Record entries for 2025 Dolphin Swimming League

The Dolphin Swimming League has recorded a surge in participation with over 20 schools and clubs confirming their entry for Season 7 of the prestigious inter-school swimming tournament.

The new season kicks off with Grange School hosting the opening leg on Saturday, October 11.

Widely regarded as a grooming ground for Nigeria’s top swimming talents, the league continues to produce athletes who represent the country at continental and international competitions. Many of its alumni also made a strong impact at the recently concluded National Youth Games in Delta State.

Organised by Dynaspro Sports Promotion in collaboration with Advanta Interactive, the tournament is officially sanctioned by the Nigeria Aquatic Federation, Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), Nigeria School Sport Federation (NSSF), and the Lagos State Swimming Association.

For season 7, confirmed teams for the elementary category include Grange School, Riverbank School, Lagos Preparatory Secondary School (LPSS), Children International School (CIS), Greensprings School Lagos, Boken Aquatics Club, Meadow Hall, Temple School, C – Tribe Club, Corona Schools, St Saviour’s School Ikoyi, Foreshore School Ikoyi, Makosail Swimming Academy and Damswimm Academy.

The participating teams in the secondary division are Grange School, Riverbank School, Lagoon School, Whitesands School, James Hope School, Boken Aquatics Club, CIS, LPSS, British International School, Corona Schools, Atlantic Hall, C – Tribe Club, Meadow Hall, Greensprings School Lagos, Temple School, Makosail Swimming Academy and Damswimm Academy.

According to Oluseyi Oyebode, CEO of Dynaspro Sports Promotion, the impressive turnout reflects the league’s reputation for transparency and excellence over the past six years.

‘We’re thrilled that schools and clubs are embracing the vision behind this tournament. Our goal is to produce Olympic champions. We know the talent is there-we need to nurture it and inspire these young athletes to aim high.’

He explained that separating the elementary and secondary divisions was a strategic move to improve organisation and ensure swimmers compete fairly without being rushed due to multiple event schedules.

‘This structure allows us to manage the competition better and allows each swimmer to perform at their best.’

With Sosa Fruit Drink now on board as the official sponsor, Oyebode expressed optimism about attracting more corporate partners and supporters to help expand the league nationally.

‘The involvement of Sosa Fruit Drink is a big step forward. We’re confident that more well-meaning individuals and organisations will join us in building a truly national platform for swimming development.’

More controversy over Nnaji’s alleged certificate forgery

The controversy over alleged certificate forgery by Innovation, Science and Technology, Geoffrey Nnaji, raged yesterday with the minister and his lawyer insisting that he graduated from the University of Nigeria(UNN), Nsukka, Enugu State

While Nnaji told reporters in Abuja that his name was duly captured in UNN’s convocation brochure as part of the 1985 graduating class, his lawyer, Sebastian Hon, accused an online newspaper that made the allegation of scandalising his client by ignoring court orders.

Robert Ngwu, an aide of the minister, spoke for him at a news conference in Abuja. Hon, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria(SAN), carpeted the online publication at a Federal High Court(FHC) also in Abuja.

Nnaji had, in September, sought an order of mandamus from the court compelling UNN and its officials to release his academic records to him.

He also asked the court to order the Minister of Education, Morufu Alausa and the National University Commission (NUC) to exercise their supervisory powers to compel UNN to release his transcript.

Besides, the Education minister and NUC, others listed as defendants in the suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1909/2025 are the UNN, its Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Simon Ortuanya; the Registrar, a former acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Oguenjiofor Ujam and the Senate of the university.

On September 22, Judge H.J. Yilwa granted some of the minister’s prayers but did not issue any injunctive order against the defendants. She adjourned to October 6 (yesterday) for further hearing.

The matter was, however, stalled due to the inability of the lawyer to the UNN and its officers to file their responses.

