint star, Ajayi Kayinsola, who turned 21 years today, while competing at the Tokyo 2025 World Athletics Championships, as he etched his name in history. Ajayi became the first Nigerian man in 18 years to qualify for the men’s 100m final at the World Championships since Olusoji Fasuba in 2007.  He ran a blistering 9.93 seconds in the semifinal to secure his spot in the final, where he went on to finish sixth with a time of 10.00 seconds on his championship debut. NSC Director General, Hon. Bukola Olopade, described Ajayi’s feat as a proud moment for the nation. “Kayinsola’s story is one of courage, determination, and immense talent. To celebrate his 21st birthday while making history at the World Championships is extraordinary. He has given Nigerians a reason to believe again in our sprinting heritage, and we are confident this is only the beginning of greater accomplishments.” Though ...

PRESS STATEMENT History was made at the Tokyo 2025 World Championships as Nigeria’s Kanyinsola Ajayi competed in the men’s 100m final, ending the nation’s 18-year wait for representation in the event’s biggest stage. Ajayi powered to an impressive 9.93 seconds in his semifinal on Sunday morning , finishing behind Olympic champion Noah Lyles and booked his place in the final.  In doing so, he became the first Nigerian man since Olusoji Fasuba in 2007 to reach a World Championships 100m final. In the highly anticipated final, Ajayi delivered a strong performance on his debut, finishing sixth with a time of 10.00 seconds. Although he missed out on the medals, his achievement marks a significant milestone for Nigeria, as the 21 year old broke a long-standing record on his 21st birthday. The final saw Jamaica’s Oblique Seville clinch gold, followed by compatriot Kishane Thompson in silver, while Olympic champion Noah Lyles of the United States secured bronze. Meanwhile, on Saturday, Wor...

PRESS STATEMENT Nigeria’s presence at the ongoing 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo was strongly felt on Day 1, as rising sprint stars Kayinsola Ajayi and Israel Okon Sunday delivered electrifying performances to book their spots in the men’s 100m semifinals. On his World Championships debut, Ajayi produced one of the standout moments of the night, clocking a blistering 9.88s in his heat to smash his Personal Best (PB).  In doing so, he became the third-fastest Nigerian sprinter of all time behind Olusoji Fasuba (9.85s) and Divine Oduduru (9.86s). The 21-year-old has also etched his name further in history, recording five sub-10s this season, the most by any Nigerian in a single year, and tying the all-time national record for most sub-10s in a career. Ajayi placed second in his heat behind South Africa’s Gift Leotlela, who also set a new PB of 9.87s, with Jamaica’s Oblique Seville taking third in 9.93s. Meanwhile, debutant Israel Okon Sunday showed remarkable composure i...

PRESS STATEMENT The National Sports Commission (NSC) has reaffirmed its support for Team Nigeria as the country’s contingent depart for the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan, scheduled for September 13–21, 2025. Director General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, urged the athletes to give their best and bring glory to Nigeria, emphasizing that they have the full backing of the Commission and the Nigerian people. “chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, declared from inception that Nigeria must get it right in athletics,” Olopade said. “This is a moment of pride for our nation, and we trust our athletes to compete with determination and secure podium finishes. The Commission will continue to provide all the support they need and firmly stand behind them as they fly our flag in Tokyo.” Hon. Olopade will be on ground in Tokyo to provide support from the frontline, ensuring Team Nigeria enjoys a smooth championship experience. Leading the 15-member s...

The Leadership of the National Sports Commission  has inaugurated the Electoral committee for the upcoming National sports federations elections. The Newly inaugurated committee has been saddled with the responsibility of conducting a hitch free and  transparent Elections into 20 National Sports Federations including Aquatics, Chess, Handball, Golf, karate, Darts, Fives and Tennis.  Others are wrestling, Wushu Kung Fu, Scrabble, Hockey, Badminton, Boxing , Taekwondo, Squash Rackets, Traditional Sports Rugby, Kickboxing and Deaf Sports. Chairman of the National Sports Commission, NSC, Mallam Shehu Dikko, after officially inaugurating the Committee, expressed confidence that he has no doubt that they will do a good job to oversee a successful process. " We have succeeded in choosing a very balanced and compact team for this assignment because we want to set a new standard of how Federation Elections are conducted with topmost integrity and transparency". " Myself and my br...

