National Sports Commission to hold UK trials for Nigerian diaspora athletes
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
The National Sports Commission has announced plans to conduct open trials in the United Kingdom for Nigerian diaspora athletes. This initiative, called the Invited Diaspora Athletes programme, aims to integrate Nigerian-born athletes living abroad into the country’s sporting structure and establish clear pathways to national teams. Outstanding performers from these trials will be considered for the new Nigerian Intermediate Games, designed for athletes aged 17 to 19 to bridge the developmental gap between youth and elite competitions. Director general of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade, stated that these reforms are part of a long-term strategy to reposition Nigerian sport and ensure no talent is overlooked. Olopade emphasized that the commission is building a sustainable pipeline for future champions, from discovering grassroots talent through the Invited Junior Athletes programme to opening doors for diaspora talents and creating the Intermediate Games. The overall goal is to provide a clear development structure for athletes at every level, ensuring every athlete has a defined pathway to reach elite performance and represent Nigeria. The NSC expects 200 Nigerian athletes based abroad to attend trials in the UK in May, aiming for continuity in athlete development and better preparation for senior-level competition. This move builds on the success of the Invited Junior Athletes programme and complements existing National Youth Games for younger athletes and th
Free daily or weekly digest of the most important stories from across 10 countries. No spam, unsubscribe any time.
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
DOHS Care Foundation, a non-profit organization, has partnered with TSM House Agency, a technology-driven initiative, to address femicide and other forms of gender-based violence in the country. Ololade Ajayi, the founder of DOHS Care Foundation, stated that this collaboration leverages technology, media, and advocacy to combat sexual and gender-based violence. The partnership combines DOHS's expertise in advocacy, survivor support, and research with TSM House Agency's strengths in digital strategy, design, and technology development. This aims to create a more responsive, data-driven, and accessible ecosystem for prevention, reporting, and awareness. The initiative will be implemented in phases, focusing on strengthening DOHS's digital infrastructure, expanding awareness campaigns, and enhancing tools for tracking and responding to SGBV and femicide cases. Specific plans include redesigning the DOHS website for improved accessibility, developing an SGBV case dashboard for better data tracking and reporting, and capacity building through digital safety workshops. Ajayi emphasized that the partnership is focused on saving lives, amplifying voices, and ensuring women and girls have access to necessary tools, information, and support.
Nigeria’s Maktown Flyers are set to make their Basketball Africa League debut today, April 25, against Ivory Coast’s Jeunesse Club d’Abidjan Kings in Rabat. This match, scheduled for 3:00 PM Nigerian time, is part of the Sahara Conference group phase, which runs from April 24 to May 3 in the Moroccan capital. The Flyers, who secured the 2025 national title, are one of three teams making their first appearance in the 2026 Sahara Conference, alongside Club Africain and JCA Kings. JCA Kings will be looking to bounce back from an opening defeat to hosts FUS Rabat. Head coach Abdulrahman Mohammed expressed confidence in the Flyers, emphasizing that determination can overcome their limited experience. The team has focused on building cohesion among players from diverse backgrounds. Key players include Jawad Adekoya for the Flyers, and Chris Crawford and Jonathan Cisse for JCA Kings. The top four teams from the conference will advance to the BAL playoffs in May.
Farooq Oreagba, also known as Mr Steeze, a capital market executive and cultural ambassador, recently discussed his approach to life after battling cancer and his dedication to Tottenham Hotspur. Oreagba, who gained attention at the 2024 Ojude Oba festival, emphasizes the importance of fitness, stating that exercise, whether golf, gym, or running, improves one's chances when facing health challenges. He began running marathons after his cancer diagnosis in 2017 to raise money for charity. Oreagba maintains a strict routine, often running early in the morning before work, which he believes enhances his productivity. Beyond individual sports, he has a competitive background, having played squash since age 11 and semi-professional rugby until 2008. He is a "fanatical" Tottenham Hotspur supporter of over 20 years and a season ticket holder, viewing the team's resilience through adversity as a parallel to his own fight against cancer. He also follows Nigerian football, particularly Remo Stars, due to his friendship with Kunle Soname. Regarding tattoos, Oreagba, who had them before his cancer diagnosis, sees them as a form of art that accompanies one to the grave.
Turkish champions Galatasaray are exploring a loan move for Nigerian forward George Ilenikhena as they assess attacking options for the upcoming season. The 19-year-old joined Al-Ittihad in February 2026 but has made five appearances without scoring, playing a total of 156 minutes. Despite a slow start in Saudi Arabia, Ilenikhena is highly regarded in Europe, having previously set a UEFA Champions League record as the youngest African player to reach 15 appearances in the competition at 19 years and 157 days, surpassing Nwankwo Kanu. Galatasaray's interest comes amid uncertainty surrounding Mauro Icardi’s future as his contract nears its end. The club is reportedly monitoring Ilenikhena as part of a broader recruitment strategy, which also includes efforts to secure Victor Osimhen. Ordu Yorum, citing Africa Foot, reported that Galatasaray has begun searching for alternative strikers, with Ilenikhena being a prominent name. The publication also noted his growing reputation, with some European circles labeling him the “new Osimhen” due to his potential. Given his significant transfer fee and contract until June 2029, a permanent move is unlikely, making a loan arrangement the most realistic option for Galatasaray to help him regain form in a more competitive league.