ANAMBRA’S GAS WEALTH: MEFOR CHALLENGES GOVERNMENT TO TURN RESOURCES INTO JOBS, POWER AND PROSPERITY

 

Anambra seeks inclusion in Nigeria’s Gas Master Plan as NCDMB urges journalists to promote local content and hold industry operators accountable.

Anambra State has renewed calls for greater access to its natural gas resources, insisting that the wealth beneath its soil must translate into electricity, industrial growth, employment and improved living standards for its people.

The call was made by the Commissioner for Information and Value Reformation, Dr. Law Mefor, during a Nigerian Content Media Stakeholders Workshop organised by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) at Golden Tulip, Awka.

Representing the state government, Mefor expressed concern that despite Anambra’s significant gas potential and its estimated oil production of 3,000 barrels per day, the state had yet to benefit adequately from the opportunities associated with the sector.

He called for Anambra’s proper inclusion in Nigeria’s Gas Master Plan, noting that direct access to gas could strengthen the state’s electricity ambitions, support industries, attract investment and create jobs.

Mefor also highlighted the opportunities presented by recent changes to Nigeria’s electricity laws, which allow greater participation by state governments in electricity generation, transmission and distribution. He noted that Anambra had established an Electricity Board but stressed that access to gas and the necessary infrastructure would be critical to achieving its power generation ambitions.

He pledged to escalate the concerns to Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, whose administration is pursuing the vision of transforming Anambra into a smart mega city and a preferred destination for investment, business and living.

The commissioner further called for an educational system that equips young people with practical skills and entrepreneurial capacity to create businesses and employment rather than depend solely on existing jobs.

According to NCDMB statistics presented at the engagement, Imo State leads oil production in the South-East with approximately 17,000 barrels per day, followed by Abia with 11,000 barrels and Anambra with 3,000 barrels per day.

The discussions also highlighted the need to review the Gas Master Plan, assess the feasibility of establishing a gas hub in Anambra and strengthen engagement between the state government, federal institutions and industry operators.

Speaking at the workshop, the General Manager of Corporate Communications at NCDMB, Dr. Obinna Ezeobi, urged journalists to intensify reporting on Nigerian Content policies, promote indigenous participation in the oil and gas industry and hold operators accountable for compliance with local content requirements.

He described the workshop as a strategic effort to strengthen collaboration between the Board and the media, improve industry reporting and educate citizens and businesses about opportunities across the oil and gas value chain.

Ezeobi explained that Nigerian Content policies are designed to build local capacity, strengthen indigenous enterprises, promote domestic manufacturing and ensure that more economic value generated by the oil and gas industry remains in Nigeria.

Established in 2010 following the enactment of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act, the NCDMB considers the media a critical partner in advancing these objectives.

He noted that Anambra is home to prominent indigenous industry players, including Engineer Emeka Okwuosa of Oilserv and Dr. Ernest Nnaemeka Azudialu-Obiejesi of Nestoil Group, whose businesses demonstrate the potential for Nigerian enterprises to compete in the sector.

The workshop, the first edition of the Board’s annual media stakeholders engagement to be held in the South-East since the initiative began in Port Harcourt in 2019, featured presentations on the NCDMB’s mandate, programmes and achievements, as well as discussions on Nigerian Content and community development.

Participants also received guidance on reporting technical sectors such as oil and gas more effectively.

As Anambra pursues its industrialisation ambitions, the central challenge remains turning its natural resources into tangible economic benefits. This will require improved access to gas, investment in infrastructure, stronger local participation, relevant technical training and sustained collaboration between government, industry and other stakeholders.

Journalists, in particular, have been urged to keep the issues in public focus, highlight available opportunities and monitor progress towards ensuring that Anambra’s resources contribute meaningfully to electricity supply, business growth and job creation.

