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 Kwara FA Chairman Vows to Strengthen Football Ecosystem, Dismisses Pitch Criticism The Chairman of the Kwara State Football Association, Mallam Idris Musa Abdullahi, says the state’s football ecosystem will not succumb to cheap blackmail, stressing that the system will continue to be strengthened in line with global best practices. Speaking on Wednesday at the mini reception held in honour of SWAN Diamond Jubilee Award recipients at the Kwara SWAN Secretariat, Mallam Idris expressed happiness over his recognition, noting that the award would further motivate him to do more, with or without criticism. The visibly elated FA boss said the association would go the extra mile to uphold FIFA and CAF statutes in the administration of football in the state, in order to remain relevant in the scheme of things. According to him: “I wouldn't want to dwell much again on fake narratives regarding our pitch. Some stakeholders have commented on the matter, and it is clear that there is nothing w...

 Danjuma Tsaragi Mourns Dahiru Bauchi A chieftain of the Zenith Labour Party, Alhaji Usman Danjuma Tsaragi, has joined millions of sympathisers in mourning the death of the erudite Islamic scholar, Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi, who passed away early today at the age of 102 years. The renowned Islamic preacher, known for his wide and impactful propagation of Islam, particularly in northern Nigeria, was confirmed dead by his family earlier today. In a personal statement he signed, Alhaji Tsaragi described the demise of Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi as both a personal and national loss, especially at a time when his vast knowledge and deep understanding of Islam are most needed. “I will miss him dearly. Sheikh was my teacher and mentor, whose teachings have continued to guide me,” he remarked. Alhaji Danjuma Tsaragi, who is the chairman of the Kwara State chapter of the Dahiru Bauchi Foundation, also confirmed that the revered Islamic preacher will be buried on Friday in Bauchi after the Jummat ...

SWAN to Be Included in National Sports Appointments — Presidency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reiterated his administration’s commitment to prioritizing grassroots sports development across Nigeria. The President made this known at the Taiwo Awoniyi Media Centre, SWAN Secretariat, Stadium Complex, Ilorin, during a reception organized by the Kwara State chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) in honour of award recipients from the recently held National SWAN Golden Jubilee Ceremony in Abuja. Represented by his Senior Special Adviser on Grassroots Sports Development, Mr. Anthony Adeboye Adeyinka ZuluAuthority, President Tinubu said the Renewed Hope Agenda places strong emphasis on discovering and nurturing young athletes from early stages. According to him, the Federal Government is working to identify and groom promising talents from primary to tertiary institutions, noting that younger Nigerians who understand the value of sports must be supported to develop into...

Adio Urges Sports Federations to Host Championships in Kwara’s Upgraded Indoor Hall Sports federations across Nigeria have been encouraged to bring their events to Kwara State to take advantage of the newly upgraded Indoor Sports Hall at the George Innih Stadium, Ilorin, renovated by the administration of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq. The Indoor Sports Hall, recently upgraded by the Kwara State Government, is now capable of hosting multiple combat and team sports simultaneously and conveniently. Broadcast icon and Olympian Hameed Adio made this known at a mini reception held in honour of SWAN Diamond Jubilee Anniversary awardees from Kwara at the Taiwo Awoniyi Media Centre, SWAN Secretariat, Stadium Complex, Ilorin. Adio rated the edifice high in terms of standard and quality delivery, noting that the hall had previously hosted military games and other international championships. He said that “now that it has been upgraded, sports federation presidents should use the edifice as a p...

Coach Azeez Confident As Katsina United Target Enyimba Upset In Ilorin Katsina United head coach, Mohammed Azeez Audu, says his side is fully ready and under no pressure ahead of Monday’s NPFL clash against Enyimba in Ilorin. The fixture, initially scheduled for Katsina, was moved to the Kwara State capital after the NPFL sanctioned the club over recent crowd trouble. Despite the setback, Audu insists the change of venue offers no disadvantage. “I am not under any pressure and I’ve already prepared my boys for the game,” he said. “We respect Enyimba, but we don’t fear them.” The former Kwara United manager believes coaching on familiar ground could work in his favour. “Ilorin is my second home. I’ve coached here before and I know the fans will support my team,” he noted. Audu remained bullish about his team’s chances against the record NPFL champions. “I need the three points and I don’t see how Enyimba can stop us,” he declared. He also praised the league’s growing competitiveness, sa...

