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The Executive Director of Sports Development and Operations at the Edo State Sports Commission, Mrs Sabina Chikere, has commended the President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s effort towards transforming sports with the creation of the National Sports Commission, (NSC).

The top Edo State sports official, emphasized that the growth in Nigeria’s sporting firmament could not have been possible without the Renewed Hope agenda of the President, adding that the leadership of the NSC under Mallam Shehu Dikko and Director General, Honourable Bukola Olopade, has helped in accelerating process.

Mrs. Chikere also commended on President Tinubu, on the creation of the National Institute for Sports, (NIS), led by the former Deputy Governor of Edo State, Director General, Comrade Philip Shaibu.

‘The appointment of the former deputy governor Comrade Philip Shaibu as the Director General of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), is another master stroke by Mr. President. As you know, the NIS is embarking on training the trainers who in turn will train our future world champions,'[i] she said in an interview with First ZealMediaCast Blog.

Mrs. Sabina Chikere, strongly believes that this move by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the drive by the NIS Director General will help the sports economy of Nigeria to blossom.

She further explained that the reward system put together by President Tinubu for outstanding athletes who bring laurels to the country has been a major boost for Nigeria athletes, adding the nation’s foremost citizen must intensify in his efforts to take sports to greater heights.

Meanwhile, Mrs. Chikere is also full of praises Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, for his unfaltering and unending support towards development in the state.

She stressed that since the assumption of office by Governor Okpebholo, the Edo State Sports Commission under Honourable Amadin Enabulele, has been fully funded.

Mrs. Chikere went on to highlight the strong bond in the State’s sports Commission, stating that it’s the reason behind the successful administration of sports in the ‘Heartbeat of the Nation’ as Edo is fondly called.

She listed some key sporting development already put in place by Govern Okpebholo which includes: setting up of the Sports Association board ;funding of the National Sports Festival and National Youth Games as well as the plans to establish a mini stadium in all 18 Local Government Areas.

Big Brother Naija (BBNaija) has evolved into a cultural juggernaut, driven not just by its contestants but by the fervent fanbases that propel them to stardom.

These dedicated supporters go beyond passive viewership, orchestrating voting campaigns, generating viral content, igniting trends, and shaping public discourse both online and offline.

Some fanbases have also turned housemates into enduring cultural figures, extending their influence long after the show ends.

1. Efe – Efenation

Season 2’s Efe, the charismatic Warri native, won hearts with his ‘Based on Logistics’ catchphrase. Efenation, coined in Week 1, became the dominant fanbase, overshadowing the smaller Efemily group. They organized street rallies in Abuja, dominated finale trends, and secured Efe’s 57.61% victory. Their support also kickstarted his brief music career, setting a standard for grassroots fan mobilization.

2. Miracle – Miracle Fans

Miracle’s pilot charm and versatility fueled his fanbase, #MiracleLegends. Their strategic hashtag campaigns, like #MiracleThePilot, drove his 38.17% win and amplified his post-show success, including aviation endorsements and media opportunities.

3. Cee-C – Spartans

The fiery Spartans kept Cee-C in the spotlight, clashing with rival Alexians. Their loyalty endured beyond the show, reportedly gifting her a house in 2023, proving fanbases can sustain a contestant’s brand for years.

4. Tacha – Titans

Titans tirelessly voted for Tacha during her embattled Pepper Dem season. After her eviction, they raised millions through GoFundMe and fiercely defended her online, cementing her influencer career and showcasing long-term fan devotion.

5. Mercy Eke – Mercenaries

Mercenaries powered Mercy Eke to victory in Pepper Dem (2019) and a runner-up spot in All Stars (2023). They fueled the #Merike ship, reportedly gifting her an SUV and funding trips, establishing a gold standard for fan loyalty and strategy.

6. Laycon – Icons

Icons transformed Laycon’s underdog story in Lockdown into a cultural wave. They set up physical voting stations with free Wi-Fi, securing a record-breaking 60% of final votes. Their efforts turned songs like Fierce into hits, showing how fans can drive lasting industry success.

