Category: Daily Trust

The Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) has opened applications for the fourth edition of its Prize for Innovation, offering a combined prize pool of $275,000 to support startups developing solutions in manufacturing, climate and food security, and healthcare.

The authority disclosed this in a statement issued in Abuja, saying the fourth edition of the NSIA Prize for Innovation, tagged NPI 4.0, is designed to identify and support high-potential Nigerian startups through funding, entrepreneurial training, mentorship and strategic partnerships.

The NSIA spokesperson, Joyce Onyegbula, said the initiative, themed: ‘Building for Im-pact,’ would focus on businesses capable of strengthening productive capacity, im-proving healthcare delivery, enhancing food security and advancing climate resilience.

She said the programme had grown into one of Nigeria’s leading entrepreneurship de-velopment platforms.

‘Across its first three editions, the programme has attracted more than 20,000 applica-tions from startups operating within key sectors, including fintech, aggrotech, health tech, edtech, transport and logistics, among others, with participation spanning all six geopolitical zones of the country,’ Onyegbula said.

She added, ‘The success of the programme reflects the growing strength of Nigeria’s en-trepreneurial ecosystem and the determination of Nigerian innovators to build solutions that improve lives, create jobs, strengthen industries, and contribute to national devel-opment.’

According to the statement, this year’s edition carries a total prize value of $275,000, comprising $220,000 from the NSIA, $45,000 from Cascador and $10,000 from Wema Bank

Beyond the cash awards, Onyegbula said winners would have the opportunity to secure up to $1.5m in additional funding through the Pula Xcelerator programme to support business expansion.

She added that successful participants would also qualify to compete at the grand fina-le of the Wema Bank Hackaholics programme for a share of N100m in equity-free grants.

The statement noted that winners would equally participate in a fully funded programme at the Enterprise Development Centre in Lagos, where they would receive training in business strategy, leadership, governance, financial management, market expansion and investor readiness.

Commenting on the initiative, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the NSIA, Aminu Umar-Sadiq, said the authority remained committed to helping entrepre-neurs transform innovative ideas into sustainable businesses.

‘Across Nigeria, entrepreneurs are building solutions with the potential to transform in-dustries, improve livelihoods, and address some of our most pressing development challenges,’ Umar-Sadiq said.

‘Through the NSIA Prize for Innovation, we are creating opportunities for these innova-tors to access the funding, training, mentorship, and strategic partnerships they need to scale their ideas into sustainable businesses.

‘The enhancements introduced in NPI 4.0 reflect our continued commitment to support founders who are leveraging innovation to shape the future of Nigeria’s economy.’

Also speaking, the Executive Director of Cascador, Trish Thomas, said the organisation would provide $45,000 in non-dilutive funding through the Cascador Prize for Impact.

‘As part of our commitment to supporting the growth of high-potential Nigerian ven-tures, we are awarding $45,000 in non-dilutive prize funding through the Cascador Prize for Impact,’ Thomas said.

‘Cascador is proud to partner with NSIA again in 2026 to reward ground-breaking ideas that can change communities and lives for the better.’

Gunmen suspected to be bandits have killed an Imam and three other persons and abducted 12 residents an attack on Illelar Dawagware village in Goronyo Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

Residents said the attackers invaded the village around 12:20am, on Sunday, arriving on about nine motorcycles.

The assailants, estimated to be about 30 in number, reportedly operated for about 30 minutes, shooting sporadically.

A resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said villagers attempted to repel the attackers but were overpowered.

According to him, the bandits stormed the residence of the village imam, killed him and three others, before moving from house to house and abducting 12 persons.

‘They killed our imam, his neighbour and one other. They later abducted 12 people, comprising eight women and four men,’ he said.

The victims killed were identified as Mallam Liman Lawwali Na Ande, Lawwali Na Lami and Abdullahi Haruna.

Those abducted include Amiru, Hauwa, Awwalu and nine others.

The source further said Alhaji Samaila sustained a gunshot injury that fractured his hand and is currently receiving treatment at a health facility in Sokoto.

Residents also accused security operatives of failing to respond to distress calls during the attack.

‘We called security personnel in Goronyo for reinforcement and even offered to provide money for fuel, but they did not come,’ the source alleged.

He said the latest attack was the 24th recorded assault on the village.

‘They came two years ago and killed seven people from the same family inside a mosque. We had not experienced another attack until now. Just last Sunday, some displaced residents returned to the village after spending about two years away,’ he said.