3rd Ilorin Games Fiesta Thrills Families with 100+ Games at 02 Arena Ilorin’s fast-rising sports and leisure culture reached another milestone on Friday as the third edition of the Ilorin Games Fiesta lit up the 02 Arena, drawing children, youths and adults into a colourful blend of fun, fitness and community spirit. What started as a modest idea to create wholesome entertainment in Kwara’s capital has now evolved into an IOC-certified sports carnival—a distinction that its convener, Engr. Kabirat Bisola, says only challenges them to aim higher. This year’s fiesta featured over 100 games, ranging from simple recreational activities to highly competitive sports. The arena pulsed with excitement throughout the day as participants and spectators soaked up the lively atmosphere. For many families, the event has quickly grown into one of the most anticipated leisure outings in the state. Bisola, CEO of KK Event and the driving force behind the fiesta, said the initiative was inspired by a s...

 Ilorin Game Fiesta Gets Boost as Engr. Kale Kawu Funds 100 Tickets As the 3rd edition of the Ilorin Games Fiesta holds this Friday, 21st November, the Dan Iya of Ilorin Emirate, Engr. Kale Kawu Agaka, has magnanimously sponsored 100 tickets for potential participants. Breaking the news to sports writers in Ilorin, the convener of the programme, Engr. Kabira Bisola, expressed profound appreciation to Engr. Kawu for the kind gesture, praising his belief in the power of sports, entertainment, and community development. She described his contribution as a testament to the continuous growth and progress of the Ilorin Emirate. Engr. Bisola added that the unwavering support of the Dan Iya Ngeri of Ilorin will enable 100 lucky individuals to enjoy an exciting day filled with music, fun, and sports. The Ilorin Games Fiesta comes up this Friday at O2 Arena, Starwood Hotel, Offa Garage Road, Ilorin. Red Carpet: 1 pm Main Event: 2 pm

Kwara Horse Show Impresses Oloro of Oro Kingdom, Monarch Backs International Exposure Oloro of Oro Kingdom, Oba Joel Olaniyi Oyatoye, has expressed deep satisfaction with the successful organisation of the maiden Kwara Horse Show convened by Ambassador Aliu Bolaji Magaji Nda, noting that the initiative holds great potential for positively engaging the youth. Oba Joel Olaniyi, who chaired the occasion, praised the quality and coordination of the event, describing it as “standard in all ramifications.” He further announced his commitment to facilitating the participation of the Kwara Horse Show team at the Asa Day Worldwide International Event in Canada come August 2026—a global cultural celebration he has championed for years, held annually in both Canada and Nigeria.  “I’m a convener myself, and I know what it takes to organise an event. This show is standard in every sense, with a massive turnout of people. I wouldn’t have been happy if I missed this edition,” he stated. The monar...

 Ilorin Horse Show Debuts as Kwara Govt Pledges Stronger Sports Promotion The Kwara State Government has reiterated its commitment to harnessing the serene environment of Ilorin to promote sports development across the state. The Executive Chairman of the Kwara State Sports Commission, Mallam Bola Mogaji, stated this on Sunday while declaring open the maiden edition of the Kwara Horse Show held at Queen Elizabeth School, Ilorin. Mogaji, who represented Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, commended the organisers for sustaining the rich cultural heritage of Ilorin through the event, tracing the history of the Ilorin Durbar to 1830, when it was first staged to celebrate the conquest of the old Oyo Empire. He explained that the horse show serves as an avenue to refresh the memories of younger generations about the cultural traditions of their forefathers. Mogaji also assured the organisers that he would convey their request for the hosting of a polo event to the governor. Earlier, the Ch...

Biffo Pledges Cash Rewards for Kwara United, ABS FC Man of the Match Awards Former Kwara United Head Coach, Abdullahi Usman Biffo, has pledged to constantly reward outstanding players of Kwara United and ABS FC with cash prizes, beginning this weekend. Biffo announced the gesture on Friday in a phone chat with the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) from his base in London. According to him, the Man of the Match in ABS FC’s home games will receive ₦50,000, starting with Saturday’s fixture against Sokoto United in Ilorin. For Kwara United, Biffo pledged ₦500,000 should the team win their away clash in Maiduguri, and ₦250,000 if they secure a draw. He said the initiative is part of his personal contribution to football development in Kwara State, aimed at motivating players of both the NPFL and NNL sides who continue to project the state positively. The Kwara United award is sponsored in honour of Ambassador Abdulfatah Yahaya Seriki and will begin with their away tie against El-...

 IEYDA Marks Emir’s 30th Coronation with 11 Days of Impactful Events The 30th Coronation Anniversary of the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji (Dr) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari CFR, has come and gone — a celebration of three decades of purposeful and impactful leadership that has redefined traditional institutions as beacons of wisdom, peace, and integrity. The landmark anniversary was marked by groups and individuals across the Ilorin Emirate with various activities in appreciation of the Emir’s remarkable achievements since ascending the throne of his forebears in 1995. Among the notable contributors was the Ilorin Emirate Youth Development Association (IEYDA), which devoted 11 consecutive days to host 11 solid events in honour of the Emir’s 30th Coronation Anniversary. Day 1: Special Prayer and Qur’an Competition The anniversary programme kicked off with a special prayer session at the Ilorin Eid Prayer Ground, where members of IEYDA converged to seek Allah’s mercy for a hitch-free celebration. Lat...

