Sports
Buhari rewards Amusan, Brume, others with national honours, N200m
President Muhammadu Buhari has approved national honours of Officer of the Order of the Niger and cash awards of N200 million for Team Nigeria contingents to the 2022 Commonwealth Games and World Athletics championships.
The President, at an award ceremony held at the State House, Abuja, congratulated the athletes for their outstanding performances.
He said their hour of sporting glory beamed the ‘‘radar of the world on Nigeria’’ and their exploits projected the positive image of the country.
This was disclosed in a statement signed by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, titled ‘President Buhari rewards Commonwealth Games, World Athletics Championships athletes with national honours, N200 million.’
The beneficiaries are gold winners and other medal winners including the world champion in the 100m hurdles, Tobiloba Amusan, Ese Brume, Blessing Oborodudu, Oluwafemiayo Folashade, Taiwo Liadi, Ikechukwu Obichukwu, Bose Omolayo, Favour Ofili, Nasiru Sule, Ifechukwude Ikpeoyi, Ebikewenimo Welson, Hannah Reuben and Elizabeth Oshoba.
The President said his government was committed to rewarding excellence, no less for members of Team Nigeria who ignited the spirit of victory in the nation through stellar performances at international competitions.
Buhari described the athletes as champions, worthy ambassadors, national heroes and heroines, noting that the awards would “spur them to greater heights.”
He said, ”I watched with millions of Nigerians those exciting moments when you all brought smiles to us and our homes by breaking world, national and games records, as well as achieving personal best in your careers.
“Your outstanding performances in recent times are consistent with the determination of a nation always yearning for excellent performance. You all, members of Team Nigeria have ignited the spirit for victory in our nation but even more you have been victorious in major sporting championships and games.
”I have followed keenly your achievements at the World Championships in Oregon USA and indeed your remarkable performance at the recently concluded Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, United Kingdom. And I am very pleased that you displayed at both the personal and group levels great sporting talents and delivered for your country great podium performances.”
The President said 12 times the world stood still as Nigeria’s flag was hoisted and the National Anthem recited; “35 times we made it to the podium.
“You all Team Nigeria made that possible. You brought glory and honour to our country. And today, on behalf of the nation- I say, thank you!”
He stressed that his regime would continue to provide the enabling environment for youths to ascend to the pinnacle of their chosen careers.
The President expressed satisfaction with the impact the Adopt-An-Athlete Initiative of the Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports had on the performance of athletes.
He urged more private individuals and corporate organisations to support the government’s investment in sports.
Buhari acknowledged the strides recorded in the sports sector under the Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Sunday Dare, and his team, commending the numerous and sustained successes in the last few years.
Dare described 2022 as an outstanding year in the history of Nigerian sports.
He said in track and field, Amusan within four months won Nigeria’s first ever gold medal in World Athletics Championships in Eugene, Oregon, USA with a world record performance in an event highly dominated by the Americans and Europeans.
He said she successfully defended her Commonwealth Games title, which she won in 2018 in Gold Coast, with a games record in 2022 in Birmingham; and Diamond League title in Zurich, Switzerland on September 8, 2022.
The minister said this remarkable performance had never been achieved by any Nigerian in the history of sports.
Dare said Brume, another trailblazer in Nigerian sports, won silver medal in the Women’s Long Jump event at the 2022 World Athletics Championships and a gold medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham with a games record performance.
”In confirming that the performance was not a fluke, she won a gold medal in the Women’s 68kg category at the just concluded 2022 Commonwealth Games,” he said.
The minister noted that Nigeria had become the best Para Powerlifting nation in the world and commended Oluwafemiayo for keeping with this tradition by winning gold medal in the Women’s heavyweight category, setting a new world record in that class at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics and the 2022 Commonwealth Games.
”Mr. President, through the sporting exploits and excellence of the young athletes before you in this hall and several others not able to make it for this reception, Nigeria has served notice that it will not relent.
”That it will show up and compete for every laurel available not only in sport but in youth development, economic progress, social emancipation, political development and many more,” he said.
Sports
Arsenal Edge Sporting in Lisbon with Last-Minute Havertz Strike
Arsenal Edge Sporting in Lisbon with Last-Minute Havertz Strike
Arsenal FC claimed a dramatic 1-0 victory over Sporting CP in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarterfinal in Lisbon, thanks to a stoppage-time goal from Kai Havertz. The late strike gives the Premier League leaders a slender advantage heading into the second leg at the Emirates Stadium.
The game at Estádio José Alvalade was tense from the outset, with Sporting testing Arsenal early. Maxi Araújo nearly gave the hosts the lead with a shot that rattled the crossbar, following a brilliant through ball from Ousmane Diomande. Arsenal responded with possession dominance but struggled to create clear chances, with Noni Madueke hitting the crossbar from a corner.
READ ALSO:
- NNPC Doubles Crude Supply to Dangote Refinery, But Petrol Prices May Stay High
- Decades of Prayer, No Results: Man’s Story Divides Public Opinion
- Blessing CEO Used Another Patient’s Cancer Report to Seek Donations – NMA
In the second half, Arsenal’s Martin Zubimendi had a goal ruled out for offside in the build-up involving former Sporting striker Viktor Gyökeres, adding to the mounting tension. Sporting continued to threaten on the counter, with Francisco Trincão and Geny Catamo forcing saves from David Raya, who was crucial in keeping the scores level.
The breakthrough came in stoppage time when substitute Kai Havertz calmly finished a decisive move, sliding the ball past Rui Silva after a perfectly timed pass from Gabriel Martinelli. The goal not only secured the win but also boosted Mikel Arteta’s squad confidence after back-to-back domestic defeats.
