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Embrace Transparency, Accountability, New Rivers LG Chairmen Told

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Embrace Transparency, Accountability, New Rivers LG Chairmen Told

Rivers State Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd.), has urged the newly elected Local Government Chairmen to be selfless and focus on Grassroot development.

Ibas gave the charge while swearing in newly elected chairmen of the 23 LG Councils in Government House, Port Harcourt, on Monday evening.

This was contained in a statement issued by the Senior Special Adviser on Media to the Administrator, Hector Igbikiowubo, and sent to newsmen.

Ibas told the chairmen to embrace a new era of transparent, accountable, and reform-driven leadership for the people of their respective areas.

The administrator firmly stated that public office is a sacred trust, not an avenue for personal gain, and urged them to reflect such.

Ibas stated, “This victory is not a prize to be enjoyed. It is a burden to be carried. It is not an entitlement but a duty. It is not a call to self-interest, but to selfless service,”

He cautioned that leadership must move beyond the politics of patronage and focus squarely on delivering measurable services that tangibly improve the lives of citizens at the grassroots.

The administrator placed the historic event within the broader context of the state’s recent challenges, recalling President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency on March 18, 2025, following the tenets political situation in the state occasioned by disagreements among political actors.

The administrator firmly stated that public office is a sacred trust, not an avenue for personal gain, and urged them to reflect such.

Ibas stated, “This victory is not a prize to be enjoyed. It is a burden to be carried. It is not an entitlement but a duty. It is not a call to self-interest, but to selfless service,”

He cautioned that leadership must move beyond the politics of patronage and focus squarely on delivering measurable services that tangibly improve the lives of citizens at the grassroots.

The administrator placed the historic event within the broader context of the state’s recent challenges, recalling President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency on March 18, 2025, following the tenets political situation in the state occasioned by disagreements among political actors.

He, however, hailed the peaceful and successful conduct of the Local Government elections on August 30, 2025, describing it as a decisive step towards reinstating constitutional order in the oil-rich state.

To Rivers people, he said, “You proved that democracy belongs to the people, that power must flow from the consent of the governed, and that no obstacle can weaken the resolve of a united citizenry. ”

The administrator commended the electorate for their discipline and active participation in last Saturday’s poll, even as he praised the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission for delivering a transparent, credible, and rancour-free electoral process.

He further urged the incoming chairmen to acquaint themselves with the Nigerian Constitution and all statutes guiding the local government system, which he described as the essential “compass of stewardship.”

Ibas also admonish them to make peace and security their major priority, working closely with traditional rulers, security agencies, and community leaders to foster stability.

“Without peace, there can be no progress,” he affirmed and asked them to strengthen local economies by supporting small businesses, critical infrastructure upgrades, and investments in education.

Ibas thanked the outgoing Council Administrators for their steadfast service and contributions during a critical period in the state’s history and wished them well in their future endeavours.

Meanwhile, the chairman of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), Michael Odey, has told newly elected chairmen of the 23 LGAs of the state to see the certificates issued them as “mandates for service,” rather than “symbols of victory.”

Odey gave the charge on Monday, September 1, 2025, in Port Harcourt, at the presentation of Certificates of Return to 23 chairmen and 319 councillors declared winners of the just-concluded local government elections held on Saturday, August 30, 2025.

“The certificates you have received are not symbols of victory but mandates for service to the people,” Odey said.

He admonished the newly elected officials to shun the “winner-takes-all” attitude and instead embrace humility, transparency, and accountability in their leadership. Odey also emphasized the importance of upholding the rule of law as a foundation for effective governance

The RSIEC chairman commended the structures put in place for the election, noting that they contributed to a seamless process and peaceful conduct of the polls.

Addressing candidates and parties dissatisfied with the outcome to seek justice in court, stressing that the judiciary remains the constitutional avenue for resolving electoral disputes. He further assured that the commission will conduct a post-election review to consolidate lessons learned and improve on future elections.

By Miracle Chidinma Amaechi

Unpaid Allowances: Resident Doctors Issue 10-day Strike Ultimatum  …Says FG Not Sincere On Promises Made

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Unpaid Allowances: Resident Doctors Issue 10-day Strike Ultimatum  …Says FG Not Sincere On Promises Made

The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors, NARD, has issued a fresh 10-day ultimatum to the Federal Government and other relevant authorities, warning of an imminent nationwide strike if its outstanding demands are not addressed.

