TINUBU, SANWO-OLU BACKS DAYO ISRAEL'S RETURN AS NWC MEMBER FROM LAGOS

The re-election of Dayo Israel as the National Youth Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has been widely interpreted as a strategic consolidation of youth leadership within the party, with strong backing from key stakeholders across Lagos and the national leadership structure.

Party sources and observers note that the outcome reflects the sustained confidence in Dr. Israel’s leadership capacity and performance during his first term, which saw a significant expansion of youth participation and organizational strength within the party.

The process, which produced Dr. Israel as a returning member of the National Working Committee (NWC) from Lagos State, has been linked to the broader political influence and leadership direction associated with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, both of whom have consistently emphasized youth inclusion and leadership development within the party.

Dr. Israel’s first tenure was marked by the introduction of structured youth mobilization frameworks, leadership development initiatives, and nationwide engagement platforms that repositioned the APC youth wing as a more active and coordinated force in Nigeria’s political landscape.

Through targeted programs including leadership bootcamps, digital engagement strategies, and grassroots activation across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, his administration created pathways for young Nigerians to participate meaningfully in party activities and governance processes.

His re-election is therefore seen not only as a continuation of leadership, but as an endorsement of a model that prioritizes capacity building, inclusion, and results-driven engagement.

Stakeholders within the party have described the development as a move that ensures continuity, stability, and sustained momentum, particularly at a time when youth participation remains critical to political growth and national development.

With a renewed mandate, Dr. Israel is expected to deepen existing structures while scaling new opportunities for youth involvement in policy engagement, leadership development, and political participation.

His return to the NWC reinforces the position of youth as a central pillar within the APC’s evolving political strategy.

Speaking shortly after the election, Dayo Israel expressed his gratitude to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and the Governor of Lagos State, His Excellency Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

“I give thanks to God for this opportunity to serve again. It is a profound privilege to lead the youth of the largest and most influential party in sub-Saharan Africa. I am deeply grateful to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for their belief in me and for the honour of representing them from Lagos State. I remain committed to advancing the aspirations of our youth and strengthening our collective future.” He said.

 Samson Adamu Emerges  As CAF Acting Secretary-General

. Becomes First Nigerian To Be Appointed

By Odukoya Adedeji

Nigerian football administrator Samson Adamu has been named Acting Secretary General of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) marking a historic milestone as the first Nigerian to occupy the role since the organisation’s establishment over 70 years ago.

Adamu’s appointment was confirmed on Sunday, following the resignation of Veron Mosengo-Omba, who stepped down from the position the same day.

Prior to his elevation, Adamu served as CAF’s Director of Tournaments and Events, where he played a key role in the planning and execution of major continental competitions.

His nomination was put forward by the CAF Executive Committee and subsequently approved by Congress during its meeting held on March 29, 2026, at the Giza Palace Hotel.

The appointment signals a significant moment for Nigerian representation in African football administration, with Adamu now tasked with overseeing key operations within the continental governing body.

 39th Lisabi Festival:

Oke-Ona Bestows Balogun Woro Title On Fake Doctor Seun Ogunsanya

In a stark desecration of the highly reverred Egba traditional norms, Oke-Ona may have taken an ignoble path in the celebration of Lisabi by bestowing a fake doctor and impersonator, Seun Ogunsanya with Balogun Woro chieftaincy title.

The yearly festival is a vibrant celebration of the rich cultural heritage of the Egba people in Abeokuta and across the globe. This unique festival honours the legendary Lisabi, a warrior and liberator of Egba people of old.

Lisabi holds a special place in Yoruba history, particularly among the Egba people. He’s remembered as a hero who fought tirelessly for freedom. 

His life story became a symbol of the struggle for self-determination, inspiring many with his bravery, eloquence, and heartfelt dedication to his community during turbulent times. These are the traits you find in the Egbas.

Unfortunately, the character traits that defines true noble Egba man may have been substituted for despicable characters as Oke-Ona, one of the key subgroups that make up the Egba kingdom has named a charlatan and shenanigan as Balogun Woro of Oke-Ona.

This disturbing development comes on the heels of revelation that Seun Ogunsanya-a self acclaimed medical practitioner and Ph.D holder is an impersonator and academic fraudster.