_From Obscurity to Super Eagles: Kola Daniel's Golden Touch_ ABS FC Chairman Aloy Chukwuemeka recounts the remarkable story of how the Special Assistant to Director General NSC, Kola Daniel, a seasoned sports expert introduced him to Benjamin Fredrick, now a rising star in the Super Eagles. Interestingly, Benjamin Fredrick's journey began at Simoiben Football Academy, founded by Moses Simon, the Super Eagles winger. According to reports, Moses Simon discovered Fredrick through his academy and played a role in his development before he handed him over to Kola Daniel who then masterminded his move to ABS FC. "Kola Daniel called me about a young boy with no league experience, saying, 'Give him a chance, and he'll shine.' I took the leap of faith, and Benjamin Fredrick exploded onto the scene, winning Man of the Match in his debut!" Fredrick's electrifying performance with ABS FC paved the way for his move to Nasarawa United and eventually, the Super Eagle...

PRESS RELEASE The Electoral Committee of the National Sports Federation wishes to inform the general public, member federations, stakeholders, and all interested aspirants that the nomination form and official timeline for the forthcoming National Sports Federation Elections have been duly approved. The approved nomination form will be available for collection and submission at the Secretariat of each Federation from 6th September to 11th of September during official working hours. Aspirants are expected to complete and return the form within the stipulated timeframe. All stakeholders are enjoined to adhere strictly to the guidelines, as the Electoral Committee remains committed to conducting free, fair, and transparent elections that will strengthen the growth and development of sports in Nigeria. REVISED TIMELINES FOR THE NATIONAL SPORTS FEDERATIONS 2025 ELECTIONS  1. Release of Nomination of Forms: 6th September, 2025 2. Deadline for the submission of Nomination Forms: 11th Sept...

PRESS RELEASE Date: September 6th , 2025 I, DR Ajibola Gbenga Samson a representative of NAPHER -SD, Expresses Dissatisfaction with Recent Election Process: NAPHER -SD REPRESENTATIVES wishes to inform the public and relevant authorities that the Planned Gymnastics federation election for   Saturday, September 6th, 2025, has raised serious concerns among the  stakeholders. We are dissatisfied with the process, particularly because key stakeholders, like  NAPHER-SD, NAWIS,  paramilitary and others, were not adequately involved or carried along in the electoral process. As I speak by 4:42pm today I have not gotten any letter or invite as a rep for my association and my secretariat has also not gotten any notice on my behalf. This exclusion undermines the principles of transparency, inclusiveness, and fairness that we stand for as the governing body striving to promote gymnastics in Nigeria. We emphasize the need for a more inclusive electoral process that represent...

PRESS STATEMENT The stage is set for the grand closing ceremony of the 9th National Youth Games, scheduled to take place on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba, Delta State. The event will be graced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by the Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko, the Executive Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. (Elder) Sheriff F.O. Oborevwori, as well as the Director General of the NSC and Chairman of the Main Organizing Committee, Hon. Bukola Olopade.  Other dignitaries, sports administrators, and delegations from across the country are also expected to attend. Ahead of the closing ceremony, the final set of competitions will hold on Saturday, featuring high-energy relay events that traditionally bring the Games to an electrifying finish. These include the 4x100m (male and female), 4x400m (male, female, and mixed relay), as well as the medley relay (male and female). The events promise to showcase ...

_Celebrating God's Grace I the life of the Special Assistant Media to the Director General National Sports Commission (NSC)!_ Hurray, every 5th day of September is World CKD Day! On this date (5 September), Cute Kola Daniel, popularly called CKD was born.  CKD is an erudite, versatile, international, energetic, a prolific, hard-working, highly exposed and experienced ivy-league youthful personality.  The CEO of CKD GROUP OF COMPANIES (CKD Media www.ckdmedia.ng, Homes & Properties, Football Academy) is a seasoned and award winning sports journalist, a mentor, a teacher, passion-personified personality. Kola Daniel (FCAI) is a Senior member of the Institute of Corporate Administration (ICA), an award conferred on him in December 2021, for his distinguished professional contributions to public administration. He has made the world brighter for so many footballers, journalists and folks across other sectors, local and international. You are a gift of sunshine, endowed to human...

The Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Media and Public Communications, Chief Sunday Dare, CON, addressed over 24,000 young people at the Arise Congress 2.0, themed "The Emergence of Champions," held at the Baptist International Convention Centre along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. The event is scheduled to take place from Wednesday, September 3, 2025, to Saturday, September 6, 2025. During his keynote speech, Chief Dare, who is also the Chairman of the Youth and Student Ministries Advisory Board of the Nigerian Baptist Convention, emphasized that Nigerian youths are the champions of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration. He noted that President Tinubu has initiated several policies benefiting young Nigerians, providing them with a platform to reach their potential and excel using their faith, talent, and skills. Chief Dare emphasized the importance of character, discipline, determination, and self-motivation in achieving success. He stated that he wa...