The resolution was contained in a communiqué signed by NARD President, Dr. Tope Osundara; General Secretary, Dr. Oluwasola Odunbaku; and Publicity and Social Secretary, Dr. Omoha Amobi, following an Extraordinary National Executive Council, E-NEC meeting held virtually on Sunday.

The association recalled that it had earlier given a three-week ultimatum in July before extending the deadline by another three weeks to allow for further dialogue with stakeholders. However, it expressed disappointment that the government has yet to fulfil its promises.

According to NARD, many resident doctors are still unpaid for their 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF). It also decried the failure to settle five months’ arrears from the 25–35 per cent Consolidated Medical Salary Structure, CONMESS, review, along with other longstanding salary arrears.

The doctors further condemned the non-payment of the 2024 Accoutrement Allowance, as well as what they described as the “unjust downgrading” of membership certificates of the West African Colleges of Physicians and Surgeons by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN). They also faulted the persistent delay in issuing certificates to successful candidates by the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria, NPMCN.

On state-level issues, NARD criticised the Kaduna State Government for failing to honour agreements with members at Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital, despite signed Memoranda of Understanding. It also accused the Oyo State Government of neglecting the welfare concerns of doctors at LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Ogbomosho, where an indefinite strike is ongoing.

While commending states that have paid the 2025 MRTF, the E-NEC demanded immediate action from the federal government and state governors.

Among its key demands are immediate payment of the 2025 MRTF to all eligible resident doctors; Settlement of outstanding five months’ arrears of CONMESS and other salary backlogs; Payment of the 2024 Accoutrement Allowance and commencement of specialist allowance payments to all doctors.

Others are the restoration of recognition for the West African postgraduate membership certificates by the MDCN, prompt issuance of membership certificates by the NPMCN and implementation of the 2024 CONMESS in Kaduna State and resolution of welfare concerns in Oyo State.

The communiqué stressed that all state governors must prioritise the welfare of doctors to curb emigration and ensure industrial harmony in the health sector.

“The E-NEC extends the ultimatum by a final 10 days to all relevant government agencies to meet these demands. Failure to do so by Wednesday, September 10, 2025, will leave us with no option but to embark on a nationwide strike,” the association said.

FG Hails Simon Ekpa’s Conviction In Finland  …Vows Further Actions

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FG Hails Simon Ekpa’s Conviction In Finland  …Vows Further Actions

The Federal Government has welcomed the landmark judgment of the Päijät-Häme District Court in Finland, which on Monday September 1,2025, sentenced Simon Ekpa, a self-styled pro-Biafra agitator, to six years’ imprisonment for terrorism offences.

The government said the ruling stands as a watershed moment, not only for the countless innocent Nigerians whose lives and livelihoods were brutally disrupted by the reign of terror incited and financed by Ekpa and his collaborators but also for the strengthening of bilateral relations between Nigeria and Finland.

A statement signed by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said for years, Ekpa’s reckless incitement and orchestration of violence through IPOB terror activities unleashed unspeakable pain on Nigeria.

”Families shattered, businesses destroyed, children orphaned, and entire communities forced to live under fear. Hundreds of lives were lost, and many more maimed, in pursuit of a destructive and unlawful agenda that sought to undermine the peace, unity, and sovereignty of our nation.

“By upholding the rule of law and ensuring that justice is served, the Finnish judiciary has not only vindicated Nigeria’s consistent position on this matter but also sent a clear signal to extremists everywhere that the world is watching, and justice will catch up with those who seek to destabilize societies through terror,” the statement added.

The statement noted that the Tinubu administration remains unshakable in its resolve to defend Nigeria’s sovereignty and protect the dignity of every citizen.

“We will continue to mobilize every resource, diplomatic, military, and judicial, to preserve the peace, unity, and territorial integrity of our country,” it added.

“We urge all those who, under the misguidance of Simon Ekpa and others, have taken up arms against their fatherland to immediately lay them down and embrace the path of peace.