Investigation has revealed he is a nutritionist and not a medical doctor as he wants unsuspecting members of the public to believe. 

Again, on his LinkedIn profile, he claims to be a Ph.D holder. But diligent investigation has revealed he is guilty of academic fraud because he only has a Master Degree from University of Ibadan and not a Ph.D. 

He also claims to be an historian, but this has also turned out to be an outright lies.

This ugly development has therefore prompted many to question why the fake medical doctor successfully swayed the traditional authorities have chosen him for such exalted chieftaincy despite the litany of criminal investigations trailing him.

 Commonwealth Games:

Nigeria Women’s Wheelchair Basketball Team Picks Historic Ticket

By Odukoya Adedeji

Nigeria’s women’s wheelchair basketball team have etched their names in history after qualifying for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland.

The team sealed their place with an impressive 8–3 victory over South Africa in Thursday’s final at the qualifiers held in Angola, overturning earlier disappointment to emerge champions.

Led by captain Ijigbamigbe Gbemisola Olubisi, the Nigerian side produced a spirited comeback performance against the tournament favourites. Having suffered a 7–3 defeat to the same opponents during the group stage, the team showed resilience and determination when it mattered most to claim the lone qualification ticket.

Reacting to the achievement, President of the Nigeria Wheelchair Basketball Federation, Seyi Johnson, described the qualification as a landmark moment for the sport in the country, highlighting its steady development over the years.

“As President, I feel very fulfilled that we have been able to write history in Nigeria wheelchair basketball. Everyone associated with Nigeria Wheelchair Basketball, both past and present, deserves to share in this achievement because it is the result of years of dedication and hard work,” he said.

Johnson also credited the leadership of the National Sports Commission (NSC) for their support.

“I must specially thank the leadership of the National Sports Commission under Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko and Director General Hon. Bukola Olopade for the direction they have brought into Nigerian sports, enabling all disciplines to grow, regardless of their size,” he added.

In the men’s category, Nigeria narrowly missed out on qualification after falling 13–8 to South Africa in the final.

As a result, Nigeria’s women’s team and South Africa’s men’s team will represent Africa in wheelchair basketball at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

 Glasgow 2026 Opening Ceremony To Hold Indoor

 . As Organisers Targets 700 Volunteer Performers

By Odukoya Adedeji

Organisers of the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games have confirmed that the Opening Ceremony will take place at the renowned OVO Hydro, just as it called for 700 volunteers to help bring the event to life.

Set for July 23, 2026 the ceremony will mark a historic first for the Games, as it will be held in an indoor arena rather than a traditional stadium. The move is aimed at creating a more immersive and electrifying experience, with spectators positioned closer to the action during the curtain-raiser to 11 days of elite sporting competition.

The production will spotlight Glasgow’s culture and creativity, with a strong local influence at its core. The creative team includes show director Roxana Cole, choreographer Emily Jane Boyle, and costume designer Carole Millar, working under the guidance of Ceremonies Chief Louisa Mahon.

As part of the build-up, organisers are encouraging people from all walks of life to apply as volunteer performers. Opportunities are open to dancers, actors, musicians, and individuals without formal experience but with the enthusiasm to participate in a global event. Volunteers will feature in both live and pre-recorded segments, including athlete welcomes, dance routines, and storytelling performances.

The OVO Hydro, located within the Scottish Event Campus, is among the key venues for the Games and will also host the netball competition featuring 12 leading teams from across the Commonwealth.

Speaking on the plans, Louisa Mahon emphasized the ambition to deliver a ceremony that reflects Glasgow’s identity while offering a unique viewing experience for both in-person audiences and global broadcasts.

Scottish Event Campus Chief Executive Dominic McKay added that the venue is ready to play a central role in launching the Games, promising an opening celebration designed to inspire and captivate a worldwide audience.

The Games will run from July 23 to August 2, with more than 3,000 athletes from 74 nations and territories competing across 10 sports and six Para sports.

 PPPM INT'L BRINGS 'JOY OF SALVATION' TO ABEOKUTA

. As Pastor Jimmy Bakare Anchors 3-Day Easter Programme

The rocky city of Abeokuta is in for another breathtaking and spiritually-filled Easter season as Praise Prayer Power Ministry International (PPPM) presents a three-day yearly outreach programme with US-based Pastor Jimmy Abayomi Bakare.

