Category: Sports

…Team receives grand welcome in Ilorin after winning 2025 President Federation Cup and National Youth League

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Monday hosted Kwara United Football Club following their historic win of the 2025 President Federation Cup — the first time the state has claimed the title. The Governor also celebrated the club’s U-19 team, who won the inaugural National Youth League.

To mark the achievements, each senior team player was awarded five million naira and a plot of land at the Kwara Smart City. The Governor described the victory as a proud moment for the state and praised the players and management for their discipline and hard work.

Kwara United secured the President Federation Cup after a dramatic penalty shootout win over Abakaliki FC, following a goalless 90-minute final. The win is the club’s first in the competition, which predates the national football league and is widely regarded as Nigeria’s most prestigious domestic trophy.

The team’s return to Ilorin on Monday was met with widespread celebration. Residents lined the streets to welcome the players, who arrived in a long motorcade from Eiyenkorin to the Banquet Hall in Government Reserved Area, where the reception was held.

Speaking at the reception, Governor AbdulRazaq hailed the significance of the win, describing the Federation Cup as the biggest trophy in Nigerian football. “It is bigger than the League Cup. This has been in existence even before the League was formed. The trophy is in Kwara today. I must congratulate everybody who has made it happen,” he said.

He recalled the state of the club in 2019 when his administration took over. “Everything was down. We were owing players a lot of money, but today the story has changed,” the Governor said.

He dedicated the victory to the late Alhaji Yusuf Salami, who he said had invested his personal resources to bring success to the club but never lived to witness it. “May Allah grant him Alijanna Fridaous,” he added.

The event was attended by key dignitaries including Chairman of the House of Assembly Committee on Sports Hon. Rukayat Shittu, Hon. Yusuf Abdulwaheed Gbenga of Shawo/Essa Constituency, Deputy Chief of Staff Princess Olubukola Babalola, Chairman of the State Sports Commission Coach Bola Magaji, Kwara United Chairman Kumbi Titiloye, State FA Chairman Malam Abdullahi Musa Thuraya, Head Coach Tunde Sanni, and APC chieftain Alhaji Yahya Seriki, among others.

In their remarks, Coach Magaji and Kumbi Titiloye thanked Governor AbdulRazaq for his strong support, noting that the administration’s commitment to the club laid the foundation for this historic success.

… Team Secures Continental Ticket After 49-Year Wait

#KwaraRising

Kwara State erupted in celebration as Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq announced a N5 million cash reward and plot of land for each Kwara United FC player following their dramatic President Federation Cup victory. The unprecedented package came as the team returned to Ilorin on Monday with Nigeria’s oldest football trophy, ending the state’s 49-year wait for glory since Alyufsalam Rocks’ 1976 final appearance.

Thousands lined the streets to welcome the champions during a victory parade culminating at the Banquet Hall GRA, where the Governor honored the squad that edged Abakaliki FC 4-3 on penalties after a tense goalless final in Lagos. Goalkeeper Suraju Aiyeleso’s heroic saves and stellar performances from Afeez Nosiru, Wasiu Alalade, Isa Gatta, and Wasiu Jimoh throughout the tournament proved decisive.

“This reward reflects the magnitude of your achievement in putting Kwara on Nigeria’s football map,” Governor AbdulRahman stated during the reception. The victory secures Kwara United’s debut in the 2025/26 CAF Confederation Cup, marking their first continental campaign.

Coach Tunde Sanni described the win as “a dream realized,” while players dedicated the triumph to loyal fans who supported them through years of near-misses. The celebrations signal renewed hope for Kwara football, with the “Afonja Warriors” now shifting focus to preparing for African competition.

…Kwara United wins 2025 President Federation Cup, students top President’s School Debate in Abuja

#KwaraRising

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has celebrated what he described as a proud and historic weekend for the state, following two major national victories in football and education.

Kwara United Football Club emerged champions of the 2025 President Federation Cup after defeating Abakaliki FC on penalties at the Mobolaji Johnson Stadium in Lagos, the first time any team from Kwara has won the title since the state’s creation in 1967. On the same day, a team of secondary school students from Kwara won the Senior Category of the President School Debate Competition held in Abuja.

In a statement issued on Saturday evening, Governor AbdulRazaq said both victories reflect the result of sustained investment and focus on youth development, sports, and education in the state.

“I’m overwhelmed with joy as I joined the Harmony Boys of Kwara United this evening to bring home the 2025 President Federation Cup, the first time any team from our state has ever won the prestigious trophy since Kwara was created in 1967,” the Governor said.