“Nigeria is big enough for all its people, but there can be no progress where violence and division prevail.

“The Federal Government also extends its profound gratitude to the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Nigerian Armed Forces, the security and intelligence agencies, and the Federal Ministry of Justice and the Nigeria Police, whose sacrifices, courage, and commitment continue to secure our homeland in the face of daunting challenges.

“Their service and the resilience of the Nigerian people remain the backbone of our enduring unity.

“As we mark this turning point, the Federal Government enjoins all Nigerians, at home and abroad, to work together for national unity, peace, and security of the country.”

Meanwhile, the Federal Government, on Monday, said it would take further action against Simon Ekpa, following his conviction on terrorism-related charges, by a Finnish court.

The Federal Government in a statement that was signed by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, said the “appropriate further actions” would be taken upon receipt and understudying a copy of the judgement of the court.

Commending Ekpa’s conviction by the Finnish court, the AGF, said: “We receive the good news of the conviction of the leader of the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra, Simon Ekpa, by the Finnish court.

“His conviction for the charges of terrorism and other related offences filed against him by the Finnish government is a confirmation that Ekpa had influenced and committed heinous crimes against the Nigerian people, especially in the South East.

“We commend the Finnish authorities for supporting Nigerian in the fight against insecurity and see this as a signal of future collaboration.

“Appropriate further actions would be taken upon receipt and understudying a copy of the judgement of the court.”

Four Years Can’t Fix Nigeria: El-Rufai Blasts Peter Obi, Amaechi

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Four Years Can’t Fix Nigeria: El-Rufai Blasts Peter Obi, Amaechi

Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has dismissed the one-term pledges made by former Rivers State governor Rotimi Amaechi and former Anambra State governor Peter Obi, describing them as unrealistic.

Speaking on Sunday during an interview on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics programme in Abuja, El-Rufai, who served two terms as governor, argued that four years is too short to implement credible reforms, especially in a country facing challenges as complex as Nigeria’s.

His remarks were in reaction to promises by Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, and Amaechi, now seeking to contest under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), who both vowed to serve only one term if elected in the 2027 presidential elections.

“Politicians who make such promises often change their minds once they assume power,” El-Rufai said.

The former governor also highlighted the importance of zoning arrangements in Nigerian politics, stressing that power rotation remains an effective tool for boosting a party’s electoral chances. He recalled supporting the APC’s decision to shift power to the South during the last election cycle as part of efforts to strengthen national unity.

As political alignments gather momentum ahead of 2027, El-Rufai’s remarks cast doubt on the credibility of one-term pledges and underscore the growing debate over tenure, zoning, and the strategies that will shape Nigeria’s next presidential race.

Primary, Secondary, Technical Schools Set To Adopt Revised Curricula

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Primary, Secondary, Technical Schools Set To Adopt Revised Curricula

The Federal Government has announced that primary, secondary, and technical schools across Nigeria will adopt revised curricula aimed at improving education standards and aligning learning with national development goals.

The Director of Press and Public Relations at the Ministry of Education, Bariowo Folasade, revealed this in a statement signed on August 29, 2025. The announcement was further reiterated by the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, who spoke in Abuja on behalf of the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Alausa.

Prof. Ahmad explained that the curriculum review was carried out in collaboration with the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council, the Universal Basic Education Commission, the National Senior Secondary Education Commission, and the National Board for Technical Education.

According to him, the new curricula are designed to reduce content overload and foster deeper learning, while equipping students with practical and relevant skills. He stressed that the exercise was not merely a trimming of subjects but a restructuring to enhance quality learning.

Under the revised arrangement, pupils in Primary 1–3 will take a minimum of 9 and a maximum of 10 subjects. Those in Primary 4–6 will be allowed between 10 and 12 subjects, while Junior Secondary School students will offer 12 to 14 subjects. Senior Secondary School students will take 8 to 9 subjects, and technical school students will be required to offer 9 to 11 subjects.

“The revised curricula will reduce content overload and create more learning time for students,” Ahmad said.

Although the Ministry of Education did not provide an exact date for implementation, it assured that the revised curricula will be supervised by relevant agencies to ensure a smooth transition and effective adoption across the nation’s schools.

