Krusaders Feeders FC Begin Prosperity Cup Title Defence in Style.

  ...Nembe City, Fisherman's Sons FC and Petroleum Boys FC Secure Smooth Victories

Defending champions Krusaders Feeders FC on Thursday began their title defence in Nigeria's biggest grassroot football spectacle, the Bayelsa Governor's Football Tournament christened Prosperity Cup with a resounding victory over Oburu FC.

Fans were delighted to watch Krusaders Feeders FC humble Oburu FC 3-0 in a fixture decided at the Ekeremor Centre. Midfielder Anthony Moses put the Peretorugbene team ahead on 53 minutes after a goalless first-half. 

Forward Handsome Iwasoma doubled the lead for the coach Genesis tutored side on 65th minute as Tony Akpagra's 81st minute goal compounded the woes of Oburu FC who looked decent in the first half.

Earlier in the day, Petroleum Boys FC beat Ekeremor FC 4-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in regulation time. Ekeremor FC scored Petroleum Boys FC in the first half but Petroleum Boys FC levelled terms on 59 minute to stretch the game into a shootout.

At the Ogbolomabiri Center in Nembe Local Government Area, Fisherman's Sons FC pipped Okoroma United FC 2-1 with goals from Jackson Idubamo at 3' and 20' to progress to the next phase of the tournament as Bestman Solomon's 26' effort couldn't save Okoroma FC while BMU Feeders FC suffered a 4-3 defeat against Nembe City on penalties having played out a 1-1 draw in regulation time.

Action will return on Saturday in seven centers as matches in Yenagoa kick-off in Nigeria's biggest grassroot football fiesta. At the Bishop Dimeari Grammar School BDGS Center Chief Street FC will square up against New Chester  FC by 1pm as Kingsmen FC entertain Glitch FC by 3pm.

According to the Tournament Director, Mr. Perela Aboroson, Bayelsa Starts FC at the Biogbolo/ Yenizuegene Center will keep a date with Okaka FC as FC Salinas welcomes De California FC at 3pm. Reward Lions FC will slug it out with Golden Boys FC at the Kpansia cetnter by 1pm, BY FC at 3pm will tango Successful Pillars FC.

He explained that the Swali Center will have the luxury of hosting Divine Arrows FC and Aguobiri FC by 1pm, Ogu FC takes on Derby County in the second game. Rising Stars at the Tombia Center will battle Glorious FC as Northern Warriors square up with Akenfa FC at 3pm.

Mr. Aboroson added that at the Okordia/Zarama Center M.L.D.M FC will tackle Ogilobi FC while Igbogene FC and JTF FC face each other. Brave Stars will test their bravery when they take on Kilimanjaro FC, while MoonLight in another fixture by 3pm battles Brikari FC.

Sariki Pereowei Scores First Prosperity Cup Season 6 Hat-trick

...As Team Mate United, Ward 10 Pro FC and Ogboinbiri FC secure tickets to the next round

Sariki Pereowei of Team Mate United on Tuesday registered the first hat-trick of Season 6 of the Bayelsa Governor's Football Tournament tagged the Prosperity Cup to propel his side to a spectacular victory.

Team Mate United spanked NDU Civil Engineering FC 4-1 in an encounter decided at the Amassoma Center. Woyeinmiela Promise of NDU Civil Engineering drew the first blood two minutes into the game not knowing what was waiting in store for them. Ofoin Kennedy restored parity for Teammate United after 17 minutes to end the encounter 1-1 at half time.

When it seemed the game was going to stretch into penalties, Sariki Pereowei rose up to the occasion to net the first hat-trick of this year's grassroot football spectacle on 61, 75 and 87 minutes to ensure NDU Civil Engineering FC returned home empty handed after taking the lead with a promise of victory..

