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JUST IN: Amaju Pinnick Backs South West Games 2025

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In a resounding vote of confidence, former Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President and FIFA Council Member, Amaju Melvin Pinnick, has officially endorsed the South West Games 2025, hailing the tournament as a groundbreaking platform for sports development, youth empowerment, and economic growth in Nigeria.

The highly anticipated competition, set to take place in Lagos, will feature the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Southwest Alliance Games (BAT-SWAG) as its key sub-tournament.

Pinnick, in an endorsement letter addressed to Practagali Limited, the organizers of the South West Games 2025, lauded the initiative as a catalyst for a new era of athletic excellence in Nigeria’s southwestern region. “With great enthusiasm and a firm belief in the power of sports, I proudly extend my wholehearted endorsement of the South West Games 2025, including its key sub-tournament, the Bola Ahmed Tinubu South West Alliance Games.

With a vision that extends beyond mere competition, Pinnick emphasized the transformational impact of the games on the six Southwestern states—Ekiti, Lagos, Osun, Ondo, Ogun, and Oyo—where the tournament will unearth and groom the next generation of elite athletes. “This initiative is a game-changer for sports development, talent discovery, and youth empowerment across the six Southwestern states,” he noted. “More than just a competition, these games will serve as a breeding ground for the next generation of elite athletes while fostering unity, discipline, and national pride.”

The former NFF boss underscored the significance of Lagos as the host city, describing it as both a strategic and symbolic choice. “As the epicenter of Nigerian sports, Lagos boasts world-class infrastructure, a rich sporting heritage, and an unmatched passion for athletics. Its dynamic energy and cosmopolitan spirit make it the ideal stage to usher in a new era of sporting excellence in the region,” Pinnick affirmed.

More than just a sporting event, Pinnick highlighted the economic and career opportunities that the games would unlock for young athletes and stakeholders in the sports ecosystem. “Beyond the thrill of competition, the South West Games 2025 will serve as a catalyst for economic growth, career opportunities, and youth engagement. This is not just a tournament—it is the foundation of a lasting legacy,” he enthused.

Reflecting on the long-term significance of the event, Pinnick declared that the competition would be etched in history as a defining moment for Nigerian sports. “This tournament, no doubt, will not only serve as a paradigm shift but will go down in the annals of history as one of the most pleasurable, memorable, and potent platforms for talent conditioning, nurturing, and development.”

Pinnick commended Practagali Limited for its vision and urged all stakeholders—including government institutions, corporate organizations, and sports enthusiasts—to rally behind the project to ensure its success. “I commend Practagali Limited for spearheading this visionary initiative and urging all stakeholders—governments, corporate organizations, and sports enthusiasts—to lend their full support. Together, we can make history and redefine the future of sports in Nigeria,” he stated.

Pinnick’s endorsement of the South West Games 2025 is a testament to his unwavering dedication to the advancement of Nigerian sports. As a FIFA Council Member and CAF Executive Committee Member, his influence in the global football landscape adds further weight to his backing of this monumental event. His role as Chairman of the Brownhill Group further underscores his commitment to sports development, both at home and internationally.

With Pinnick’s endorsement adding credibility and momentum to the initiative, expectations are high for the South West Games 2025 to set new benchmarks for talent discovery, grassroots sports development, and regional integration. The countdown to history has begun, and all eyes are now on Lagos as it prepares to host what promises to be a transformative sporting spectacle.

As Nigeria continues to harness the power of sports as a tool for national development, Pinnick’s rallying call for unity and investment in grassroots talent serves as an inspiration to all. The South West Games 2025 is not just an event, he said, it is the dawn of a new era in Nigerian sports.

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NSA Ribadu Tells Canada To “Go To Hell” For Denying Military Chiefs Visas

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In a significant diplomatic snub, Canada has refused to grant visas to Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, and several other senior military officers for an official event. Speaking on Thursday, February 13, 2025, at the first annual lecture of the National Association of the Institute for Security Studies (AANISS) in Abuja, National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu voiced his dissatisfaction, telling Canada “to go to hell.”

