Nigerian Football
Man of the Match, Andy Okpe, Coach Ogunbote still in blue cloud as Ikenne host its first NPFL match
The 3-0 defeat of one of Nigerian football powerhouses, Heartland by Remo Stars on Sunday was the first ever Nigeria Professional Football League match in the town known more for its political significance as the home of some legendary politicians such as Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Dr. Tai Solarin, Chief Kehinde Sofola and the current Nigeria Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osibajo.
Little wonder, the home stadium of Remo Stars was filled to the brim in the only pavilion designed for spectators.
They were not disappointed as the result squared with expectation. Coach Gbenga Ogunbote, a veteran of the league remarked that he was delighted with his boys for grinding out all three points.
With the win, the club is having a perfect run in the league having gathered maximum six points in two matches and not conceding any goal.
Speaking with RSFC Media, Gbenga Ogunbote disclosed that he is worried that two of his first team players (Isah Ali and Qudus Akanni) were injured in the Sunday match.
“I am happy and delighted we won the game, but we lost the grip of the game. I had spoken to them about it and it showed in how they expressed themselves in the second half. It is good it happened while we were two goals up, it would have been as mess if they have scored a goal, but we have learned for it.”
“It calls for concern on my paths losing two first team players, it is massive on my side. We have capable medical crew, we will wait to see what they can do but if they cannot do anything, we will be forced to pick from the substitutes.”
“The next game is a tempting one, we just need to try everything humanly possible to get the result we desire, positive result in that game will make us stabilize and it will give the players the massive confident to know that we can remain in the league.”
So far, the Remo Stars have not picked the ball out of their own net. Goalkeeper, Kayode Bankole has dedicated his clean sheets to God, his coaches and his teammates.
He helped his side to a 2-0 victory against MFM FC in Lagos and now a 3-0 victory with two clean sheets in two games in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL).
Remo Stars defeated Heartland FC 3-0 at the Remo Stars Stadium all thanks to Andy Okpe’s brace and a half volley from Samuel Anakwe to give the host all three points.
Speaking with RSFC Media, Kayode indicated that he is hopeful of getting another clean sheets and all three points against Nasarawa United in matchday three of the NPFL.
“I am glad, I want to thank God Almighty and my teammates for making it possible for him to achieve the clean sheets. I can’t do it alone and that’s why it’s called a team work.”
“We play Nasarawa United on Wednesday and I hope we get another victory come Wednesday, it’s not going to be easy, but I am hopeful that we will get another win and another clean sheet by God’s grace.”
“Like we have always said, our major target is to remain in the league, and we will accept any other addition that come our way.”
Meanwhile, the hero of Sunday victory, Andy Okpe has remarked that the game with Heartland was very tough.
He put the Sky Blue Stars in front three minutes into the game before getting his brace two minutes after his first goal to give the host a comfortable win.
Speaking with RSFC Media, he made it known that they came into the game with the mentality of winning and it really assisted them in getting the deserved victory.
‘It was a nice game for me though the game was tough, but we had to put in a lot of effort to get the win, we came into the game with the mentality of winning, and we are not expected to lose on this home ground because we call it the slaughter ground.”
“We are already preparing for the game against Nasarawa United and we will go into it with a bigger mentally than this and we hope to get the victory.”
Nigerian Football
Football Agent John Shittu Demands Retraction and ₦250 Million Damages from Samson Siasia Over Bribery Allegation
Prominent FIFA-licensed football agent John Shittu has issued a formal legal demand to former Super Eagles coach Samson Siasia, seeking a full retraction and apology over alleged defamatory statements made against him about Nigeria’s 2008 Olympic football campaign.
In a letter dated and signed by his legal representatives, Godwin Dick Inyang & Co., Shittu categorically denied Siasia’s claim—widely reported in the media including Sahara Reporters and Soccernet.ng—that he offered Siasia a bribe of €50,000 to secure John Obi Mikel’s inclusion in the Nigeria U-23 team for the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing.
The legal notice, addressed directly to Siasia, described the allegation as “false, malicious, and grossly defamatory,” adding that it had caused “reputational harm and professional injury” to Shittu, who is widely respected in the global football industry.
“Your statement is false, malicious, and calculated to disparage and lower our client in the estimation of his colleagues, clients, and the public, particularly in the tightly regulated world of professional sports management,” the letter stated.
Shittu’s legal team is demanding:
- A full and unreserved retraction of the alleged statement on Sahara Reporters, Soccernet.ng, and all other platforms that published it;
- Publication of the retraction in at least two widely circulated national newspapers, including The Punch and This Day;
- A formal, written apology addressed to Mr. Shittu and published on all aforementioned platforms;
- A written undertaking not to issue or publish any similar statements in the future;
- Payment of ₦250 million in damages for defamation, reputational injury, and consequential losses.
The legal notice further warned that failure to comply within 14 days of receipt will result in legal action against Siasia. The planned suit would seek aggravated damages, a restraining injunction, and full legal costs.
Shittu is well known in Nigerian and international football circles, having managed and represented top-tier footballers over the years.
The gravity of the allegations, his legal team argues, is not only damaging to his personal and professional reputation but could also have implications in the closely scrutinised world of sports integrity and management.