Director General of the tournament, Mr. Ono Akpe who was at the Amassoma Center gifted the hat-trick hero Pereowei with a sum of ten thousand naira on behalf of the Central Organizing Committee forrecording the first hat-trick of Prosperity Cup 2024.

Earlier in the day Ward 10 Pro FC beat N.S.B.S  FC 6-2 also at the Amassoma Center to progress to the next phase of the tournament. At the Oporoma Center, Ogboinbiri FC pipped Young Stars FC 3-2 to secure a place in the next round of the competition.

Two fixtures will be decided on Wednesday at the Amassoma Center, O Block FC will tackle Triumphant FC by 1pm while Oporoma FC will keep a date with Adulama FC at 3pm.

Photo Speak: Prosperity Cup Scouting Coordinators

 

Prosperity Cup Unveils 2024 Governor Douye Diri International Scouting Programme and Coaching Clinic...

             ....as Ex Internationals - Peter Nieketien, Kelvin Etemike leads international football scouts to Yenagoa in June.   

The highly anticipated scouting program of the Bayelsa Governor's Football Tournament will kick off on the 30th of June, bringing together international scouts and coaches led by Mr. Peter Nieketien, who is the Chief Scout of the program and coordinated by Kelvin Etemike, a representative of OPS / OTS of Finland and CEO of Tristone International Agency..

This year's event promises to be bigger and better with the presence of nine other international scouts who are keen to unearth the best grassroots football talents in  Bayelsa.

This was made at a public presentation of the Scouting and Coaching programme in Yenagoa on Tuesday.

The DG expressed his gratitude to Governor Douye Diri for his unwavering support for sports development in Bayelsa state and commended him for his unprecedented efforts in promoting sports in the country, particularly in the state. 

According to Mr Akpe, the support of the government has enabled the program to lay a strong foundation for international scouts who will be arriving in June and July to witness the exciting talent of grassroots football in the state.

One of the highlights of this year's tournament is that it will feature a triple cadre competition- the male competition which is currently ongoing, the female edition will kick-off in a few weeks, and in addition, the para-soccer edition to cater for players with disabilities. 

The DG hinted that this inclusive approach emphasizes the program's commitment to providing opportunities for all aspiring football players no matter their gender. .

The Prosperity Cup will also introduce a new element to the tournament - the local government champions. 

After rigorous selection process within each local government, selected players will be identified and brought to Yenagoa for a week or two for training, which will ultimately lead to the formation of two to four teams that will participate in the international scouting program alongside the 8 LGA Champions.

Speaking during the official unveiling of the programme at the Samson Siasia Sports Complex Yenagoa, the Prosperity Cup DG, Mr. Ono K. Akpe is confident that the international scouts will be amazed by the level of skill and talent on display.

In an exclusive interview, Mr. Etemike shared his insights into the proposed programme, "Having competent coaches  who understand the fundamentals of building young players is key to the development of grassroots football. With the right guidance, every team can have a successful developmental process." However, the reality is far from this ideal situation. The lack of proper coaching and mentorship has led to numerous issues within the football community.

On his part, Mr. Nieketie also highlighted the adverse effects of inadequate development at the grassroots level. With a lack of proper guidance and support, many young players fall prey to negative influences, such as drugs and illegal activities like internet fraud. "As a coach, you are more than an instructor – you are a father, mentor, and role model to these kids. It is our responsibility to guide them in the right direction and shape their character," he emphasized.

He further elaborated on the impact coaches have on young players, "The players look up to their coaches and often imitate their actions. If the coach is not setting a good example, it directly affects the development of grassroots football in Nigeria." This, in turn, has resulted in a decline in the number of Nigerian players reaching the national team.

However, Mr. Nieketie stated that he is determined to change the narrative. With his vast experience and knowledge in the field, he is leading a scouting program that aims to identify and groom talented young players in Bayelsa, Nigeria. "We are hoping to bring back the former glory of Nigerian football by giving these young players the right guidance and support they need to reach their full potential," he stated.

