Sports
Niger Delta Sports Festival Registration Gets One-Week Extension
Slight adjustments have been made to the programs leading up to the maiden edition of the Niger Delta Sports Festival (NDSF) with the deadline for registration extended from February 28 to March 7.
Biztellers reports that this was part of Tuesday morning’s daily briefing to members of the Technical Committee and States Liaison Committees by the Co-Chairman of the Technical Committee, Enefiok Udo-Obong.
He attributed the extension to a surge in requests from states that have been affected by the zonal qualifiers of the National Sports Festival (NSF).
ALSO READ: Ramadan: Dangote Refinery Slashes Petrol Price To N825/Litre
“Dear Gentlemen and ladies, due to the request of a lot of States and the participation of States at the zonal eliminations for NSF, we have decided to make some changes to our calendar.
“Registration would now be extended by a week and would close on the 7th March 2025”, Udo-Obong stated.
The shift has in turn meant that the dates for the Local Government and Constituency trials would also be adjusted.
Udo-Obong informed State Liaison Committee members that they would be provided names of registered persons in their state and the Sports entered for on March 9, 2025.
“Consequently, all Federal Constituency/LG trials would take place between the March11-15 2025”, he added.
However, it was gathered that the adjustments would not affect the festival schedule, assuring that “We are still within our schedule to start the trials and open the festival on April 1, 2025”.
The NDSF is the first Sports related intervention project of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and it coincides with the commission’s 25th anniversary with the theme, “Beyond Oil, Harnessing Talents”.
Over 3000 athletes competing for medals in 17 sports are expected from the nine NDDC mandate states.
Sports
‘I Play Like Mahrez’ – Brighton’s Nigerian Wonderkid Yohanna Sends Message to Premier League Fans
New Brighton & Hove Albion signing Zadok Yohanna has revealed that he models his game after Algerian star Riyad Mahrez, while naming Lionel Messi and Michael Olise as his favourite footballers.
The 18-year-old Nigerian midfielder recently completed a high-profile move from Swedish side AIK Stockholm to Brighton in a deal reportedly worth €28 million, with an additional €2 million in performance-related bonuses.
ALSO READ: Chaos In Kolkata As Fans React To Messi’s Sudden Exit
Speaking about the players who inspire him, Yohanna said Messi remains his all-time favourite, while Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise is currently one of the players he enjoys watching the most.
“My favourite player is Lionel Messi and I think right now I like Michael Olise. I also play like Riyad Mahrez,” Yohanna said.
The former Ikon Allah FA player has earned recognition for his flair, dribbling ability and creativity, qualities that have led many to compare his style to that of the former Manchester City winger.
According to the teenager, the comparison with Mahrez is one he has heard repeatedly from his former teammates in Nigeria.
“My teammates in Nigeria call me Riyad Mahrez; they say I dribble and play like him rather than Lamine Yamal or Olise,” he added.
Mahrez is widely regarded as one of Africa’s greatest footballers, having won the Premier League title with Leicester City before enjoying a trophy-laden spell at Manchester City under Pep Guardiola.
Yohanna’s admiration for Olise also reflects his preference for inventive attacking players.
The French international enjoyed an impressive campaign with Bayern Munich last season and is considered one of Europe’s brightest young talents.
Brighton moved quickly to secure Yohanna’s signature following his breakthrough season in Sweden, where he emerged as one of AIK Stockholm’s standout performers.
The transfer reportedly made him the most expensive player ever sold by a Swedish club.
The Nigerian youngster has signed a five-year contract with the Seagulls and is expected to begin preparations for his first Premier League campaign ahead of the new season.
With comparisons to Mahrez and inspiration drawn from Messi and Olise, Yohanna will be hoping to make a similar impact as he embarks on the next chapter of his promising career in England.