Another resident who attended the burial of the imam said fear had gripped the community, adding that many villagers had resolved not to spend the night in the village again.

‘They will now sleep at the IDPs camp in Goronyo because they fear another attack,’ he said.

The residents appealed to the federal and state governments, as well as security agencies, to take urgent steps to end the recurring attacks.

Efforts to speak with the spokesperson of the Sokoto state Police Command, DSP Ahmad Rufai, remained unsuccessful as calls and text messages sent to him were not responded to as of the time of filing this report.

Daily Trust had on Wednesday reported how bandits similarly killed a chief imam and abducted nine persons in a neighborhood of village, Kuda-Kuda village of the same ward, in Goronyo Local Government Area.

The Emir of Zazzau, His Highness Ambassador Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, has advised parents to caution their children against spending lavishly on makeup and aso-ebi during their weddings.

Speaking during the 20th anniversary of Crystal Muslim Organisation (CMO) in Abuja on Sunday, the emir said the money should be used to help the needy or donated to organisations helping the poor.

He lamented that despite the economic hardship in the country, many wealthy families continued to spend lavishly on luxuries while neglecting the needs of the poor, a trend he said was contributing to the rise in social vices.

‘You will see our people spending millions of Naira for just cosmetics if a girl is getting married, and because we have some crazy parents that spend up to $10,000 for this makeup they do. Or to buy asoebi for half a million Naira, N200,000 or N300,000, which is totally unacceptable as far as I am concerned.’

‘There are so many people on the streets that cannot even feed three square meals in a day. So, this is rampant in our society. But some of us have taken stands. For me, I have never invested a dime in buying asoebi or cosmetics for girls getting married. No. If the mother chooses to do that, that’s her own cup of tea. Or if anybody wants to do it, yes, do it, but I’m not going to invest a dime in that.

‘They spend lavishly on parties that are highly unnecessary. I’m not saying that you should not celebrate, but there are things that we have to scale down. We have to tell ourselves the truth. We don’t need such things, given the current situation in the country.

‘So, I am appealing to you all to look at things that will make you better, things that will make you independent, and things that will promote unity even within the community. Because if you are living at the highest level and yet all the people around you cannot even feed three square meals, I believe there is a problem, and that is what is exposing us to dangers in our society.’

The emir also called on the need to integrate skills in western and Islamic schools’ curriculum to enable students to be independent after graduation to be able to set up small businesses from what they learn.

‘After graduating, you have to learn some skills. And where I served as a Nigerian envoy, that is in Thailand, what do they do? After you have graduated from the university, you have to learn some new skills so that after you have returned home, or you have gotten married, even if your husband decides that he does not want you to go and work in public office, from the comfort of your home, you can use your fingers and generate income for yourself, which will support the family.’

The National Amir of CMO, Alhaji Muhammad Sagir Shettima, said the event was organised to mark its 20 years of existence in propagating Islamic principles and help to the needy.

He added that the event also saw the reward of 12 students who excelled in its essay competition with various sums of prizes doled out.

He urged Muslims to give alms to support the poor, saying the organisation was already providing assistance but needed more support to reach more people.

A legal practitioner, Mrs Bunmi Aina-Craig, has warned that allowing governors to control the funding and appointments of state police personnel would trigger widespread political repression across the nation.

?Aina-Craig, the immediate past President of the National Association of Catholic Lawyers (Abuja Chapter), gave the warning in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Sunday.

?She? emphasised that vesting operational control and appointment powers in governors would automatically turn the security outfits into personal tools for harassing political opponents.

According to her, decentralised policing is a better way to tackle the nation’s security challenges.

She noted that the current mechanism being considered by the National Assembly contains dangerous structural flaws.

?’When you give a governor power to appoint and pay, you only build a personal security apparatus. He will use it to create chaos,’ she said.

?To avert crisis, Aina-Craig urged President Bola Tinubu and the National Assembly to look beyond politics and constitutionally guarantee full independence for the new security forces.

?She proposed creating an independent State Police Service Commission to handle recruitment, promotions, and discipline, effectively removing politicians from the management process.

?’The commission should comprise professional bodies like the NBA, the judiciary, civil society, and traditional rulers. It should be headed by a retired judge,’ she added.

?She emphasised that direct, independent funding from the federation account is critical because governors would always manipulate any security force they financially bankroll.

?The legal practitioner urged Nigerians to always think out of the box, noting that the 1999 Constitution must be amended to serve the people’s security interests.

