Nigerian Football
FOOTBALL ICON, ODEGBAMI MAKES PASSIONATE APPEAL OVER HIS GOVERNORSHIP CANDIDACY
Former Nigeria national football team captain and a continental icon, Segun Odegbami who has ventured into politics, has sent a passionate appeal to members of the sports community for support.
He is a candidate for governorship seat of Ogun State on the platform of Zenith Labour Party. His appeal in the form of an open letter to the sports constituency reads:
My dear Friends in Sports,
Some months ago, I took a major step that you all are likely to be aware of. I joined the train of Nigerian politics.
I understand the reaction of most of you in keeping a respectable distance from my unilateral decision by not openly associating with it in anyway, or even expressing an opinion, one way or the other. You all may also already have your political interests and affiliation.
I believe that had I informed you, or sought your opinion on the matter, it is most probable that you would have advised me to avoid the temptation, by all means, and not ventured to enter into the Lion’s den of Nigerian politics.
You would probably have correctly reminded me of our past general understanding of the relation between sports and politics. They never worked well together.
Strategically, those were the sentiments I did not want to hear at all at the time I took my decision.
Nigerian politics are not of the sort that, as a sportsman, an Olympian for that matter, I would ordinarily want to be associated with – the graft, the lies, the corruption, the intimidation, the treachery and betrayals, even killings -conducts and tendencies that do not work well with the values that we espouse in competitive sport – merit, transparency, equity, excellence, healthy competitiveness, fair play, clear rules and regulations, winning and losing graciously, friendship, discipline, honesty, equality, and integrity.
On the value scale, Sports and Politics are planets apart from each other.
So, for me to have unilaterally plunged into this obvious murky minefield means there must be more to my decision than meets the ordinary eye. Yes, indeed, there is.
The separation of Sport from politics in Nigeria has been responsible, in the main, for the stunted growth of an industry that should be thriving with the abundance of natural talent available. Sport has the capacity to make Nigeria a global superpower.
Through sport we could have united Nigerian people better, ‘laundered the image of the country better, taken a lot of our young boys and girls off the tracks of illiteracy, joblessness, drugs, prostitution, crime and uncontrolled emigration, and prepared them to pursue happiness through a sector they have a passion for, that engages them, creates global job opportunities for them,makes them healthy, wealthy and wise, empowers them, and imbibes in them the best of human values.
What we do now is deny the entire demography of young people entry into the opportunities to be productive on a global scale because of our myopic optic of the power of sport.
Through the decades, sport has continued to show the world glimpses of its ability to breakdown racial, social and religious barriers, and, through strategic deployment of its power and followership, to drive economic, political and cultural goals that can help in transforming Nigeria.
We have said a great deal through the years but have failed to move from ‘talk’ to ‘walk’.
Sport remains a wasting natural resource in Nigeria.
Previous political leaders have lacked the understanding to use it to drive national goals of development beyond winning athletic medals and trophies.
Intermittently between 1960 and 1980, Nigeria was actually on the right trajectory. The Olympics Games of 1980 was an unfortunate tipping point.
Since then, sport has been getting only the short end of the stick of government’s attention. Successive changes in government and in sports administration left the field with a deficit of human capacity and the vision to advance the cause.
Since then, major experienced and knowledgeable stakeholders have never been in position ofpower to influence, or even implement, their visions and ideas.
Sport,therefore, needs the fuel of political power to be able to burn brightly. Sport needs political power to will facilitate and implement advancement and development of the sector.
Sport is a driver as well as major contributor to the national economy, culture, tourism, diplomacy, infrastructural development, youth engagement and empowerment, and so on.
Since I ended my career as an active sports person, I have experienced the roles that sport can play in all the above sectors. In the eternal words of late Nelson Mandela in 1995, sport has the power to change the world.
There is a glaring disconnect between sport and government in taking advantage of what sport offers Nigeria and its army of youths in every cranny passionate about sport but wasting like beautiful flowers in the desert.
We cannot,therefore, stay away from politics and expect that things will change. Nothing will change unless we go in there and effect the change ourselves.