The officials were scheduled to participate in a ceremony in Canada honoring war veterans, but only a part of the delegation was granted visas, sparking strong reactions from Nigerian authorities.

Ribadu and Musa discussed the matter at the inaugural lecture of the Alumni Association of the National Institute for Security Studies (AANISS). The event, attended by security experts and government officials, highlighted national security and international collaboration.

Ribadu labeled the visa denial as disrespectful, while Musa stressed that Nigeria needs to assert itself internationally and no longer be taken lightly. Musa reflected on how his team had been invited to the veterans’ event, only to be hit with an unexpected setback when some members of the delegation were denied entry. He viewed the incident as a reminder for Nigeria to bolster its independence and strength.

He stated, “Every disappointment is a blessing. Yesterday, I was meant to be in Canada for an event to honor our veterans… half of us have gone, and half have been denied. It’s very disappointing. It’s a clear reminder that the country must stand on its own, stand strong as a nation, and should no longer be taken for granted.”

Ribadu commended Musa for his leadership in tackling security issues and underscored the importance of national advancement. He remarked, “Thank you for having the courage to say Canada denied you visas. They can go to hell. Even though it’s painful and disrespectful, we are peaceful and strong, and I agree with you that it is time to fix our country.”

The visa rejection raises concerns about Canada’s position on Nigerian military officials and its broader diplomatic relationship with Nigeria. While the exact reasons for the denial remain unclear, the incident has shed light on the bureaucratic and political obstacles Nigerian officials face in international dealings.

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Gbenga Adeyinka D’1st Gears Up For Laffmattazz “About Time World Tour”

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Iconic Nigerian comedian, Gbenga Adeyinka D’1st, is set to embark on a global comedy tour, bringing laughter and excitement to fans around the world.

The Laffmattazz tagged “About Time World Tour” promises to be an unforgettable experience, featuring Gbenga Adeyinka D’1st’s unique brand of comedy and other amazing comedians.

The tour will kick off in Nigeria, with shows in Ibadan, Akure, Abeokuta, and Lagos.

From there, Gbenga Adeyinka D’1st will take his comedy to the global stage, performing in the UK, Canada, and the USA.

“We are thrilled to announce the Laffmattazz World Tour, which promises to be an epic comedy experience,” said Gbenga Adeyinka D’1st.

When asked what his fans should expect, Gbenga Adeyinka D’1st said “We have an amazing lineup of shows planned, and we can’t wait to bring laughter and joy to our fans around the world.”

The Laffmattazz World Tour is set to be a hilarious and entertaining experience, featuring Gbenga Adeyinka D’1st’s signature comedy style, which blends humor, storytelling, and audience interaction.

For more information on the Laffmattazz World Tour, including tour dates, venues, and ticket information, follow us on social media @gbengaadeyinka1stgcon @Laffmattazz_ga1st

Join the conversation on social media using the hashtag #LaffmattazzWorldTour.

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Our Matriarch Has Returned To Her Creator

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With a heavy heart and complete submission to the will of Almighty Allah, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Mrs Mojisola Norinatu Adebayo Nee Adelakun who departed this world on the evening of Tuesday, February 11, 2025.

Fondly known as Iya Wale, she lived a remarkable 68years filled with love, kindness, and wisdom. She was a pillar of strength who taught us patience, tolerance, and, above all, the true essence of love. Her presence touched many lives, and her legacy of compassion will forever remain in our hearts.

Though my siblings and I deeply mourn her loss, we take solace in the knowledge that she has returned to her Creator. In accordance with Islamic rites, she was laid to rest on Wednesday, February 12, 2025.

As we reflect on her impactful life, the family will hold the 8th Day Fidau prayers next week to honor her memory. We kindly ask for your prayers and support during this difficult time.

May Allah grant her eternal rest and admit her into Al-Jannah Firdaus.

 

Dr. Abiola Adebayo

For the Family

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