The rollout had earlier been postponed until September 2025, following an announcement by the immediate past Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, who initially stated that the new curriculum would commence in January 2025. He further explained that the reform requires the inclusion of at least two skill-based subjects in the basic school curriculum.

The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s education system, noting that the revised curricula mark a step toward preparing students with the knowledge and skills required for national development and global competitiveness.

South African Don Wants African leaders To Avoid Costly Historical Mistakes

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South African Don Wants African leaders To Avoid Costly Historical Mistakes

For African countries to make meaningful progress, her leaders must learn from the successes and failures of leaders from other continents.

A South African don, Dr Greg Mills said there was the need for an urgent transformational leadership to drive Africa’s progress and avoid repeating historical mistakes Lagos.

Mills, a former visiting fellow at the University of Navarra and National Director, South Africa Institute of International Affairs made the remarks during the institute’s session with its Executive Syndicate Class for top Chief Executive Officers (CEOs).

A statement by Prof. Elvis Otobo, Media Consultant, Olusegun Obasanjo Leadership Institute (OOLI) in Ogun, issued to newsmen on Sunday in Lagos noted that in his presentation, Mills drew insights from his acclaimed book, ‘The Essence of Success’ and other works, to illustrate how leadership traits from sports, business, media and politics intersect.

According to him, transformational leadership is inextricably linked to governance and political environments.

“Being an effective manager does not guarantee visionary leadership.

“Leaders must motivate teams, articulate a clear vision, pursue bold policies, and resist distractions of power or popularity.

“True leaders distinguish between tactical and strategic actions,” he explained.

He noted that at one moment, true leaders were passionate, prepared, and patient, and in the next, they demonstrated conviction, courage, communication, and compassion through their vision and energy.

Mills then highlighted consistency in core leadership qualities as one of the four “threads of success” that every leader must weave into their approach.

The don also listed the relentless pursuit of excellence, the ability to envision, plan, and communicate effectively, as well as the capacity to recognise the difference between being good and being great.

On his part, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Founder and Chairman of OOLI’s Governing Board, reinforced the message with a clarion call to the continent’s leaders.

“African countries stand the chance to benefit from quality transformational leadership. We need leaders who are committed to Africa’s infrastructural, human, and capital development,” he said.

Prof. Samuel Daramola, Deputy Chief Executive of the institute and moderator of the session, praised the depth of the discussion and reiterated OOLI’s commitment to hosting world-class speakers.

“This event marks another milestone in our mission. OOLI will continue to facilitate strategic engagements that challenge conventional thinking and empower Africa’s next generation of ethical, transformational leaders,” Daramola said.

Quackery: RSG Seals 72 Facilities, Arrests 12 Persons

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Quackery: RSG Seals 72 Facilities, Arrests 12 Persons

The Rivers State Anti-Quackery Committee has sealed over 72 facilities and arrested 12 persons since it began operations in the state.

Chairman of the committee and Director, Medical Services, Rivers State Ministry of Health, Dr. Vincent Wachukwu said this recently while briefing journalists on the activities of the committee in Port Harcourt.

Wachukwu, who was the Director of Medical Services, Rivers State Ministry of Health, said many of the arrested persons are undergoing investigation for possible prosecution, while a few others have been prosecuted.

According to him, despite the much efforts being put in by the committee and the Rivers State Government to rid the state of quacks, they still operate in several parts of the state, including Port Harcourt, Obio/Akpor and its environs.

The Chairman assured that the committee and the government are committed to protecting the lives of Rivers people and ensuring that they get proper care from qualified health personnel.

“We have really worked so hard since the inception of this Anti-Quackery Committee. We have sealed about 72 hospitals, and we have arrested 12 persons in connection with quackery.

“If you also recall, there was a hospital that was sealed sometime ago in Oyigbo that was being manned by a Korean.

“He was arrested and detained by the Department of State Security (DSS), and probably for diplomatic reasons, he was deported, and so his own activity in Nigeria has ended. Some people have also been imprisoned because of their activities, “he said.

He lamented further that “despite the efforts of this committee and the government to rid Rivers State of these quacks, it would surprise you to note that these practices are still going on in so many areas and local governments unabated, including Port Harcourt, Obio/ Akpor and its environs.

