Sports
PBAT Sets a New Standard for Celebrating the Living
By Dave Ikiedei Asei
Rewarding Selfless Service Across the Nation
There is a wave of excitement across the country as the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (PBAT) redefines national values by recognizing selfless service in a manner not seen in over six decades. For the first time in 65 years, the federal government has made an intentional move to celebrate outstanding contributors to national development while they are still alive. This symbolic shift, under PBAT’s leadership, is breaking the longstanding pattern of posthumous recognition and setting a new tone for national appreciation.
This was contained in a statement signed by the chairman of the planing Committee, Hon Uroh Kiani ,Esq.
Presidential Recognition and Renewed Hope is a welcome development which deserved the commendation by every patriotic Nigerian.
According to him,the turning point came with President Tinubu’s gesture toward the Super Falcons following their victory, as each team member received a $100,000 cash reward and a house in the Renewed Hope Housing Estate in Abuja. This act not only highlights the government’s renewed commitment to rewarding excellence but also underlines the importance of motivating individuals who bring pride and honor to Nigeria.
He said “Celebrating the Living,is Conscious Choice
This emerging culture of recognizing living legends mirrors the ethos behind the celebration of Chief (Ambassador) Ogunu Miebi Samson, a towering figure in grassroots sports development, who recently marked 50 years of tireless service to youth and sports in Nigeria. The planning committee for his anniversary emphasized the need to celebrate individuals while they are alive—a belief that is increasingly gaining acceptance at various national and community levels”
“A Lifetime of Dedication to Grassroots Sports
Chief (Ambassador) Ogunu Miebi Samson, President of the Independent Grassroots Sports Development Association, has devoted his youth and adult life to nurturing sports talents across the nation. His sacrifices have laid the foundation for sports growth in numerous local communities, fostering opportunities for the youth and creating a lasting legacy in the sports development sector”
“Unrecognized Sacrifice in a Society that rewards Conflict,
The committee lamented that in a society where acts of violence often attract more attention than quiet service, individuals like Chief Ogunu might have received more recognition had he chosen a more disruptive path. Had he blown up oil pipelines, it is likely that both international oil companies and governments at all levels would have intervened swiftly. But because his noble efforts in youth empowerment through sports did not disrupt the economy, they have largely gone unnoticed by major stakeholders”
“A Call to Action for Philanthropists and Stakeholders
In light of this, the planning committee is urging wealthy sports philanthropists, international oil companies, and all tiers of government to take part in this global celebration of Chief Ogunu’s legacy. His lifetime of service is a compelling reason to support and promote selfless individuals who invest in national development without expecting anything in return.
This of course ,will be inspiring a new generation of Patriots,hence
the committee believes that recognizing and celebrating the likes of Chief Ogunu will serve as a powerful motivation,worthy of emulation for the next generation as it will also be a source of mentorship and encourage and spur more Nigerian youth to commit to selfless service, knowing that such contributions can and will be honored in their lifetime. This approach will go a long way in building a better and more patriotic Nigeria”
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has sparked a timely and necessary shift in the national culture of recognition by celebrating the living not only boosts their morale but also deepens the sense of national purpose. The legacy of individuals like Chief (Ambassador) Ogunu Miebi Samson must be appreciated now—not when they can no longer hear the applause. This is how nations globally grow by honoring those who build quietly, serve passionately, and live selflessly”
Sports
Mr. Kiloshele (NAUS Presidential Candidate)* Engages *NAUS FCT,* *NANS FCT* and *YSCN* Leadership; Receives Strong Grassroots Support
By David Owei,Bayelsa
*The Kiloshele Campaign Organisation (KCO)* recorded a significant milestone as its principal, *Mr. Kiloshele* held a strategic engagement with key student leaders in the *Federal Capital Territory (FCT)* including representatives of *NAUS FCT,* *NANS FCT* and *YSCN* leadership.
The meeting, which took place at the *University of Abuja at noon on Monday, 13th April 2026*, highlighted ongoing efforts toward political alignment and coalition-building within the Nigerian student movement.
In a show of solidarity and institutional cooperation, the *NANS FCT JCC* Chairman formally received the NAUS presidential aspirant, reaffirming the importance of synergy between NANS and allied student bodies as vital stakeholders in advancing the collective interests of Nigerian students.
*The NAUS CMC* Chairperson, while apologizing for her late arrival, emphasized the importance of the engagement and commended the coordination among leaders, describing it as a reflection of respect, unity and political maturity.
A member of the *KCO* team presented *Mr. Kiloshele’s* candidacy, highlighting his impressive track record in student leadership, grassroots mobilization and consistent involvement in student advocacy. In his address, *Mr. Kiloshele* described himself as a tested and resilient leader, reiterating his sacrifices and long-standing commitment to the student movement, including his advocacy for the restoration of *Student Union Government structures.*
Anchored on the theme “*CAMPUS R.E.S.C.U.E Agenda*,” Mr. Kiloshele unveiled a reform-driven vision aimed at repositioning *NAUS* as a proactive, solution-oriented body. His agenda includes the establishment of an academic support e-commerce platform for students, the revival of the *National Entrepreneurship Training and Capacity Building (NETCAB)* initiative and the expansion of student economic empowerment opportunities. He also aligned his vision with national development efforts by acknowledging the Federal Government’s *NELFUND* initiative.
