Echotitbits – Nigeria News

Tag: sports

  • Nigeria and China Strengthen Ties via Cultural Exchange

    Nigeria and China Strengthen Ties via Cultural Exchange

    Nigeria and China have reaffirmed their commitment to bilateral cooperation through the 2026 Wushu Cultural Exchange and Chinese New Year celebration in Abuja. According to The Punch, the event served as a platform to deepen “people-to-people” relations, using martial arts as a bridge for cultural understanding. The Nigeria Wushu Kungfu Association emphasized that such exchanges are vital for fostering mutual respect and shared values between the two nations.

    Reporting by Leadership indicates that the exchange is part of a wider diplomatic strategy to enhance cooperation beyond economics and infrastructure into the realm of soft power and sports. The event featured demonstrations by school children and professional athletes, showcasing the discipline and philosophy of Wushu. Daily Trust validated the event, quoting a Chinese embassy official: “Our friendship is rooted not just in trade, but in the shared heartbeat of our cultures and traditions.”

    In an update published by The Nation, the Nigerian government expressed interest in incorporating Wushu into school sports curriculums to promote physical fitness and discipline. A representative from the Ministry of Youth and Sports stated, “This cultural bridge provides our youth with new perspectives and opportunities for global engagement.” The celebration also coincided with the Lunar New Year, highlighting the growing Chinese community and influence in Nigeria.

    Echotitbits take:

    While China is often seen through the lens of infrastructure loans, this move toward “soft power” indicates a desire for more sustainable, long-term social integration. It is a strategic move to soften the image of Chinese involvement in Africa. Watch for more educational and cultural exchange programs being rolled out in Nigerian universities later this year.

    Source: The Punch   – https://punchng.com/nigeria-china-deepen-cultural-ties-through-martial-arts/, February 9, 2026

    Photo credit: Medium

  • President Tinubu Unveils 2026 Sports Reform and Funding Reset

    President Tinubu Unveils 2026 Sports Reform and Funding Reset

    Reporting by The Nation indicates that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has launched a comprehensive overhaul of Nigeria’s sports sector, introducing the Renewed Hope Initiative for Nigeria’s Sports Economy (RHINSE). The President has mandated a complete “funding reset” starting in 2026, aimed at moving the industry away from total government dependence and toward a commercially viable model that promotes job creation and tourism.

    The President expressed his dissatisfaction with bureaucratic bottlenecks that have historically hindered athlete development. Under the new framework, the National Sports Commission (NSC) will oversee a unified funding pool designed to provide early support for elite athletes and revitalize grassroots participation across all 36 states.

    Validating the move, Channels TV reported that the reform is a response to Nigeria’s record-breaking performance in 2025, noting that “the administration wants to capitalize on recent international successes to drive foreign direct investment into sports infrastructure.” The Guardian also quoted a sports analyst saying, “This is the first time we are seeing a deliberate shift from sports as ‘social service’ to sports as ‘big business’ in Nigeria.”

    Echotitbits take: Nigeria has long been a sporting giant with “clay feet” due to poor funding. By treating sports as an economic sector rather than just a hobby for the youth, the government is looking to tap into a multi-billion dollar global industry. Success will depend on whether private investors trust the new NSC structure enough to put their money into Nigerian stadia and academies.

    Source: The Nation – https://thenationonlineng.net/tinubu-unveils-major-sports-sector-reform-orders-funding-reset-from-2026-2/, February 7, 2026

    Photo credit: The Nation

  • South African Forward Ademola Lookman Finalizes Landmark Move to Atlético Madrid

    South African Forward Ademola Lookman Finalizes Landmark Move to Atlético Madrid

    Figures cited by Premium Times show that Nigerian international Ademola Lookman has arrived in the Spanish capital to complete a high-profile transfer to Atlético Madrid. The 28-year-old forward, who enjoyed a stellar stint at Atalanta in Italy, is undergoing medical examinations today before signing a contract that is expected to make him one of the highest-paid Nigerian athletes in Europe.

    The move marks a significant step in Lookman’s career, as he joins the squad of the renowned Diego Simeone. His versatility and proven track record in the Europa League have made him a primary target for the Spanish giants, who are looking to revitalize their attacking options for the second half of the 2025/2026 season.

    Vanguard confirmed the agreement, stating that the deal was finalized after weeks of intense negotiations between the two clubs. A sports analyst quoted in the report said, “Lookman’s move to Madrid is a testament to the rising profile of Nigerian talent in elite football.” The Punch also validated the news, reporting that fans in Lagos and Madrid are already celebrating the deal; one headline noted: “Lookman is the final piece of Simeone’s puzzle.”

    Echotitbits take:

    Lookman’s move to La Liga is more than just a sports story; it’s a branding win for Nigerian football. His consistent performance at the highest level makes him a key asset for the Super Eagles ahead of upcoming international qualifiers. Watch for how his playing style adapts to the rigorous defensive philosophy of Atlético, and the potential impact on his market value by the 2026 World Cup.