The American University of Nigeria (AUN), Yola, and the Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria (MAAUN), Kano, have emerged among the Nigerian universities featured in the prestigious 2026 Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings, reaffirming the growing contribution of private universities to the advancement of higher education in the country.

A total of 24 Nigerian universities secured places in the 2026 global rankings, comprising 17 public universities and seven private universities. Among the private universities recognised were the two American-style universities-MAAUN in Kano and AUN in Yola-alongside other notable institutions including Nile University and Al-Hikmah University.

Leading the Nigerian contingent in the rankings are renowned institutions such as the University of Ibadan, University of Lagos, and Bayero University, Kano, reflecting the country’s increasing presence in global academic assessments.

For MAAUN, the achievement represents another significant milestone in just 4 years of establishment. The university’s inclusion in the Times Higher Education rankings is widely regarded as evidence of its commitment to academic excellence, research development, innovation, and the provision of quality education.

The recognition comes on the heels of the university’s impressive performance in the AD Scientific Index, where it was ranked among leading institutions in previous assessments, further underscoring its growing reputation within Nigeria’s academic landscape.

Speaking on the development, Professor Ahmed Maigari, reiterated the institution’s commitment to attaining global academic standards.

‘We are committed to learning, research, and innovation. Our goal is to make Nigeria proud by positioning MAAUN among the leading universities in the world. We have invested heavily in modern facilities and attracted highly talented scholars who continue to distinguish themselves through impactful research and quality teaching,’ he said.

Professor Maigari noted that the university’s appearance in the 2026 Times Higher Education Rankings is a testament to years of strategic investments in human capital, infrastructure, and research excellence.

‘Having recorded success in the AD Scientific Index, our inclusion in the 2026 Times Higher Education Rankings is another indication that we are moving in the right direction. We aspire to become one of the top 100 universities globally in the coming years,’ he added.

Commenting on the development, Dr. Buhari Abdullahi of the Engineering Department at the Federal University Dutsin-Ma described the emergence of MAAUN and AUN in the global rankings as a positive development for Nigeria’s education sector.

‘MAAUN is a perfect example of purposeful investment in education. The university possesses excellent learning facilities, a conducive academic environment, and scholars who are making meaningful contributions to research and knowledge dissemination. I am not surprised to see the institution earning international recognition,’ he stated.

Education stakeholders have continued to commend the increasing visibility of Nigerian private universities in global rankings, describing it as an indication that sustained investment, innovation, and a commitment to quality assurance can position Nigerian institutions competitively on the world stage.

The inclusion of MAAUN and other private universities in the 2026 Times Higher Education World University Rankings is therefore seen not only as an institutional achievement but also as a source of pride for Nigeria’s higher education sector, demonstrating that private universities are playing an increasingly vital role in driving academic excellence, research productivity, and global competitiveness.

Tragedy struck in Kogi State as a 22-year-old teacher at Brains Minds Nursery and Primary School, Ugbamaka-Igah, in Olamaboro Local Government Area, Maryam Usman, allegedly died after being assaulted by the father of one of her pupils over disciplinary action taken against the child.

The incident reportedly began on June 17, when the late teacher disciplined a pupil for misconduct in school.

During the process, the pupil allegedly fell and sustained an arm injury.

Following the incident, the pupil’s father, identified as Ishaq Abdullahi, allegedly stormed Maryam’s residence with two other individuals and assaulted her.

Sources said she was attacked again later the same day while on her way to the mosque.

According to the deceased’s brother, who spoke on condition of anonymity, Maryam was assaulted again on June 18 by additional individuals, leaving her severely injured and unconscious.

‘She was taken to a clinic and later transferred to a hospital in Okpo, but her condition continued to deteriorate. Sadly, she died on June 25, 2026, at about 5:00 a.m.,’ he said.

He called on the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure justice.

‘We believe the repeated assaults contributed to her death and we want those responsible to be brought to justice,’ he added.

A community elder, Drisu, disclosed that the deceased had family ties with the family of the disciplined pupil, noting that several meetings had been held between both families in an effort to resolve the matter.

He further revealed that, angered by Maryam’s death, members of her family allegedly invaded and vandalised the residence of the pupil’s father.

The Kogi State Police Command has confirmed the incident and said investigations were ongoing.

Responding to enquiries, the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Saliu Oyiza Afusat, said preliminary investigations showed that on June 18, 2026, Abdullahi Ishaq, accompanied by two women, went to Brains Minds Nursery and Primary School in Ugbamaka and assaulted Maryam Usman for disciplining a pupil.