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ANAMBRA OPEN TENNIS TOURNAMENT SET FOR OCTOBER 17–18 2026

 

The Anambra State Tennis Association has announced the Chief Kingsley Uduh Anambra Open Tennis Tournament, scheduled to hold on October 17 and 18, 2026, at the City Sports Club, Amawbia/Awka, Anambra State.

The tournament will commence at 8:00 a.m. daily, with interested players required to pay a commitment fee of ₦1,000 only to register.

All table tennis players across Anambra State are invited to participate, as registration will serve as a qualification requirement for selection to represent Anambra State at the upcoming National Sports Festival (Coal City Games ) in November 2026.

Interested players are encouraged to register promptly and seize the opportunity to showcase their talents.

For registration and enquiries, contact:

Mr. Chijioke: +234 703 720 5549

Mrs. Stella: +234 803 406 0102

Organised by: Anambra State Tennis Association.

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Amuneke, Kanu Rally Behind Akwuegbu as NFF Race Takes a New Turn

 

The NFF presidency race appears to be taking a new turn, with Benedict Akwuegbu receiving warm backing from some of Nigeria’s most respected former internationals.

Legendary former Super Eagles player and coach Emmanuel Amuneke was delighted to receive Akwuegbu, describing the moment as an opportunity for capable hands to come together and help restore Nigerian football to its rightful place.

Amuneke also welcomed the opportunity to support one of his own, while calling for former internationals to unite and become a force capable of changing the narrative around Nigerian football.

The visit continued at the Imo State Football Association, where Barrister Ifeanyi Dike openly declared his support for Akwuegbu. Dike said his position was driven by his belief that Nigerian football needs a change in direction.

Then came another significant encounter with Nwankwo Kanu.

The former Super Eagles captain acknowledged Akwuegbu’s opportunity to make a difference at the highest level and spoke candidly about one of the long-standing challenges facing former internationals — the absence of unity.

Kanu was particularly pleased to see a fellow international step forward and contest for the leadership of Nigerian football. Following their lengthy interaction, he expressed surprise at how much Akwuegbu had developed beyond the player he once knew, particularly impressed by his presentation and the ideas he brought to the table.

Kanu subsequently offered his support, stressing that his arms were wide open to the journey. He acknowledged that the road could be long, but insisted that it was achievable.

What stood out throughout the meetings was the warmth surrounding Akwuegbu.

There was a sense of familiarity, brotherhood and genuine enthusiasm among the former internationals — men who once wore the same national colours and now appear increasingly conscious of the need to find common ground.

For Akwuegbu, the encounters were more than courtesy visits.

They offered a powerful glimpse of what could happen when former internationals begin to close ranks around a shared vision for Nigerian football.

The NFF race is still unfolding. But one thing is becoming increasingly difficult to miss: Akwuegbu’s journey is bringing former teammates and football figures into the conversation — and this time, the call is for unity, experience and a different direction for the game.

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NIGERIANS FROWN AT THE APPOINTMENT OF EGUAVOEN AS THE SUPER FALCONS MANAGER

 

The appointment of former Super Eagles coach and Nigeria Football Federation Technical Director, Austin Eguavoen, as manager of the Super Falcons has already triggered strong reactions among Nigerian football followers.

Listeners of Sports Extravaganza on Udala Radio 104.7 FM Onitsha have questioned the wisdom behind the decision, with some describing the appointment as another indication that Nigerian football is unwilling to break away from the old order.

For some of the programme's listeners, the question is not necessarily whether Eguavoen is experienced enough to coach the Super Falcons. Their concern is whether he represents the fresh thinking Nigerian women's football needs at this particular moment.

One of the strongest arguments raised was Eguavoen's position within the NFF.

Eguavoen has been closely involved in the technical structure of Nigerian football as the federation's Technical Director, while also having several spells in charge of the Super Eagles. The NFF itself previously confirmed his role as Technical Director and his temporary assignment with the men's senior national team.

That background has now become a major talking point.

