House Urges Sports Ministry To Revive Boxing In Nigeria

Published

8 years ago

January 25, 2017

The House of Representatives has appealed to the Ministry of Youth and Sports to charge the Nigerian Boxing Federation to revive boxing in the country.

The call followed consideration of a motion sponsored by a member of the House from Lagos State, Representative Rita Orji.

In her motion on Tuesday, she asked the lawmakers to congratulate UK based Nigerian boxer, Larry Ekundayo, for his heroics in the field of boxing.

The House consequently mandated its Committee on Sports and Youth Development to work with the Sports Ministry to ensure sponsorship of the athletes.

The lawmakers asked the committee and the ministry to prevent Nigerian boxers from being lured to change their nationality.

Boxing-300x162

Credit: ChannelsTv

Ex-Arsenal Star Ahmed Mohammed On Katsina Academy & Partnership With Mbappe’s AS Bondy

Published

1 hour ago

December 28, 2024

Reporter

Ex-Arsenal star Ahmed Mohammed on Katsina Academy... | fab.ng

Ahmed Mohammed, a former Arsenal Academy and West Ham United youth prodigy, has passionately shared the inspiration behind founding the fast-growing Katsina Football Academy.

During an in-depth interview with Flashscore at their London office, he also detailed the academy’s ambitious vision.

Though established less than 13 months ago, Katsina Football Academy has already emerged as one of Africa’s most prominent and internationally recognised football nurseries.

The academy has rapidly gained a reputation for nurturing talent. Several of its players now feature in Nigerian youth teams.

Located in northern Nigeria, Katsina Football Academy has also become a prime destination for European clubs eager to scout the exceptional talent within its ranks.

Meet the quintessential Ahmed Mohammed, the London-based former youth star of Arsenal and West Ham United, who also had stints at Dagenham & Redbridge FC. Today, he’s using football as a tool for social change and development through his Katsina Football Academy, with some of his… pic.twitter.com/RJomNIYMKf

— Shina Oludare 🇳🇬 (@sportingshina) December 27, 2024

Ahmed Mohammed explained that his decision to create the academy stemmed from a personal vision to nurture grassroots talent in Africa, even with numerous other academies across the continent.

“Growing up in London, football was more than a game – it was a lifeline. It provided purpose and a positive outlet during a time when negative influences surrounded me, “ said Mohammed.

“Football instilled discipline, teamwork, and focus, keeping me grounded and guiding me away from trouble. It helped me build resilience, determination, and a vision for a better future, and I wanted to offer those same opportunities to others.

“The inspiration for Katsina Football Academy came from a desire to use football to transform lives. During a visit to Katsina, I saw untapped potential in young people – raw talent and ambition, but also a lack of structure.

“My vision was to create a platform where youth could develop athletic skills, life skills, education, and direction. Football teaches discipline, leadership, and teamwork – values for life.

“The academy offers a safe space to dream big, stay away from negative influences, and develop self-worth, empowering youth to succeed on and off the field.”

What Makes Katsina Stand Out

Like many other young football enthusiasts in London, Mohammed aspired to greatness in the sport. He showcased his talent at the youth level, representing Arsenal, West Ham United, and Dagenham & Redbridge.

Unfortunately, injuries and personal challenges cut his football journey short, forcing him to abandon his dream.

Katsina Football Academy coaches, alongside Belgium scouts, participated in the 5th Edition of the Global Football Scouting Tournament held in Lagos, in partnership with KVC Westerlo Belgium. pic.twitter.com/sH9KwfqsrE

— KATSINA FOOTBALL ACADEMY (@ktf_academy) December 22, 2024

Determined to turn his setbacks into an opportunity, Mohammed drew from the lessons of his brief career and his keen observations of African football.

This combination of experience and insight allowed Ahmed Mohammed to create something truly unique with Katsina Football Academy.

He continued,

“Katsina Football Academy stands out for its holistic approach to player development, focusing on both athletic and personal growth.

“As Chairman, I bring experience from playing for top UK academies like Arsenal, West Ham, and Dagenham & Redbridge, and working with Tottenham Hotspur to transform young lives.

“The academy goes beyond football by offering life-skills training, mentorship, and educational support. We also provide pathways for players to showcase their talents internationally and ensure inclusivity by making the academy accessible to underprivileged youth.