‘The victim sustained serious injuries and was initially treated at a hospital in Ugbamaka before being referred to Iko-Ojo Hospital, Okpo, for further medical attention. She, however, passed away on June 25, 2026,’ the police spokesperson said.

Afusat added that police operatives visited the scene and the deceased’s residence, where necessary documentation was carried out.

‘Arrangements are ongoing to convey the corpse to the General Hospital, Ankpa, for medical examination and autopsy. The suspects fled before the arrival of the police, and efforts are ongoing to apprehend them. Upon their arrest, the case will be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for a discreet and comprehensive investigation,’ the statement added.

The Federal High Court No. 1 in Gombe has commenced hearing in a pre-election suit filed by Abdulkadir Hamma Saleh challenging the emergence of Prof. Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami as the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Gombe State.

The case came up before Justice Amina Aliyu Mohammed, who adjourned proceedings until July 9, 2026, for further mention.

Saleh is seeking the court’s intervention over the process that produced Pantami as the PDP flag bearer, alleging irregularities in the conduct of the party’s governorship nomination exercise.

Prior to approaching the court, the aggrieved aspirant had appealed to the PDP leadership to address his grievances and review the conduct of the primary election, insisting that the party should exhaust its internal dispute resolution mechanisms in the interest of fairness, unity and due process.

However, after what he described as unsuccessful efforts to obtain redress within the party, Saleh instituted legal action to challenge the outcome of the exercise.

The suit is expected to attract considerable political interest as the PDP intensifies preparations for the 2027 governorship election in Gombe State.

Justice Mohammed adjourned the matter to July 9, 2026, for continuation of proceedings.

Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen. George Akume, has condemned the killing of the Benue Chairman of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Alhaji Risku Mohammed, and his associate.

Akume, in a statement issued on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Yomi Odunuga, called for the immediate arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the killings.

The SGF described the incident as a direct attack on the peace, reconciliation and mutual trust that communities across Benue had worked hard to rebuild over the years.

He expressed concern that the killings occurred at a time when the state was recording improvements in security and peaceful coexistence among its diverse communities.

Akume warned that criminal elements must not be allowed to undermine the gains achieved through dialogue, understanding and collective sacrifice.

The SGF urged residents of the state to reject attempts to incite hatred, violence and reprisals, stressing that no individual or group should take the law into its own hands.

He maintained that sustainable development and economic prosperity could only thrive in an atmosphere of peace, tolerance and mutual respect.

The SGF extended condolences to the family of the late MACBAN chairman, the association’s leadership and members, as well as others affected by the incident.

He charged the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS) and other security agencies to conduct a thorough, transparent and painstaking investigation into the killings.

According to him, no stone should be left unturned in identifying, arresting and prosecuting all those connected with the crime.

Akume recalled that following the killings in Yelwata, he had demanded the arrest and prosecution of those responsible, noting that the suspects had since been apprehended and were standing trial.

He said security agencies must demonstrate the same determination in ensuring justice for the slain MACBAN chairman and his associate.

‘The lives of every Nigerian are sacred. Those who believe they can undermine peace through violence and murder must understand that there will be no hiding place for them.

‘Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done,’ he said.

Akume reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to tackling insecurity across the country, adding that the government had provided security and intelligence agencies with the support, resources and strategic direction required to combat criminality.

He urged residents of Benue to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information to aid ongoing investigations and continue supporting efforts to strengthen peace, security and harmonious coexistence in the state.

Where football history meets firsthand experience, tactical insight, and the enduring lessons of the beautiful game.

Match Information

2026 FIFA World Cup – Round of 32 (Knockout Stage)

Match South Africa vs. Canada

Date: Sunday, June 28, 2026

Kickoff

3:00 p.m. EDT (U.S. Eastern Time) | 12:00 noon PDT (Los Angeles) | 9:00 p.m. SAST (South Africa)

Venue: SoFi Stadium, Inglewood (Los Angeles), California, USA

What’s at Stake: The winner advances to the Round of 16 to face the winner of the Netherlands vs. Morocco Round of 32 match

South Africa has steadily grown into the tournament. After opening with a 2-0 defeat to Mexico, Bafana Bafana responded with a determined draw against Czechia before defeating South Korea to reach the Round of 32 for the first time in their World Cup history.

Canada’s journey has been equally impressive. A draw with Bosnia and Herzegovina was followed by an emphatic 6-0 victory over Qatar before a narrow loss to Switzerland. Their campaign has highlighted both their attacking quality and the discipline that has become a hallmark of modern Canadian football.