I graduated from UNN in 1985, says Minister

At the news conference where his aide made available via WhatsApp, two pages of the university’s 1985 convocation brochure, Nnaji is listed as number five on one page. His picture is number 17 on the second page.

But Ngwu did not say why his boss did not go for his certificate 40 years after graduation.

He said the minister is a proud UNN alumnus who obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology/Biochemistry, Second Class (Honours) Lower Division.

Describing the controversy as a case of political desperation disguised as academic inquiry, Ngwu said, apart from the 1985 convocation brochure, the university’s registry confirmed that Nnaji’s academic history was not in doubt.

According to him, the only valid and authentic communication issued by the university regarding the minister’s academic record is a letter dated December 21, 2023, signed by Mrs I.A.S. Onyeador on behalf of the Registrar, Dr Celine Nnebedum.

According to him, the letter explicitly confirmed that ”Mr Geoffrey Uchechukwu Nnaji, with registration number 1981/30725, was admitted in 1981 to study Microbiology/Biochemistry and graduated in July 1985 with a Bachelor of Science, Second Class (Honours) Lower Division.”

‘This remains the official position of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, properly stamped, duly issued, and still valid,’ he emphasised.

Ngwu expressed shock that nearly two years after the university’s official confirmation, another letter emerged in May 2025, purportedly denying the existence of the minister’s records.

He questioned the timing and motive of the new claim, noting that it coincided with the emergence of two card-carrying members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as Acting Vice-Chancellor and later substantive Vice-Chancellor of the university.

‘The question every well-meaning Nigerian should ask is: what changed between December 2023 and May 2025 apart from the change in leadership at the University? Ngwu asked.

The minister’s aide explained that alleged attempts within the university to tamper with the academic file of his boss necessitated the suit at the FHC.

He said that on September 22, 2025, the court not only issued protective orders restraining UNN management from altering the minister’s records but mandated it to immediately release his academic transcript.

‘These are not speculative claims. They are certified orders of the Federal High Court, which should have settled the matter once and for all,’ Ngwu added.

He lamented that instead of complying with the court’s directives, the Vice-Chancellor, who is a lawyer by training, allegedly resorted to cyber-bullying and politically-motivated media campaigns against the minister.

Ngwu alleged that the controversy was fuelled by a coordinated attempt to tarnish the image of a reputable public servant for political gain.

He blamed a governor, whose name he did not give, of being behind the saga

The governor, according to him, wants to remove his boss as the APC leader in the state to enhance his (governor ) second-term ambition.

His words: ‘It is no coincidence that the so-called exposés are being driven by partisan actors and amplified by certain media outlets like Premium Times.

‘This is a deliberate campaign to weaponise institutions and discredit a serving minister committed to national innovation and development.

‘It is increasingly clear that this entire episode is not about education or integrity-it is about political desperation, disguised as academic inquiry.

”The timing, the sources, the false documents, and the paid narratives all point to a coordinated campaign to drag a reputable public servant into the mud of partisan politics.

‘UNN must uphold its proud motto of restoring the dignity of man. It must regain its integrity by distancing itself from political manipulation and reaffirming the authenticity of its own official record.

”This is not about one man’s record-it is about protecting truth, preserving institutional honour, and ensuring that no university in Nigeria ever becomes a pawn in partisan politics.

‘The minister will not be distracted by falsehoods or propaganda. He will continue to serve with integrity, dedication and focus.’

Judge adjourns minister’s suit till Nov.10

During yesterday’s proceedings, Nnaji’s lawyer, Hon, told the court that all the parties in the suit had been served with the necessary court documents.

Pinnick lauds Gusau, Mustapha, Falode on key FIFA appointments

?Amaju Melvin Pinnick, the Deputy Chair of the FIFA Men’s National Teams Competitions Committee, has congratulated the President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Ibrahim Musa Gusau; legal luminary Abdulhakeem Mustapha (SAN) and seasoned football executive Ayishat ‘Aisha’ Falode on their appointments to key FIFA Standing Committees.

