Sports

Obaseki Throws Weight Behind Nigeria/Benin Republic’s Bid To Host AFCON 2027

Published

3 years ago

September 27, 2023

Editor

… Ogbemudia Stadium to host games if bid is successful

Governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has declared his support for the bid by Nigeria and Benin Republic to host the 2027 edition of the African Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The governor, in a video message supporting the joint bid by the two countries, noted that Edo State is endorsing the bid and is ready to provide necessary support to host games at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, which is one of the proposed grounds for the biennial tournament.

According to him, “My name is Godwin Obaseki, the Governor of Edo State, which is located in the South-South region of Nigeria. The government and citizens of Edo State wholeheartedly endorse the joint bid by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the Football Federation of Benin Republic, to host the 2027 edition of the AFCON.

“Edo State, which is known for its rich cultural heritage, including the famous Benin bronzes which are now being repatriated, has a deep passion for football. In Edo State, we have some of Nigeria’s brightest football talents and we also have a proud football legacy.

“Over the years, we have made significant investment in sports infrastructure including the world-class Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium complex, which is equipped to host this landmark event. We have also developed grassroots football facilities including mini stadia across the various local government areas.

“Edo State boasts of top-notch hospitality and tourist attractions and a warm and welcoming populace. We are fully prepared to welcome Africa to Benin City and throughout Nigeria. We commit to make the necessary upgrades in our facilities to ensure a successful and memorable AFCON 2027.”

He added: “Our business community and other key stakeholders are looking forward to contributing to the success of this historical event. I want to assure the Confederation of African Football (CAF) executives that Edo State stands firmly behind Nigeria and Benin Republic in their effort to host Africa and to deliver an exceptional sporting spectacle.”

Sports

EPL: Rooney Names Team To Win Title

Published

19 hours ago

May 5, 2026

Editor

Former Manchester United striker, Wayne Rooney, has said Arsenal will go on to win the Premier League title, after Manchester City dropped points against Everton.

City were held to a 3-3 draw at the Hill Dickinson Stadium on Monday night.

The result means Pep Guardiola’s men are now five points behind Arsenal, but they have one game in hand.

Rooney believes the Gunners will beat West Ham this weekend and go on to be champions.

He said on BBC Sport: “No, I’m concerned for West Ham. I just think Arsenal are efficient and professional.

“I just think they will win every game. So obviously, with the result tonight, that means they will win the league.”

Sports

UCL, EPL: Petr Cech Advises Chelsea On How To Win Trophies

Published

2 days ago

May 4, 2026

Editor

Chelsea legend, Petr Cech, has advised his old club on how to win the UEFA Champions League or the English Premier League.

Chelsea are already out of the Premier League title race this season, and they are at risk of missing out on UEFA Champions League qualification for next season because they are currently not in the ninth position on the Premier League table.

Speaking to The Athletic about Chelsea, Cech said that the Blues need to change their philosophy of signing only young players if they want to win the Premier League or Champions League.

According to the former goalkeeper, the Premier League west London club needs to add experienced players to mentor the young players in the squad.

“You have to look at what you want to achieve. You can have young, talented players, and you can win, but it’s very rare that you manage to do that,” he said.

“If you want to win every season and compete every season, that does not go together.

“You have to change your philosophy. Certain things don’t go together because, in order to win a Champions League or a Premier League… these are really tough competitions, and you have to be consistent.

“You need to have a strong core of the team. And then you can bring young, talented players who will grow faster and then will be held by the experienced players to help navigate them through difficult times when they come.”

Currently, Chelsea have just one player, Tosin Adarabioyo, who is over 28 this season, and the defender has not been playing regularly.

Sports

Enabulele Lauds Okpebholo’s Bold Reforms As Edo Sports Witnesses Revival

Published

6 days ago

April 30, 2026

Editor

The Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, has commended Governor Monday Okpebholo for what he described as a bold and transformative approach to sports development.

Speaking on efforts to reposition sports in the state, Enabulele noted that with Okpebholo’s visionary leadership, the sector has witnessed renewed growth.

In a statement issued by his Media Officer, Edoko Wilson Edoko, the Edo Sports Commission boss attributed the progress to the governor’s strategic policies and sustained commitment to youth development, which he said have laid the foundation for a more structured and results-driven system.

“His Excellency has demonstrated clear vision and genuine commitment to sports development. The level of support we are receiving has significantly repositioned Edo as a competitive force in national sporting events,” he said.

He explained that targeted investments in grassroots development are already producing results, with a growing number of young talents being identified and nurtured across multiple disciplines.

“We are deliberately building from the grassroots. A large percentage of our athletes today are homegrown, which speaks to the sustainability of our development model,” Enabulele added.

The Commission, he noted, is also shifting away from an over-reliance on football to a broader multi-sport focus.

Edo State, he said, is now recording improved performances in athletics, combat sports, and other emerging areas.

“Our goal is to strengthen all sports. The results are beginning to show across different disciplines, and this is only the start,” he said.

Enabulele further pointed to ongoing improvements in sports infrastructure and athlete welfare as critical factors in sustaining performance and encouraging wider participation among young people.

“We are building a system that will endure. With the continued support of the governor, Edo is on course to becoming a dominant force in sports at both national and international levels,” he stated.

He expressed confidence that the current momentum would translate into greater achievements for Edo athletes, reaffirming the Commission’s commitment to excellence, discipline, and long-term development.