7. Erica – Elites

Despite Erica’s disqualification, Elites sustained her relevance through campaigns and memes, fueling rivalries and bolstering her acting and social media career, highlighting fan resilience amid controversy.

8. White Money – Whitemoney Gang

Whitemoney Gang rallied behind White Money’s culinary flair and humor in Shine Ya Eye, ensuring his safety from eviction and boosting his online presence. They continue to promote his music and appearances.

9. Liquorose – Lions/LiquoLions

Initially drawn to her dance skills, Lions elevated Liquorose to diva status, maintaining her public profile long after the show.

10. Phyna – Phynation

Phynation’s support for Phyna’s raw energy and authenticity led to her Level Up win. Their backing continues to fuel her endorsements, reflecting the power of street-savvy fanbases.

11. Wanni x Handi – EnergySquad

EnergySquad rallied behind the energetic twin DJs Wanni and Handi in the No Loose Guard season, drawn to their high-energy performances, DJ skills, and vibrant personalities. They dominated social media trends with hashtags like #WannixHandi and #EnergySquad, mobilising votes and creating memes that kept the duo in the spotlight, helping Wanni reach runner-up.

12. Kellyrae and Kassia – DoubleKay

DoubleKay fans championed the married couple Kellyrae and Kassia in No Loose Guard, celebrating their strategic gameplay, love story, and resilience. Through coordinated voting and management-directed campaigns prioritising Kellyrae’s win, they ensured high poll performances and propelled him to victory with 35.95% of votes.

13. Imisi – Imistars (Ijoba 606)

Imistars are ruling Season 10 with their love for Imisi’s wit and unique style. Active across X, Facebook, and TikTok, they’ve boosted her Instagram following to hundreds of thousands, driving real-time voting and engagement.

14. Koyin – Koyinator

Koyinator’s humor, memes, and relentless engagement keep Koyin trending, elevating his fashion and modeling career while proving fanbases remain pivotal in shaping BBNaija narratives.

15. Dede – Devass

Devass, the dedicated supporters of Dede (Precious Ashiogwu) in Season 10, have rallied with intense energy, dominating trends and polls.

These fanbases are more than just supporters, they are cultural forces, mobilising votes, creating viral moments, and driving conversations.

As BBNaija captivates Nigeria and its diaspora, these groups continue to shape its enduring legacy.

Chelsea captain Reece James makes his long-awaited return to the starting XI and is expected to feature in midfield as the Blues host Liverpool at Stamford Bridge. Moises Caicedo retains his ever-present record in the Premier League this season, while Pedro Neto, Enzo Fernández, and Alejandro Garnacho also start.

João Pedro leads the line once again for Mauricio Pochettino’s side, while academy defender Landon Emenalo earns a place on the bench alongside Romeo Lavia, who continues his comeback from injury.

Chelsea Starting XI: Robert Sánchez; Malo Gusto, Bashiru Acheampong, Benoît Badiashile, Marc Cucurella; Reece James (c), Moisés Caicedo; Pedro Neto, Enzo Fernández, Alejandro Garnacho; João Pedro.

Substitutes: Lucas Bergström Jorgensen, Gabriel Slonina, Jorrel Hato, Landon Emenalo, Romeo Lavia, Facundo Buonanotte, Jamie Gittens, Estevão Willian, Marc Guiu.

For Liverpool, Giorgi Mamardashvili starts in goal behind a backline of Conor Bradley, Ibrahima Konaté, Virgil van Dijk, and Milos Kerkez. The midfield trio consists of Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister, and Dominik Szoboszlai, while Mohamed Salah, Alexander Isak, and Cody Gakpo form the attacking trio.

Liverpool Starting XI: Giorgi Mamardashvili; Conor Bradley, Ibrahima Konaté, Virgil van Dijk, Milos Kerkez; Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai; Mohamed Salah, Alexander Isak, Cody Gakpo.

Substitutes: Freddie Woodman, Jeremie Frimpong, Joe Gomez, Andrew Robertson, Wataru Endo, Florian Wirtz, Curtis Jones, Federico Chiesa, Hugo Ekitike.