Some Sports Extravaganza listeners argued that if the administration under former NFF President Ibrahim Gusau is being questioned over the direction of Nigerian football, then appointing one of the prominent technical figures associated with that structure to lead the Super Falcons could be seen as continuity rather than change.

One listener put the argument bluntly:

“If Gusau failed, Eguavoen was part of the system. So why are we bringing the same system to solve the problem?”

Another listener insisted that Nigerian football needs new people, new ideas and a different technical philosophy, rather than repeatedly turning to familiar names whenever there is a vacancy in one of the national teams.

The criticism comes at a particularly difficult moment for Nigerian football.

The NFF has been plunged into a major leadership crisis following the resignation of Ibrahim Gusau and members of his executive committee on August 27. The federation had been under increasing pressure over the state of Nigerian football, with the controversy also coming amid Nigeria's failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The timing has therefore made Eguavoen's appointment even more controversial.

For his supporters, however, there is another side to the argument.

Eguavoen is not a newcomer to Nigerian football. He is a former Super Eagles captain, an experienced coach and a man who understands the Nigerian football environment from both the playing and administrative sides.

He has also previously handled national-team responsibilities, including taking temporary charge of the Super Eagles on several occasions.

But that is precisely where the disagreement lies.

Should experience automatically guarantee another opportunity, or should Nigeria deliberately look outside the familiar circle for a completely different approach?

For some of the Sports Extravaganza audience, the answer is clear.

They believe the Super Falcons need a manager capable of bringing a fresh tactical identity, new methods and perhaps a different relationship with the players. To them, appointing another personality from the existing football establishment feels like “jumping from the frying pan into the fire.”

Some even Complained of the neglect of the Ex Super Falcons players who can also fill the void, they said the likes of Desire Oparanozie, Judith Chime, Maureen Mmadu, etc should be given a Chance 

The debate is therefore bigger than Austin Eguavoen.

It is about what direction Nigerian football wants to take after a turbulent period.

Does the country need continuity at a time of crisis?

Or is this exactly the moment to break completely with the past?

And perhaps the biggest question of all:

If Nigerian football is genuinely trying to rebuild, why does the rebuilding process continue to feature many of the same faces?

For now, the decision has been made.

The real verdict, however, will not come from press conferences or official statements.

It will come from the pitch.

And Nigerian football fans will be watching closely.

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SIMY NWANKWO SCORES FIRST AL-TAI GOAL AND PROVIDES AN ASSIST IN THRILLING 4–3 WIN OVER AL-ADALAH

 

Nigerian striker Simy Nwankwo announced himself in style at Al-Tai as he scored his first goal for the Saudi Arabian club and also registered an assist in a thrilling 4–3 victory over Al-Adalah on Wednesday evening.

The Nigerian forward was handed a starting role by Al-Tai manager Dinko Jelicic and played a key part in an entertaining Saudi First Division encounter at the Prince Abdullah bin Jalawi Sport City Stadium in Al-Ahsa.

Al-Tai lined up in a 3-4-3 formation, with Simy leading the attack.

Al-Tai made a strong start to the contest, taking a 2–0 lead before half-time. Simy was at the heart of the visitors' attacking play, combining his physical presence up front with intelligent movement and link-up play.

The former Super Eagles striker then got his reward as he found the back of the net with a precise header for his first Al-Tai goal, sparking celebrations among his teammates.

Simy was not finished there. The experienced Nigerian also provided an assist, underlining his influence on the game as Al-Tai repeatedly threatened the Al-Adalah defence.

Al-Adalah refused to surrender and turned the match into a dramatic contest, scoring three goals as they fought their way back into the game. However, Al-Tai kept their composure and eventually secured a 4–3 victory, claiming an important three points in the Saudi First Division.

The result gives Simy an impressive start to life at his new club, with a goal and an assist on the same night.

For a striker who enjoyed a remarkable goalscoring campaign in Saudi Arabia last season with Al-Orobah, the performance will be particularly encouraging as he begins a new chapter with Al-Tai.