“Now based on these, the committee has continued in its activity of visiting these facilities to look into what they are doing and to take necessary actions.”

Giving a breakdown of its recent successes, Wachukwu said last Friday, some facilities and individuals operating illegally within Obio/Akpor and Ikwerre Local Government Areas of the state were sealed for various offences, including operating without licences, unhealthy environments, and operating from residential apartments.

He listed the sealed facilities and individuals to include Sosan Medical Centre and Laboratory/Nursing School, located off Okporo Road; Bristol Clinic and Maternity, Rumuodumaya, operated by one Mr. Kingsley Ugwu, a suspected fake Doctor; Adoration Hospital and Maternity Limited, Omagwa; Lucky Pharmacy, Omagwa, and Miss Rejoice Ogbia, a patent medicine dealer in Aluu, who was reported to be carrying out unauthorized practices beyond her scope of training.

He also warned medical practitioners against colluding with quacks to sabotage the healthcare sector in the state.

“We also want to use this opportunity to warn some of our health workers to desist from some of their activities because some of them are aiding and abetting some of these things that are happening.

“You can’t imagine a doctor going to a maternity to do surgery when the primary healthcare centre that is built and being run by the government is not authorized to do surgery,” he stated.

Wachukwu also urged the media to be wary of the kind of advertorials they publish in order not to deceive the public into patronising quacks.

He used the opportunity to reiterate the ban on all unauthorized medical outreaches by NGOs, individuals, and churches.

“We also want to use this medium to warn, once more, that no religious organisation, no private hospital, no NGO, no civil society organisation, no individual, not even a company is authorized to carryout any form of free medical care without an approval from the Ministry of Health through the office of the Director of Medical Services”, he added.

While urging the people to desist from patronising quacks, Wachukwu said they should take advantage of the Rivers State Contributory Health Insurance Programme (RIVCHIP) to access near-free healthcare services.

He also commended the efforts of various health organisations, security agencies, non-governmental organisations, civil society groups, religious groups, and individuals for their support.

On his part, the Chairman of Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Rivers State, Dr. Diamond Tamunokuro said the association would not defend any doctor found indulging in illegal practice.

He urged all facilities to get the requisite approvals from the Ministry of Health.

“What Rivers people and the Rivers State Government are saying is that quacks are no longer allowed in the health sector in Rivers State. If you are not registered with the Rivers State Ministry of Health, you’re not qualified to do what you are doing.

“If you are practising in a place that’s not supposed to be used for a hospital, then you should desist from it from now because the Anti-Quackery Committee will get you.

“We are going beyond just Obio/Akpor and Port Harcourt. We are going to places far away from the main cities. The moment the committee gets you, you’ll be arrested and prosecuted.

“The NMA is not going to defend you because you’re a doctor, the NMA will do the right thing to ensure that you serve the punishment you are supposed to serve. Lives of Rivers people matter, and it’s our collective duty to protect those lives, “he stated.

Ogbuku Seeks Special Court For Crude Oil Theft, Pipeline Vandalism  … As NDDC Pushes For Blue Economy Advantage In N/Delta

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Ogbuku Seeks Special Court For Crude Oil Theft, Pipeline Vandalism  … As NDDC Pushes For Blue Economy Advantage In N/Delta

The Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, has appealed for the creation of a Special Court to handle cases of theft and related offences against the commission, in a bid to fast-track judicial processes.

He made the appeal recently while making a presentation at the 2025 Nigerian Bar Association Conference in Enugu State, tagged: “Stand Out, Stand Tall”.

The NDDC boss said establishment of such a court will ensure that all cases and offences involving the agency were resolved in record time.

He said delayed court processes were among the key challenges hindering the commission’s effectiveness.

“We believe that if there is a special court to accelerate the trial of crude oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and kidnapping, it will serve as a strong deterrent”, he said.

He stressed that the continued detention of suspects in prison for prolonged periods while awaiting trial was no longer helpful or beneficial to the commission, hence the urgent need for a special court to handle the agency’s cases.

Ogbuku also made a further appeal for the people of the Niger Delta to take advantage of the region’s abundant blue economy resources.