Aptly themed: 'Joy of Salvation' the Ogun State-born preacher is spreading the joy of being born again with the crucification and resurrection of Jesus Christ through an open crusade, visitations to selected places to spread the gospel and an impactful Night Vigil/Thanksgiving Service.

The annual event which first birthed in 2018 will kick off on Wednesday April 1st 2026 with an open crusade at Post Office Junction, Panseke Abeokuta from 5-7 pm.

This would be followed by another open crusade and street evangelism on Thursday 2nd April at Kuto Market Garage from 5-7 pm.

As part of its evangelical mandate, the ministry is slated to visit some selected public facilities to spread the gospel. The facilities to be visited include Aro Psychiatric Hospital (Wed. 1st April), Bankole Memorial Orphanage Home (Thur. 2nd April) and Ijaiye State Hospital (Thur. 2nd April).

Speaking on the proposed visits, Pastor Bakare is enamoured at the great impact from which patients, inmates and orphans have encountered Christ during previous visits.

"We are exceedingly excited at the impact of our previous visits to these facilities. We have seen situations where people have great encounters with God and this year's visit is not going to be different because there are quite a high number of people yearning for salvation which Christ offers lost souls," says the Man of God.

The three-day event is expected to be rounded off on Good Friday with a Night Vigil/ Thanksgiving Service slated to hold at the NUT Complex, Kuto, Abeokuta from 9pm to 5am.

Aside the host pastor, other anointed men of God have also been invited to minister at the vigil. They include Pastor Odunosu, Evang. Yemi David, Ayo Sax, Shijuade Sings, Yaya Golden Praise etc.

 NSC Hails Sarah Ogoke, As D’Tigress Icon Bows Out at 35

 By Odukoya Adedeji

The National Sports Commission (NSC) has paid glowing tribute to former D’Tigress captain Sarah Ogoke following her decision to retire from international basketball at the age of 35.

Ogoke formally announced her retirement in Lyon, France, on Monday, where she was honoured in a colourful ceremony attended by teammates and organised by Xejet, partners of Nigeria’s senior women’s basketball team.

NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko praised Ogoke for her immense contributions over more than a decade in national colours, noting that the entire country is proud of her achievements. He also conveyed the admiration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, highlighting the administration’s recognition of her service to Nigerian sports.

Dikko further applauded the influence Ogoke has had beyond basketball, adding that First Lady Oluremi Tinubu deeply appreciates the inspiration she provides to women and young girls through her resilience, discipline, and achievements both on and off the court.

Also speaking, NSC Director General Bukola Olopade described Ogoke as a rare figure in Nigerian sports, commending her ability to balance a successful basketball career with academic excellence as a medical doctor, alongside her roles as a wife and mother. He added that her experience and expertise would continue to benefit Nigerian sports even after her retirement from active national duty.

Ogoke leaves the national team as one of its most decorated players, having played a key role in D’Tigress’ dominance in African basketball, including five AfroBasket titles since 2017.

She steps away from international competition as a celebrated athlete and accomplished professional, with the team hoping to honour her legacy with a victory against Germany in their final game of the FIBA Women’s World Cup qualifying tournament in Lyon.

 Court Remands Chief Anthony Woherem in Kuje Prison Over Forgery, Money Laundering Case

 Chief Anthony Woherem has been remanded at the Kuje Correctional Centre following his arraignment over alleged forgery and money laundering before the Federal High Court in Abuja.

Woherem was arraigned on March 11, 2026, before Justice Binta Nyako of Court 3 in a suit marked FHC/ABJ/CR/681/2025.

The court granted the defendant bail in the sum of N150 million with two sureties of N50 million each, while the defendant is to provide N50 million himself.

Justice Nyako ruled that the sureties must possess verifiable property within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.

The court also ordered Woherem to deposit all his travelling documents with the court as part of the bail conditions.

He was subsequently remanded at the Kuje Correctional Centre pending the perfection of the bail conditions.

Justice Nyako adjourned the case until May 13, 2026, for continuation of hearing.