Controversial comedian and reality TV star DeeOne has completed a Guinness World Record (GWR) attempt for the longest stand-up comedy performance by an individual.

According to organisers, the comedian began the 52-hour marathon at midnight on October 2 and wrapped it up on Saturday, October 4, 2025.

The event, which held at Pallazzo, Ikeja, Lagos, drew a large turnout of supporters and industry colleagues.

Speaking after the record-breaking effort, DeeOne explained that his motivation was to inspire young Nigerians and dreamers everywhere.

‘No goal is too high to achieve,’ he said.

several Nigerian celebrities, including Pamilerin, Acapella, FunnyBone, Uche Maduagwu, Husband Material, EmmaOhMaGod, K-Solo, Constance Owoyemi, Akinolu Jekins, and Gbenga Adeyinka the 1st attended the event.

The attempt has been submitted to Guinness World Records for official verification.

Gospel singer Moses Bliss has expressed disappointment over his recent cancelled visit to Tanzania, which was scheduled for Friday, October 3, 2025.

Bliss was billed to perform at a concert in Tanzania, which drew over 60,000 people.

In a statement on Instagram, he said despite weeks of preparation and assurance from the organising team that his team’s visas were in order, they were denied entry into the country at the last minute.

However, due to the visa issues, the concert was ultimately cancelled.

Moses Bliss apologised to the Tanzanian fans, pointing that the delay was not their fault and expressed gratitude for their love and patience.

The singer revealed that his team had invested significant time, energy, and resources into the concert, which was meant to be free for everyone.

He promised to reschedule the concert, reinstating God’s promise to make all things beautiful in His time.

The statement reads: ‘I have been overwhelmed with emotions since hearing that over maybe 60,000 of you gathered last night with eager hearts, ready to worship Jesus together with me. The thought that such a great multitude came out for this encounter with God leaves me humbled and broken, knowing I could not be there physically as planned.

‘I want you to hear the truth directly from me. My team and I were scheduled to fly from Nairobi into Tanzania on the 2nd of October after a successful program in the stadium in Kenya. Bags were packed, instruments ready, and our hearts burning with anticipation. But at the airport, to our deepest shock, we discovered that our visas had not been released, despite weeks of assurance from the organizing team in Tanzania that the approvals were already in place.

‘From that moment, we did not relent. We mobilized every contact possible, leaders across Tanzania, friends across Africa, and even sought Presidential intervention. We were told, time after time, that the visas had been ‘approved,’ only for another excuse to follow: that the officer in charge of issuing them was not on seat, or that emails had not been sent yet. For two days straight, I remained at the airport, waiting in faith, hoping that at any moment the approvals would come and we travel. But each hour ended with disappointment.

‘We were even instructed to proceed with our flight and assured that the visas would be granted on arrival. Trusting those words, we boarded and landed in Dar es Salaam at midnight, while the program was already ongoing. To our deepest pain, immigration did not permit us entry into the nation.

‘This was not just painful for me personally, it was heartbreaking for my entire team, who had invested their energy, prayers, and preparation into this divine assignment. Beyond that, hundreds of thousands of dollars were

invested to make this concert absolutely free for everyone, because our hearts was to see the whole nation worship without barrier.

‘Tanzania, please hear me, you were not at fault. You came out in numbers, ready for God, and that moves me deeply. I have cried, prayed, and wrestled with this disappointment, but one thing I know, our God makes all things beautiful in His time.

‘I owe you not just an apology, but a promise; by God’s grace, I will return. This setback will only pave the way for an even greater outpouring of His glory when we finally gather in Tanzania.

‘From my heart to yours, I say thank you for your patience, your love, and your unwavering faith. The delay may hurt, but it will not deny us the encounter God has destined’.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Saturday reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fairness among Nigeria’s diverse religious communities, pledging to unite the country under a shared vision of peace and prosperity.

Speaking at the headquarters of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) in Jos, Plateau State, Tinubu told Christian leaders from Northern Nigeria that his government is dedicated to ensuring justice and inclusivity for all citizens regardless of faith.

According to a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President said: ‘I have a mission to unite this country, ensure its prosperity, and we are making progress’.