GSL Network Eyes Africa as Next Football Powerhouse, Partners Ilo DollyP Fottball Academy The representative of GSL Global Network, a leading football talent scouting and management firm, Fillip Stanoyevich, has said that the future of global football lies in Africa, with Nigeria playing a central role in shaping tomorrow’s stars. Stanoyevich made this known in Ilorin at the end of a joint scouting exercise organized by GSL Network and DollyP Limited, a Kwara-based football academy. “There is an abundance of talent in Nigeria, and for us at GSL, our interest is very much in Kwara and Ilorin,” he said. He explained that while GSL has built a strong reputation in Asia for discovering and nurturing young footballers, its current focus is on Africa, where the next generation of world-class players is emerging. According to him, the company took its time to identify the right partner and found DollyP Academy “worthy because of its pedigree and track record in youth development.” In his rema...

Horseball, Marathon Highlight Kwara’s First Horse Show The maiden edition of the Kwara State Horse Show will gallop off on Saturday with a 30-kilometre horse marathon designed to explore newly constructed and upgraded roads across Ilorin by the Kwara State Government. The event, organised in partnership with the state government, aims to showcase the beauty of equestrian sports and the rich cultural heritage of the people. It is convened by Ilorin-born expert horse rider, Ambassador Aliu Bolaji Magaji Nda. Briefing sports journalists on Wednesday, the Chairman of the Main Organising Committee, Dr. Jemila AbdulHameed Atata, said the marathon will flag off at Unity Bikers Club, while the grand finale on Sunday at Queen Elizabeth School, Ilorin, will feature a horseball tournament involving 10 competitive teams in a world-class display. She assured that adequate security and medical support have been put in place to ensure a hitch-free event. Dr. Atata explained that the show will provide...

  Kabiru Dogo Felicitates Emir Sulu-Gambari on 30 Years of Peaceful Reign The Mogaji of Odo-Okun, Sawmill, Ilorin, Alhaji Kabiru Suleiman Dogo, has congratulated the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari CFR, on the occasion of his 30th coronation anniversary as the 11th Emir of Ilorin. Alhaji Dogo, who leads the Odo-Okun community in Ilorin West Local Government Area, described the Emir as an embodiment of peace and harmony whose reign has brought remarkable unity and development to the state. In his congratulatory message, Dogo extolled the royal father’s exemplary leadership, describing him as a man of peace and inter-religious tolerance whose wisdom continues to strengthen communal coexistence across the Emirate. The former Kwara United handler and current El-Kanemi Warriors coach commended the Emir’s consistent advocacy for peace, security, and good governance, noting that his wise counsel has greatly contributed to the state’s stability over the past three dec...

Z LP North Central Leader Celebrates Emir Sulu-Gambari’s 30 Years of Impact The Vice Chairman, North Central of the Zenith Labour Party (ZLP), Alhaji Usman Danjuma Tsaragi, has felicitated with the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR, on the occasion of his 30th Coronation Anniversary, describing his reign as purposeful and impactful. In a congratulatory message, Alhaji Danjuma Tsaragi hailed the Emir’s three decades on the throne as the 11th Emir of Ilorin, noting that his reign has been an epitome of peace that has paved the way for unprecedented development across the Ilorin Emirate and beyond. He added that the Emir’s leadership as Chairman of the Kwara State Council of Emirs, Obas, and Chiefs has fostered unity of purpose among traditional rulers, underscoring his exemplary commitment to the transformation of the traditional institution in the state. The ZLP chieftain prayed to Almighty Allah to grant the Emir long life in sound health as he continues to uphold ...

Kwara United Felicitates Emir of Ilorin on 30th Coronation Anniversary Kwara United Football Club has joined other well-wishers in celebrating the Emir of Ilorin, Maimartaba Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR, on the occasion of his 30th Coronation Anniversary. Today marks three decades since the revered monarch’s enthronement on November 11, 1995, as the 11th Emir of Ilorin. In a statement issued by the Club Chairman, Mr. Kumbi Titiloye, he described the Emir’s reign as remarkable in all ramifications, noting that it was during his tenure that Kwara United won its major silverware — the President Federation Cup. Titiloye added that this milestone remains a proud achievement for both the Emir and the club. Kumbi Titiloye rejoiced with the Emir on three decades of impactful and visionary leadership that have transformed the state capital and its people in many positive ways. The Club further wished the Emir many more blissful years on the throne and prayed to Almighty Allah to grant...

