Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, the Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, has commended Governor Monday Okpebholo of the state for creating the an enabling environment for football to thrive in the state.

The Edo State Sports Commission boss gave the commendation when he received letter of appreciation to Governor Okpebholo by Edo State Football Association.

Enabulele, who was represented by his Media Officer, Edoko Wilson Edoko, while receiving the appreciation letter titled: ‘Congratulatory Message from the Edo State Football Association on His Outstanding Achievements,’ appreciated the state FA, and attributed the successes recorded to Governor Okpebholo’s vision and commitment to football development.

“We appreciate Governor Monday Okpebholo for creating an enabling environment for football to thrive in Edo State.

READ ALSO: Edo Commits To Sports Development, Grassroots Talent Discovery – Enabulele

“His vision is to rigorously identify, nurture, and galvanize grassroots talent across the state,” Enabulele concluded.

Earlier, chairman of the association, Fred Newton Erhumwunse, commended Okpebholo for his remarkable and inspiring achievements since assuming office.

Erhumwunse lauded the pivotal role played by the Edo State Government in advancing sports, particularly football.

He noted that Governor Okpebholo’s leadership has been transformative. “When you assumed this esteemed role, Bendel Insurance Football Club — the pride of Edo State — was struggling in 19th position on the league table. Through your visionary guidance, hands-on management, and the creation of a renewed sense of purpose within the team, Bendel Insurance made an extraordinary climb to finish the season in 5th position. This remarkable turnaround, achieved in such a short time, reflects not only your understanding of the game but also your deep commitment to restoring Edo’s football glory,” Erhumwunse said.

The Ballon d’Or has released the full list of nominees for the highly anticipated 2025 Women’s Ballon d’Or, showcasing 30 outstanding female footballers from across the globe.

Leading the nominations are established stars such as Aitana Bonmati, Alexia Putellas, Pernille Harder, and Lucy Bronze, alongside rising talents including Melchie Dumornay, Temwa Chawinga, and Frida Leonardsen-Maanum.

Also named in the prestigious list are Barbra Banda, Claudia Pina, Sandy Baltimore, Marta, Chloe Kelly, Leah Williamson, and Esther Gonzalez, among others.

The Ballon d’Or recognition celebrates the best women’s footballers for their excellence, impact, and achievements over the past season.

READ ALSO:FULL LIST: Ballon d’Or Unveils 2025 Men’s Nominees

The final winner will be announced at the official awards ceremony later in the year.

FULL LIST
Sandy Baltimore
Barbra Banda
Aitana Bonmati
Lucy Bronze
Klara Bühl
Mariona Caldentey
Sofia Cantore
Steph Catley
Temwa Chawinga
Melchie Dumornay
Emily Fox
Cristiana Girelli
Esther Gonzalez
Caroline Graham Hansen
Hannah Hampton
Pernille Harder
Patri Guijarro
Amanda Gutierres
Lindsey Heaps
Chloe Kelly
Frida Leonardsen-Maanum
Marta
Clara Mateo
Ewa Pajor
Claudia Pina
Alexia Putellas
Alessia Russo
Johanna Rytting Kaneryd
Caroline Weir
Leah Williamson

Super Falcons’ tactician, Justine Madugu, has been nominated for the prestigious 2025 Ballon d’Or Women’s Team Coach of the Year Trophy.

The nomination, announced Thursday, places Madugu among the global elite of women’s football coaching, following his remarkable leadership with the Nigerian women’s national team.

The accolade celebrates coaches who have demonstrated outstanding strategy, motivation, and performance in guiding their teams on the international stage.

READ ALSO:FULL LIST: Ballon d’Or Unveils 2025 Men’s Nominees

The recognition comes as Nigerian football continues to gain momentum on the global stage, with Super Falcons players and coaches increasingly drawing international attention after winning the Women’s African Cup of Nations.

Madugu’s nomination is not only a personal triumph but also a moment of pride for Nigeria, reinforcing the country’s reputation as a powerhouse in African women’s football.