?In a landmark development that solidifies Nigeria’s influence in global football governance, these appointments place Nigerian expertise at the heart of FIFA’s decision-making structure: Gusau joins the FIFA Men’s Club Competitions Committee. Mustapha has been appointed to the Anti-Racism and Anti-Discrimination Committee while Falode takes a seat on the Media and Communications Committee.

??As the Deputy Chair of the committee that oversees the organization and management of all FIFA Men’s National Team Competitions, Pinnick commended the trio for their recognition, describing it as ‘a reflection of Nigeria’s strategic relevance and intellectual capital within the international football community.’

?He expressed particular admiration for Aisha Falode, noting her trailblazing achievements in sports journalism, women’s football administration and media leadership.

?’I am deeply honoured by my continued service within FIFA and humbled to work alongside Robert Harrison, Chair of the Men’s National Teams Competitions Committee,’ Pinnick said.?’I wholeheartedly congratulate President Gusau, Abdulhakeem Mustapha, SAN, and Aisha Falode on their well-deserved appointments. Together, we represent a new era of professionalism, integrity, and innovation for Nigerian football on the world stage.’

?Pinnick further praised each appointee for their individual contributions to the game:?’To President Gusau, your steady and unifying leadership continues to uplift Nigerian football.

?’Abdulhakeem Mustapha, SAN, your integrity and intellect will strengthen FIFA’s stand against discrimination and injustice in the sport.

?’Aisha Falode, your evolution from journalist to global football executive inspires countless women across Africa. I am proud to serve alongside you all as we advance Nigeria’s legacy within FIFA,’ he noted.

?Ayishat ‘Aisha’ Falode’s appointment is particularly historic, as she continues to break barriers for women in African football administration. ?The former Chairperson of the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) holds the distinction of being the first female member of CAF’s Media and Communications Committee. This trailblazing record, coupled with her tireless championing of visibility, professionalism, and equity in the sport, cements her place among Africa’s foremost voices in football governance. Her inclusion on FIFA’s Media and Communications Committee is no doubt a momentous step.

850 Nigerian students studying in Saudi

No fewer than 850 Nigerian students are currently schooling in various universities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, The Nation learnt.

No fewer than 3,200 Nigerians have so far graduated from the country’s universities in the last one decade.

Vice President for Educational and Academic Affairs, King Khalid University, Prof. Saad M. Bin Dajem, disclosed this yesterday at the opening of the Forum of Saudi Arabia Universities Alumni in Nigeria and Neighboring Countries.

The forum, which was held in Abuja, has as theme: ‘Alumni of Saudi universities in the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Surrounding countries and their impact on sustainable development.’

Dajem said: ‘In Saudi Arabia, there are more than 850 students from this country (Nigeria) studying in Saudi Universities.

‘Already, since decades, there are more than 3,200 graduates from Nigeria. Now, in study, there are almost 850 in progress of study.’

He said his country is open to admitting more Nigerians to study in their universities, adding that prospective students from Nigeria will be given acceptable rate.

‘We are actually proud to accept more Nigerian students in our university in different disciplines, education, engineering, science, Arabic language, religious studies and medical sector. Hopefully, we will arrange a good acceptance rate for this country because it contributes a huge number of population to the African continent,’ he added.

He also revealed that his country has a scholarship scheme, which is available to all irrespective of religion.

The Khalid University don said scholarships are for both Muslims and non-Muslims.

He said: ‘According to our regulation, admission will be accessible to all even scholarships.

‘And we have King Abdullah University for Science and Technology, most of the scholarships for students are for Muslims and non-Muslims as well. And King Fahd University for Mineral and Petroleum also employs and accepts students from all cultures, all religions, all continents,’ he added.

Speaking on the forum, the don said it is to open communication with alumni from the universities and see how they are impacting on their environment.