It is as simple as that. That’s my motivation for daring to break away from the norm and enter the lion’s den.
You all know me and my antecedents in and out of sport.
I have always being the ‘guinea pig’ in my own various ventures in sport, using the results of my work as testimonies of their efficacy, or failure.
Either way, the important thing has always been that I did something rather than prevaricate and play ‘siddon look’.
So, I am venturing again into politics, a new and unfamiliar terrain. I have painfully found out, to my chagrin, that it poses an exciting new kind of challenge that,with the support of my major constituencies (sport and the media), we can,together, surmount, make a difference and possibly change our world.
I assure you I am not motivated by vaulting ambition for power.
Neither is this a quest to amass wealth.
My intention is simple – to use sport, a territory I am very familiar with and for which I am eminently qualified, to drive a national development agenda.
I choose to start ‘small’, to emulate our ‘brother’, George Opong Weah of Liberia, and plant a political seed that will germinate quickly to establish in Ogun State the foundation of a new political paradigm in Nigeria.
My mission is that Ogun State will become the take-off point of a revolution using the power of sports and other related fields of entertainment that includes culture, music, arts, film, dance, drums, literature, hospitality, theatre and leisure, among others to initiate and undertake the fastest national development program driven by youths, in our history.
Starting from Ogun State, we can replicate the model and establish a continent-wide renaissance, an unaccomplished dream of Africa’s founding political fathers atIndependence from colonial rule around 60 years ago.
Their goal was to reclaim the dignity, respect and equality for the Black Race and Africans in the world.
In the general architecture of the world today, those goals can be attained quickly only through a cultural revolution, deploying the energy and passion for the arts, culture and sports to drive productivity and innovation, building an industry in the process that will be the fastest and most effective transformative tool in the world.
That’s why I am attempting, even against all the odds, to become the next governor of Ogun State where I come from.
I intend to use the State as both a laboratory and a launch pad, working with the best brains and talents across the sectors to make this dream become reality.
I shall soon have an interactive session with all members of our sports family in order to share my vision and mission in Ogun State. But until that happens, I am writing this to crave your understanding and support.
This is going o be a very daunting task, but I assure you that Sport has prepared me adequately for the challenges ahead. To me, ‘failure’ does not exist.
The will to win is the essential tonic that drives the spirit of hard work, single-mindedness, commitment, determination, never-say-die attitude, teamwork, humility, fair play, decency, honesty, integrity, discipline and dedication to the cause.
My ‘campaign’ started subtly a few days ago.
I am contesting for governorship of Ogun State. The party platform I am using is Zenith Labour Party. It is a new party, the last to be registered by INEC, the last party logo on the ballot paper, an empty structure waiting to soak in persons that embrace our simple motto – ThePeople, Our Priority.
I did not join any of the other major parties in order to be able to get to this point where I can even contest without carrying any existing or future burdens as result ofGodfather(s), political patrons, political funders and investors, and so on.
We are setting up new structures across the State, populated by disenfranchised people, people living with physical disabilities, civil servants, retirees, restless youths,women, and the elderly.
I humbly invite you to support me in any way, join me, or simply just watch me without shooting me down.
Your compatriot,
Segun Odegbami
Nigerian Football
NPFL Golden Boot Race: Obaje, Arumala Lead as Club-by-Club Breakdown Reveals Fierce Battle
By Kunle Solaja.
With the 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season entering its decisive stretch after Matchday 33, the race for the Golden Boot has not only remained intensely competitive but also reflects the attacking strength—and in some cases dependence—of several clubs.
At the top of the chart, Godwin Obaje (Enugu Rangers) and Joseph Arumala (Ikorodu City) are tied on 11 goals, but a deeper club-by-club analysis shows contrasting attacking dynamics across the league.
Enugu Rangers: Obaje and Chidozie attacking edge
Rangers International stand out as the only club with two players in the top scorers’ bracket. Obaje’s 11 goals underline his role as the club’s primary finisher, but the presence of Iwundu Chidozie (9 goals) highlights a complementary attacking structure. Rangers’ ability to share goals between two reliable forwards could prove decisive both in the title race and in sustaining Obaje’s Golden Boot push.