World football governing body FIFA is facing growing scrutiny after authorities in the United States opened an investigation into allegations of ticket pricing exploitation ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The probe, announced by officials in New York and New Jersey, will examine whether FIFA engaged in unfair pricing strategies, including alleged “impossibly high” ticket costs, misleading seat allocations, and dynamic pricing models that push prices higher as demand increases.
According to prosecutors, the investigation aims to determine whether fans were unfairly treated during the ticket sales process or misled about what they were purchasing.
ALSO READ: Global Alarm: Amnesty Raises Red Flag Over 2026 World Cup Safety
New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport described the ticketing system as confusing and exploitative, saying it has turned access to World Cup matches into what she called a “gauntlet of confusion and fake scarcity.”
Her New York counterpart, Letitia James, also expressed concern over rising ticket prices and accessibility, stressing that football supporters deserve transparency and fairness in the sales process.
The controversy has intensified ahead of the tournament kickoff on June 11 across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, with the final scheduled to be held at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 19.
Beyond ticket prices, fans have also raised concerns about additional match-day costs, including expensive transportation and parking fees, further increasing the financial burden of attending games.
The investigation adds to mounting pressure on FIFA as global criticism grows over the commercialisation of major football tournaments and the affordability of attending matches for ordinary supporters.
Authorities in other US states have also reportedly raised concerns, suggesting the issue could be more widespread across the tournament’s hosting arrangements.
Strategic partners to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), GTI Asset Management and Trust Limited, have joined millions of football fans across Nigeria and the diaspora in congratulating Rangers International FC of Enugu for emerging champions of the 2025/2026 NPFL season.
In a statement issued on Monday, GTI’s Head of Media and Publicity, Andrew Ekejiuba, praised the Flying Antelopes for securing their ninth league title, describing the achievement as a reflection of resilience, consistency, and the club’s rich football heritage.
He also commended the NPFL Board led by Otunba Gbenga Elegbeleye for its sustained efforts in repositioning Nigerian football through the creation of a more competitive and commercially attractive league structure capable of restoring fans’ confidence and attracting wider national and international interest.
“The just concluded NPFL season will go down in history as one of the most competitive and exciting campaigns ever witnessed in Nigerian football, with the title race extending to the final day before a winner eventually emerged.
“For GTI, this is a landmark victory for Rangers International and a proud moment for Nigerian football. Winning the league title for the ninth time and equalling the record held by Enyimba FC is not only a testament to the club’s quality and tradition, but also a clear indication of the growing competitiveness of our elite league.
“We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all 20 clubs that participated in the just concluded season, including those that secured continental tickets and those unfortunately relegated. Next season presents another opportunity for every team to improve and compete more strongly.
“GTI will continue to partner with the NPFL as Nigerian football steadily progresses toward greater continental and global relevance, judging by the quality and excitement witnessed throughout the 2025/2026 season,” Ekejiuba stated.
ALSO READ: S&P Credits Dangote Refinery, Key Reforms over Nigeria’s Economic Revival
Following the conclusion of Matchday 38 fixtures, Rangers International finished top of the table with 68 points after securing a 2-1 victory over Ikorodu City FC in Lagos. Rivers United FC finished second with 67 points despite defeating Katsina United FC 3-0, as Rangers only needed a win to guarantee the title.
Ikorodu City’s defeat ensured that Shooting Stars retained third position with 60 points despite their loss to Niger Tornadoes FC.
Statistics from the season showed that a total of 772 goals were scored, with 287 wins recorded, including 45 away victories and 93 matches drawn. Godwin Obaje of Rangers International emerged as the league’s top scorer with 14 goals.
Meanwhile, former champions Remo Stars FC and El-Kanemi Warriors joined Bayelsa United FC and Wikki Tourists FC of Bauchi as the four clubs relegated at the end of the season.
PHOTO CAPTION: Rangers International Football Club of Enugu players celebrating after emerging champions of the NPFL 2025/2026 season in Lagos at the weekend.