Al-Tai's victory also moves them onto the winning side of the early-season standings after they opened the campaign with a defeat to Al-Okhdood.

Simy Nwankwo has wasted no time making his mark in the Saudi First Division  and Al-Tai will hope Wednesday night's performance is the beginning of a prolific spell for the Nigerian striker.

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BREAKING: SIMY NWANKWO SIGNS FOR AL TAEE

 

Former Super Eagles striker Simeon Tochukwu Nwankwo, popularly known as Simy, has completed a move to Saudi Arabian club Al Taee.

The towering Nigerian forward has confirmed the transfer, beginning another chapter in his impressive professional football career.

Simy, 34, is a powerful centre-forward who has built a reputation as a prolific goalscorer during his years in Europe and Saudi Arabia.

The Nigerian began his professional career in Portugal with Portimonense and Gil Vicente before moving to Italy, where he enjoyed a remarkable spell with Crotone.

At Crotone, Simy became the club's all-time leading goalscorer and produced one of the most impressive scoring seasons by a Nigerian striker in European football. 

He scored 20 Serie B goals in the 2019/20 campaign, helping Crotone earn promotion to Serie A.

He subsequently featured for Salernitana, Parma and Benevento before moving to Saudi Arabia.

His time in Saudi Arabia has once again brought the goals, with Simy enjoying a prolific campaign with Al-Orobah, where he finished the season among the leading scorers and played a major role in the club's promotion push.

On the international stage, 

Simy represented Nigeria at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia. He earned four caps for the Super Eagles after making his international debut against DR Congo in May 2018 and was included in Nigeria's World Cup squad.

Now, the experienced striker begins a fresh challenge with Al Taee, bringing his experience, physical presence and goalscoring pedigree to his new club.

Another chapter. Another challenge. Another opportunity for Simy Nwankwo to make his mark. 🇳🇬⚽

PHAMOUZ TV — Breaking the News, Telling the Story.

#SimyNwankwo 

#AlTaee 

#SuperEagles 

#NigeriansAbroad 

#TransferNews 

#PhamouzTV

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CSS Okpuno Clinch Anambra State Sam Okwaraji U-16 Qualifiers Title with 3-1 Victory Over CSS Amawbia

 

CSS Okpuno Clinch Anambra State Sam Okwaraji U-16 Qualifiers Title with 3-1 Victory Over CSS Amawbia

By Ndema Obinna Phamouzdj 

Community Secondary School (CSS) Okpuno were crowned champions of the 2026 Anambra State Qualifiers of the Sam Okwaraji Under-16 Schools Football Championship after defeating Community Secondary School (CSS) Amawbia 3-1 in an entertaining final played at the St. John's Catholic Church Field, Okpuno, on Friday, July 3, 2026.

Backed by a vocal home crowd, CSS Okpuno produced another commanding performance to complete an unbeaten run through the tournament and secure the state's coveted schools football title. The champions displayed tactical discipline, attacking flair and defensive solidity, qualities that saw them emerge as the competition's standout team.

The road to the final was filled with exciting contests. The opening round saw CSS Urum defeat Abbot Boys Secondary School 3-1, while Willie Obiano Community Secondary School comfortably overcame CKC Umueri 2-0. CSS Achalla edged St. Kizito 1-0, and St. Jude Secondary School booked their place in the next round with a 2-1 victory over CSS Igboukwu.

The quarter-finals produced more impressive performances. CSS Okpuno underlined their title credentials with a resounding 4-0 demolition of St. Jude Secondary School. Urban Boys fought back to defeat CSS Achalla 2-1, while CSS Amawbia eased past Willie Obiano Community Secondary School with a convincing 3-0 win. Igwebuike Grammar School also progressed after defeating CSS Urum 2-1.

In the semi-finals, CSS Okpuno maintained their impressive form, defeating Urban Boys 2-0 to book a place in the championship match. CSS Amawbia secured the second final ticket after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Igwebuike Grammar School.