According to him, once these opportunities are fully explored and appreciated, the case for the region’s development would gain broader acceptance.

He explained that the push for the blue economy had led the commission to embark on massive coastal road construction projects aimed at providing proper road networks across the region.

“We are also exploring the blue economy by encouraging youth participation through internship programmes where they can acquire skills”, he said.

He further disclosed plans for a local scholarship scheme to benefit qualified individuals in the oil-rich region, while announcing an end to favouritism in the commission’s operations.

Responding to the presentation, Senator Dino Melaye called on the NDDC boss to ensure that transparency becomes the guiding principle in the award of contracts, procurement, and other activities, so that the people of the Niger Delta can benefit maximally from the system.

Moody Scenes, Loud Celebrations Herald Result Of Rivers LG Polls

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Moody Scenes, Loud Celebrations Herald Result Of Rivers LG Polls

As expected, results of the local government elections held in Rivers State and conducted by the State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) were officially released on Sunday, August 31, with winners and lovers emerging.

The scenario in Rivers State is divided into moody scenes in the camp of those who are not only isolated from the political developments in the state and those who still question the legality of the elections.

On the other hand, celebrations, pats on the back, and handshakes of joy and fulfilment have taken centre stage in the camps of those announced as winners.

The results as announced by RSIEC shows that the All Progressives Congress (APC) won in the chairmanship seat and all available councillorship seats in 20 local government areas, while the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) won in three LGAs.

Here is a breakdown of the results as announced by RSIEC

1. Abua Odual (APC) Ofori Owoalabi -28755 votes

2. Ahoada East Solomon Achoma (APC)- 54509

3. Ahoada West Eugene Epelle (APC) -84125 votes

4. AKULGA Bob Fubara (APC) -63593 votes

5. Andoni -Lucky Promise (APC) -126181 votes

6. ASALGA- George Onegiyeofori (APC) -56383 votes

7. Bonny -Abinye Blessing Pepple (APC) -13543 votes

8. Degema Michael John Williams (APC) – 61536 votes

9. Eleme Obarilomate Ollor (APC) -77452 votes

10. Emohua Chidi Loyd (APC) – 114380

11. Etche Njoku Boniface (APC) 100649 votes

12. Gokana Dekor Confidence (APC)96478 votes

13. Ikwerre Charles Wobodo (APC) 62746

14. Khana Bariere Thomas (APC) 156027

15. Obio Akpor Gift Worlu (PDP) 328823

16. ONELGA shedrack Ogbogu (PDP) 51051))

17. Ogu Bolo Vincent Nemioboka (APC) 36374

18. Okrika Akuro Tobin (APC) 32285

19. Omuma Obasi Uchechwuku (APC) 38530

20. Opobo Nkoro Jame A. Jame (APC) 38822

21. Oyigbo Okechukwu Akara (APC) 101495

22. PHALGA Allwell Ihunda (PDP) 235054 votes

23. Tai Mbakpone Okpe (APC) 70,080 votes

2026 World Cup Qualifiers: Super Eagles And Hand Of Divination

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2026 World Cup Qualifiers: Super Eagles And Hand Of Divination

Nigerians are known as prayerful people. To them, by special prayers, the hand of Divination can alter bad situations and turn them to good. It is so even in football. To them, it is not all about skill, but divine providence which can provide the elixir, when all things fail.

 

In a few days, football loving Nigerians will know whether the country’s senior male national team, the Super Eagles, will revive their faltering 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign or finally dim the lights on the hopes of participating in the showpiece tournament scheduled to hold in North America.

 

The Super Eagles are expected to regroup in Uyo on September 1 ahead of crunch back-to-back qualifying matches against Rwanda on September 6 at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium before travelling to Bloemfontein for a battle against Bafana Bafana of South Africa three days later.

 

These two matches are key to the team’s onward match, as any drop of points may further sink Nigeria into the abyss of a second consecutive absence on the world stage, having missed out in Qatar in 2022.

 

As it stands presently, Nigeria is six points short of South Africa and a point behind Rwanda and Benin Republic. With a likely three points deduction by the Federation of International Football Associations (FIFA) dangling over South Africa following Lesotho’s protest over the fielding of an ineligible player during their previous encounter, Nigeria’s Super Eagles need the victories in these crunch matches to get their campaign back on track.