Both nations have earned their place. Now the margin between success and disappointment will be measured not over three group matches, but over ninety minutes-or more if required.

The 1984 Lesson

Some football matches end after ninety minutes. Others continue teaching us for forty-two years.

For me, one of those matches was played in China in 1984.

Nigeria faced Canada in the Great Wall Cup, and Canada won 3-1. I featured for Nigeria under the floodlights that night, and although the result disappointed us, it left me with a lesson that has endured throughout my football life: never underestimate Canadian football.

People often judge football nations by trophies and reputation. Players judge them differently.

When you share the same pitch, you discover their true identity. You feel their discipline. Their organization. Their timing. Their willingness to compete for every ball.

That was the Canada I encountered in 1984.

Today, forty-two years later, I find myself preparing to watch Canada once again-this time not as an opponent, but as a

football analyst. The players have changed. The stadiums have changed. The tactics have evolved. Yet one truth remains: Canada are never a team to take lightly.

Why This Match Matters

This contest is bigger than South Africa against Canada.

It represents two football nations that have travelled very different paths yet arrived at the same destination.

For South Africa, it is another opportunity to demonstrate how far African football has progressed tactically and mentally.

For Canada, it is further evidence that football continues to grow within a country traditionally associated with other sports.

Watching South Africa play Czechia during FIFA Legends Week in Atlanta gave me a valuable perspective. I saw a team that refused to panic when trailing. They remained organized, trusted their system, and found an equalizer through resilience rather than desperation.

Those qualities often become decisive in knockout football.

I also had the privilege of spending time with South African legend Lance Davids during FIFA Legends Week. Conversations with former players always reveal something statistics cannot: successful national teams are built long before tournaments begin. They are shaped through player development, coaching, mentorship, and belief.

South Africa are beginning to show the rewards of that process.

Why South Africa Holds the Slight Edge

I deliberately say slight because this is an evenly balanced contest.

Canada possess pace, athleticism and attacking quality. Players such as Jonathan David, Alphonso Davies, Tajon Buchanan and Stephen Eustáquio have the ability to change a match within moments.

But South Africa appear to have discovered something equally valuable.

Momentum.

Tournament football often rewards the team that improves as the competition progresses rather than the team that starts brilliantly.

Bafana Bafana have become more organized defensively, more composed in midfield and increasingly confident in transition. Their resilience against Czechia and victory over South Korea suggest a team growing stronger with every match.

That is why I believe they enter today’s contest with a narrow advantage.

Not because Canada lack quality.

Not because history favours South Africa.

But because timing favours them.

Paul’s Tactical Lens

This match will be decided in midfield.

Canada will attempt to play quickly, stretching the field through pace and direct running.

South Africa’s objective should be different.

Remain compact.

Control the central areas.

Force Canada away from dangerous transitions.

The battle between South Africa’s Teboho Mokoena and Canada’s

Stephen Eustáquio may quietly determine who controls possession and rhythm.

At the back, captain Ronwen Williams brings leadership and confidence to South Africa’s defence. His communication and decision-making have become vital to Bafana Bafana’s growing belief.

For Canada, much will depend on whether Alphonso Davies is fully fit. His speed changes the way opponents defend and gives Canada an attacking dimension few teams can comfortably contain.

Players to Watch

South Africa

Ronwen Williams – Leadership, composure and experience.

Teboho Mokoena – The midfield organiser capable of dictating the tempo.

Percy Tau – Creativity and composure under pressure.

Thapelo Maseko – Arrives with confidence after scoring the decisive goal against South Korea.

Canada

Jonathan David- Clinical in front of goal.

Alphonso Davies- Capable of transforming a game with his pace.

Tajon Buchanan – Dangerous in one-on-one situations.

Stephen Eustáquio – Canada’s midfield conductor.

My Prediction

Football has a habit of humbling predictions, and Canada possess enough quality to advance.

However, after studying both teams, reflecting on my own experience against Canada, and watching South Africa’s growth throughout this tournament, I believe Bafana Bafana have found their rhythm at precisely the right moment.

Prediction: South Africa 2 – Canada 1

Whether it is settled in ninety minutes or beyond, I expect South Africa’s momentum, defensive discipline and growing confidence to prove decisive.

Conclusion: When the Final Whistle Speaks

Whatever happens today, this match represents something larger than a place in the Round of 16.

It reminds us how football continues to evolve.

It reminds us that nations once considered outsiders now compete as equals.