The much-anticipated final lived up to expectations as both schools displayed determination and quality. However, CSS Okpuno proved too strong on the day, converting their chances and controlling key moments of the game to record a deserved 3-1 victory over CSS Amawbia and lift the trophy.

CSS Amawbia team line up 

Tournament Results

First Round

CSS Urum 3 - 1 Abbot Boys Secondary School Ihiala 

Willie Obiano Community Secondary School  Aguleri 2 - 0  CKC Umueri

CSS Achalla 1 - 0 St. Kizito Secondary School Umudioka

St. Jude Secondary School Ihiala  2 - 1  CSS Igboukwu

Quarter-finals

CSS Okpuno 4 - 0  St. Jude Secondary School Ihiala 

Urban Boys  Onitsha  2 - 1  CSS Achalla

CSS Amawbia  3 - 0  Willie Obiano Community Secondary School

Igwebuike Grammar School Awka  2 - 1  CSS Urum

Semi-finals

CSS Okpuno  2 - 0 Urban Boys Onitsha 

CSS Amawbia  1 - 0  Igwebuike Grammar School

Final

CSS Okpuno  3 - 1  CSS Amawbia

The successful staging of the Anambra State Qualifiers once again showcased the wealth of football talent within secondary schools across the state. The Sam Okwaraji Under-16 Schools Football Championship remains one of Nigeria's foremost grassroots football competitions, providing young players with the opportunity to develop their skills, gain competitive experience and attract the attention of coaches and scouts . It is also a way to pay tribute to a Man that Died playing for his beloved Country, A man that sacrificed a lot to Represent his Country.

Sam Okwaraji lives On.

With the state title secured, CSS Okpuno will now carry Anambra's hopes into the next phase of the Sam Okwaraji Under-16 Schools Football Championship, where they will aim to continue their remarkable run and further establish themselves among the country's brightest young football teams.

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Anambra State Weightlifting Association hold Quarterly Meeting, Set to Host Weightlifting Tournament in the State

 

Earlier today Friday 3rd July 2026, at The Godwin Achebe Stadium Fegge, Onitsha as at 10:00 AM The Chairman and Board members of The Anambra Weightlifting Association gathered to discuss the way forward for Weightlifting in Anambra State 

The Chairman Chief Ewenike Chijioke thanked every stake holder for their Commitment So far and Urged everyone to key in With Vision of The Commissioner of Youth Development and Sports Mr Patrick Agha Mba and The Solution Bigger Agenda for Sports.

In order to achieve that all hands must be on Deck 

Notwithstanding that the Association is lacking in so many ways like Poor or No Funding, Poor or No Reward System which has prompted mass Exodus of Anambra Athletes to other neighbouring States like Delta State, Benue State, Enugu State etc, Poor Athletes Welfare and the need to Upgrade training facilities 

The Chairman promised to do his best in providing the adequate assistance the Association needs, First of all The Association will host a Tournament for Weightlifters in Anambra State and then Conduct an Open Screening to admit more Athletes.

The Association will also target medals in Upcoming events like the Intermediary Games in Lagos and the National Sports Festival in Enugu. The Medals will boost the morale of Athletes to be more committed and passionate about the Game.

The Association also plead on well to do Anambrarians to Support and Invest in Sports most especially Weightlifting.

The Association also promised to find a way to Stop entirely the Mass Exodus of Anambra Athletes to other States with the Support of Commission that can be achieved.

The Association also call on talented Anambra Athletes to join the Weightlifting team of the State to achieve the vision of our Sports loving Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo.

Some notable members in the meeting are Anambra State Weightlifting Coach Kama Michael, Emeka Nrialike, Ugwuh Angel Sharon and others.