He urged clerics to have faith in his leadership, adding that religious harmony remains essential to national stability.

‘As leaders, we have the responsibility to manage religious issues for the benefit of all,’ he added.

Tinubu also assured the gathering that his administration is determined to end insecurity and criminality.

‘We are defeating bandits, and we will defeat them. We will deal with them and combat the farmers-herders clashes,’ he declared, noting that ongoing economic reforms are being executed to benefit every Nigerian.

The President was in Jos to attend the funeral prayers for Nana Lydia Yilwatda, mother of the APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, who died at the age of 83.

Paying tribute to the late matriarch, Tinubu described her as ‘a devoted mother and humanitarian.’

‘In our family, we have a strong Muslim background, and I married a Christian, a pastor for that matter, and I have never forced her to change her religion,’ the President said, stressing his belief in mutual respect and coexistence.

He recalled his political journey through Jos during the Social Democratic Party (SDP) era and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to return as President to honour the late Mrs. Yilwatda.

Yilwatda described his late mother as a resilient woman who lived on medication for 47 years yet worked tirelessly for her family and community.

He thanked the President for attending the funeral and for the trust reposed in him as APC chairman.

Reverend Dr Amos Mohzo, President and Spiritual Leader of COCIN, lauded President Tinubu for appointing Northern Christians to key national positions, including Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, and Professor Yilwatda.

He also praised the administration’s attention to insecurity in Plateau and Benue States and appealed for more support for displaced Christian communities.

Mohzo pledged the Church’s support for the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda and his efforts toward peace and national development.

Dignitaries at the event included Senate President Godswill Akpabio; Chairman, Nigeria Governors’ Forum, AbdulRazaq AbdulRahman; National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu; Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume.

Others were former SGF Boss Mustapha, former governors Tanko Al-Makura, Adamu Mu’azu, Fidelis Tapgun, Yahaya Bello, and Rochas Okorocha, as well as lawmakers, ministers, and members of the APC National Working Committee.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has refuted media reports claiming he accused the late former President Muhammadu Buhari of having ties with Boko Haram, describing the allegations as ‘false and misleading.’

In a statement on Saturday by his media aide, Ikechukwu Eze, Jonathan clarified that his recent remarks at the launch of Scars – a book written by former Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Lucky Irabor (rtd) – were taken out of context.

He explained that he merely referenced a past incident in which Boko Haram named Buhari among individuals it wanted to represent them in peace talks, noting that this was part of the group’s deceptive tactics and not an indication of any connection between Buhari and the insurgents.

‘At no time did Dr. Jonathan suggest, imply, or insinuate that President Buhari had any connection with Boko Haram or that he supported the group in any form,’ the statement reads.

‘His remarks were made to illustrate the deviousness and manipulative strategies employed by Boko Haram in their early years.’

The former president emphasised that the mention of Buhari’s name by the insurgents was one of several false claims made by factions pretending to represent Boko Haram at the time.

‘Boko Haram often invoked the names of respected public figures to sow confusion, exploit political divisions, and undermine public confidence in government,’ Eze added.

Jonathan’s office further questioned why, if Buhari was truly the group’s chosen negotiator, Boko Haram did not end its violent campaign after he became president.

‘Dr. Jonathan recognises that President Muhammadu Buhari, like every patriotic Nigerian, stood firmly against terrorism and was himself a target of Boko Haram violence,’ the statement continued.

Jonathan urged Nigerians to disregard the misrepresentation, reaffirming his continued commitment to national peace, unity, and democratic stability.

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) said 16 military officers will face a full military disciplinary process over indiscipline and breach of service regulations.

The Military High Command revealed this in a statement through the Director Defence Information, Brig -Gen. Tukur Gusau, on Saturday.

According to the statement, the officers have been arrested, while investigation is still ongoing to determine the gravity of their offences.

The statement reads: ‘Investigations have revealed that their grievances stemmed largely from perceived career stagnation caused by repeated failure in promotion examinations, among other issues.

‘Some of the apprehended officers had been under jurisdiction for various offences, either awaiting or undergoing trial. Their conduct was deemed incompatible with the standards of military service.