Arsenal’s victory ensures they head into the return leg with an advantage, while Sporting will need to overturn the deficit in London next week. The Gunners now turn their focus to the Premier League, where they will face Bournemouth in their next fixture.
The result highlights Arsenal’s resilience in Europe and emphasizes Havertz’s growing impact in crucial moments, reinforcing their ambition to reach the Champions League semifinals.
Arsenal Edge Sporting in Lisbon with Last-Minute Havertz Strike
Sports
Harry Kane Stars as Bayern Munich Edge Real Madrid 2-1 in UCL Quarterfinal
Harry Kane Stars as Bayern Munich Edge Real Madrid 2-1 in UCL Quarterfinal
FC Bayern Munich secured a crucial 2-1 victory over Real Madrid in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarterfinal clash at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, with Harry Kane and Luis Díaz delivering decisive moments for the German giants.
The match began with Bayern showing early intensity, but it was Luis Díaz who broke the deadlock just four minutes before halftime, calmly finishing a slick move and giving Bayern a deserved lead. The Colombia international’s strike was set up by Kane, who was returning from a minor injury and had been absent for Bayern’s recent Bundesliga fixture against Freiburg.
Moments later, Kane showcased his class, scoring a stunning right-foot strike into the bottom corner, leaving Real Madrid goalkeeper Andriy Lunin with no chance. The England captain’s return to top form provided Bayern with a comfortable two-goal cushion heading into the second half.
READ ALSO:
- South-East Ex-Governors Back Tinubu’s Re-Election
- BREAKING: Dangote Refinery Raises Petrol Price across Nigeria
- Nigerians to Receive Airtime Credits as NCC Enforces Service Quality Standards
Despite the setback, Real Madrid mounted a spirited comeback. Substitutes, including Jude Bellingham, made an impact, while Trent Alexander-Arnold delivered a precise low cross that was converted by Kylian Mbappé in the 74th minute, reducing the deficit to 2-1.
Bayern goalkeeper Manuel Neuer was instrumental in preserving the lead, producing several key saves, including denying Vinícius Júnior and Mbappé on multiple occasions. His performance ensured that Bayern carried their narrow advantage to the return leg in Munich.
The win positions Bayern strongly for the second leg, but analysts warn that Real Madrid’s attacking quality could pose challenges when the teams meet again. Bayern will next travel to St. Pauli in the Bundesliga, while Real Madrid return to La Liga action against Girona.
The result underscores Bayern’s growing momentum in Europe and highlights Kane’s importance in their Champions League campaign, particularly following his return from injury.
Harry Kane Stars as Bayern Munich Edge Real Madrid 2-1 in UCL Quarterfinal
Sports
Harry Maguire Signs New Manchester United Deal Until 2027
Harry Maguire Signs New Manchester United Deal Until 2027
Manchester United defender Harry Maguire has signed a new contract that will keep him at Old Trafford until June 2027, with an option for a further year, the club has confirmed. The 33-year-old’s extension follows a strong run of form under interim manager Michael Carrick and marks a significant vote of confidence from the club in the England international.
Maguire, who joined United from Leicester City in 2019 for a reported £80 million, has made 266 appearances and scored 17 goals for the Red Devils. Despite earlier criticisms and challenges, he has regained his place in the starting lineup, helping United strengthen their defense and compete for top Premier League positions. His performances since January have also earned him a recall to the England national team.
READ ALSO:
- Women in Plateau Block Burial of 28 Palm Sunday Attack Victims Over Arrests
- Security Forces Deployed as Bandits Kill Three Residents in Niger Communities
- Resident Doctors Resume Work as FG Reverses Allowance Decision
Speaking about the contract, Maguire said, “Representing Manchester United is the ultimate honor. I am delighted to extend my journey at this incredible club and continue to play in front of our special supporters. The ambition and potential of this squad are clear, and I am confident our best moments are still ahead.”
Jason Wilcox, Manchester United’s director of football, praised Maguire’s leadership, resilience, and professionalism, noting that his experience is invaluable to a squad blending youth and ambition. Reports indicate that the new deal includes revised terms reflecting his current role and contributions to the team.
Maguire’s extension ensures that Manchester United retains one of their most experienced defenders as they aim to compete for domestic trophies and European success in the coming seasons. The contract includes an option to extend to 2028, giving the club flexibility while securing a key figure in their defensive line.
This renewal comes after a challenging period in Maguire’s career, which included being named club captain, losing the armband, and facing scrutiny from fans and media. His recent resurgence under Carrick, combined with leadership on and off the pitch, has helped solidify his place at the club for the foreseeable future.
Harry Maguire Signs New Manchester United Deal Until 2027
-
metro22 hours agoFG Deports US Missionary Alex Barbir Over Alleged Role in Nigeria Insecurity
-
Entertainment21 hours agoVeteran Nollywood Actor Davis Ofor ‘Clarus’ of New Masquerade Dies at 85
-
metro2 days agoMURIC Backs Egba Imams’ Call for Inclusive Leadership in Ogun 2027 Governorship Race
-
metro1 day agoLagos Announces Partial Road Closures for Project Commissioning
-
International3 days agoNetanyahu Condemns ‘Christian Persecution’ in Nigeria in Easter Message
-
metro3 days agoHajiya Hadiza Attahiru Jega, Wife of Former INEC Chairman, Dies in Abuja
-
Politics2 days ago2027: Atiku Signs $1.2m US Lobbying Deal to Engage Trump
-
News1 day agoIran Lists Tough Conditions for Peace Talks with US