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Ndema Family Raises Alarm over Land Grabbing,Threats and Intimidation by Native Doctor Charles Uchenna Nduka (Ezeudo)

 

Ndema Family of Onuburu,Ezioha, Nnenato, Ihioma,Orlu LGA of Imo State is Saddened by the Intimidation,Threat and Intimidation towards the entire family and Ndema Obinna, Only Son of Late Ikechemere Ndema by Native Doctor Charles Uchenna Nduka (Ezeudo)

On 26th March 2026, Native Doctor Charles Uchenna Nduka came with labourers and Started digging on IHUALA OGWUGWU AMAKPU the portion allocated to Late Ikechemere Ndema after the family shared the said land in October 2025.

Obinna Ndema the only surviving Son of Ikechemere Ndema raised alarm and sent a voice message to the Onuburu Whatsapp Group and every other members of the family, Telling the native doctor to please stay clear of his property, Meanwhile the Native Doctor is claiming he bought the land from Ndema Jude (the younger brother to Ikechemere Ndema) who takes care of Ikechemere Ndema properties as the children doesn't reside in Ihioma.

Ndema Obinna refuted the claim by showing evidence that he is the owner of the portion, yet few weeks later Native Doctor Charles Uchenna Nduka came back with Armed men and started building a fence on the land, When approached by Elder Ndema Francis and other members of Ndema family he shouted at them and told them to Go Away that if their is a case, that it is between Ndema Obinna and Ndema Jude, (yet Ndema Obinna was not consulted), The Armed men urged him on, saying that they have turned cement Already, but if later confirmed that Jude is not the Owner of the Land, That the native doctor will forfeit everything he built there.

The native doctor kept threatening that over his Dead body will he leave the property, that anyone that challenges him will be bundled to Owerri, that he has set aside 50 million Naira for the case.

Ndema Obinna came back to the village and met people working on his land, he stopped them but the Native Doctor Charles Uchenna Nduka came and told the workers to continue working that Ndema Obinna should Do his Worse, he said that in front of the Elders of Ndema family.

After that the same Native Doctor Charles Uchenna Nduka served the entire Ndema family a document Warning them to Stop Interfering with his work, that anyone that interfere will face the wrath of the law 

Meanwhile Ndema Family have reported the issue to the Onuburu village meeting 3 times but the case keeps stalling because a lot of people has been compromised, yet they have given him 2 weeks to remove everything he put on the land, yet he continued, Ndema Obinna replied the letter he sent and also gave him 2 weeks to remove everything he put on the land, attached to the letter is a Document stating clearly that the portion of land belongs to Ndema Obinna, The document was signed by All The firstborns of Ndema family Yet he responded by fixing a gate on the fence he built and locked it thereby restricting the owner access to his property..

These actions prompted Ndema family to Set up a Meeting of all the firstborns of the family and Cyprain Ndema (who collaborated with Jude to sell the land) and Jude Ndema. On Sunday 28th June 2026

In the meeting, Jude Ndema and Cyprain Ndema were mandated to return Ndema Obinna's Land with Immediate effect, that they should Inform the rogue Native Doctor Charles Uchenna Nduka that the family has endured his Continued Insults and Intimidation against the family and is ready to take legal actions against his Criminal activity on their property .

Jude Ndema have Confirmed that he has told Native Doctor Charles Uchenna Nduka The Outcome of the Meeting, that he should Stay Clear.

So any Continued Occupation of the Land will be seen as Pure Criminality and will be treated accordingly 

This piece is let the world know that in 2026 a so called Native Doctor believes he can forcefully take over someone's land and shut everyone up with 50 million Naira.

Let's watch and see how it ends 

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Extensive Renovation and Upgrade happening now at the Neros Stadium, Nanka

 

A new chapter is unfolding at Nero’s Sports Stadium, Nanka, as extensive renovation and upgrade works are currently underway.

The iconic stadium, single-handedly built by Chief Polycarp Emenike, M.O.N (Odenigbo Nanka), is undergoing a total overhaul aimed at improving its facilities and enhancing the sporting experience for athletes, supporters, and visitors alike.