Emir of Ilorin Hails AVM Oluwatoyin, Urges Others to Emulate His Service to the Nation The Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari CFR, has encouraged indigenes of Ilorin Emirate occupying top positions in public service to emulate Air Vice Marshal L.I. Oluwatoyin, who recently bowed out of active service after a meritorious career in the Nigerian Air Force. The Emir, who is also the Chairman of the Kwara State Council of Chiefs, gave the commendation on Friday while receiving AVM Oluwatoyin at his palace in Ilorin. Dr. Sulu-Gambari described the retired senior officer as a pride of the Ilorin Emirate, noting that he used his position to improve the lives of Kwarans irrespective of their backgrounds. While offering prayers for the AVM, the Emir wished him success in his future endeavours, accompanied by sound health and divine guidance. The mini reception was organized by the Oke Ogun Progressive Forum as a mark of honour for one of their illustrious sons. Present at the even...

 AVM Oluwatoyin: A Stellar Chapter in Defence Space Leadership Air Vice Marshal Oluwatoyin LI stands out as a leader whose short but highly impactful tenure at the Defence Space Administration has etched a remarkable chapter in Nigeria’s defence history. His period in office was defined by innovation, strategic foresight, and purposeful leadership that strengthened the nation’s defence capabilities, especially in space and security technology. As the 7th Chief of Defence Space Administration, having assumed duty in September 2024, AVM Oluwatoyin aligned his mission with the national security vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, driving programmes and policies that elevated Nigeria’s reputation in global defence operations. One of the most notable achievements under his leadership was the strategic partnership initiated with the United Nations, which enhanced Nigeria’s participation in advanced global space weather research. This step not only positioned the country as an active s...

Ilorin Golf Club Marks 50th Anniversary With 2-Day Amateur Open Tournament The Ilorin Golf Club will mark its 50th anniversary with a two-day Amateur Open tournament scheduled for this Saturday and Sunday in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital. Established in June 1975 during the administration of Military Governor Col. Ibrahim Taiwo, the club was founded to promote and strengthen the game of golf in the state. Speaking during a media briefing at the club on Monday, the Chairman of the Main Organising Committee, Alhaji Faruq Ismail, said activities will begin on Saturday with the arrival of golfers, practice rounds, and a welcome cocktail. The main tournament featuring both amateur and professional golfers will be held on Sunday. He added that a ceremonial tee-off will take place on Sunday at 9:00 a.m., followed by a special Captains' Event at 4:00 p.m., where past captains of the club will be honoured as part of the golden jubilee celebration, ahead of the official closing ceremony. A...

 23 Corporate Partners Drive Ilorin Games 2025 Success Not fewer than 23 business owners and corporate organizations have partnered with the Ilorin Games Fiesta for this year’s edition, scheduled to hold on Friday, November 21,2025, at the O2 Arena Starwood Hotel, Ilorin by 1pm. According to the convener, Engr. Olaiya Bisola Kabirat, the partnerships underscore the importance of sporting events not only as platforms for athletic excellence but also as avenues for business networking, unity building, and positive youth engagement. Engr. Kabirat, fondly called KK Events, revealed the list of partners as follows: 1. GgeeFoodsNg 2. Vijobs Paintball and Chill 3. O2 Arena 4. Item7 5. Viva Cinema 6. Nylonmart 7. Jollyjoy Meals 8. MoremiRoyal 9. Jydex Motors 10. BigJoe Autos 11. FEMTECH 12. Jimpo-Ori 13. KwaraLive Project 14. Dammyart 15. Salonpas 16. Phursuns Photography 17. Mix & Mingle 18. Freecity Motors 19. Emirate Hotel 20. Orca by One-shot 21. Ephoenix Hotel 22. Kafowo Oil 23. C...

Chief Alloy Chukwuemeka Dedicates SWAN Award to Members, Urges Unity and Professionalism The Director of Football, ABS FC Ilorin, Chief Alloy Chukwuemeka, has dedicated his Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) Award to all members of the Association across the country, urging them to remain united and committed to upholding professionalism in sports reporting. Speaking at the 60th Diamond Jubilee Anniversary of SWAN, Chief Chukwuemeka described the milestone celebration as a significant moment in the Association’s history, coming at a time when it was recovering from years of leadership crises and internal division. He commended the current national leadership of the Association, led by Benjamin Isaiah, for restoring stability and confidence among members after over a decade of internal wrangling that, according to him, “caused severe damage to SWAN’s credibility and professional integrity.” “The 60th Diamond Jubilee celebration and the presentation of awards to senior colleagu...