Nigerian Football
AKWA UNITED SEEKS DIVINE HANDS IN 2018
With the 2018 season in Nigeria kicking off this weekend, continental hopefuls, Akwa United have sought divine guidance as set eyes on continental title as well the two domestic titles of the league and the Aiteo Cup.
At The Apostolic Church, Ukana Onuk Area Headqurters, Ikot Ekpene Field where the club went for thanks giving service for last season’s accomplishments and divine guidance in the new season, the players and officials were admonished to abide by the rules.
“Any football team that lacks discipline, respect for constituted authority, rules and regulations and above all hope in the Almighty God and His capabilities cannot go far”.
That was the remark by Apostle G. Umanah, Area Superintendent of the church. Continuing, he told the club: “For you to succeed, you need to be very disciplined and level headed, you must obey and play according to the rules and regulations of the sport and most importantly should have the fear God and hope in His limitless capabilities”
Taking his sermon from Romans 10:11 Pastor Umanah said he was delighted to see the team return to thank God for their exploits in the 2017 season, and that whosoever believeth in God shall not be ashamed.
“I am so delighted to have heard the chairman of the club ascribe the success of his team to God. I remember that before the start of the just concluded season, you came here and handed this team over to God and God promised you victory. All of you here are living witnesses to what God did for His name sake.
“We told you last year that it will not be easy. We said you will pass through a lot of trials and temptations but that at the end you will triumph and it has come to pass.
“With the wisdom that you have to come back and thank God, and rededicate the club to Him, I prophesy that you will do exploits this year. Go and conquer” The man of God declared.
“In his speech, the state sports commissioner Sir Monday Ebong Uko gave thanks to God for a season that had a lot of positives since the club was formed twenty years ago.
He recounted instances in the season that the club encountered challenges yet God triumphed even at a time that they had lost hope, particularly during the Aiteo Cup final when it seemed as if all was lost, only for the club to gain the upper hand and the slot of representing the country in the continent.
For the current season, he enjoined all the supporters of the club to close ranks and work in unity towards the success of the club.
“…It will be wrong for you to say that perhaps because you do not like the face of the commissioner or that of the chairman, you should then wish the club bad. This club is an institution, a unity vehicle as far as Akwa Ibom state is concerned so we should come together to make sure it succeeds” He pleaded.
Chairman of the club, Paul Bassey in an earlier remark was grateful to God, His Excellency the executive governor of the state, his principal the state sports commissioner, the media, supporters club and all the fans who stood by them in the season.
“We will be ingrates if we do not actualize this Thanksgiving aimed at giving God all the glory for the success of the team in placing fourth in the league and winning the Aiteo Cup.
“Governor Udom Emmanuel, sports governor of the year 2017 stood by us and made sure we did not lack,” he informed.
Other guests and dignitaries included the state Commissioner for Health, Dr Dominic Ukpong and his wife, chairman of the state FA Emmanuel Ibah and his board members, the permanent secretary ministry of youth and sports, Aniedi Dickson and his directors.
Also in attendance were the past chairmen of the club including Isong Isang and Akparawa Nse Ubeh, Coach Charles Bassey (MON) Chief Ebito, Hon Saturday of the PDP, the chairman of the NUJ in Akwa Ibom State, Solomon Bassey, the Sports Writers’ Association of Nigeria chairman as well as the hierarchy of the supporters club and other well wishers.
Nigerian Football
The rise and rise of Nigeria Premier Football League
The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) is on the rise and has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, largely thanks to the unwavering commitment of strategic partners to the NPFL, GTI Group. By laying down robust structures for transparency and accountability, GTI Group has significantly helped to improve the integrity and reputation of the elite league, ensuring that every dime from sponsors and investors of The Nigeria Football Fund (TNFF) are meticulously utilised and accounted for.
GTI’s initiative to enhance transparency in the NPFL goes beyond mere intentions; it involves concrete actions that laid the groundwork for accountability. This commitment not only bolsters the league’s financial health but also promotes confidence among stakeholders, including fans, sponsors and players.
One of the critical challenges that faced the NPFL before the coming of GTI Group in the 2022/2023 season was crowd violence. However, the financial investment firm and the NPFL Board led by Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye have worked harmoniously and tackled this issue head-on by implementing measures to curb this menace at match venues.
The placement of trained security personnel, implementation of zero tolerance to crowd violence and the issuance of fines against erring clubs cum their fans have fostered a safer environment for lovers of the beautiful game in the country. As a result, match attendance has astronomically increased, allowing for a more vibrant and supportive atmosphere.
The enhanced transparency in match operations by NPFL has also sparked renewed hope and a sense of friendly competition among clubs. With the increase in fair play and adherence to regulations, fans and players alike are experiencing a new wave of excitement. This was exemplified on Match Day 3 of the ongoing 2024/2025 season, where the league witnessed an impressive display of five-star performance: five away wins, three draws, and two home wins. This feat has never happened in the history of the elite league and reflects the blossoming football economy of Africa’s most populous nation.
GTI Group and NPFL’s relentless effort has laid the foundation for a prosperous league that attracts local and international talents from neighboring countries in the round-leather game. By focusing on transparency, infrastructural development and security, GTI and NPFL are not just transforming the league but creating a sustainable environment where football can thrive.
As we celebrate these positive changes, it is essential to acknowledge the role of every stakeholder in this journey. The NPFL is no longer just a platform for entertainment; it is a thriving business-oriented industry with the potential to inspire future generations.
The transformation of the NPFL, championed by GTI Group, reflects a brighter future for Nigerian football. With the ongoing commitment and collaboration, the NPFL will continue to flourish, bringing glory to clubs and excitement to fans across the world.
Nigerian Football
Enugu Rangers crumble at home in seven-goal thriller with Kano Pillars
Nigerian champions, Enugu Rangers have been beaten 4-3 by visiting Kano Pillars in the Match Day 7 of the Nigeria Premier Football League.
The visitors went into the lead in 15th minute when Rabiu Ali converted a penalty kick. They doubled the lead in the 28th minute through Zulkifilu Rabiu before Rabiu Ali extended the lead to 3-0 in the 37th minute after converting another penalty kick.
The game turned into a nightmare for Rangers as Ahmed Musa made it 4-0 in the first minute of the added time.
Rangers began a fight back in the opening minutes of the second half as Isaac Saviour pulled a goal back in the 47th minute. Twelve minute later he scored a second goal to reduce the tally to 4-2. Emmanuel Silas Nenrot made the score line a more respectable for Rangers when he scored a third goal in the added time.
Nigerian Football
Season’s first win for Akwa United and Ikorodu City
The miserable run of Akwa United and Ikorodu City came to an end after six games in the Nigerian Premier League this season. Both teams were initially glued at the bottom of the league table.
They now got respite as Akwa United beat Kano Pillar by 2-0 while Ikorodu City even did what could be considered an upset, beating Bendel Insurance 3-0.
Remo Stars bounced back to the top of the log after a 3-0 defeat of Nasarawa United. Shooting Stars are yet to get their rhythm this season, playing a barren draw with Enyimba in Ibadan.
Kwara United who got their first full points of the season last week after a 1-0 defeat of Remo Stars could not consolidate as they were beaten 1-0 by Abia Warriors.
Heartland under Emmanuel Amuneke are gradually recovering as they got a valuable away draw against El-Kanemi Warriors.
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