Sports
Kano Athletes Tragedy: Governor Abiodun Supports Victims’ Families with N1 Million Each
This was a devastating loss for Kano State, for the athletics community, and especially for the families and friends of the individuals who were affected by this tragic incident.
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun commiserated with the government and people of Kano state over the loss of athletes and officials returning home from the just-concluded National Sports Festival (NSF), tagged, Gateway Games 2024.
The Governor also gave N1 million each to the families of the victims as initial support over the loss of their loved ones, totaling N31 million.
The message was delivered on behalf of the governor by a delegation led by the Deputy Governor, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele included the Secretary to the State Government, Mr Tokunbo Talabi; the state Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Wasiu Isiaka; and the Executive Secretary of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the Gateway Games 2024, Dr Kweku Tandoh.
The delegation was received by officials of the Kano State Government, led by the state’s Deputy Governor, Comrade Aminu Abdusalam Gwarzo.
: “We know that the Governor is out of the state on Hajj, but we felt we had to be here to show our support to the Governor, the Government, and the people of Kano State in these trying times.
This was a devastating loss for Kano State, for the athletics community, and especially for the families and friends of the individuals who were affected by this tragic incident.
We also pray for the speedy recovery of the other people who are in the hospital at this time, who rushed to the aid of the victims,” said Engr. Salako-Oyedele.
The Kano Deputy Governor expressed the State Government’s appreciation for the visit.
He disclosed that Governor Abiodun had called to commiserate with the government and people of Kano State over the incident on Saturday.
Sports
CAF announces free e-visas for fans attending AFCON Morocco 2025
“Electronic visas to enter Morocco — obtained through the YALLA app — are now free of charge for supporters attending the competition, which runs from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026,” said CAF.
The Confederation of African Football and the AFCON Morocco 2025 Local Organising Committee on Friday announced that fans travelling to the tournament will be eligible for free electronic visas.
In a statement on its website, CAF said that the policy benefits citizens of countries that normally require a visa to enter Morocco.
“Electronic visas to enter Morocco — obtained through the YALLA app — are now free of charge for supporters attending the competition, which runs from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026,” said CAF.
The governing body said the announcement comes amid growing global demand for Africa’s biggest football event, with more fans booking tickets.
It explained that fans need two documents, a fan identification and an e-visa, to stay in Morocco and enter football stadiums throughout the tournament.“A Fan ID is mandatory for entry to all stadiums and official Fan Areas.
Supporters can apply for both the Fan ID and e-visa in one place inside the YALLA app, streamlining travel and stadium access.
Sports
2026 WCQ: Bassey declares Super Eagles ready for battle against Gabon
Super Eagles defender Calvin Bassey has expressed confidence in Nigeria’s readiness ahead of their crucial semi-final clash against Gabon in the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoffs. The match takes place on Thursday in Rabat, Morocco, against Éric Chelle’s Panthers.
The Super Eagles overcame a slow start in the qualifiers to secure their place in the playoffs, and Bassey says the squad is now fully focused on achieving victory.
“I think we started very slow, but hope has been restored. We just have to make sure that we keep going and take the game as it comes. We are Nigeria, a massive nation, and we know there is a lot of expectation and responsibility,” Bassey told Sporty TV.
The encounter, which carries high stakes for both teams, is scheduled to kick off at 5:00 p.m. Nigerian time. Analysts expect a tightly contested match, as Gabon, led by Chelle, have also shown resilience in the qualifiers.
With strong backing from Nigerian supporters both at home and in Morocco, the Super Eagles are aiming to continue their impressive run and book a place in the final stage of the World Cup playoffs. Bassey emphasized that the team is focused on maintaining composure and executing their game plan effectively under the high-pressure environment.
“We understand the expectations of our nation, and the unity and support from our fans give us an extra boost. It’s time to show the world the quality of Nigerian football,” Bassey added.
Tonight’s match is poised to be a defining moment for Nigeria’s World Cup campaign, with both teams vying for a place in the final and a step closer to qualification.
Sports
JUST IN: Falconets defeat Ghana in WAFU B opener
Nigeria’s Falconets began their WAFU B Women’s Cup campaign on a winning note, defeating Ghana’s Black Princesses 3–1 in their opening match on Saturday.
Janet Akeremkowei was the standout performer, scoring twice for Nigeria, while Favour Nkwocha added a third goal to seal the victory.
Akeremkowei opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 40th minute, setting the tone for a dominant display by the Falconets against their West African rivals.
The win places Nigeria in a strong position as they aim to progress from the group stage and contend for the regional title.
Both teams are expected to return to action later in the week as the tournament continues.
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