2027: ‘Even If Insecurity Worsens, Power Will Not Change Hands’ – Okpebholo Declares
Senate Queries SEDC Over N153m Abuja Office Rent, Demands Full Spending Breakdown
‘Enough of the Speeches’ – Sharia Council Demands Immediate Action on Insecurity
‘I Play Like Mahrez’ – Brighton’s Nigerian Wonderkid Yohanna Sends Message to Premier League Fans
Shell Points Pathways to Advance Gas Utilisation at Abuja Business Forum
Africa’s Largest Bank Backs Dangote Refinery’s IPO
Trump’s Family Unveils New Cryptocurrency Platform
Senate Denies Receiving Petitions Against Tinubu’s Ambassadorial Nominees
Dangote Cement Lights Up Benue Host Communities With CSR Initiatives
Reps Recommend 3-year Jail Term For Aviation minister
Tems Sets New Record On Billboard Hot 100 Chart
Nice post. I learn something more challenging on different blogs everyday. It will always be stimulating to read content from other writers and practice a little something from their store. I’d prefer to use some with the content on my blog whether you don’t mind. Natually I’ll give you a link on your web blog. Thanks for sharing.
You actually make it seem so easy together with your presentation however I find this topic to be really one thing that I believe I’d by no means understand. It sort of feels too complex and very large for me. I am having a look forward in your next put up, I will try to get the hang of it!
Do you have a spam issue on this website; I also am a blogger, and I was curious about your situation; we have developed some nice methods and we are looking to swap strategies with others, be sure to shoot me an email if interested.
Very interesting topic, regards for posting.
Good ?V I should definitely pronounce, impressed with your site. I had no trouble navigating through all the tabs as well as related information ended up being truly easy to do to access. I recently found what I hoped for before you know it at all. Reasonably unusual. Is likely to appreciate it for those who add forums or anything, website theme . a tones way for your customer to communicate. Nice task..
Write more, thats all I have to say. Literally, it seems as though you relied on the video to make your point. You clearly know what youre talking about, why waste your intelligence on just posting videos to your site when you could be giving us something enlightening to read?
I know this if off topic but I’m looking into starting my own weblog and was curious what all is needed to get set up? I’m assuming having a blog like yours would cost a pretty penny? I’m not very web savvy so I’m not 100 positive. Any tips or advice would be greatly appreciated. Kudos
Hiya, I am really glad I’ve found this info. Today bloggers publish just about gossips and internet and this is actually irritating. A good site with exciting content, that’s what I need. Thanks for keeping this web-site, I will be visiting it. Do you do newsletters? Can’t find it.
I used to be very happy to find this web-site.I needed to thanks on your time for this wonderful read!! I undoubtedly having fun with each little little bit of it and I have you bookmarked to check out new stuff you blog post.
Magnificent site. Plenty of helpful info here. I’m sending it to several buddies ans also sharing in delicious. And certainly, thanks to your effort!
This blog is definitely rather handy since I’m at the moment creating an internet floral website – although I am only starting out therefore it’s really fairly small, nothing like this site. Can link to a few of the posts here as they are quite. Thanks much. Zoey Olsen
I have been exploring for a bit for any high-quality articles or blog posts on this sort of space . Exploring in Yahoo I finally stumbled upon this website. Studying this information So i?¦m satisfied to convey that I have a very just right uncanny feeling I discovered exactly what I needed. I so much certainly will make sure to do not overlook this web site and provides it a glance regularly.
As I web-site possessor I believe the content matter here is rattling magnificent , appreciate it for your hard work. You should keep it up forever! Best of luck.
Very interesting details you have remarked, thankyou for putting up. “Opportunities are seldom labeled.” by John H. Shield.
I consider something genuinely interesting about your weblog so I bookmarked.
It’s hard to find knowledgeable people on this topic, but you sound like you know what you’re talking about! Thanks
Way cool, some valid points! I appreciate you making this article available, the rest of the site is also high quality. Have a fun.