    Source: BBCSport – https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/c07xlzl9892o,  February 2, 2026

    Photo credit: BBCSport

  • Sports Triumph: Nigeria’s Golden Arrows Defeat Algeria in Handball Opener

    Sports Triumph: Nigeria’s Golden Arrows Defeat Algeria in Handball Opener

    Sports Triumph: Nigeria’s Golden Arrows Defeat Algeria in Handball Opener

    Nigeria’s senior men’s handball team, the Golden Arrows, opened the Africa Men’s Handball Nations Cup in Rwanda with a 25–23 win over Algeria, signaling a strong start to the year in multi-sport performance.

    Additional coverage across Nigerian media and stakeholder reactions indicate that the implications of the development will be closely watched in the coming days as policy, security, and market signals evolve.

    Echotitbits take: Handball has long lived in football’s shadow. Consistent results can unlock corporate sponsorship and investment in coaching and facilities—the real backbone of long-term growth.

    Source: Premium Times – https://www.premiumtimesng.com/sports/nigeria-sports-news/851194-africa-handball-nations-cup-nigerias-golden-arrows-beat-algeria.html#:~:text=Nigeria’s%20Senior%20Men’s%20Handball%20Team,Nations%20Cup%20in%20Kigali%2C%20Rwanda. (2026-01-22)

    Photo credit: Premium Times

    2026-01-22 16:00:00

     

  • Super Eagles Bonuses Released Ahead of AFCON Quarter-Finals

    Super Eagles Bonuses Released Ahead of AFCON Quarter-Finals

    In an update published by Leadership, the Federal Government announced the release of outstanding group-stage bonuses for Super Eagles players at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. Finance Minister of State Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite said payments would reach players quickly.

    The announcement came amid rumors of possible training disruptions, and officials framed the move as a welfare-first approach to keep the squad focused ahead of the quarter-final clash against Algeria.

    Historically, bonus disputes have affected Nigeria’s tournament runs. The government said it wants to avoid past “bonus rows” and keep morale high under the Renewed Hope agenda.

    Channels TV and The Nation also reported confirmation from sports ministry sources and comments from team officials about improved camp mood.

    Echotitbits take: Paying early is smart risk management. If distractions stay off the pitch, Nigeria’s quality can speak—expect a sharper, more unified showing in the knockout stage.

    Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/finance-ministry-confirms-release-of-super-eagles-bonuses-for-afcon/ 2026-01-09

    Photo Credit: The Punch

  • Super Eagles Crowned Group Stage’s Deadliest Attack at AFCON 2025

    Super Eagles Crowned Group Stage’s Deadliest Attack at AFCON 2025

    Figures cited by Daily Post show that the Nigerian Super Eagles have emerged as the most prolific scoring side in the group stages of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. Finishing at the top of Group C with a perfect nine points, the team netted eight goals, the highest tally of the tournament so far.

    The statistical dominance is supported by CAF data, which shows Nigeria leading in ball possession with an average of 66% and recording more shots on target than any other competing nation. The attacking quartet of Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Akor Adams has been credited with the team’s clinical efficiency in the final third.

    The Guardian Nigeria validated the team’s momentum, noting that ‘Nigeria’s attack is shaping youth expectations’ and driving a surge in continental pride. Furthermore, Vanguard reported that the team is now a clear favorite for the title, stating: ‘The Super Eagles are currently the most potent attacking team.’

    Echotitbits take: The Super Eagles finally seem to have found the balance between flair and finishing. However, as the tournament enters the Round of 16, the focus must shift to defensive discipline, as knockout football rarely favors teams that neglect their backline.

    Source: Daily Post — https://dailypost.ng/2026/01/01/afcon-2025-super-eagles-finish-group-stage-with-most-potent-attack/
    Daily Post January 3, 2026

    Photo Credit: Daily Post

  • Anthony Joshua discharged after crash as focus turns to road safety and investigation

    Anthony Joshua discharged after crash as focus turns to road safety and investigation

    2026-01-01 06:35:00
    According to Punch, boxer Anthony Joshua was discharged from hospital after treatment following a crash in Ogun State that drew major public attention.

    In an update published by the outlet, the report said he was deemed clinically fit to recover at home while tributes continued for those who died in the incident.

    The tragedy has renewed scrutiny of road safety enforcement and risk factors on major intercity corridors.

    Reuters also reported he was discharged from hospital after the crash, noting he sustained only minor injuries.

    Associated Press similarly reported that he was deemed fit to recover at home following observation, while summarising the incident context.

    Echotitbits take:

    Beyond celebrity shock, this is a policy window: publish the crash investigation outcome, strengthen enforcement against hazardous trucking practices, and improve emergency-response readiness on high-risk routes.