“Our qualified coaching staff, modern facilities, and emphasis on character building create a strong foundation for success both on and off the field.

“Additionally, we integrate education with football through structured schedules, partnerships with schools, on-site programs, and vocational training, empowering players for future careers beyond football. Our mission is to develop well-rounded individuals ready to thrive in all aspects of life.”

Collaboration with Mbappe’s Academy

Katsina Football Academy achieved a major milestone by forming a football development partnership with AS Bondy. This is the French club famous for discovering Real Madrid and French star Kylian Mbappe.

In October 2024, the partnership was formalised in Paris, opening doors for young, talented footballers from Katsina State.

Alhamdulillah its a done deal🙏🏿🎉
Partnership secured with a club in France with ⁦@ktf_academy⁩.
Putting Katsina on the 🌎
Thank you for believing in me My Excellency ⁦@dikko_radda⁩
⁦@fatimatukr⁩ ⁦@Miqdad_Jnr⁩ ⁦@BashirAhmaad⁩ ⁦@gambomanzo⁩ pic.twitter.com/KTtTPGepCk

— Ahmed Mohammed (@youvsyoultd) October 24, 2024

This collaboration allows these players to travel to France. There, they showcase their skills and pursue opportunities to secure professional contracts with European clubs.

Mohammed added,

“The partnership with Bondy Academy was driven by a shared vision to empower young football talents and offer global opportunities.

“Bondy’s proven track record in developing players aligns with Katsina Football Academy’s mission. This collaboration aims to provide exposure to international scouts, emphasise holistic development, and offer world-class coaching.

“Bondy’s success with players like Kylian Mbappe inspired Katsina to follow suit, creating a pathway for Nigerian talent. The partnership also strengthens our position as a key hub for football development in Africa, ensuring grassroots talent has the resources to succeed.

“Ultimately, this agreement marks a milestone in building a brighter future for young players, offering both football and life opportunities.”

Katsina Football Academy was launched in September 2023. It has already produced exceptional talents like Umar Yusuf, Ahmad Nasir, and Usman Abdullahi.

The academy actively strives to establish itself as a premier institution for football development and youth empowerment in Nigeria and beyond.

Check out more sports news here.

SPORTS

Cleveland Cavaliers’ Forward Isaac Okoro Out For Two Weeks With Shoulder Injury

Published

1 week ago

December 20, 2024

Reporter

Forward Isaac Okoro out with shoulder injury | fab.ng

The Cleveland Cavaliers will be without forward Isaac Okoro for at least two weeks after he sustained a shoulder injury during Monday’s dominant 130-101 victory over the Brooklyn Nets.

The 23-year-old was diagnosed with a sprained AC joint in his right shoulder. This is an injury that will be re-evaluated in a couple of weeks to assess his readiness to return.

Okoro, now in his fifth year with the Cavaliers, has been a reliable contributor this season. He averaged 6.6 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game.

Notably, he is shooting with exceptional efficiency, achieving career-high percentages in both field goal accuracy (49.5%) and three-point success (49.2%).

Isaac Okoro 3 pt % by season:

2020-21: 29%
2021-22: 35%
2022-23: 36.3%
2023-24: 39.1%
2024-25: 49.2% (#2 in NBA) pic.twitter.com/FWYbbWy63i

— Across The Cavs (@AcrossCavs) December 19, 2024

His performance reflects a steady improvement in offensive consistency while maintaining his reputation as a strong defender.

Selected as the fifth overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, Okoro built his career on stellar perimeter defence.

This season, opposing players have struggled to score against him from beyond the arc, shooting just 35.7% when he is the primary defender.

This defensive mark is the second-lowest of his career, following the 35.5% he held opponents to during the 2021-2022 season.

Okoro’s value to the Cavaliers was underscored when he signed a three-year, $38 million contract extension in the offseason. This secures his place on the team through 2027.

His blend of defensive prowess and improving offensive contributions has made him a key piece of Cleveland’s lineup.

Currently, the Cavaliers boast the best record in the NBA at 23-4, thanks to their well-rounded roster and consistent performance.

Despite Okoro’s absence, the team will aim to maintain its winning momentum while he recovers and prepares for a return to action.