It reminds us that respect remains one of football’s greatest virtues.

Forty-two years ago, I faced Canada as a Nigerian international in China.

Today, I watch another generation write its own story.

The scoreline will determine who advances.

Time will determine what we remember.

For me, the greatest lesson has never changed.

Never underestimate your opponent.

Football has a remarkable way of rewarding those who respect the game-and humbling those who do not.

Football was not my destination. It was my transportation.

It carried me from Lagos to China, from the playing field to the press box, and continues to remind me that the greatest victories are measured not only by trophies won, but by the lessons remembered.

More than four decades after making my senior international debut against Morocco, I watched the Atlas Lions once again-this time from the stands-as football reminded me why memories outlive matches

Some football matches entertain.

Others stay with you forever.

On June 24, 2026, inside Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, I experienced one of those unforgettable moments-not simply because Morocco defeated Haiti 4-2 in an exciting FIFA World Cup Group C encounter, but because it completed a journey that began more than forty years earlier.

Football has an incredible way of connecting generations.

It can take you back to places you never imagined revisiting-not physically, but emotionally.

As more than 68,239 spectators filled Mercedes-Benz Stadium, I wasn’t simply watching Morocco play Haiti.

I was reliving a chapter of my own football story. My first senior international match for Nigeria came against Morocco in Rabat on August 28, 1983.

That evening changed my football career.

Forty-three years later, I found myself watching Morocco again-no longer wearing Nigeria’s green, white jersey, but sitting among thousands of passionate Moroccan and Haitian supporters as a former international player, football analyst, and FIFA Legend honoree.

Football had come full circle.

Great football is not defined only by who wins.

It is defined by resilience, courage, composure under pressure, and the ability to respond when adversity strikes.

Morocco demonstrated why experienced tournament teams survive difficult moments.

Haiti demonstrated why respect in football is earned, not given.

Sometimes football’s greatest victory is not lifting a trophy-it is completing a journey that began decades earlier. Champions are not those who never fall behind. Champions are those who know how to respond when they do.

A Match Nobody Expected

Many expected Morocco to dominate comfortably.

Instead, Haiti shocked almost everyone inside the stadium.

Just ten minutes into the match, Haiti stunned the Atlas Lions by taking the lead.

The stadium suddenly became very quiet.

Morocco responded through Achraf Hakimi to make it 1-1.

Then Haiti struck again before halftime.

Once again, the underdogs were in front.

At that moment, you could sense genuine belief among the Haitian supporters.

Then came one of the biggest moments of the evening.

Deep into first-half stoppage time, Morocco equalized to make it 2-2 before halftime.

That goal completely changed the emotional direction of the match.

Experience Eventually Won

The second half revealed why Morocco has become one of Africa’s premier football nations.

They remained patient.

They trusted their system.

They increased the pressure.

They controlled possession.

They forced Haiti deeper and deeper into its own half.

Eventually, the breakthrough came.

Morocco scored twice in the final stages to secure a deserved 4-2 victory and book their place in the Round of 32.

The scoreline reflected Morocco’s quality.

The performance reflected their maturity.

The Statistics Tell Morocco’s Story

The numbers confirmed what many of us witnessed from the stands: Morocco’s superiority eventually prevailed, even after twice falling behind.

The Atlas Lions finished with a commanding statistical advantage over Haiti:

Nearly 70% possession, compared with Haiti’s 30%.

19 total shots, compared with Haiti’s 7.

12 shots on target, forcing Haiti’s goalkeeper into repeated action.

9 corner kicks, reflecting Morocco’s sustained attacking pressure.

More than 90% passing accuracy, demonstrating composure and control throughout the match.

Those statistics illustrate why Morocco ultimately overturned a two-goal deficit. They remained patient, controlled possession, created significantly more chances, and never abandoned their attacking philosophy.

But statistics alone do not tell the whole story.

They cannot measure Haiti’s courage.

They cannot measure the belief of a team that twice stunned one of Africa’s strongest nations.

And they cannot capture the emotion inside a sold-out stadium of 68,239 fans witnessing a thrilling six-goal World Cup contest.

Football is played with tactics and statistics.

It is remembered through passion, resilience, and unforgettable moments.

Haiti Lost the Match-but Won Respect

If anyone left the stadium believing Haiti did not belong at the World Cup, they were watching a different match.

This was Haiti’s return to the world’s biggest football stage after more than five decades.

They showed courage.

They showed organization.

They showed attacking ambition.

Most importantly, they showed absolutely no fear.

