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CAF Awards: Osimhen, Oshoala Makes Final Shortlist For African Player-Of-The-Year

By
Emenike Agu
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Beyond Osimhen and Oshoala, two other Nigerian stars earned recognition in the women’s categories.

Nigerian stars Victor Osimhen and Asisat Oshoala have made the final shortlist for the 2023 CAF African Player of the Year Awards after showcasing their incredible talents on the international stage.

With just days remaining until the 2023 CAF Awards ceremony on 11 December, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has unveiled the final three nominees for each category.

Osimhen seeks to break jinx

In the Men’s Player of the Year race, Osimhen faces fierce competition from Egyptian superstar Mohamed Salah and Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi, who was part of the historic Morocco team that made it to the 2022 FIFA World Cup semi-finals.

Many predict Osimhen will be a frontrunner for the coveted award because of his exceptional performance throughout the period under review.

If the 24-year-old Nigerian emerges victorious, he will become the first Nigerian player to win the award since KWomen’s category

In the women’s category, Oshoala sets her sights on extending her record-breaking reign as Player of the Year.

Having previously won the award in 2014, 2016, 2017, 2019, and 2022, Oshoala is aiming for a historic sixth title. However, her path to claiming the continent’s highest individual honour is challenging, as South Africa’s Thembi Kgatlana and Zambian Barbara Banda boast excellent credentials to challenge the prestigious accolade.

Others

Beyond Osimhen and Oshoala, two additional Nigerian stars have earned recognition in the women’s categories.

Kanu Nwankwo’s remarkable achievement in 1999.

CAF shortlisted Deborah Abiodun for Young Player of the Year, while Chiamaka Nnadozie is in contention for the Goalkeeper of the Year award.

The 2023 CAF Awards ceremony will be held at the Palais des Congres in Movenpick, Marrakech, Morocco, on 11 December at 18:00 GMT.

The ultimate winner of each category will be determined by a panel comprising the CAF Technical Committee, media professionals from member associations, head coaches and captains of member associations, and clubs involved in the group stages of the inter-club competitions.

Full List of Nominees (in alphabetic order by Member Association):

Player of the Year (Men)

Mohamed Salah (Egypt, Liverpool)

Achraf Hakimi (Morocco, Paris Saint-Germain)

Victor Osimhen (Nigeria, Napoli)

Player of the Year (Women)

Asisat Oshoala (Nigeria, Barcelona)

Thembi Kgatlana (South Africa, Racing Louisville)

Barbara Banda (Zambia, Shanghai Shengli)

Interclub Player of the Year (Men)

Fiston Mayele (DR Congo, Pyramids)

Peter Shalulile (Namibia, Mamelodi Sundowns)

Percy Tau (South Africa, Al Ahly)

Interclub Player of the Year (Women)

Refilwe Tholakele (Botswana, Mamelodi Sundowns)

Fatima Tagnaout (Morocco, AS FAR)

Lebohang Ramalepe (South Africa, Mamelodi Sundowns)

Coach of the Year (Men)

Abdelhak Benchika (Algeria, Simba SC)

Walid Regragui (Morocco)

Aliou Cisse (Senegal)

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Coach of the Year (Women)

Reynald Pedros (Morocco)

Desiree Ellis (South Africa)

Jerry Tshabalala (South Africa, Mamelodi Sundowns)

Goalkeeper of the Year (Men)

Andre Onana (Cameroon, Manchester United)

Mohamed El Shenawy (Egypt, Al Ahly)

Yassine Bounou (Morocco, Al Hilal)

Goalkeeper of the Year (Women)

Khadija Er-Rmichi (Morocco, AS FAR)

Chiamaka Nnadozie (Nigeria, Paris FC)

Andile Dlamini (South Africa, Mamelodi Sundowns)

Young Player of the Year (Men)

Abdessamad Ezzalzouli (Morocco, Real Betis)

Lamine Camara (Senegal, Metz)

Amara Diouf (Senegal, Metz)

Young Player of the Year (Women)

Comfort Yeboah (Ghana, Ampem Darkoa)

Nesryne El Chad (Morocco, Lille)

Deborah Abiodun (Nigeria, Pittsburgh Panthers)

National Team of the Year (Men)

Gambia

Morocco

Senegal

National Team of the Year (Women)

Morocco

Nigeria

South Africa

Club of the Year (Men)

Al Ahly (Egypt)

Wydad Athletic Club (Morocco)

Mamelodi Sundowns (South Africa)

Club of the Year (Women)

AS FAR (Morocco)

Sporting Casablanca (Morocco)

Mamelodi Sundowns (South Africa)

Minister, NFF, Peseiro Plot Eagles Path To Victory At AFCON

By
Emenike Agu
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Super Eagles Manager, Jose Peseiro, yesterday, reiterated his determination to win the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations in Cote d’Ivoire.

