Sports
NOC Commends Team Nigeria, Government, Media For Victory At African Games
The Nigeria Olympic Committee has commended ‘Team Nigeria’, the Federal Government and the media for their support towards the successful outing of the country at the just concluded 13th African Games which held from March 8-23 in Ghana.
In a statement released by the Public Relations Officer of the body, Tony Nezieanya, it quoted the NOC President, Engr. Habu Gumel as saying that it was through dedication and hard work that the team emerged the overall second with a total of 121 medals made up of 47 gold, 34 Silver and 40 bronze medals.
“Your exceptional achievements and unwavering dedication during these Games have brought immense pride and glory to our nation.
“The 13th African Games hold a special place in history as it is the first time since the commencement of the Games in 1965 that they have been held in three cities; Kumasi, Cape Coast, and Accra.
“This unique and momentous occasion provided a platform for athletes from across the continent to showcase their talent and camaraderie.
The statement noted that while ‘Team Nigeria’ secured a commendable second place overall, behind Egypt, it is their outstanding accomplishments, unwavering dedication, resilience and true spirit of sportsmanship as well as relentless pursuit of excellence that truly captured the hearts of Nigerians, noting that the NOC appreciates all athletes, coaches and Nigerian sports journalists who worked harmoniously to ensure the success of the Games.
The Olympic movement also acknowledged and thanked the Federal Government, particularly the Sports Minister, Senator John Owan Enoh, for his relentless support and commitment to ensuring the welfare of the athletes and officials even as the body noted that ‘Team Nigeria’s remarkable achievements at the Games serve as an inspiration and testament to the immense talent and potential that exists within our great nation.
The NOC while noting that their exceptional performance has brought not only pride but also renewed hope and brief in the future of the country, pointed out that the journey to success is not without challenges but that their unwavering determination, discipline, and teamwork enabled them to overcome obstacles and reach new heights.
“Your achievements have instilled a sense of pride and unity within our nation, and we are confident that you will continue to shine as beacons of hope and inspiration for future generations.
“On behalf of a grateful nation, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to every member of ‘Team Nigeria’ for your outstanding performance at the 13th African Games.
“You have made us proud, and we eagerly anticipate your continued success in future competitions.
“May your journey be filled with continued triumphs, lifelong memories, and the unwavering support of a grateful nation”, concludes the statement
The National Sports Commission (NSC) is deeply saddened by the passing of legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper and 1994 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) champion, Peter Rufai, fondly known as Dodo Mayana, who pass on at the age of 61.
Rufai was not just a national treasure but a global ambassador of Nigerian football. His fearless goalkeeping, unmatched charisma, and commitment to the green and white made him a symbol of pride and resilience for millions of Nigerians.
Reacting to the news of his passing, chairman of the NSC, Mallam Shehu Dikko, expressed deep sorrow:
“This is a deeply painful loss. Peter Rufai was not just a national hero, he was a rare soul whose humility, strength, and passion inspired all of us. His legacy lives on between the sticks and far beyond. Dodo Mayana gave us memories we will cherish forever. Nigeria mourns, but heaven welcomes a legend.”
Director General of the NSC, Honourable Bukola Olopade, also paid tribute:
“Peter Rufai was a symbol of excellence and leadership in Nigerian sports. His commitment to the game, both on and off the field, was second to none. As we mourn this painful loss, we also celebrate a life that gave so much to Nigerian football. Rest well, legend—you will remain forever in our hearts.”
A stalwart of the golden era of Nigerian football, Rufai played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s 1994 AFCON triumph and represented the nation at two FIFA World Cup tournaments in 1994 and 1998, helping the Super Eagles reach the Round of 16 in both editions.
At the club level, he had an illustrious career across Europe, representing top teams in Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain—most notably Deportivo de La Coruña and Hércules CF.
Beyond his heroics on the pitch, Peter Rufai was a mentor and a beacon of inspiration to younger generations. After retirement, he dedicated his life to discovering and nurturing budding football talents, remaining a pillar of support and guidance in the football community.
The NSC extends heartfelt condolences to the Rufai family, the Nigerian football fraternity, and all those whose lives were touched by the great Dodo Mayana.
The Nigeria Taekwondo Federation has successfully hosted WT Level 2 (Higest Taekwondo Coaching Cadre Course) with about 40 taekwondo coaches drawn from different states and institutions across Nigeria.
The World Taekwondo designated Tarik Benradi from Morocco as the Course Resource person. Tarik Benradi doubles as the Chairman African Taekwondo Union Referees Department.
The course was declared open by the Chairman National Sports Commission Shehu Dikko. He was accompanied by senior officers of the NSC like the Director FEAD and many aides.
President Nigeria Taekwondo federation, Tayo Popoola was grateful for the rich support of the National Sports Commission.
The course covered core Taekwondo Coaching areas like Team Management, Athletes Psychology, Drug Education, Coaches Technical Knowledge of taekwondo contest rules etc. Physical, theoretical and visual means were employed to pass down instructions during the course.
All participants took an examination at the end of the course.
The Closing Ceremony was witnessed by the President NOC Engnr Habu Gumel.
Gumel promised to support the NTF if the next of such course could be hosted by Nigeria.
Nigeria will be hosting 2 World Taekwondo tournaments in August and September this year. Which are signs that Nigeria is gradually coming back to the taekwondo world map
The Nigeria Volleyball Federation (NVBF) has congratulated the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Adewale Adeniyi, on his election as Chairperson of the World Customs Organisation (WCO) Council.
In a statement signed by NVBF President, Engineer Musa Nimrod, the Federation expressed confidence that CGC Adeniyi will bring innovation and transformation to the WCO.
Nimrod noted that Adeniyi has significantly improved the fortunes of Nigeria Customs in a short time, adding that the global community will soon feel his positive impact.
He also highlighted Adeniyi’s strong support for sports, particularly volleyball, through consistent sponsorships.
“The entire board of the Nigeria Volleyball Federation congratulates you on your election as Chairperson of the WCO Council,” the statement read.
“In just two years as CGC, you have not only boosted revenue collection and surpassed budgetary targets, but have also made substantial investments in volleyball.
“Under your leadership, the Nigeria Customs Service sponsored the 2024 Volleyball League and hosted the 2025 African Women’s Volleyball Club Championship, widely acclaimed as the best edition to date.
“We are confident you will exceed expectations at the WCO Council.”
CGC Adeniyi will officially assume leadership of the WCO Council on July 1, 2025, succeeding Edward Kieswetter, Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service.
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