He praised the players, coaching crew, management of Kwara United, the State Sports Commission, and the supporters’ club, describing their performance as “a remarkable feat” powered by teamwork, discipline, and determination.

Governor AbdulRazaq also commended the state’s debate team, noting their consistent performance in the national competition. “For three unbroken editions, our pupils under the State Universal Basic Education have remained the national champions in the President School Debate Competition. I commend the Kwara contingents that have made us proud.”

He said the double victories were not accidental, but “deserving fruits of hard work and strategic investments” in key areas that directly impact young people and the future of the state.

“These achievements are proof that Kwara is on a steady rise. They show that our successes are not one-offs, but part of a larger, deliberate effort to place the state on the national and global stage for the right reasons,” he said.

The Governor congratulated all Kwarans at home and abroad, and reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining the momentum in delivering positive results across various sectors.

…Governors AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Flow 92.7 fm Chairman, Araba Femi Sanni, other dignitaries Join Fans at Thrilling Federation Cup Finals

The Mobolaji Johnson Sports Arena in Lagos was the stage for two dramatic Federation Cup finals, bringing an end to the 2025 edition of the national knockout tournament. After a gruelling series of matches since February, four clubs Kwara United, Abakaliki FC, Nasarawa Amazons, and Rivers Angels emerged to contest the men’s and women’s titles.

In the men’s final, Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) side Kwara United secured their first-ever major honour, edging past a spirited Abakaliki FC side in a tense affair. Despite both teams creating chances, poor finishing defined the match, with neither able to take full control in regular time. Kwara United eventually found the breakthrough, sealing a historic moment they have long waited for.

Abakaliki FC, who will compete in Nigeria’s third-tier league next season, had captured the hearts of fans after eliminating several big-name clubs via penalty shootouts en route to the final. But the Cinderella story fell just short at the final hurdle, as their shootout luck ran out when it mattered most.

In the women’s final, Rivers Angels held off a determined Nasarawa Amazons side to retain the title they won last year. It was a contest full of grit and experience, with Rivers showing once again why they are a force in women’s football. Nasarawa, without key players Rachael Unachukwu and Sikiratu Isah due to national duty, gave a solid performance but couldn’t break through the Rivers defence.

Among the dignitaries that saw the games were several dignitaries including the Governor of Lagos State. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Kwara state Governor Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, There was Senator Sadiq Suleiman Umar representing Kwara North alongside Flow 92.7 fm Chairman, Araba Femi Sanni.

There were also Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, the former Deputy Governor of Nassarawa state who is currently the Director General of the National Directorate of Employment, Silas Ali Agara,

With both finals now concluded, this year’s Federation Cup delivered memorable moments, new champions, and further proof that Nigerian football continues to rise at all levels.

… Governor AbdulRazaq lauded for strategic investment in sports development

#KwaraRising

Team Kwara continues to make headlines at the ongoing National Sports Festival (Gateway Games 2024) in Abeokuta, Ogun State, with impressive performances across multiple events, clinching medals in squash, badminton, and deaf table tennis.

Kwara’s squash team emerged as a top contender, bagging both gold and silver medals. Champions Rofiat Abdulazeez and Isaac Blessings led the charge by defeating their Bayelsa State counterparts in the Women’s Doubles event, securing a gold medal for the state. The team also earned a silver medal in the Men’s Doubles event, after a close contest against Lagos State. These victories underscore Kwara’s rising profile in squash on the national stage.

In badminton, Team Kwara claimed a silver medal after a spirited performance that ended in a final match loss to Oyo State. The team’s determination and skill drew admiration from spectators and affirmed the state’s growing strength in racquet sports.

Adding to the medal haul, Lukman Bashirat won bronze in the Deaf Women’s Singles event in table tennis, marking a notable achievement and representation in the inclusive sports category.

The commendable performance of Team Kwara at the Gateway Games 2024 has drawn accolades for Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON, whose strategic investment in sports infrastructure, youth development, and athlete welfare continues to yield results.

Sports enthusiasts and stakeholders have attributed the state’s success to the Governor’s long-term commitment to reviving grassroots sports, upgrading facilities, and providing platforms for young talents to shine nationally and internationally.

… Matchday 3 – NLO 2025 | Tuesday, April 29 | KFA Main Pitch

Araba FC suffered a narrow defeat on Tuesday afternoon in their Matchday 3 clash against Kwara Football Academy (KFA), with the hosts scoring an early goal that sealed the outcome in a tightly contested match.

