Category: Sports

… 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.

… Araba FC to Face Kasam FC in Revised Wednesday Fixture

The Nationwide League One (NLO) Kwara Center has announced a revised schedule for Match Day One, splitting games across two days to improve organization and fairness.

Originally set for a single day, fixtures will now take place on Wednesday, April 23rd, and Thursday, April 24th, 2025, at the Kwara Stadium Mainbowl.

Updated Schedule:

Match Day One – Kwara Center Two

Date: Wednesday, April 23, 2025

8:00 AM: LAYCON FC vs KFA FC
10:00 AM: ARABA FC vs KASAM FC (Featured Match)
12:00 PM: SUNRISE FA vs HOUSE OF PRAYER FA
2:00 PM: UNICORN FC vs ABRAY FC
Match Day One – Kwara Center One

Date: Thursday, April 24, 2025

8:00 AM: BARRIER FC vs LA’ PLANET FA
10:00 AM: OFFA FC vs NA ROYAL FC
12:00 PM: DOHZ FA vs GAA AKANBI FC
2:00 PM: KA’AH FC vs ABS FC
The adjustment aims to ensure better coordination and a seamless league experience. Teams and fans are advised to take note of the changes and plan accordingly.

The announcement was signed by Akorode Kehinde, NLO Event Manager for Kwara Center, and approved by Tayo Egbaiyelo, General Coordinator.

Football enthusiasts are particularly anticipating the Araba FC vs Kasam FC clash as one of Wednesday’s highlight matches.

… Kwara State Government Sponsors Free Access as Fans Rally Behind the Team

The management of Kwara United has announced that no gate fee will be charged for all football lovers attending today’s crucial match between Kwara United and Nasarawa United.

This initiative, courtesy of the Kwara State Government, aims to boost fan support and create an electrifying atmosphere at the Rasheed Yekini Main Bowl of the George Innih Stadium.

Fans and supporters are encouraged to turn out in large numbers to cheer, motivate, and inspire the team to victory. The match kicks off at 4 PM Nigerian time, and entry is free for everyone.

Let’s fill up the stadium and stand behind our team as they battle for glory.

Up Kwara United!

…African Champion Credits State Support, Discipline for Historic Wins.
#KwaraRising

Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has congratulated Kwara-born para badminton sensation Eniola Bolaji on clinching a gold medal at the Spanish Para Badminton International II in Spain, cementing her status as a global icon in the sport.

Bolaji’s latest victory follows her recent coronation as African para badminton champion—a feat she attributed to the unwavering support of her coaches and the Kwara State Government. Governor AbdulRazaq, in a statement issued on Tuesday, praised her relentless drive and personal discipline, which he described as the bedrock of her historic achievements.

“I urge her to remain focused and continue raising the flag of Kwarastate and nation. I urge her to remain focused and continue raising the flag of Kwara and Nigeria higher.”

Bolaji, who hails from Kwara State, has rapidly ascended the ranks of para badminton, dominating continental and international tournaments. Her gold medal in Spain adds to a growing list of accolades that spotlight Nigeria’s rising influence in para sports.

…hails team’s resilience despite Ramadan fasting, urges push for continental qualification

Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has commended Kwara United for their outstanding performance in their recent victory against Kano Pillars in Ilorin.

Speaking after the match, the governor praised the team’s determination and resilience, especially as they competed while observing Ramadan fasting. He emphasized the crucial role of sports in community development and encouraged the team to maintain their high performance.

“Sport is very important. It was a good game despite the fasting. We move forward to maintain top performance and push for continental qualification,” Governor AbdulRazaq stated.

The victory adds momentum to Kwara United’s campaign, with growing hopes for securing a spot in continental competitions.

Kwara United Falls Short Against Shooting Stars in a Hard-Fought Match

Fans of Kwara United witnessed a thrilling yet disappointing match as their team suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Shooting Stars. The game, held at the Kwara State Stadium, showcased intense gameplay but ultimately saw the opposition capitalize on a defensive lapse.

Coach Tunde Sanni expressed optimism despite the loss, stating, “Our players showed great resilience. We’ll use this experience to strengthen our defense and improve team coordination.”

The coach also praised the team’s efforts and urged fans to remain supportive as Kwara United strives for better results in upcoming matches. This loss serves as a lesson for the team as they prepare for the next round of fixtures.