Major works currently in progress include the rehabilitation of the playing pitch, installation of seats on the spectators' stand, and several repair and maintenance projects within and around the stadium complex.

This remarkable investment once again reflects Chief Polycarp Emenike's unwavering commitment to sports development, youth empowerment, and community growth in Nanka and beyond.

The transformation is already taking shape, and the completed project promises to further elevate Nero’s Sports Stadium as a pride of Nanka and a center for sporting excellence.

The Stadium hosts the Opening and Closing games of the Anambra State FA Cup and other Anambra State Football Association sanctioned Games.

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Sports Commissioner Mr. Agha Mba Meets Sports Stakeholders, Hails Their Support for Anambra Sports

 

The Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports, Mr Patrick Agha Mba, on Friday, 5 June 2026, hosted a “Thank You Luncheon” for sports stakeholders, aficionados, and leaders of sports associations in Anambra State.

The meeting, which brought together sports promoters, club owners, sports association chairmen and administrators, was held at the Ministry’s conference hall near Government House, Awka.

During the luncheon, Mba unveiled plans to reposition sports as a major component of Anambra State’s creative economy. He stressed the need to transform sports from a recreational activity into a sustainable culture and viable economic sector.

The Commissioner disclosed that the Ministry has developed a policy framework to establish Youth and Sports Departments in all Local Government Council Areas to strengthen grassroots sports development.

Mr Mba further revealed that plans are underway to encourage every LGA to host its own sports festival as a means of reviving sporting activities and discovering young talents.

He noted that the initiative would help create a vibrant sports ecosystem capable of generating opportunities for youths while contributing to the state’s economic growth.

According to him, the gathering was an opportunity to appreciate stakeholders whose support and faith in Anambra sports had sustained the Ministry’s efforts over the years.

He called for continued collaboration among stakeholders, urging them to support the Ministry, offer constructive criticism, and hold public officials accountable in the collective pursuit of sports excellence.

The Commissioner reaffirmed his commitment to working with all relevant stakeholders to position Anambra State and the South East as a leading hub for sports development, talent discovery, and economic opportunities through sports. He also commended them for their massive contributions to the growth of the sector in the state.

Mba added that the Ministry remains open to new ideas and partnerships that will take sports to greater heights in Anambra.

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Heartland FC Slammed with Sanctions Over Wrongful Dismissal of Its Coach

 

The Players’ Status and Arbitration Committee of the Nigeria Football Federation has ordered Heartland FC to pay the sum of ₦6.4 million to Coach Charles Uzor for unlawfully terminating his contract.

According to the Committee’s findings, Coach Charles Uzor entered into a valid professional coaching contract with Heartland FC on August 1, 2024, to serve as Head Coach for the 2024/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League season. The agreement entitled the coach to a monthly salary of ₦700,000.

However, the contract was terminated by the club on June 11, 2025. While Heartland FC alleged that the termination arose from several breaches of contract, the Committee established that the club ended the agreement unilaterally and without just cause. It further noted that due process, including proper query and suspension procedures, was not followed before the termination.

Coach Uzor subsequently sought ₦8.4 million, representing the unexpired tenure of his contract. After reviewing the submissions of both parties, the Committee ruled that Heartland FC must pay ₦6.4 million as compensation to the coach within 45 days from receipt of the decision.

The Committee also issued a stern warning that failure to comply with the ruling will attract sanctions. Heartland FC will face a ban from transferring players and registering new ones until the full amount ordered is paid.

The decision underscores the NFF’s commitment to upholding contractual integrity and protecting the rights of professionals within the Nigerian football industry.

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EGWU EKERE 2025 - Teams Receive their Cash Prize at Winners Global Estate Limited office

 

Anago Echetabu Avenue Mgbakwu, East Niger Okpoko and Ozalla Awada teams converged at the Winners Global Estate Limited Office No 231 Obodoukwu Road Okpoko to Receive their Cash Prize of the just concluded Egwu Ekere Street Championship.