The game kicked off under clear skies at the KFA Main Pitch, and for the first time in the tournament, fans and stakeholders applauded what many described as fair and balanced officiating. However, that early boost in officiating standards wasn’t enough to swing the tide in Araba FC’s favour.

KFA made their mark early in the first half, capitalizing on a loose ball in the 6th minute to slot in the game’s only goal — Kwara Football Academy’s Timothy Maxwell powered home a well placed cross from Abduljelil Kamaldeen on his debut for the Academy Senior Team. It was a momentary lapse in Araba’s defensive line and KFA punished it ruthlessly.Despite the early setback, Araba FC responded with purpose and resilience. The team settled into a steady rhythm and began controlling key portions of the midfield. Tactical buildup, quick passes, and aggressive pressing soon followed, showcasing the brand of football that has earned Araba FC a loyal following in the ongoing Nationwide League One (NLO) season.

Chances came in waves — a close-range strike that rattled the crossbar, a curling free kick that missed the top corner by inches, and a beautiful one-two combination in the box that narrowly went wide. The boys pushed hard, but as the saying goes, “mother luck” was not in their favour.

Fans remained vocal and passionate throughout the game, urging the players forward and appreciating their continued effort to overturn the early deficit. The coaching team made timely substitutions to refresh the squad, but the equalizer simply refused to come.

Though the match ended in disappointment for Araba FC, the performance showed heart, structure, and the fighting spirit the club has become known for. The defeat, though painful, serves as a moment of reflection and a push toward greater focus in the upcoming fixtures.

Coach Femi Oki and the technical bench will no doubt return to the drawing board, but supporters can take pride in the team’s attitude and composure under pressure.

Next Challenge: Sunrise FC on Friday
The journey continues as Araba FC gears up for their next match against Sunrise FC on Friday. It’s another opportunity to bounce back stronger and reaffirm their status as one of the most exciting sides in this year’s NLO campaign.

Final Score:
KFA 1 – 0 Araba FC

…STAKEHOLDERS HAIL TEAM SPIRIT AND DISCIPLINE 

Araba Football Club, one of the most promising sides in the Nationwide League One (NLO), delivered a thrilling performance on Wednesday, April 23rd, in a gripping encounter against Kasam FA. In what began as a challenging game for the Ilorin-based side, Araba FC came from behind to secure a dramatic 2-2 draw—an outcome that sent waves of excitement through fans, supporters, and stakeholders alike.

The opening half of the game saw Araba FC concede a goal, largely attributed to the inexperience of their goalkeeper, Lateef, who was making his debut in a major tournament. Despite the early setback, the team showed resilience and character, ultimately earning a well-deserved point.

Reverend Muyiwa, a prominent stakeholder and avid supporter of the team, captured the essence of the second-half performance. “There was cohesion, purpose, and a sense of direction. The team came in hot,” he said. His words echoed the sentiments of fans who witnessed a renewed Araba FC side that displayed hunger and unity on the pitch.

A key moment in the turnaround came with the introduction of seasoned forward Isiak Olawale, whose experience and composure under pressure proved invaluable. Olawale found the back of the net twice, leveling the scores and restoring belief in the Araba camp. Speaking after the game, Olawale described the match as “a good game, albeit tough,” urging fans to keep their support strong. “We’ll continue to make them proud,” he assured.

Team manager, Femi Oki, a former Nigerian international, lauded his team’s fighting spirit. “This is a side we had previously beaten 2-0 in a friendly match,” he said, reflecting on past encounters. “Our goalkeeper Lateef is young and new to this level. That inexperience showed, but we made tactical changes just in time, leveraging the collective experience of the squad to salvage the draw.”

Manager Oki emphasized that the team would be returning to the drawing board to refine their strategies. He also expressed appreciation to the Nationwide League One (NLO), the management, and the Kwara State Sports Board for their continued support and excellent league organization. “Kudos to the NLO and everyone making this platform thrive,” he stated.

He didn’t fail to spotlight the influence of the club’s leadership. “Our CEO is a disciplinarian, a lover of good values, and someone who understands the importance of grit and hard work. These values have become the DNA of Araba FC,” Oki said. “We are proud to be a fully branded team, and we are thankful for the guidance and investment from our CEO. We pray for continued success.”

With this performance, Araba FC continues to strengthen its reputation not only as a competitive team on the field but as a symbol of discipline, ambition, and community pride. Fans now eagerly await the next fixture, hopeful for another display of courage and unity from the rising football side.