Ikorodu City: Arumala’s breakout brilliance
For Ikorodu City, Joseph Arumala’s 11 goals represent more than just numbers; they define the club’s attacking identity. Unlike Rangers, Ikorodu City’s presence in the scoring chart is singular, suggesting a heavy reliance on Arumala. His continued form will be critical if the club is to maintain momentum in the closing weeks.
Katsina United: Collins carrying the torch
Uche Collins (10 goals) has been the standout performer for Katsina United. His contribution underscores a team that leans heavily on individual brilliance in attack. With no other teammate in the top scorers’ list, Collins remains central to Katsina’s offensive threat.
El-Kanemi Warriors: Abdulrahman’s consistency
Daddy Abdulrahman (10 goals) has provided El-Kanemi Warriors with a consistent source of goals. His tally reflects both durability and efficiency, especially in a side that has not spread its goals widely among multiple players.
Remo Stars: Mbaoma leading the charge
For Remo Stars, Victor Mbaoma (10 goals) continues to justify his reputation as a proven goal scorer. His presence among the top contenders is crucial for a team still balancing title ambitions with survival concerns in a surprisingly turbulent season.
Abia Warriors: Obioma’s attacking spearhead
Chukwuemeka Godson Obioma (10 goals) has emerged as Abia Warriors’ main outlet in front of goal. His performances highlight a system built around a focal striker capable of delivering in crucial moments.
Bendel Insurance: shared responsibility
Bendel Insurance boast a dual presence through Oweilayefa Alex (9 goals) and Kayode Oke (8 goals). This shared scoring responsibility reflects a more balanced attacking approach, reducing dependence on a single player and giving the team multiple goal threats.
Shooting Stars: depth in attack
Similarly, Shooting Stars have two players in the mix—Sodiq Ibrahim (9 goals) and Qamar Adegoke (8 goals). Their combined output suggests a diversified attacking system, which could be advantageous in the final run-in as defensive attention is split.
Wikki Tourist: Mairiga’s Lone Effort
Jonathan Mairiga’s return of nine goals underscores his role as Wikki Tourist’s primary attacking outlet this season. He is the club’s only player among the league’s leading scorers, highlighting a clear reliance on his finishing ability.
In a team where goals have not been widely shared, Mairiga has consistently shouldered the burden in the final third, often providing the decisive edge in tight matches. His contribution not only reflects personal form but also underlines Wikki Tourist’s need for greater attacking support as the season approaches its climax.
Warri Wolves: Evhierehurhoma’s impact
With Igbunu Evhierehurhoma (8 goals), Warri Wolves have relied on a single consistent scorer. His contributions have been vital in keeping the team competitive in tight matches.
Plateau United: Temitope’s steady return
Vincent Temitope (8 goals) has provided Plateau United with a dependable attacking outlet, maintaining relevance in the Golden Boot conversation despite not leading the chart.
Nasarawa United: Yusuf in contention
Anas Yusuf (8 goals) represents Nasarawa United’s attacking hopes, remaining within striking distance of the leaders in what could still become a late surge.
Enyimba: Michael flying the flag
For Enyimba, Chidera Michael (8 goals) is the club’s top performer in front of goal this season, reflecting a campaign where goals have not been heavily concentrated among multiple players.
A League Defined by Balance and Uncertainty
The distribution of top scorers across clubs reveals a league marked by competitive balance rather than dominance. While teams like Rangers, Bendel Insurance, and Shooting Stars benefit from multiple contributors, others depend heavily on a single talisman.
With just a few matches remaining, the Golden Boot race remains wide open. The narrow gap between first and the chasing pack means that a single prolific performance could dramatically alter the standings.
As the NPFL season heads toward its climax, the battle for top scorer is shaping up not just as an individual contest, but as a reflection of each club’s attacking philosophy—whether built on collective strength or individual brilliance.