During the interactive session, stakeholders raised critical issues affecting students, including campus security, financial protection and effective institutional engagement. In response, *Mr. Kiloshele* proposed a decentralized campus security framework (Campus Policing), enhanced student sensitization programs and a results-driven engagement model with government and university authorities, anchored on experience, competence and strategic partnerships.
Participants further emphasized the need for inclusivity, loyalty to and equitable political representation, particularly within the FCT bloc. In response, Mr. Kiloshele assured stakeholders of an inclusive and broad-based administration, pledging to integrate all institutions into his political structure through the creation of a functional media architecture, security committees and strategic appointments.
The engagement concluded on a note of unity and optimism, as stakeholders expressed confidence in *Mr. Kiloshele’s* capacity to unify, reform and reposition *NAUS*. The meeting further strengthened political relationships and set the stage for sustained collaboration ahead of the forthcoming *NAUS* leadership process
Sports
Ruthless Okoroma United Wins Nembe LGA Final….As lawmaker LGA Boss,Splash cash on Team
By David Owei,Bayelsa
Okoroma United of Okoroma have emerged champions of Nembe Local Government Area in Nigeria’s biggest grassroots football fiesta, the Bayelsa Governor’s Football Tournament, christened the Prosperity Cup.
Okoroma United walloped Fantuo FC of Fantuo by six goals to nil in the Nembe LGA final to emerge as champions in an encounter decided at the Nembe City Stadium, Nembe on Sunday.
The Nembe City centre winners wasted no time before stamping their authority in the game when Itaribo Opubo opened the flood gate of goals for his Okoroma-based side just six minutes into the game, after several misses from his side.
Noble Erasmus headed the second goal for his team on 33 minutes of the game. Itaribo Opubo again, scored two quick goals to put the game beyond their opponents’ reach to make it 4-0, with his third goal being applauded by the fans present at the Nembe City stadium.
Noble Erasmus added in his second goal for Okoroma United to make it 5-0 as talisman, Itaribo Opubo scored his fourth goal of the game to completely annihilate the helpless and hapless Fantuo FC.
Matters got worse for the Fantuo side when their keeper was given a straight red card for handling the ball outside the box.
The winners of the Nembe LGA finals, Okoroma United will smile to the bank with the sum of ₦1,000,000, runners-up Fantuo FC went home with ₦500,000.
In a remark, the Member representing Nembe Constituency 1 in the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Hon. George Braah, said he was pleased with the performance of both teams, pointing out that the performance speaks volume of the avalanche of talents in the LGA and indeed the entire State.
According to him, the tournament, over the years, has become a veritable platform for young players in the State to showcase their potentials particularly in football.
He pledged the sum of Five Hundred Thousand Naira (₦500,000) to the winners, Okoroma United while the runners-up, Fantuo FC received three hundred thousand naira ₦300,000.
Chairman of Nembe Local Government Area, Chief David Alagoa, represented by the Political Secretary of the council, Hon. Ambrose Tari, appreciated the organizers of the tournament for the laudable initiative, stating that he was elated with the growth of the competition.
The council boss announced a cash reward of one million naira (₦1,000,000) to champions, Okoroma United and five hundred thousand naira (₦500,000) to the runners-up, Fantuo FC.
Chief Alagoa also pledged that the Council will take full responsibility of both teams for the rest of the competition.
An elated Okoroma United Coach, Ebinimi Festus, in his post-match reaction praised his boys for the show of determination throughout the encounter, maintaining that their attention has moved to the Round 32 slated for later this month.
Also, Fantuo FC coach, Omoh Alex bemoaned his side’s lack of proper training before the encounter that they will improve as the tournament progresses.
The Prosperity Cup train will move to Ogbia LGA on Monday, 13th April, 2026 as enterprising Movers FC of Otuasega battle Edi 1 FC of Ayakoro by 1.00pm at the Imiringi Township Stadium.
Sports
Igali Gets Commonwealth Games Ambassadorial Role*
By David Owei,Bayelsa
The Commissioner for Sports Development, Bayelsa State, Honourable Daniel Igali, has been unveiled as one of Nigeria’s ambassadors for the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland.
The Olympic and world champion alongside Bayelsa’s finest Blessing Oborodudu, as well as other stakeholders like, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, Mallam Saleh Ahmadu, Dr Amos Adamu, Chief Patrick Ekeji, Alhassan Yakmut, and Gbenga Elegbeleye highlighted a blend of technical expertise and athlete representation in a deliberate effort to foster inclusivity, credibility, and performance-driven preparation.
The initiative remains a powerful tool for national unity, youth engagement, and international visibility.
Also, the importance of coordinated stakeholder involvement in ensuring that Team Nigeria is adequately prepared to compete at the highest level.
The 2026 Commonwealth Games, scheduled to be held in Glasgow, Scotland, from 23 July to 2 August 2026,
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