Twice they led one of Africa’s strongest national teams.

Twice they forced Morocco to respond.

That is not the performance of a team merely happy to participate.

That is the performance of a nation determined to compete.

For a country facing enormous economic and social challenges, Haiti gave its people something priceless-hope.

An African Supporting Africa

One moment during the match made me smile.

Surrounded by Moroccan supporters and Haitian supporters, I wondered if some Haitian fans were asking themselves:

‘Why is he supporting Morocco?’

The answer was simple.

Morocco is African.

I am African.

My loyalty, on this occasion, was with my continent.

Supporting Morocco did not diminish my admiration for Haiti’s remarkable performance.

It simply reflected a lifelong belief that African football continues to grow stronger when its representatives succeed on the world’s biggest stage.

A Sell-Out Crowd, a Personal Statement, and the Spirit of the World Cup

One of the most memorable moments of the evening was not only what happened on the pitch, but what unfolded in the stands.

The FIFA World Cup Group C match between Morocco and Haiti on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, attracted an announced sell-out crowd of 68,239 spectators at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Every seat was occupied as Moroccan and Haitian supporters transformed the stadium into a vibrant celebration of football. The colors, songs, flags, drums, and chants created the kind of atmosphere that only the FIFA World Cup can produce.

Amid that incredible sea of supporters, my own attire told a story.

I intentionally dressed in Morocco’s national colors-a green ‘FÚTBOL’ (Spanish for ‘Football’) shirt with the slogan ‘¡Olé, Olé, Olé!’, a red ATLANTA cap bearing my name, ‘Lucky,’ on the brim, and red shoes. Standing alongside a family of Moroccan nationals, I proudly joined them in holding the Moroccan flag-a moment that perfectly captured the unity, friendship, and shared passion that make the FIFA World Cup unlike any other sporting event.

Some may have wondered why a former Nigerian international was dressed in Morocco’s colors.

For me, the answer was simple.

The flag was Moroccan.

The pride was African

When Morocco played, Africa played.

And as an African, I proudly stood with my continent.

That support did not diminish my admiration for Haiti. Quite the opposite. Haiti earned my deepest respect. They twice stunned one of Africa’s strongest teams, scored their first World Cup goals in fifty-two years, and demonstrated courage, resilience, and belief throughout the match.

They may have lost 4-2, but they left the stadium having earned the respect of football fans around the world.

Looking back, I realized that my attire represented much more than colors.

Across the front of my red cap was the word ATLANTA, proudly identifying the host city of this unforgettable World Cup experience. On the visor (brim) of the cap was my name, ‘Lucky,’ a reminder of the remarkable football journey that had brought me from my senior international debut against Morocco in Rabat in 1983 to watching Morocco once again at the FIFA World Cup in Atlanta in 2026.

My green ‘FÚTBOL’ (Spanish for ‘Football’) shirt, emblazoned with the familiar chant ‘¡Olé, Olé, Olé!’, celebrated the universal language of the beautiful game. Standing alongside a family of Moroccan nationals and holding the Moroccan flag, I experienced firsthand how football transcends borders, cultures, languages, and generations.

Forty-three years earlier, Morocco had been my opponent when I made my senior international debut for Nigeria in Rabat.

On this evening in Atlanta, Morocco once again became part of my football story.

That is the beauty of the FIFA World Cup.

It is more than a tournament.

It is where memories are made, friendships are formed, and football reminds us that, despite our different flags, we all speak the same language when the whistle blows.

Africa’s Rising Voice on the World Stage

One of my greatest takeaways from this FIFA World Cup has been the continued rise of African football.

Watching teams such as Morocco, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, South Africa, and Senegal compete has reinforced my belief that African football is continuing to narrow the gap with the traditional powers of Europe and South America. Every tournament brings new evidence that African teams are no longer content simply to participate-they arrive expecting to compete, to challenge, and to win.

That progress fills me with pride.

Throughout FIFA Legends Week, however, one question followed me almost everywhere I went.

‘Paul, what happened to Nigeria?’

I heard it from football people, supporters, and friends from different countries.

Some told me, The World Cup doesn’t feel quite the same without Nigeria.’

Others spoke about the excitement, flair, and unmistakable green jerseys that have become part of World Cup history.

As a former Super Eagles international, I understood exactly what they meant.

Nigeria has long been one of Africa’s great football ambassadors. Its flair, passion, vibrant supporters, and iconic green jersey have enriched the FIFA World Cup for generations.