A source close to the case informed our reporter that the matter eventually progressed to court after Woherem allegedly deployed different strategies aimed at intimidating the complainant and her witnesses.

Meanwhile, an interim police investigation report linked Woherem to alleged criminal conspiracy, threat to life, forgery, and unlawful conversion of property.

The report followed a petition dated Feb. 2, 2025, submitted to the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 7 Headquarters, Abuja.

The petitioners, Mr Damiebi Denni-Fiberesima and Mrs. Alice Denni-Fiberesima alleged that Woherem forged documents relating to landed property along NTA Road, Mgbuoba, Rumuokuta in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Mrs Denni-Fiberesima claimed the land was given to her and her husband by their late father, Chief Edward Wanele Woherem as a wedding gift in February 2003.

According to the petition, Woherem allegedly forged a Deed of Grant, obtained a Certificate of Occupancy, and sold the property to Lawrence Ozoemena without family consent.

“I am relieved that the matter is now before the court after a long period of seeking justice,” Mrs Denni- Fiberesima said.

She alleged that the disputed property rightfully belonged to her family following the gift by their late father.

“Our father publicly presented the land to my husband and I as a wedding gift, and the documents were properly executed before witnesses,” she said.

Mrs Denni-Fiberesima also called on the authorities to ensure a thorough investigation and fair trial.

“I believe the court process will bring out the truth and ensure justice is served for everyone involved,” she added.

 CMCM Beats Sportellectuall In Dominant 3–0 Friendly Victory

By Odukoya Adedeji

CMCM Football Club continued their impressive run of form with a convincing 3–0 victory over Sportellectual FC in a friendly match played at the Isheri Mini Stadium, Berger. Lagos.

The team produced another confident and disciplined performance, showing improved cohesion and control as they dominated proceedings from start to finish.

Ridwan Munir opened the scoring for CMCM FC with a well-taken strike to set the tone for the encounter. John Usman later doubled the advantage with a composed finish, while Mohammed Abubakar sealed the victory with the third goal, completing a commanding outing for the side.

In goal, Kehinde Abdullahi delivered another assured performance, keeping a clean sheet and denying the opposition any opportunity to get back into the game.

Speaking after the match, Head Coach Oriaku Michael expressed satisfaction with the team’s progress, highlighting the steady improvement in the squad.

“The team is getting better by the day. We are seeing steady progress in the way the players understand themselves and execute our plans on the pitch,” he said.

Technical Director, Otunba Olusola Orelaja, also reflected on the victory, noting that while the result is encouraging, the team remains a work in progress.

“Even though we won the match, there is still a lot of work to be done. This team is still developing, and we will continue working hard to improve,” he stated.

Orelaja also expressed appreciation to the General Overseer of Christ Miracle Church Mission, Pastor Peter Abiola Adebisi, for the opportunity to serve and for his vision of positively impacting the lives of young people through the initiative.

Since assuming office as Technical Director, Otunba Olusola Orelaja has overseen an impressive run for the club, recording three victories, nine goals scored, and just one goal conceded, reflecting the team’s growing discipline, organization, and competitive spirit.

 NBF Set To Finalize Team Nigeria’s Boxers For 2026 Commonwealth Games

By Odukoya Adedeji

The Nigeria Boxing Federation (NBF) will today conclude its national open trials with the championship bouts set to select boxers that will represent the country at the 2026 Commonwealth Games.

The decisive fights will take place at the Brai Ayonote Boxing Complex inside the National Stadium, Surulere in Lagos, where finalists across the 10 weight categories will compete for places on Team Nigeria ahead of the Games scheduled for Glasgow, Scotland.

A total of 128 boxers — 101 men and 27 women — began the four-day competition earlier in the week, with the field gradually narrowing down to the finalists who will now contest the championship bouts for national selection.

Secretary-General of the federation, Vivian Azimene, expressed satisfaction with the level of participation and competition at the trials. She noted that athletes who make the final team will proceed to a training camp, while other impressive performers will be retained as sparring partners as preparations intensify for the Games.

According to her, the federation is optimistic about Nigeria’s chances at the Commonwealth Games, given the country’s strong tradition whenever boxing features at the multi-sport event.