He said: ‘We found them very active and we expect that when they come back to their country, they will contribute to sustainable development, either for personal living or in the country.’

On the prospect of Nigerian graduates in Saudi Arabia, Dajem said graduates who wish to pursue higher degrees after their first degree are allowed to continue and also those whose skills are needed stand the chance to be employed.

‘Actually, when they graduated from Saudi university, they could continue their higher studies in Master or PhD. And if they are well-qualified, they will be hired by the university as a professor.

Minister of State for Education, Dr. Suwaiba Said Ahmad, in her opening remarks, lauded the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for its long-standing commitment to educational cooperation and cultural institutions with Nigeria.

Dr. Ahmad said: ‘Such partnerships enrich our human capital and strengthen bilateral ties for mutual good. As we celebrate this gathering, I urge the alumni to continue to serve as ambassadors of knowledge, peace and development.

‘Your role in mentoring young Nigerians, advancing intercultural understanding and contributing to national development cannot be overstated. The Federal Ministry of Education will continue to support initiatives that harness alumni network for national advancement, for educational advancement and sustainable nation building.’

She also recognised the invaluable contributions of Nigerian alumni of Saudi universities to the national growth, peace, education, culture and development of the country.

She added: ‘Beyond academic achievement, you embody the bridge of friendship, cooperation and shared values between Nigeria and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Education, as we know, is the bedrock of progress.

On his part, Secretary of the Alumni, Dr. Mohamed Munir Ilyas, who was a graduate of Islamic University of Medina, said since returning home, he has been contributing towards peaceful co-existence between the two major religious groups in Nigeria.

He stressed: ‘Of course, when you look at development, where there is no peace, it’s very hard to have development. We have been encouraging our members to be law-abiding citizens and peacemakers, peace builders and peace keepers also. And also to make an impact as far as academics is concerned, as far as moral is concerned, as far as even earning livelihood is concerned.’

FAAN unveils cashless policy at Abuja airport

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has launched a ‘go cashless policy’ at the Nnamdi Azikwe International Airport, Abuja, to block revenue leakages and improve seamless operations.

FAAN also stated that it will be phasing out physical cash payments at all FAAN revenue points, including access gates, car parks, and VIP lounges, by Q1 of 2026.

The Managing Director of FAAN, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, said the initiative means faster, more secure transactions, an end to delays of cash handling and long queues.

Speaking during the launch at the Abuja airport on Monday, Mrs. Kuku said continued reliance on physical currency causes delays, operational inefficiencies and vulnerabilities in revenue collection.

Kuku, represented by the Director of Commercial and Business Development, Ms. Adebola Agunbiade, outlined the policy’s benefits.

She said: ‘Effective September 29th, 2025, we have started phasing out physical cash at all FAAN revenue points, including access gates, car parks, and VIP lounges.

‘The benefits are clear. A faster, smoother journey from the access gate to the parking lot for passengers and enhanced security, as you no longer need to carry large amounts of cash.

‘For FAAN and the nation, it means optimised revenue collection, significantly reduced leakage, and a robust financial accountability system.

‘We have begun this rollout strategically, starting with the access gates and lounges at the beginning, and subsequently, to all FAAN-managed airports across the country.’

On when the initiative will be fully operational, she said: ‘The card is being activated for only FAAN-managed revenue points and within this first pilot phase, we expect to increase our revenue by 50 per cent. By the time we go fully cashless, we expect to be doing between 75 per cent and 100 per cent growth on the revenue we currently do today.

‘Everybody sees our figures, they are not hidden. What we are trying to do is to ensure that we are collecting 100 per cent of all the revenue for the federal government.

‘Today, between Lagos and Abuja, we have roughly about 300,000 motorists who go through our access gate. That gives you a vague idea of what we generate from just the access gate. We haven’t considered the car parks, we haven’t considered the lounges.

‘So rest assured that by the time we roll out this program fully, which we hope will be by Q1 next year, we should be able to double the revenue we are currently making from it.