Mr. Nieketie believes that it is time for the football community to give back to society what it has given them. "The grassroots level gave us the platform to become who we are today, and it's time to pay it forward," he asserted. 

He also encouraged other former football players to join this cause and help build a brighter future for Nigerian football.

This year's edition is expected to see the following scouts:

Hakan Uyanmis ( Turkey)

Agent and CEO, H- Sports Management agency, who has just been confirmed as the new sporting director of Sakaryaspor - karagumruk of Turkey, Hilary Azudo - Sporting Director OTP of Finland, Alfred Fenech Valletta FC -  team leader, and Simas Kumža - Sport Director, FK Babrungas Plungė, Lithuania 

Others include Glenn Stahl - UEFA Pro license Coach FK Zagiris Kauno, Fatih Ares - Turkey Assistant Head Coach Boluspor FC , Turkey,

Kestutis Petkus, Head Coach FK Babrungas Plunges,  Lithuania,

Augustin Jibrin, OTP Head Coach Finland, and

Mindauguas Malinauskas - Goalkeeper Coach, Lithuania amongst others. Highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of branded jerseys to the scouts and the signing of the contract agreement between the Prosperity Cup COC and Tristone Agency.

FG unveils low-interest financing to boost Media Houses

By Ere-ebi Agedah Imisi

President Bola Tinubu's commitment to supporting media organizations has led to the introduction of single-digit interest-rate financing.

According to Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris, President Tinubu’s desire to support the media to thrive informed his decision to extend a single-digit interest-rate financing to media organizations in the country.

Idris stated this while speaking in Abuja on Monday during the ongoing Ministerial Sectoral update marking Tinubu's first year in office, as he emphasized the government's efforts to create a thriving environment for media stakeholders.

He encouraged media practitioners to develop bankable proposals to access the funding.

“We are also creating an enabling environment for all players and stakeholders in the media and information ecosystem to thrive. One highlight here is the recent directive by Mr. President to the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, through the Bank of Industry, BOI, to extend its single-digit interest-rate financing to media organizations in the country.

“It is now incumbent upon media practitioners to develop bankable proposals to access this financing facility being offered by the Federal Government, and I hope that you the media will take full advantage of this great opportunity,” he said.

Also, the Minister explained that the President has decided not to dwell on fanfare in his first year but to fully be accountable to Nigerians by projecting the successes recorded in the Federal Government’s development objectives, known as the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The Minister stressed the importance of restoring trust in public communication and ensuring wide coverage of government activities through traditional and digital platforms adding that the objective is to enlighten, inform and educate Nigerians and the world, to ensure that everyone is carried along through the provision of detailed, relevant, credible and timely information.

“Distinguished guests and media colleagues, we are resolute in making sure that in communicating government activities, our watch word is to Restore Trust in public communication as we amplify policies and programmes of the President Tinubu administration,” he stated.

The Minister therefore urged members of the press to report the Briefing Series objectively and responsibly, through their headlines and the narratives.

During the third session of the Briefing Series, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, and Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, also presented their respective scorecards.

ECOWAS Parliament Elects First Female Speaker From Togo

By Erebi Agedah Imisi

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Parliament has elected its first female Speaker, Memounatou Ibrahima.

The Togolese was chosen as the new Speaker during the 2024 Second Extraordinary Session of the Sixth Legislature in Kano, Northwest Nigeria.

Hon. Ibrahima, along side Senou Soklingbe, and Patrick Kodjovi Senam Bolouvi, took their oaths before the ECOWAS Parliament in plenary during the 2024 Second Extraordinary Session on Thursday.

She emerged as Speaker due to the rotational system of the Community Parliament, which follows an alphabetical order in accordance with the Supplementary Act on the Enhancement of Power.

The previous Speaker of the Fifth Legislature, Sidie Mohamed Tunis, was from Sierra Leone.