‘Upon completion of investigation, indicted officers will face the full military disciplinary process in accordance with established procedures to ensure accountability and preserve professionalism within the Armed Forces.’

While assuring Nigerians that the actions are strictly disciplinary in nature and part of routine efforts to maintain order, discipline, and loyalty within the ranks, the military high command said the ‘Armed Forces of Nigeria will not tolerate behaviour that undermines the integrity of the institution or threatens its constitutional role under democratic authority.’

‘The Armed Forces of Nigeria remains fully committed to its constitutional responsibilities and will remain professional at all times,’ the DHQ said.

The Premier League enters its seventh with the Chelsea and Liverpool clash the biggest fixture of the weekend’s action. All games will be broadcast live on SuperSport Premier League (GOtv Ch. 65, DStv Ch. 203).

The action kicks off today at 12:30 pm with Leeds United hosting Tottenham Hotspur. Spurs remain unbeaten and will be confident of extending their strong run, though Elland Road has often proven a tricky venue for visiting teams.

At 3:00 pm, Arsenal welcome West Ham United to the Emirates. The Gunners are chasing momentum in their title push and will see this as an opportunity to build on recent performances, while the Hammers hope to cause an upset. At the same time, Manchester United face Sunderland at Old Trafford. United will look to assert themselves against a side battling near the bottom of the table. Wolverhampton Wanderers also take on Brighton and Hove Albion in another 3:00 pm kick-off.

The standout match of the weekend follows at 5:30 pm, when Chelsea host Liverpool at Stamford Bridge. The Blues aim to steady their campaign after an inconsistent start, while Liverpool travel with attacking firepower but remain defensively vulnerable.

Tomorrow, Newcastle United welcome Nottingham Forest at 2:00 pm. Newcastle have struggled for consistency this season but will look to make home advantage count against a spirited Forest side.

Later at 4:30 pm, Brentford host champions Manchester City. Pep Guardiola’s men are strong favourites, especially after their ruthless display last weekend, though Brentford have previously proven capable of unsettling bigger opponents. Catch all the action live on SuperSport via GOtv and DStv.

Strategic partners of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) on President Federation Cup, GTI Group, have congratulated the football ruling body in the country on their successful staging of its Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in the city of Ibadan last weekend.

GTI’s Head of Media and Publicity, Andrew Ekejiuba, in a statement commended the NFF Board for the successful outcome of the AGM and thumbed up its Board led by Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau for the successes achieved so far for football development in Nigeria.

He said: ‘GTI Group congratulates the Nigeria Football Federation on the successful outcome of its Annual General Meeting held in Ibadan, which the President of NFF, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, used the occasion to demonstrate his commitment to engaging positively with football stakeholders, including state football associations, clubs and fans. His interactions with the various groups at the AGM showcased his impactful leadership and dedication to promoting Nigerian football and fostering a collaborative environment.

‘His tenure has also seen notable successes in Nigerian football, including the Super Falcons’ recent achievements and the positive growth of domestic competitions like the Nigeria Premier Football League, in which GTI Group is their strategic partner.

‘Aside the aforementioned, GTI commends Governor Seyi Makinde and the good people of Oyo State for their hospitality and great support during the NFF AGM. His Excellency used the occasion to appreciate the improvement in the quality of officiating in the Nigeria Premier Football League ably led by Otunba Gbenga Elegbeleye.

‘However, it is unfortunate that both Kwara United and Abia Warriors crashed out at the preliminary phase of the CAF Confederation Cup last weekend and this clearly shows that Nigerian clubs competing at the continental level should raise their game in order to compete favourably with better outcomes. The future is still bright for our clubs at the continental level and that is why GTI Group has been calling on Corporate Nigeria to invest more in our football as it is done in other thriving leagues elsewhere in the world.

‘To Remo Stars and Rivers United, who are flying Nigeria’s flag currently at the preliminary stage of the CAF Champions League, we encourage them to dig deep and ensure they remain committed to having a successful campaign. They should endeavour to give our soccer fans something to cheer for this season because we understand the demands of competing for trophies at the continental level could be quite enormous,’ Ekejiuba concluded.