‘We have given ourselves a target of six months. And we hope that by the end of Q1, we will have phased out, totally, cash collections within the airport. So by Q1 next year, we’re totally phasing cash out at FAAN’.

Lagos agency honours NBC with award

Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC) Ltd., a leading consumer packaged goods company and member of Coca-Cola Hellenic Beverage Company (CCHBC), has been recognised for its contributions to consumer protection and service excellence.

The recognition came at the 2025 Consumer Service Week Award, hosted by the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA), at Adeyemi Bero Hall, Alausa, Ikeja.

NBC received the Corporate Partnership Award, presented by Mrs. Ashaye, deputy director of LASCOPA, in acknowledgement of the company’s longstanding collaboration with the agency.

Over the years, NBC has supported consumer awareness campaigns, stakeholder sensitisation programmes and community outreach initiatives, further strengthening consumer rights advocacy in Lagos State and across Nigeria.

Reaffirming the company’s commitment at the event, NBC highlighted its dedication to transparency, responsiveness and responsible corporate conduct; values that have defined its operations since it began serving Nigerian consumers over seven decades ago.

Speaking on the award, Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Director at NBC, Soromidayo George, said: ‘Our consumers are at the heart of everything we do. This award reflects NBC’s consumer-first philosophy, which drives us to continually improve our processes, from feedback mechanisms to robust complaint resolution systems. We are honoured to partner with LASCOPA in advancing consumer protection and engagement in Nigeria.’

The recognition underscores NBC’s core values of excellence, accountability, and consumer trust, which have guided its journey as a heritage brand in Nigeria. For NBC, the award is not just a milestone, but also a renewed call to uphold the highest standards of service in line with its pledge to listen actively, respond swiftly, and always put the consumer first.

As the company looks ahead, NBC remains dedicated to building on its heritage, reinforcing consumer trust, and delivering on its promise of excellence to millions of Nigerians who enjoy its brands daily.

Tacha revisits childhood home in emotional post

Reality TV star Tacha shared a heartfelt reflection after visiting her childhood home in Port Harcourt.

The emotional trip brought back a flood of memories, including laughter and tears, reminding her of the humble beginnings.

Tacha expressed gratitude and drew strength from her late mother’s presence in her life, wishing she could witness this moment.

In her post, Tacha shared a message of hope and encouragement, reminding her followers that their stories are still being written and that God’s plans for them are good, not evil.

She emphasised the importance of believing in oneself and highlighted the love that God has for each individual.

She wrote: ‘I went back to Port Harcourt. to the house I lived in from when I was just 6 years old.

‘This compound holds so many memories. It holds laughter, it holds tears.. it’s where my mom, dad, my sister and I all lived. where I went to primary school, where everything BEGAN.

‘Standing here after all these years brought me to tears. not of sadness, but of deep reflection.. I’m so sad my mommy isn’t here to witness this

I DRAW Strength through you Mummy. this visit reminded me of one simple truth: there’s a massive difference between where you start and where God is taking you.

‘To anyone out there still praying, still believing, still doubting! remember this: You are the one who must believe in yourself first. The plans God has for you are plans of good, not evil. And no matter what, the devil can never hate you more than God loves you’.

Tacha also announced her upcoming attempt to break a Guinness World Record and host a 3-day beauty festival in Lagos, inviting her fans to join her live at the John Randle Centre, Lagos, from October 10th to 12th.

‘Let this be your reminder to keep going. Your story is still being written. And as I take this next big step!! breaking a Guinness World Record and hosting The Biggest 3-Day Beauty Festival – I need you with me.

‘Be there with me LIVE this weekend, Oct 10th-12th at the John Randle Centre, Lagos Island,’ she added.

2027: Lawyer urges court to stop Jonathan from contesting

A lawyer, Johnmary Jideobi, has asked the Federal High Court in Abuja to bar former President Goodluck Jonathan from contesting the 2027 presidential election.