 PRESS STATEMENT The ongoing National Youth Games in Asaba has lived up to its billing as the cradle of tomorrow’s champions, with Lagos, Edo, and defending champions Delta State locked in a thrilling battle for the top spot. As of press time on Thursday, Team Lagos had stormed to the summit of the medal table with 61 medals, which includes 33 gold, 15 silver, and 23 bronze.  Hot on their heels, Edo State sits second with 25 gold, 9 silver, and 15 bronze (41 medals in total). The hosts and defending champions, Delta State sit third with 59 medals - 17 gold, 20 silver, and 22 bronze. Abia State has also made an impressive showing, currently in fourth place with 9 gold, 8 silver, and 7 bronze medals. The Games have seen young athletes break and set new records, igniting the passion of fans and signaling the emergence of future global stars.  With the closing ceremony scheduled for Saturday, September 6, all eyes are on the home stretch, to see what state will ultimately cla...

PRESS STATEMENT The National Sports Commission (NSC) has stated the need for the establishment of the National Intermediate Games, a groundbreaking initiative designed to bridge the gap between grassroots development and elite/professional sports level. The Intermediate Games will focus on athletes aged 16 to 18, providing them with a competitive platform that complements existing national events.  While the National Youth Games currently cater to athletes under the age of 15, and the National Sports Festival serves elite athletes without age restrictions, there has long been a vacuum for budding talents who fall between these categories. The Intermediate Games is poised to fill this critical gap, ensuring a seamless transition for young athletes on their journey to professional and international success. Nigeria’s grassroots system has consistently produced world-class athletes. From the Golden Eaglets’ record five FIFA U-17 World Cup triumphs since their first victory in China in...

 PRESS STATEMENT The battle for supremacy at the ongoing National Youth Games (NYG) in Asaba, Delta State is intensifying, with Team Lagos and Team Edo leading the charge for the top spot on the medals table, while other states continue to showcase grit and talent across different events. Team Lagos made an emphatic statement from the get go, clinching seven gold medals in swimming and registering impressive performances across several other sporting events. One of the standout stars of the competition is 14-year-old gymnastics prodigy, Stephanie Ogechukwu Onusiriuka, who dazzled the crowd with her brilliance, winning three gold medals, one silver, and one team silver, while also being crowned the Best All-Round Gymnast in Nigeria at the Games. Not to be outdone, Team Edo stamped their dominance in weightlifting, storming to six gold, one silver, and two bronze medals across the Women’s 44kg, 48kg, and Men’s 56kg categories. Their performance reaffirmed Edo’s status as one of the s...

PRESS STATEMENT  The opening ceremony of the 9th National Youth Games (NYG) in Asaba, Delta State, was marked by a rousing address from Chief Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Media and Public Communications, who reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to grassroots sports development and the future of Nigerian sports industry . In his speech, Chief Dare praised President Tinubu for his bold leadership and visionary approach to sports administration. “I want to also thank President Tinubu for putting sports administration in the hands of two very capable people, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko and DG, Hon. Bukola Olopade. These two people come with vast experience. These men will work with others, including women, to develop our sports,” he stated. Chief Dare underscored the Presidency’s passion for sports, noting that recent gestures of recognition and reward for Nigeria’s female teams underscore a new era of government s...

At Blooming Oaks International, we don't just teach, we nurture future multicultural world leaders Inspired by the timeless philosophy of Maria Montessori, we believe that: "Early childhood education is the key to the betterment of a society." Our aim is to lay a solid foundation for lifelong learning, fostering the continuous development of knowledge and skills that extend beyond formal education into every stage of life. Additionally, we seek to instill in our pupils a deep awareness of the needs of Nigerian society and a commitment to making a meaningful impact through selflessness, responsibility, and patriotism in the service to humanity. We're building a future where selflessness, responsibility, and patriotism are not just ideals, but daily habits. Join us in raising a generation of World Change Agents (WCA)!!! Social Media Platforms  Facebook: @bloomingoaksintl Instagram: @bloomingoaksintl Website: www.bloomingoaksschool.com 08025050776 , 08073261432. Admissi...

PRESS STATEMENT  Asaba, Delta State, is alive with youthful energy, sporting excellence, and national pride as the 9th edition of the National Youth Games (NYG) got underway last week, bringing together the brightest young talents from across Nigeria. Sharing his experience after attending a tennis event at the Stephen Keshi Stadium Indoor Sports Hall, Director General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, lauded the spirit and discipline of the young athletes. “It gave me so much joy to see their energy, discipline, and passion for the game. These young talents are the future of Nigerian sports, and it is our responsibility to create the right structures and opportunities for them to thrive.” The DG further underscored the broader vision driving the Games: “The future is bright, and Nigerian sports will continue to rise. Under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, we are determined to create pathways that not only discover talent but also nurtur...