As of the time of filing this report, Siasia has not publicly responded to the legal threat.
Join the Sports Village Square channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vaz7mEIGk1FxU8YIXb0H
Tribute by Patrick Ekeji Reflects Bond, Legacy, and Regret Over Lost Potential
The Nigerian football community is in mourning following the passing of former Green Eagles captain, Captain Chris Chukwu, MFR, a towering figure in Nigerian football and one of the most respected team leaders of his generation.
In an emotional tribute, a close teammate and longtime friend of Chukwu reflected on the deep bond they shared, describing the late defender as more than just a colleague on the pitch.
“It’s been difficult for me to accept that ‘Ol boy’ – for that is what we called each other – is no more,” the tribute began. “The news was most unexpected. It took me some time to come to terms with it.”
The bond between the two football greats, which began during their school days and continued through their careers in club and national teams, was described as one built on mutual respect and camaraderie. According to the tribute, they communicated frequently, sometimes as often as two to three times a month, until Chukwu’s health began to decline.
The writer also acknowledged the humanitarian gesture of business magnate Femi Otedola, who funded Chukwu’s medical treatment abroad when his illness worsened. “Otedola, I shall always remember what you did for him. Thank you,” the tribute noted.
Chris Chukwu was lauded as the most consistent team leader of his time, having captained teams from the East Central State Academicals to Rangers International FC, and eventually, the Green Eagles. His leadership qualities, on-field vision, and calm command earned him universal respect among teammates and coaches.
“He towered so high with the execution of his skills, overview and control of the team. It was natural, and we all respected his views on any issues that arose between us and the officials.”
The tribute also touched on Chukwu’s coaching career, noting with some regret that his gentle nature may not have suited the demands of the dugout. It further lamented the absence of adequate post-retirement support systems for athletes of his generation, which might have offered him a more structured path after his playing days.
“True, no living being has power over death, yet I believe that his post-soccer days would have taken a different route if there existed a system whereby such talents as he had exposure to appropriate post-sports/football years counselling.”
As burial plans are underway, the late football icon is being remembered not only for his achievements on the pitch but also for his humility, leadership, and the inspiration he provided to generations of Nigerian players.
“It is my prayer that God receives his soul in heaven whilst also strengthening the family he left behind to accept his departure with utmost spiritual and physical strength. Adieu, Chris.”
Chukwu’s death marks the end of an era, but his legacy will live on in Nigerian football history.
Join the Sports Village Square channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vaz7mEIGk1FxU8YIXb0H
BY IKENNA NWOKEDI
The Nigeria National League Club Owners and Managers Association (NALCOMA) has lauded the leadership of the Nigeria National League (NNL) under Chief George Aluo for the successful completion of the 2024/25 season.
Speaking at a media parley with sports journalists in Lagos over the weekend, NALCOMA President Godwin Enakhena praised the NNL board for its efforts in enhancing the quality and integrity of the league.
Enakhena described the just-concluded season as a major success, highlighting the competitive performance of teams across the four groups and the commendable conduct of fans at various match venues. He also noted significant improvements in officiating standards compared to previous seasons, attributing the progress to the NNL leadership’s commitment to raising the league’s profile.
“The standard of officiating improved remarkably this season. It reflects the dedication of the NNL leadership to ensure the league matches the standards of the top-flight NPFL,” said Enakhena, who also serves as Chairman of Sporting Lagos FC.
He further commended the NNL for securing the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba, Delta State, as the host venue for the upcoming Super 8 playoffs, scheduled from July 5 to 12, 2025. He expressed gratitude to the Governor of Delta State, H.E. Sheriff Oborevwori, for his continued support for football development.
Enakhena urged the eight qualifying teams to approach the playoffs with determination, noting that only the best should represent the NNL in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) for the 2025/26 season.
The teams set to battle for promotion in the Super 8 are Warri Wolves, Crown FC (Ogbomosho), Kun Khalifat FC (Owerri), Osun United FC, Wikki Tourists FC (Bauchi), Yobe Desert Stars, Doma United FC (Gombe), and Barau FC (Kano).
Join the Sports Village Square channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vaz7mEIGk1FxU8YIXb0H
- OBITUARY5 days ago
BREAKING: Nigerian Goalkeeping Legend Peter Rufai is dead
- Nigerian Football4 days ago
Football Agent John Shittu Demands Retraction and ₦250 Million Damages from Samson Siasia Over Bribery Allegation
- FEDERATION CUP1 week ago
Kwara United Clinch Historic First Title as President Federation Cup Final Goes to Penalties for the 18th time
- WAFCON3 days ago
Nigeria, Tunisia Set for High-Stakes WAFCON 2024 Clash in Casablanca
- FEDERATION CUP1 week ago
Rivers Angels Crowned 2025 Female Federation Cup Champions After Penalty Shootout Thriller
- OBITUARY5 days ago
Peter Rufai looked lean when I last saw him, says mourning NFF President, Gusau
- OBITUARY4 days ago
Family issues statement on Peter Rufai
- IMMEMORIAL4 days ago
Peter Rufai’s Death Adds to Long List of July Tragedies in Nigerian Football