Top goal scorers as of matchday games 33
S/N PLAYER’S NAME CLUB NAME TOTAL 1 Godwin Obaje Rangers Int’l 11 2 Joseph Arumala Ikorodu City 11 3 Uche Collins Katsina United 10 4 Daddy Abdulrahman El-kanemi Warriors 10 5 Victor Mbaoma Remo Stars 10 6 Chukwuemeka Godson Obioma Abia Warriors 10 7 Oweilayefa Alex Bendel Insurance 9 8 Iwundu Chidozie Rangers Int’l 9 9 Sodiq Ibrahim Shooting Stars 9 10 Jonathan Mairiga Wikki Tourist 9 11 Igbunu Evhierehurhoma Warri Wolves 8 12 Vincent Temitope Plateau United 8 13 Anas Yusuf Nasarawa United 8 14 Kayode Oke Bendel Insurance 8 15 Qamar Adegoke Shooting Stars 8 16 Chidera Michael Enyimba Int’l 8
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Players and officials of Nigeria’s U20 women’s national team, the Falconets, have resumed camping in Abuja as preparations intensify for the final round of qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup.
Several invited players arrived in camp on Monday, April 6, 2026, with full training sessions commencing the following day as the team began serious build-up toward the decisive fixtures. The technical crew has since engaged the squad in intensive drills focused on fitness, tactical organisation, and team cohesion, while awaiting the arrival of the remaining invitees.
At the team’s first training session, Head Coach Moses Aduku charged the players to approach the assignment with utmost seriousness, stressing the need for discipline, unity, and mental strength.
He reminded the squad of the magnitude of the task ahead as they prepared to confront a determined Malawi women’s national under-20 football team in the final qualifying round.
The players, in response, expressed confidence and readiness, with many eager to secure Nigeria’s place at the global tournament. Training sessions have continued at a high tempo, with the coaching crew keen on ensuring peak physical and tactical condition before the first leg.
Malawi booked their place in the final round after edging past Guinea-Bissau women’s national under-20 football team in their previous fixture, setting up what promises to be a keenly contested tie.
The Falconets will host the first leg in Nigeria on Saturday, May 2, before travelling for the return leg in Malawi a week later in a two-legged showdown that will determine qualification.
Africa will be represented by four teams at the tournament, scheduled to take place in Poland from September 5 to 26, 2026, adding further significance to the upcoming encounter for the Nigerian side, which is aiming to maintain its strong pedigree in global youth women’s football.
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By Kunle Solaja
The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) is hurtling towards a dramatic finish, with fierce battles unfolding simultaneously at the top and bottom of the table as Matchday 33 delivered twists that have tightened the race on both fronts.
From Ikenne to Lafia and Ozoro, the weekend results have ensured that neither the title contenders nor the relegation-threatened sides can afford a moment’s slip in what promises to be a pulsating run-in.
Title Race Tightens
At the summit, Enugu Rangers reclaimed top spot, though only on goal difference, after being held to a goalless draw at home by Barau FC. The result took Rangers to 55 points, the same tally as Rivers United, but with a superior goal difference.
Rivers United, however, suffered a significant setback in Ozoro, falling 2-0 to Warri Wolves. The defeat could prove costly in a title race where every point now carries enormous weight. Goals from Igbunu Evwierhurhoma and Othuke Egbo handed Wolves a crucial victory while halting Rivers’ momentum at a critical stage.
Just behind the leading duo, Ikorodu City remain firmly in contention with 52 points and a game in hand. At the same time, Nasarawa United’s surprise home defeat to bottom-placed Kun Khalifat has dented their title aspirations. Shooting Stars, who also lost over the weekend, remain on 50 points but are now under pressure from teams below.
Abia Warriors, with 49 points and an outstanding fixture, are also quietly lurking within striking distance, underlining just how congested the upper half of the table has become.
Ikenne Revival Sparks Relegation Fight
While the title race grabs headlines, the relegation battle is equally gripping—and perhaps even more unpredictable.
In Ikenne, Remo Stars secured a vital 1-0 victory over regional rivals Shooting Stars in a tense South-West derby. Samuel Anakwe’s early second-half strike proved decisive, lifting Remo Stars to 40 points and providing a crucial lifeline in their fight for survival.