The CEO of Winners Global Estate Limited Chief Okwuchukwu, thanked everyone for coming, he also congratulated the Winners for their Great achievements of being the first winners of the Competition.

He Urged the players to be hardworking, disciplined and Focused, he also said that they are all Ambassadors of Winners Global Estate Limited, they should All Project the Brand.

The teams later embarked on a tour to some of the Properties/Estates Owned by Winners Global Estate Limited, they also had some refreshments 

After the tour, The teams sent in their account numbers and their money was transferred to them and they Confirmed Reception 

Anago Echetabu Avenue Mgbakwu received 1.5 million Naira 

East Niger Okpoko received #700,000

Ozalla Awada Received #500,000

Winners Global Estate Limited promised the players that next year will be better than this year 

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ANAGO ECHETABU AVENUE MGBAKWU WINS MAIDEN EGWU EKERE STREET CHAMPIONSHIP 2025.

Anago Echetabu Avenue Mgbakwu (The Game Changers) defeated East Niger Okpoko via Penalties to lift the Egwu Ekere Street Championship Trophy in front of Over Ten thousand spectators at the Godwin Achebe Stadium Fegge earlier today 8th December 2025.

East Niger Okpoko started well as Ifeanyi Akujiobi scored from the penalty spot in the 11th Minute of the Match to give his team the hope of winning, Everything was going the way of East Niger Okpoko Including the fans support up until the 59th Minute when Oramulu Chikwado Scored to equalize for his team Anago Echetabu Avenue Mgbakwu.

The Match ended in a Draw and we went Straight to Penalties.

Anago Echetabu Avenue Mgbakwu won 5 -  3 on penalties to lift the trophy.

Earlier in the day a lone Goal by the Eventual Highest Goal Scorer of the Competition Anunandu Chidera (6 Goals) gave Ozalla Awada the Win against Portharcourt Road Fegge in the Third Place Match 

Victor Iloka Won the Most Valuable Player of the Competition 

Nozie Emma Save of Anago Echetabu Avenue Mgbakwu won the best Goalie of the Competition.

Anago Echetabu Avenue Mgbakwu was handed a cheque of 1.5 Million Naira while the Runners Up, East Niger Okpoko pocketed #700,000.

Ozalla Awada went home with #500,000.

Egwu Ekere Street Championship 2025, Proudly Sponsored by Winners Global Estate Limited Was a Success as it proves to be the Toughest Street Championship in the World 

Congratulations to the Winners.

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EAST NIGER OKPOKO ANAGO ECHETABU AVENUE MGBAKWU for EGWU EKERE FINALS

 

The Stage is Set for the Finals of the Toughest, Biggest Street Street football Championship EGWU EKERE (STREET CHAMPIONSHIP) 2025

Earlier today East Niger Okpoko became victorious after beating Portharcourt Road Fegge by 1 - 0, Goal Scored by Okeke Okechukwu in the closing stages of the first half of the intense Game.

East Niger Okpoko defended well to make sure they get to the finals 

The East Niger Okpoko Goalkeeper who eventually became the Man of the Match made some great saves to keep the game positive for his team.

On Monday 8th December 2025 at the Godwin Achebe Stadium Fegge Onitsha by 12pm , The Third Place Match between Ozalla Awada vs Portharcourt Road Fegge Will be the Curtain Raiser.

3pm will be time for the Grande Finale 

East Niger Okpoko will slug it out with Anago Echetabu Avenue Mgbakwu to determine who will make History by becoming the First Ever Winner of EGWU EKERE (STREET CHAMPIONSHIP)

The Winner will go home with 1.5 Million Naira 

The Runners Up will Pocket #700,000

The Winner between Ozalla Awada and Portharcourt Road Fegge will take home the Sum of #500,000.

There are also Individual Awards for The Best Player, Best Goal keeper and Highest Goal Scorer 

Courtesy of Winners Global Estate Limited 

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