 

But who would have imagined that Nigeria, once a continental powerhouse of football and respected as an emerging global football superpower, would be struggling to qualify for a World Cup tournament where Africa would be represented by nine countries.

 

It is indeed sad that Nigeria’s aura of dignified performance and results have faded into uncertainty. The country’s World Cup and Olympic football records from the glory years of 1994,1996, and 1998, to the resilience of 2014, built on discipline, hunger, and tactical intelligence, have now given way to mediocrity, lackadaisical attitude and unnecessary ego on the side of the current bunch of players and administrative culpability from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

 

Across the nation, hope and anxiety mix in the hearts of millions of football lovers as the Super Eagles are starring down the barrel of a World Cup qualifying disaster. The race for the ticket of Group C in the African qualifiers has become for Nigerians a nerve-wracking gamble. It hangs in the balance by a thread and the odds are no longer in their favour, all caused by some unexpected and uninspiring performances.

 

In the midst of the uncertainties, Super Eagles Head Coach, Eric Chelle, who has a 23-man squad approved for him by the NFF for these two qualifying games, remains upbeat about the chances of the team qualifying for the World Cup in 2026.

 

Nigeria’s qualifying campaign was already midway with Josè Peseiro and Finidi George respectively, managing two games without a win, before the engagement of Chelle,who has overseen two fixtures so far, securing a 2-0 victory against Rwanda in Kigali and a scandalous 1-1 against Zimbabwe in Nigeria.

 

Chelle, who could not inspire Nigeria’s team in the just concluded CHAN ’24 tournament in East Africa, is however optimistic that the Super Eagles will surprise Nigerians, especially in the remaining four matches.

 

“People have already written us off. I am not bothered by that. I am concentrating on preparing my players for the remaining four matches. I think that we are going to surprise a lot of people,” Chelle told sports writers recently.

 

Right now, the dice is cast. Nigerians expect nothing short of hunger and tactical intelligence from the 23-man all Europe-based stars called up for the epic battles.

 

Unfortunately, Victor Boniface, Nathan Tella, and Sadiq Umar, would not be playing any part in these two all-important matches.

 

The players on whose shoulders the task of bringing the World Cup campaign back on track as released by the NFF are captain William Troost-Ekong, striker Victor Osimhen and also includes midfielders Alex Iwobi, Raphael Onyedika and Wilfred Ndidi.

 

Among the forwards are Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Cyriel Dessers and Moses Simon.

 

Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali returns between the sticks, supported by defenders Calvin Bassey, Ola Aina and Bright Osayi-Samuel, among others.

 

Greece-based goalkeeper Adeleye Adebayo returns, with Unity Cup stars Felix Agu and Benjamin Fredericks also named in the squad.

 

Forwards Christantus Uche and Tolu Arokodare earned call-ups after strong performances in June’s friendly against Russia in Moscow.

 

Full squad:

 

Goalkeepers: Stanley Nwabali (Chippa Utd, South Africa); Amas Obasogie (Singida Blackstars, Tanzania); Adeleye Adebayo (Volos FC, Greece).

 

Defenders: William Ekong (Al-Kholood, Saudi Arabia); Calvin Bassey (Fulham, England); Ola Aina (Nottingham Forest, England); Bright Osayi-Samuel (Birmingham City, England).

 

Others are, Bruno Onyemaechi (Olympiakos, Greece); Chidozie Awaziem (Nantes, France); Felix Agu (Werder Bremen, Germany); Benjamin Fredericks (Dender FC, Belgium).

 

Midfielders: Alex Iwobi (Fulham, England); Frank Onyeka (Brentford, England); Wilfred Ndidi (Besiktas, Turkey); Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (Lazio, Italy).

 

Also included are Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge, Belgium) and Christantus Uche (Getafe, Spain).

 

Forwards: Ademola Lookman (Atalanta, Italy); Samuel Chukwueze (AC Milan, Italy); Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray, Turkey).

 

Others are Simon Moses (Paris FC, France); Cyriel Dessers (Rangers, Scotland); Tolu Arokodare (KRC Genk, Belgium)

 

By: Celestine Ogolo

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