He said everybody involved in the preparations for Nigeria’s participation at the championship are working to ensure that the Super Eagles got all they need to excel at the event.

Speaking at a meeting convened by Sports Minister, John Owan Enoh, in his Abuja office, Peseiro conveyed his appreciation for the collaborative efforts and reiterated his commitment to steer the national team towards excellence.

Peseiro highlighted the significance of robust preparation and emphasised that the technical crew would work with the players to sort out grey areas and bring joy to Nigerians.

Earlier, the minister commended the dedication and professionalism exhibited by Peseiro and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), stating that necessary efforts were ongoing to settle the coach’s salary and assured him of an enabling environment to help the team thrive.

The minister reiterated the country’s commitment to winning the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations in Cote d’Ivoire, saying that 10 years is a long time to wait for the crown.

At the meeting, which the minister said was aimed at fostering synergy and solidifying a comprehensive roadmap to ensure Super Eagles’ optimal preparations and success at the tournament, he emphasised the significance of meticulous planning and cohesive strategies to propel the national team to victory at the AFCON.

He said: “Our country is so passionate about football, such that amidst all other sports, football is about the only sport that has an entry in the nation’s national budget. That is how important football is, because whatever happens to it happens to us as a country.”

“After 10 years, the country is thirsty to win the AFCON. It will matter a great deal to the Nigerian people, and to the government of President Bola Tinubu. It is important to not just leave the task to the NFF alone, but the government is also interested in being able to tell the Nigerian people what is being done in that regard.”

Also speaking at the meeting, NFF President, Ibrahim Gusau, assured Nigerians that there is no need to panic, saying that all hands are on deck, working round the clock to ensure the country flies high in Cote d’Ivoire.

Côte d’Ivoire 2024 Africa Cup of Nations will hold from January 13 to February 11, with Nigeria in the same group with hosts, Côte d’Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea and Guinea-Bissau.

Nigerians Building Earthquake-Proof Homes With Plastic Bottles

By
faith Jegede
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Plastic, one of the biggest banes of environmental conservationists, is mostly a nuisance after its contents are consumed.

Still, builders in Kaduna state, Nigeria, have found excellent ways to put the plastic to work.

Trail-brazing Nigerian engineer, Yahaya Ahmed, has used plastic bottles to build a three-bedroom house, with a toilet and a kitchen.

According to Ahmed these, plastic bottle homes are 20 times stronger than houses built with brick walls and can last up to 300 years.

The engineer said he was motivated to develop a housing initiative to reduce the volume of plastic polluting the environment.

Explaining the process of building the house, Ahmed said workers filled the plastic bottles with sand and linked them at the neck by an intricate network of strings.

This building, the first of its kind in sub-Saharan Africa, is cheaper to build as building materials are available on the streets and trash dump centers.

Even though Nigeria currently does not deal with earthquakes, houses made with mud and sand would be cooler and more conducive for our tropical climate. The combination with plastic bottles would take care of waste disposal issues facing the country.

According to Ahmed, the building is fireproof, bulletproof, earthquake-resistant and can adapt to all kinds of climate changes. Ahmed said anyone with masonry skills can be used as labour in the construction of one building, adding that his organization has trained many youths.

Plastic bottles, packed tightly with sand is reportedly 20 times stronger than bricks and concrete.

In his reaction to the building initiative, the assistant director of African Climate Reporters, Piman Hoffman, urged the Nigerian government to support renewable energy companies to save the nation from the increasing threat of waste pollution.

Pastor Chris Oyakhilome Conferred With Title Of University Chancellor

By
faith Jegede
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The pastor and President of Loveworld Incorporated also known as Christ embassy church, Rev (Dr) Chris Oyakhilome, DSc DSc DD, has been conferred with the prestigious titles of University Chancellor and Head of Government/Chairman of Institution at Weldios University, Republic of Benin.

The university via its website, stated that it is thrilled to announce that Pastor Chris Oyakhilome is now the Chancellor of the esteemed Institution!

“His unwavering commitment to education and inspiring leadership makes him a beacon for our academic community. Join us in congratulating Rev Dr Chris Oyakhilome Dsc Dsc DD on this well-deserved role. Together, we look forward to reaching new heights of excellence!”

In commemoration of his birthday today, Christ embassy members and followers of the man of god, trended the hashtags #PASTORCHRIS #WHYPASTORCHRISISMYPROPHET

Kwara State Commences December Maternal, New-Born Child Health

By
Olasunbo Okoromi
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The Kwara State Government has announced the commencement of the December Optimised Maternal Newborn and Child Health across the 16 local government areas of the state.