That is why our absence is felt-not only by Nigerians, but by football lovers around the world.

My hope is that the Super Eagles will soon return to where they belong: competing on football’s biggest stage and inspiring another generation of players and supporters.

African football is rising.

Nigeria should be helping lead that rise.

An Empty Seat at Africa’s Table

As I celebrated Morocco’s victory, one thought quietly stayed with me throughout the evening.

I wished Nigeria had been there.

As a former Nigerian international, there is no greater feeling than seeing your country’s flag flying at the FIFA World Cup.

Instead, I found myself proudly supporting another African nation.

That is not how it should be.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup expanded to 48 teams, giving Africa its greatest opportunity ever, with 10 qualification places available. Yet Nigeria, one of the continent’s traditional football powers, was absent for the second consecutive World Cup.

That reality should not divide us.

It should inspire us.

Nigeria has never lacked talent.

What every successful football nation needs is stability, long-term planning, sound leadership, and the patience to build a lasting football culture.

Watching Morocco and Haiti compete before 68,239 passionate supporters reminded me what is possible when vision is matched by preparation.

My hope is that the Super Eagles will return where they belong-on football’s biggest stage.

Because the FIFA World Cup feels richer when Nigeria is part of its story.

And I look forward to the day when I will once again wear Nigeria’s green with the same pride I felt watching African football shine in Atlanta.

From Rabat to Atlanta

Watching Morocco brought back memories that have remained vivid for more than four decades.

In 1983, after Nigeria’s senior team drew Morocco in Benin City in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier, three Flying Eagles players-Paul Okoku, Chibuzor Ehilegbu, and Isa Shofoluwe-were unexpectedly called into the Green Eagles squad for the decisive return leg in Rabat.

The instruction was brief:

‘Get your passports.’

Within days, we travelled through Lagos and Madrid before arriving in Morocco, where all three of us played the full match as Nigeria advanced on penalties.

That experience forever connected my football journey with Morocco. More than four decades later, it was fitting to watch the Atlas Lions once again-this time from the stands-as they fought back to defeat Haiti in another memorable World Cup contest.

Football’s Enduring Gift

One of football’s greatest gifts is its ability to connect generations.

A match played decades ago can suddenly come alive through another match on the world’s biggest stage.

As I left Mercedes-Benz Stadium, I realized I had witnessed more than Morocco’s 4-2 victory over Haiti.

I had witnessed football completing a circle that began in Rabat in 1983 and continued in Atlanta in 2026.

That is why football is more than a game.

It is a lifelong journey of memories, friendships, and moments that never truly fade.

What This Match Teaches

Morocco’s victory reminds us that experience matters.

Haiti’s performance reminds us that courage matters just as much.

One team advanced.

The other earned worldwide respect.

Both left the field with their reputations enhanced.

That is what makes the FIFA World Cup unique.

Lessons for Football’s Next Generation

Football federations, coaches, and young players should study matches like this-not simply because of the final score, but because of the lessons it offers.

Winning matters.

But resilience, preparation, tactical discipline, belief, and composure under pressure matter even more.

Morocco showed why experienced teams survive difficult moments.

Haiti showed why courage and self-belief can earn respect, even in defeat.

Those qualities build champions long before trophies are lifted.

Investing in the Future of the Beautiful Game

The Morocco-Haiti encounter reinforced an important truth: football continues to grow stronger when more nations are given the opportunity to compete and develop.

African football must continue investing in youth development, coaching education, sports science, modern infrastructure, and international exposure if it is to produce even more teams capable of challenging the world’s best.

Likewise, emerging football nations such as Haiti should view this tournament as proof that sustained investment, sound leadership, and long-term planning can narrow the gap with traditional football powers.

The future of world football will be stronger when every nation believes it belongs-and has the opportunity to prove it.

More Than a Match

As the crowd slowly departed Mercedes-Benz Stadium, one thing was unmistakable.

This had been far more than a football match.

Morocco demonstrated the resilience and composure required to succeed at the highest level.

Haiti demonstrated that courage, belief, and determination can earn the admiration of the football world, even in defeat.

For more than 68,000 supporters, the evening was a celebration of competition, respect, and the unifying power of the beautiful game.

The FIFA World Cup continues to remind us that football is more than ninety minutes of action.

It is where nations meet.

Cultures connect.

Friendships are formed.

History is remembered.

And new memories are created.

Matches end.

Memories endure.

The journey of football continues

Football was not my destination. It was my transportation. It continues to take me places I never imagined