In the suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/2102/2025, Jideobi is also urging the court to restrain the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from accepting or publishing Jonathan’s name as a candidate of any political party for the election.

Listed as defendants are Jonathan, INEC, and the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF).

The plaintiff wants the court to determine whether, in view of Sections 1(1-3) and 137(3) of the 1999 Constitution, the former president remains eligible to contest for the office of president.

He is seeking a declaration that Jonathan is constitutionally ineligible to contest or occupy the presidency again, having been sworn in twice – first in 2010 to complete the term of the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, and again in 2011 after winning the election.

Jideobi argued that Jonathan has exhausted the constitutional limit of two terms and that allowing him to contest again would violate the Constitution.

He said he filed the suit in the public interest to defend the rule of law and prevent a breach of constitutional order.

According to the affidavit supporting the suit, Jideobi noted that he saw reports in the media suggesting that Jonathan was being considered for the 2027 race.

He stated that the former president had already taken the oath of office twice and that contesting again would amount to a third tenure, contrary to the Constitution.

Constitutional debate

To clarify eligibility questions for vice presidents or deputy governors who complete unexpired terms of their principals, the National Assembly in 2018 inserted subsection 3 into Sections 137 and 182 of the Constitution through the Fourth Alteration Act.

Section 137(3) states: ‘A person who was sworn in to complete the term for which another person was elected as President shall not be elected to such office for more than a single term.’

However, legal experts remain divided on whether this provision applies to Jonathan.

What the courts have said

In a May 27, 2022, Justice Isa Dashen of the Federal High Court, Yenagoa, held that Section 137(3) could not apply retroactively and that Jonathan, who only won a presidential election once in 2011, was not barred from running again.

He delivered judgment on a suit by Andy Solomon and Idibiye Abraham, who asked the court to declare Jonathan ineligible,

The judge held that the oath Jonathan took in May 2010 was not a result of an election but a constitutional succession following Yar’Adua’s death, stressing that the new constitutional clause had no retrospective effect.

Similarly, the Court of Appeal in Abuja had in a March 3, 2015 judgment affirmed Jonathan’s eligibility to contest the 2015 election.

The appellate court held that the 2010 oath merely completed Yar’Adua’s tenure and did not count as an election.

Justice Abubakar Yahaya, who delivered the lead judgment, said: ‘Disqualification is through election, not oath-taking. When a Vice President succeeds a President who dies, that cannot be deemed an election.’

Mimiko denies leading Jonathan’s 2027 consultations

Former Ondo State Governor Dr. Olusegun Mimiko has denied reports claiming he was appointed to lead Jonathan’s 2027 presidential consultation team in the Southwest.

It was alleged that Mimiko was recommended by former Osun State governor and African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain, Rauf Aregbesola, to head the consultations.

But in a statement by his media aide, Eniola Akinsola, Mimiko dismissed the report as ‘falsehood’ and ‘a concocted rumour dressed in news.’

He said he had not been contacted for any campaign assignment and was not seeking such a role.

‘The falsehood in the report is obvious from the get-go,’ the statement said.

‘Mimiko respects former President Jonathan but has neither been reached nor appointed for any campaign that remains the subject of speculation. He is not job-hunting to lead any campaign.’

The statement added that as political activities gather pace ahead of 2027, such stories will become common, particularly about political figures who have chosen to remain low-profile for now.

Last week, former Minister of Information and PDP stalwart Prof. Jerry Gana claimed that Jonathan would contest the 2027 election on the PDP platform, saying Nigerians were yearning for his return.

But presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga dismissed Gana’s claim as ‘an absurdity,’ warning Jonathan to beware of politicians trying to lure him into the race for selfish reasons.

‘Politicians of Jerry Gana’s ilk merely want to lure him into the race to satisfy their personal, political, and ethnic interests. They will abandon him midstream, as they did in 2015,’ Onanuga said.