Dr Nusirat Elelu, the Executive Secretary of Kwara Primary Health Care Development Agency, told newsmen in her office that the Week commenced Dec. 4 and continued till Dec. 8.

According to her, the week will focus on the reduction of maternal, perinatal, infant and childhood mortality, morbidity and the promotion of reproductive health, and the physical and psycho-social development of the child and adolescent within the family.

The executive secretary further explained that the campaign is set aside to provide free services, including antenatal care for pregnant women and deworming.

She also said it included distribution of iron tablets, folic acid supplementation for women, free birth registration, vitamin A supplementation, family planning, free HIV testing, and routine immunisation for all vaccine preventable diseases, among others.

Elelu stressed that the exercise is part of the numerous commitments of the Kwara Government at ensuring that people in the state have access to quality healthcare service delivery irrespective of their geographical locations.

She therefore enjoined pregnant women, nursing mothers and caregivers to visit the nearest designated health centres to benefit from all these free and safe services.

Lagos Govt. Collaborates With Stakeholders To Reduce Maternal, Child Mortality

By
Olasunbo Okoromi
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In a significant stride towards combating maternal and child mortality in Lagos State, officials of the Society of Gynecology and Obstetrics Nigeria (SOGON), Lagos sector, recently paid a courtesy visit to the Ministry of Health.

Led by former National President Prof. Rotimi Akinola, an elder of the Society and Chief Medical Director of Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), in company of other dignitaries and were  received by the State Health Commissioner, Prof Akin Abayomi and the Special Adviser on Health, Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi.

During discussions, critical initiatives for partnership and collaboration to address maternal mortality and improve maternal and child health were deliberated upon.

Prof. Gbadegesin, Chair of SOGON Lagos Sector, underscored the urgent need to tackle maternal mortality and enhance women’s health in Lagos and Nigeria. He highlighted SOGON’s past initiatives such as Maternal and Perinatal Death Surveillance and Review (MPDSR) and emergency obstetrics training, emphasising the importance of stakeholder collaboration.

Recognizing the multifaceted nature of reproductive health improvement, Prof. Gbadegesin stressed the collective responsibility of various sectors in addressing maternal health challenges. He advocated for legislative support to fortify efforts aimed at reducing maternal mortality rates.

Expressing concerns about unsafe abortions impacting maternal health, Prof. Akinola stressed the need for safe termination guidelines and SOGON’s active involvement in policy development related to maternal health.

In response, Health Commissioner Prof. Abayomi expressed gratitude for reigniting the partnership, emphasising collaborative strategies to improve maternal and child health. He called for precise data classification and an efficient referral system from Traditional Birth Attendants to Primary Healthcare Centres and higher levels of care, seeking SOGON’s support in empowering healthcare practitioners.

The Commissioner addressed the sensitive topic of safe abortion guidelines, proposing a thorough review and stakeholder engagement to determine the best approach.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Health Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi stated that the renewed effort signifies a crucial moment in addressing maternal mortality. It also recognise the need for collaborative action between SOGON and governmental entities in safeguarding the well-being of mothers and children in Lagos State.

Also in attendance at the meeting were the Medical Director, Lagos Island Maternity Hospital, Dr. Femi Omololu; Vice Chairman, SOGON Lagos Sector, Dr. Yusuf Oshodi and others.

MINILS DG Advocates Increased Support For People Living With Disabilities

By
Olasunbo Okoromi
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0

Stakeholders have been urged to make concerted effort towards problems assailing people living with disabilities in Nigeria in commemoration of International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD).

This call was made by Comrade Issa Aremu, Director General of Micheal Imodu National Institute of Labour Studies in a statement issued in Ilorin, Kwara State, North Central Nigeria.

Aremu said this year’s celebration of IDPwD provides Nigeria with the opportunity  to celebrate the disability community, and  strive towards creating a better society for them.

Aremu while lamenting the challenges facing the people living with disabilities in Nigeria, noted that the institute is using the day to remind Nigerians on the importance of factoring their needs into both the national development plans and  sustainable development goals.

The Director General, however, revealed that the institute under his leadership have been including people living with disabilities in its activities in the past two and a half years.

He stressed that, “This year’s IDPwD and theme perfectly amplifies the needs and aspirations of  people living with disabilities in Nigeria and the urgency for stakeholders to collaboratively work harder to make Nigeria more hospitable, conducive and equitable for the about 27Million Nigerians living with disabilities”.

Lebanese Kids Wail As Kenyan Nanny Leaves Family 

By
faith Jegede
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0

A video of a Kenyan lady saying goodbye to her employer and children at the airport has gone viral. 

Rozie, a Kenyan nanny, touched many hearts after the video captured her leaving her Lebanese bosses and their kids in tears at the airport as she was leaving.

Rosie obviously had a great relationship with the family which made it hard for both parties to say goodbye.