Ibrahima served as the third Deputy Speaker in the Fifth Legislature of the ECOWAS Parliament and has been a member since 2021.

She takes over from Senator Barau Jubrin, the Nigerian leader of the delegation, who was elected the First Deputy Speaker at the inauguration of the Sixth Legislature of the ECOWAS Parliament on April 4, 2024. Senator Jubrin had been acting as Speaker to maintain leadership continuity in the Community Parliament.

During the inauguration of the Sixth Legislature of the ECOWAS on April 4, 2024, the Togolese delegation was absent because they had not conducted elections to send their representatives to the Community Parliament.

Ibrahima was announced as Speaker after her parliamentary colleagues from Togo presented her as their choice. She was subsequently elected unopposed.

Following her election, Ibrahima was immediately presented with the instrument of authority, the gavel, by the Acting Speaker, Nigeria’s Senator Jubrin.

AATSG Celebrates with President Bola Tinubu On His One Year In Office

By Erebi Agedah Imisi

The members of Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu Support Group (AATSG) are filled with pride and joy as we felicitate with our President and Commander in Chief, Bola Tinubu, on his one year anniversary in office. This milestone is a testament to his dedication, leadership, and vision for the future of our great nation, Nigeria. As supporters of Asiwaju Tinubu, we stand by his side in solidarity and offer our unwavering support as he continues to steer the ship of our beloved country towards prosperity and progress.

Over the past year, President Tinubu has demonstrated exemplary leadership and governance, tackling various challenges head-on with a steadfast commitment to the wellbeing of the Nigerian people. His policies and initiatives have brought about positive changes in various sectors of the economy, such as infrastructure development, job creation, and social welfare programs. The President's focus on improving the quality of life for all Nigerians is commendable, and we applaud his efforts in making strides towards a more prosperous and equitable society.

As we celebrate this significant milestone, it is important to reflect on the progress made thus far and also acknowledge the areas where more work needs to be done. While President Tinubu's administration has achieved notable successes in certain areas, there are still lingering challenges that require urgent attention. The economic hardship faced by many Nigerians, the security threats posed by insurgent groups, and the need for improved governance and accountability are pressing issues that must be addressed with vigor and determination.

As members of the AATSG, we urge President Tinubu to redouble his efforts in addressing these crucial issues and implementing policies that will benefit all Nigerians. We believe that with his leadership and vision, Nigeria can overcome its current challenges and emerge as a stronger and more prosperous nation. It is imperative that the President listens to the concerns of the people, engages with stakeholders from various sectors, and works towards finding sustainable solutions that will improve the lives of ordinary Nigerians.

In light of the current economic hardships faced by many Nigerians, President Tinubu must prioritize job creation, poverty alleviation, and economic empowerment initiatives. Unemployment rates remain high, particularly among the youth, and many Nigerians continue to struggle to make ends meet. The President's administration must focus on creating a conducive business environment, attracting investment, and promoting entrepreneurship to spur economic growth and provide opportunities for all Nigerians to thrive.

Additionally, the security situation in the country remains a major concern that requires immediate attention. Insurgent groups, banditry, and other forms of criminal activity threaten the peace and stability of Nigeria, causing fear and uncertainty among the populace. President Tinubu must work with security agencies to enhance intelligence gathering, improve border security, and increase collaboration with neighboring countries to combat the scourge of terrorism and criminality. The safety and security of Nigerians must be a top priority for the President's administration, and decisive action is needed to restore peace and stability to the country.

As members of the AATSG, we congratulate President Bola Tinubu on his one year anniversary in office and commend his dedication to serving the Nigerian people. We stand by his side in solidarity and pledge our support as he continues to lead our nation towards a brighter and more prosperous future. We urge President Tinubu to remain steadfast in his commitment to the welfare of Nigerians, address the pressing issues facing the country, and work tirelessly to create a more inclusive and sustainable society for all. Together, we can build a better Nigeria for current and future generations.