The win sees Remo Stars inch further away from immediate danger, but they remain deep in the relegation mix, where only a handful of points separate several teams.
Kwara United boosted their survival hopes with an emphatic 3-0 victory over El-Kanemi Warriors, moving to 39 points despite an earlier points deduction. Meanwhile, Kano Pillars’ resounding 4-0 win against Bendel Insurance has also strengthened their position, though they continue to feel the impact of disciplinary sanctions.
Bottom Club Sends Shockwaves
Perhaps the most dramatic result of the round came in Lafia, where bottom-placed Kun Khalifat stunned Nasarawa United with a 1-0 away victory—remarkably the only away win of the matchday.
Stanley Otu’s stoppage-time strike not only handed Kun Khalifat a rare triumph but also reignited their survival hopes. With 36 points, they remain at the foot of the table but have demonstrated that they are far from resigned to relegation.
Above them, Wikki Tourists (37 points) and Kwara United (39 points) are also locked in a desperate struggle to avoid the drop. At the same time, Bayelsa United, Enyimba, and Remo Stars are not yet safe in a tightly packed lower half.
Mid-Table Congestion Adds Intrigue
The middle of the table offers no comfort either. Teams such as Warri Wolves, Barau FC, Plateau United, and El-Kanemi Warriors are all clustered around the 43-point mark, meaning a short winning run could propel any of them into continental contention—or drag them into the relegation dogfight.
Warri Wolves’ victory over Rivers United may well be one of the defining results of the season, as it not only disrupted the title race but also boosted their own standing to ninth place.
Crucial Fixtures Ahead
Attention now turns to the outstanding fixtures scheduled for Monday, where Abia Warriors host Bayelsa United, while Plateau United face Ikorodu City. Both matches carry significant implications at both ends of the table.
For Ikorodu City, victory would take them level with the leaders, further intensifying the title race. For Bayelsa United and Plateau United, the stakes are equally high in their quest to steer clear of relegation trouble.
A Season on a Knife Edge
With five rounds of matches remaining for most teams, the NPFL is delicately poised for a thrilling climax. The battle for the title is as fierce as the fight for survival, with fine margins likely to determine who celebrates and who suffers heartbreak.
From the top where Rangers and Rivers United are locked on points, to the bottom where Kun Khalifat have refused to surrender, the 2025/2026 NPFL season is shaping up as a compelling contest of resilience, nerve, and consistency.
As the league heads into its final stretch, one thing is certain: every goal, every point, and every decision will matter.
The Current NPFL Table
Club P W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Rangers International FC 33 15 10 8 39 24 15 55 2 Rivers United FC 33 15 10 8 33 27 6 55 3 Ikorodu City FC 32 14 10 8 33 26 7 52 4 Nasarawa United FC 33 14 8 11 31 27 4 50 5 Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) 33 15 5 13 35 36 -1 50 6. Abia Warriors 32 14 7 11 27 25 2 49 7 Bendel Insurance FC 33 11 13 9 38 34 4 46 8 Katsina United FC 33 12 10 11 29 29 0 46 9 Warri Wolves 33 11 10 12 33 33 0 43 10 Barau FC 33 10 13 10 25 26 -1 43 11 Plateau United FC 32 13 4 15 33 35 -2 43 12 El-Kanemi Warriors FC 33 12 7 14 28 38 -10 43 13 Niger Tornadoes FC 33 12 6 15 34 31 3 42 14 Kano Pillars (-3pts, -3 goals) 33 13 6 14 30 32 -2 42 15 Enyimba FC 33 10 10 13 35 37 -2 40 16 Bayelsa United FC 32 10 10 12 30 33 -3 40 17 Remo Stars FC 33 12 4 17 34 41 -7 40 18 Kwara United (-3pts, -3 goals) 33 11 9 13 26 29 -3 39 19 Wikki Tourists FC 33 8 13 12 30 37 -7 37 20 Kun Khalifat FC 33 9 9 15 31 40 -9 36
Outstanding Matches: Monday, April 6
- Abia Warriors v Bayelsa United
- Plateau United v Ikorodu City
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