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As seen in the video shared on social media, the kids refused to let Rosie go and shed tears while the parents struggled to keep the children away from the departing Rosie. Track up

Among those impressed by her work ethic and relationship with the kids, is the CEO of Expeditions Maasai Safaris, who offered her a fully paid holiday in honour of her excellent job. The CEO said

“The kids’ tears spoke volumes about their deep and priceless bond with Rozah. As Expeditions Maasai Safaris, we’re determined to recognize, honour and reward Rozah’s dedication,” read his post.

The video highlighted the often-overlooked contributions of migrant workers who play pivotal roles in caring for families worldwide.

Africa’s Tallest Christmas Tree Set For Unveiling In Delta State

By
Angel Gimalo
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Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, is set to commission the tallest Christmas tree in Africa, in Asaba.

The tree stands 123 feet tall.

The commissioning is one of the events put together by the organisers of Christmas In Delta, a 45-day Christmas extravaganza that kicked off on Friday, December 1.

In a statement release, the yuletide fiesta is aimed at giving Deltans and visitors alike a Christmas like no other.

The Executive Assistant (EA) to the Governor on Culture and Tourism, Dr (Mrs.) Josephine Odunze who embarked on an inspection tour of projects, noted that the initiative aligns with the vision of the state governor, Oborevwori to create a festive atmosphere that captures the spirit of the ‘’Big Heart’’ state.

Odunze said that the commissioning of the giant Christmas tree is part of the 45 days of unforgettable Christmas experiences in the state, even as she commended the governor and the organisers for the event.

‘’People have asked me why the Christmas tree is positioned where it is. I tell them that we cannot be selling Delta to Deltans by positioning the tree in town. We should be marketing Delta to outsiders.

It is happening here in Delta State; 45 days of endless fun’’ she said.

In his remark, a member of the organising committee, Fred Onojeta, said that the initiative was to explore the state’s tourism potential, even as he commended the Oborevwori administration for an enabling environment for such enterprises to thrive.

‘’When the team put this event together tagged ‘’Christmas in Delta: 45 Days of Fond Memories served daily’’ it was audacious to put the tallest Christmas tree in Africa here in Asaba. We thought it was impossible’’ he said.

Meanwhile, the EA also visited other sites that will add flavour to the Christmas experience. Sitters visited include the Floating Bar and Water Park at Grand Hotel Asaba and several other facilities located at the Maryam Babangida Leisure Park and Film Village, Asaba.

Rivers State Governor Signs MOU For Construction Of 20, 000 Low-Cost Housing Units

By
Angel Gimalo
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0

The Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has signed a sign memoranda of understanding with two companies to commence the construction of 20,000 low cost housing units and a spare parts market in the state.

The agreement for the development of RIV/TAF City Housing Project on 1000 hectares of land and the spare parts market were signed for Rivers by the state Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Prof. Zacchaeus Adangor.

The Managing Director, Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Mustapha Njie signed for one of the contracting firms, TAF Africa Global.

On the development of a Central Spare Parts Market, Prof. Adangor also signed for the State government while the Chief Executive Officer, Okoh Jeff and Engr. Charles signed for GOSH Project Limited.

Speaking at the brief ceremony in Government House, Port Harcourt, Fubara charged the two investors to speed up the process for the development of the state.

He said the problem of housing for low income earners in the state remained a huge concern but was being addressed with the provision of 20,000 units of affordable houses.

Fubara said though people already knew the mantra of his administration, consolidation and continuity, they also needed to understand that it included expanding the existing structure of the current city status.

He said: “We told our people that we are not limited to the vision we inherited, but included expansion, we meant it with all seriousness and you can see with what we have done today. The city will gradually start expanding, and not limited to our present structure.

“I am happy to say this, one of our greatest problems is housing for the low income earners. Our vision as at today, is to provide for those level of people. What we have done is to give our people hope.”

On the spare parts market, Fubara said during the electioneering campaigns he promised dealers at Ikoku in Port Harcourt that he would develop a modern market for spare parts to demonstrate his care for them.

He said: “It is important because by the time the spare parts market starts up, we will have a central place where businesses that have to do with vehicles; repairs, sales and other associated activities will be established for the traders. It won’t be just a market, it will also bring about a level of development within that axis.”

He charged the investors to ensure immediate commencement of the projects and to carry out the groundbreaking without delay.

Speaking for TAF Africa Global, Mr. Mustapha Njie said a subsidiary of his company called Pricewise Home Nigeria Limited would develop 20,000 housing in phases on the 1000 hectares of land and thanked the governor for the confidence reposed in them to do the project.

Chief Executive Officer of Gosh, Mr. Okoh Jeff assured that they would be dedicated to delivering a central spare part market that would accommodate all traders in that business in one place.

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