    Source: The Punch  — December 31, 2025 (https://punchng.com/fatal-crash-anthony-joshua-discharged-from-hospital/)

    The Punch  2025-12-31

    Photo Credit: The Punch

  • Monopoly gets association as Lagos inaugurates sports board

    Monopoly gets association as Lagos inaugurates sports board

    LASG has inaugurated the newly reconstituted Boards of Sports Associations in a brief ceremony on Wednesday, at the Molade Okoya-Thomas Indoor Sports Hall, Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere.

    Speaking at the inauguration, the Honourable Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr. Segun Dawodu urged the newly reconstituted Boards to elevate the status of sports in Lagos State by taking it to the next level.

    He also revealed that three new Associations were added to the existing 40 Sports Associations in the State, bringing the total number to 43 with 277 individuals, as part of the Government’s plans to reposition Lagos as the hub of Sports in Nigeria.

    According to him, the new Sports Associations are Monopoly, (joined with Scrabble to form the Lagos State Scrabble and Monopoly Association), Lagos State Netball Association, Lagos State E-Sports Association and the Cheerleading Association.

    Dawodu implored members of the Sports Association Boards to work assiduously and collectively in order to come up with series of sustainable programmes.

    The Executive Chairman, Lagos State Sports Commission, Mr. Sola Aiyepeku, disclosed that the new Board members were painstakingly selected to refocus and change the face of Sports in Lagos State.

    He stated that perception about Government being the sole financier of sporting events had to change, urging the new Sports Associations to work independently to source private sector financing and sponsorships for organising at least two sporting events per quarter.

    The Director-General, Lagos State Sports Commission, Mr. Oluwatoyin Gafaar, charged the newly inaugurated Board members to develop, drive and sustain sports in Lagos State.

    He gave an assurance that the Lagos State Sports Commission would give all the necessary support to make sports development at the grassroots in Lagos State a success, expressing optimism for tremendous improvement from all Associations.

    Responding, Mrs. Abimbola Lawal, Chairperson, Lagos State Traditional Sports Association, also a member of the Board of Sports Commission, assured that all members would do their best to achieve the mandate given by the State Sports Commission.

    The Chairmen of Sports Associations such as Athletics, Handball, Basketball, Taekwondo, Hockey, Gymnastics, Golf, Deaf Sports and Cricket retained their positions, while the Lagos State Football Association will adhere to FIFA Election Statutes to decide fresh members.

  • Osaka Becomes Champion of US Open and Social Change

    Osaka Becomes Champion of US Open and Social Change

    Naomi Osaka has won her US Open Championship, making it her third Grand Slam title.

    She has also set the record by becoming the youngest three-time major winner since Maria Sharapova captured her third crown in 2008.

    She beats Victoria Azarenka 1-6, 6-3, 6-3 in the US Open final on Saturday.

    Beyond her superlative performance at the tennis court, Osaka assumed a new status as an activist and agent of social change.

    For her seven matches at US Open Championship 2020 in New York, Osaka wore seven different face masks, each sporting the name of a victim of violence, including Breonna Taylor, George Floyd and Tamir Rice.

    Shortly after her third Grand Slam win, Osaka explained that her desire for wearing those special face masks was to further highlight the racial challenge in the United States of America and beyond.

    “What was the message you got, is more of the question. I feel the point is to make people start talking. I feel that I’m a vessel at this point in order to spread awareness and hopefully it won’t dull the pain, but help with anything that they need.

    “For me, I’ve been inside of the bubble, so I’m not really sure what’s really going on in the outside world. All I can tell is what’s going on on social media. For me, I feel like the more retweets it gets — that’s so lame — but the more people talk about it,” said the 22-year-old tennis champion.

    Idowu Sowunmi

  • Ola Aina joins Fulham on loan

    Ola Aina joins Fulham on loan

    British-Nigerian international and Torino defender Ola Aina, has joined newly-promoted English Premier League side Fulham, on loan.

    Aina’s loan move is ahead of Fulham’s opening match today against FA champions Arsenal.

    Aina, who expressed happiness to return to London where he was born and raised could remain in Fulham permanently if should the club side choose that option, as it is open to them.

    “It feels amazing to be back closer to my family, back in the capital,” Aina told the club’s media channel.

    “There’s a great bunch of lads here. I’m really good friends with Big Hec (Michael Hector) and Josh Onomah.” he said.

    Having grown in in skills at the neighbouring Chelsea’s youth system, Aina spent the last two seasons with Torino and played 69 times with his versatility allowing him to play on either flank.

    “I feel very comfortable on either foot. I can fill in wherever needs be.

    “I’d say I’m pretty quick and I like to attack, but I also like to help the team and do the dirty work as much as I can”, he added.

    Aina’s signing follows the capture of midfielder Harrison Reed, goalkeeper Alphonse Areola, right-back Kenny Tete and midfielder Mario Lemina and left-back Antonee Robinson.