Check out more sports news here.

SPORTS

Africa’s Best Player Ademola Lookman Credits Atalanta for His Rise to African Football’s Pinnacle

Published

1 week ago

December 19, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

Lookman credits Atalanta for his football development | fab.ng

Ademola Lookman, the reigning African Player of the Year, has acknowledged the significant role that Serie A club Atalanta has played in his footballing journey.

The 27-year-old Nigerian international outshone Achraf Hakimi, Ronwen Williams, Serhou Guirassy, and Simon Adingra to claim the prestigious 2024 CAF Awards in Marrakech.

Before this achievement, Lookman secured a remarkable 14th position in the 2024 Men’s Ballon d’Or rankings.

His exceptional season with Atalanta, culminating in a hat-trick during the Europa League final victory over Bayer Leverkusen, undoubtedly contributed to this recognition.

When enquired about the impact of his career transitions from the English Premier League to the Bundesliga and subsequently to Serie A, Lookman shared his insights:

“I think the environment that the club (Atalanta) gave me has been very key to obviously my growth as a player.

“And also, just timing, you know, I’ve always believed in myself and to be able to achieve great things. But, yeah, the time has come and, you know, just blessed to be here.”

Five different winners? make that 6️⃣.

Ademola extends Naija’s lead with the most Men’s Player of the Year winners. 🇳🇬🏆#CAFAwards2024 pic.twitter.com/KmbGUGlYyC

— CAF_Online (@CAF_Online) December 18, 2024

Lookman’s Journey from Waterloo to African Football’s Elite

Ademola Lookman’s footballing journey began at Waterloo, where he ascended through the youth ranks.

His talent caught the eye of Charlton Athletic, who offered him his first professional contract. In 2017, he made a significant move to Everton, signing a four-and-a-half-year deal.

However, limited opportunities at Goodison Park led him to seek a fresh start at RB Leipzig. A series of loan spells to Fulham and Leicester City followed.

This is where he showcased his abilities, scoring eight goals and providing eight assists in various competitions.

In 2021, Lookman made a pivotal decision by signing a four-year contract with Atalanta, joining fellow Africans Jeremie Boga and Moustapha Cisse.

This move proved to be a turning point. He flourished in Serie A and earned a more prominent role in the Nigerian national team.

Reflecting on his career, Lookman acknowledged the impact of his infamous Panenka penalty miss during his time at Fulham.

He emphasised how he transformed this setback into a source of strength. Also, he expressed his hope that his recent achievements would inspire future generations of footballers.

“Yes, they were not very happy with me, but, you know, they gave me a lot of love and support after especially the coach, Scott Parker,” he continued.

“He helped me a lot to overcome that time but like I said on the stage it’s about turning your pain into power.

“I’ve managed to do that over the past couple of years and continue to do so. To the kids out there aspiring to improve and achieve in life: life may knock you down, and it may not deal you the best cards.”

2024 African Player of the Year 💫 pic.twitter.com/a7K0l0r5Hh

— Ademola Lookman (@Alookman_) December 17, 2024

Lookman Joins Nigeria’s Elite Footballers

Ademola Lookman’s triumph as African Player of the Year marks a significant milestone in Nigerian football history.

He becomes the sixth Nigerian to claim this prestigious honour. This follows in the footsteps of football legends Rasheed Yekini, Emmanuel Amuneke, Nwankwo Kanu, Victor Ikpeba, and Victor Osimhen.

Despite representing England at various youth levels, Lookman pledged his allegiance to Nigeria. This includes the victorious 2017 FIFA U17 World Cup campaign.

He made his Super Eagles debut in March 2022, contributing to their 2022 FIFA World Cup qualification bid.

Lookman played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s impressive performance at the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire.

His brace against Cameroon in the Round of 16 and match-winning goal against Angola in the quarterfinals highlighted his impact on the team.

As Lookman continues his stellar form, he is set to feature for Atalanta in their upcoming Coppa Italia clash against Cesena. Just four days later, they will host Empoli in a Serie A encounter.

Atalanta, led by manager Gian Piero Gasperini, currently occupies the top spot in the Italian Serie A table with 37 points from 16 matches. They hold a two-point advantage over their closest rivals, Napoli.