Several notable contests have already been decided during the trials. In the men’s 75kg category, Wahab Abdulrahman defeated Qudus Adeniji to book a place in the semi-finals, while Quadri Ilori edged Israel Ogbodo via split decision to progress.

More than 80 bouts have been fought so far in the tournament, with several diaspora-based fighters also making a strong impression against their home-based counterparts.

Nigeria is expected to compete in 10 weight divisions at the Games — five in the men’s category (55kg, 65kg, 70kg, 80kg and 90kg) and five in the women’s category (51kg, 57kg, 65kg, 70kg and +70kg).

At the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, Nigeria returned with four medals. Elizabeth Oshoba secured a silver medal, while Cynthia Ogunsemilore, Jacinta Umunnakwe, and Ifeanyi Onyekwere each claimed bronze, under the leadership of team captain Abdul-Afeez Osoba.

 Commonwealth Games 2026: 

Nigeria Wheelchair Basketball Federation Opens Camp for  Qualifiers

By Odukoya Adedeji

The Nigeria Wheelchair Basketball Federation has intensified preparations for the 2026 Commonwealth Games qualifiers with the invitation of 16 players to a closed camping programme in Abuja.

The two-week camp will hold from March 8 to 21 at Package ‘B’ of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, as both the men’s and women’s teams gear up for the crucial continental showdown.

In the men’s squad are Shittu Musbau, Adetayo Emmanuel Kehinde, Abel Oluwaseun, Akinde Tony, Bailey Oluwasegun, Durowoju Taiwo Babalola, Mohammed Muritala and Rilwan Abubakir.

The women’s team features Olabisi Ijigbamigbe, Nofisat Adefala, Amakor Patricia, Aishat Yahaya, Christiana Olowolagba, Grace Nwaozuzu and Folashade Obagbemi.

The qualifiers, officially known as the 2026 IWBF Africa 3x3 Championship, will take place in Luanda, Angola, from March 22 to 27, with top teams booking their spots for the Commonwealth Games.

President of the federation, Oluwaseyi Johnson, expressed strong optimism about Nigeria’s chances, stressing that both players and technical crew are fully committed to delivering a solid outing.

“We are fully prepared and determined to excel at the 2026 IWBF Africa 3x3 Championship, which serves as the Commonwealth Games qualifiers. Our players are committed, and the technical crew is working tirelessly to ensure we put up a strong performance,” Johnson said.

He praised the National Sports Commission for its continuous support, noting that the enabling environment provided has strengthened the team’s build-up.

“With this level of support and dedication from our athletes, I am confident Nigeria will make the nation proud on the continental stage,” he added.

 Nigerian Olympic Committee To Host Governance Course in Abuja

By Odukoya Adedeji

The Nigerian Olympic Committee (NOC) will host an advanced gender-inclusive governance course later this month in Abuja as part of efforts to strengthen leadership standards across the country’s sports federations. The programme is backed by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

Scheduled for March 23–25, 2026, the three-day course will be held at the Media Centre, Package B of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium. The initiative is supported through the IOC’s Olympic Solidarity programme.

The training is targeted at former female athletes and women currently serving on the boards of National Sports Federations. It is designed to strengthen governance capacity, promote inclusive leadership, and improve institutional effectiveness within Nigeria’s sports system.

President of the NOC, Engr. Habu Ahmed Gumel will officially declare the course open. He stressed that sustainable sports development depends on transparent, accountable, and inclusive governance structures. 

According to him, empowering more women with the right leadership tools will improve compliance with international standards and lay a stronger foundation for long-term growth.

The curriculum will be delivered under the IOC’s global education framework and is based on the IOC Sports Administration Course manual.

 Participants will receive training in governance reform and strategic planning, financial oversight, ethical leadership, and safeguarding, as well as policy implementation and organisational management.

Beyond classroom sessions, the programme will also provide a platform for mentorship and peer collaboration. It aims to build a strong network of women leaders capable of influencing reforms and driving strategic progress within their respective federations.

The NOC reaffirmed its commitment to aligning Nigeria’s sports governance with global best practices, noting that the initiative is expected to boost board diversity, strengthen oversight structures, and increase women’s participation in top-level decision-making roles across the sector.