FIFA U20 WC: Zubairu issues battle cry for stiff test against Argentina

Coach Aliyu Zubairu has commended Flying Eagles for their resilience and tactical discipline following their dramatic comeback 1-1 draw against Colombia to book their Round of 16 ticket at the ongoing FIFA World Cup in Chile.

The Flying Eagles displayed character after trailing by a goal in the 51st minute when Kener Gonzalez swept the ball in off an assist by Neyser Villareal but bounced four minutes left with a vital equaliser from the spot by captain Daniel Bameyi .

‘We knew Colombia were a physically fit side, but we trusted our plan,’ Zubairu said in his post-match analysis. ‘In the second half, we denied them passing opportunities, which gave us an edge and led to the penalty we converted. The boys showed great spirit, fought hard, and deserved the result.’

Zubairu credited the team’s collective mind set and commitment as their biggest weapon heading into the knockout stages with a date against six-time youth champions Argentina in Santiago on Tuesday with kickoff scheduled for 8:30 p.m. local time(12:30am Nigerian time on Wednesday)

‘We’re not afraid of Argentina. It won’t be easy, but this team has heart, hunger, and belief. We’ll give everything to make Nigeria proud,’ he said confidently.

Meanwhile, AS Trencin striker Suleiman Sanni, who has been one of Nigeria’s standout performers in the group stage, will miss the Argentina clash due to yellow-card accumulation. Despite the setback, Sanni voiced full faith in his teammates’ ability to rise to the challenge.

‘Of course, I’m sad I won’t play the next match, but I trust my brothers. We’ve come too far to stop now,’ Sanni said. ‘These boys have fire in them – we fight for each other, and that’s what makes us strong.’

Reflecting on their journey so far, Sanni praised his coach and teammates for their determination and togetherness.

‘We have no fear. We respect every opponent, but we play with confidence. The coach told us to stay calm and believe in our plan – and it worked perfectly,’ he added.

Even from the sidelines, Sanni vowed to continue being a source of motivation.

‘I’ll cheer louder than anyone. I believe in this team. We’re ready for Argentina, and we’ll give everything to keep our dream alive,’ he said passionately.

With unity, belief, and momentum on their side, Nigeria’s Flying Eagles march into their next challenge – fully aware that discipline and teamwork could be the keys to another famous victory.

ALL THE SECOND ROUND FIXTURES

07-10-2025: Chile vs Mexico – Valparaiso ; Ukraine vs Spain – Valparaiso

08-10-2025: Argentina vs Nigeria – Santiago ; Colombia vs South Africa – Talca; Paraguay vs Norway – Talca; Japan vs France – Santiago

09-10-2025: USA vs Italy – Rancagua ; Morocco vs South Korea – Rancagua

Camera, stage lighting hub to enhance work of creatives

New platform, Camera Hubs, is set to launch Africa’s marketplace for cameras, audio equipment, broadcasting gear, and stage lighting, on December 1.

The lead; Eugin Joachin, businessman with 20 years of experience in photographic equipment, said the inspiration came from decades of watching creatives struggle.

‘I have seen photographers cry after discovering they bought fake gear or find it difficult to get what they want. I have seen churches spend months trying to bring in basic microphones, Trusses, stage lights and other equipment. I have seen middlemen inflate prices. CameraHubs is the big break Africa’s creatives have been waiting for,’ he said.

He said the target audience are photographers, cinematographers, content creators, churches, clubs, broadcasters, and entertainers, adding creatives don’t just need equipment; they need guidance, inspiration, and opportunities.

‘The platform will connect buyers to different distributors, retailers and manufacturers Buyers can browse multiple shops, compare prices, and choose what suits them, ,’ he said in Lagos.

‘This is not just another online store. It is a hub where industry players, manufacturers, retailers, and professionals come together in one space. If you are a photographer a filmmaker , club owners , churches you will find exactly what you need without stress,’ he added.