What¦s Taking place i am new to this, I stumbled upon this I have discovered It absolutely useful and it has helped me out loads. I hope to give a contribution & help different users like its helped me. Great job.
I like this post, enjoyed this one thank you for putting up. “We are punished by our sins, not for them.” by Elbert Hubbard.
As I web-site possessor I believe the content matter here is rattling magnificent , appreciate it for your efforts. You should keep it up forever! Good Luck.
I like the helpful info you supply for your articles. I will bookmark your blog and test again here regularly. I am reasonably certain I will be told a lot of new stuff right right here! Good luck for the following!
Hi my friend! I want to say that this post is awesome, nice written and come with almost all vital infos. I would like to see more posts like this .
Of course, what a fantastic website and informative posts, I definitely will bookmark your blog.Best Regards!
I enjoy your piece of work, appreciate it for all the interesting content.
It?¦s actually a great and helpful piece of info. I?¦m satisfied that you just shared this useful information with us. Please stay us up to date like this. Thank you for sharing.
I always was concerned in this subject and stock still am, appreciate it for putting up.
I consider something really interesting about your web blog so I saved to my bookmarks.
of course like your website however you have to test the spelling on quite a few of your posts. Several of them are rife with spelling problems and I to find it very bothersome to inform the reality however I¦ll definitely come again again.
Thank you for another wonderful article. Where else could anybody get that kind of information in such an ideal way of writing? I’ve a presentation next week, and I’m on the look for such information.
Great website! I am loving it!! Will come back again. I am bookmarking your feeds also.
Wow! Thank you! I permanently wanted to write on my website something like that. Can I take a fragment of your post to my website?
Keep working ,splendid job!
This design is spectacular! You definitely know how to keep a reader entertained. Between your wit and your videos, I was almost moved to start my own blog (well, almost…HaHa!) Great job. I really loved what you had to say, and more than that, how you presented it. Too cool!
Very interesting information!Perfect just what I was searching for!
I enjoy your writing style really loving this website .
You really make it seem so easy along with your presentation but I in finding this matter to be actually something that I feel I might by no means understand. It kind of feels too complex and very broad for me. I’m looking forward on your next submit, I will try to get the grasp of it!
As soon as I observed this site I went on reddit to share some of the love with them.
I like this blog so much, saved to my bookmarks. “I don’t care what is written about me so long as it isn’t true.” by Dorothy Parker.
I’ve recently started a site, the info you offer on this website has helped me tremendously. Thank you for all of your time & work. “The word ‘genius’ isn’t applicable in football. A genius is a guy like Norman Einstein.” by Joe Theismann.
Merely a smiling visitor here to share the love (:, btw great pattern.
I have not checked in here for a while since I thought it was getting boring, but the last few posts are good quality so I guess I’ll add you back to my everyday bloglist. You deserve it my friend 🙂
Thanks for helping out, good info. “It does not do to dwell on dreams and forget to live.” by J. K. Rowling.
I’m truly enjoying the design and layout of your website. It’s a very easy on the eyes which makes it much more enjoyable for me to come here and visit more often. Did you hire out a designer to create your theme? Superb work!
I like the efforts you have put in this, appreciate it for all the great blog posts.
Thanks for any other informative web site. Where else may just I am getting that kind of info written in such a perfect approach? I’ve a mission that I am simply now operating on, and I’ve been at the look out for such info.
Your style is so unique compared to many other people. Thank you for publishing when you have the opportunity,Guess I will just make this bookmarked.2
Some really nice stuff on this internet site, I like it.
Do you mind if I quote a couple of your posts as long as I provide credit and sources back to your website? My blog is in the very same niche as yours and my users would really benefit from some of the information you provide here. Please let me know if this ok with you. Regards!
You have noted very interesting points! ps decent web site. “Every man over forty is a scoundrel.” by George Bernard Shaw.
Hello my friend! I want to say that this post is amazing, great written and include almost all vital infos. I would like to see more posts like this .