Sports
Excitement as Enugu philanthropist Odegene leads sports enthusiasts in exercise session
…says Gov Ugwuanyi an epitome of peace
It was excitement this morning at the Michael Okpara Square, Independence Layout, Enugu, when Enugu state sports lovers and enthusiasts welcomed Chief Captain Evarest Nnaji (Odengene) to their midst for their routine morning exercise.
Chief Evarest who arrived the venue of the sports at about 7:30am was received by thousands of athletes, including different fitness associations who could not hold back their joy even as the captain was fully kitted for the day.
Two of the prominent sports associations who received Chief Evarest, fondly called Odengene due to his famous spirit of philanthropy, humility and non-discriminatory friendliness, were the Coal City Keep Fit Club Enugu and the Coal City Fitness Exclusive Enugu.
Chief Odengene who was urged to lead the workout accepted the challenge and led the sports’ lovers on a 50 minutes arduous jogging to the admiration of the teeming crowd.
Meanwhile, the Captain has lauded the efforts of the state Governor, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi at ensuring the environment was conducive for sporting and outdoors activities. He stressed while addressing the clubs’ members on the need to see one another as one even though they belonged to different associations.
According to him, progress is made through competition, and a society without competition would soon find itself on the isle of extinction. He, however, said that such competition must be healthy, robust and progressive in nature.
Chief Odengene further reiterated that Enugu state was enjoying peace and progress because of a man of peace the state was blessed with. He urged the crowds to key into the peace mantra of the governor for the continuous peace, unity, growth and progress of the state.
On their part, the chairmen of the Coal City Fitness Exclusive and Coal City Keep Fit, Chief Cosmas Agagbo, lauded Chief Odengene for his resolve to continue to identify with them despite his tight schedules.
Addressing the people, Chief Agagbo who could not believe the coming together of the sports clubs declared that it was only a man like Odengene that could command such uncommon aura of respect and confidence, adding that the philanthropist had proven himself reliable and worthy to be trusted due to his antecedent for championing the cause of humanity.
Chief Agagbo, while assuring Odengene of their resolve to match with him in rain and in sun, lauded him for pursuing peace among the people. According to him; “Chief Odengene is a man that I appreciate so much. He is not a stranger to me and to many of us here. He is a man I can vouch for having known him for over 25 years through my boss, Chief Arthur Eze.
“Odengene is full of positive surprises and I have always had respect for him. He is a man loved by God and by humanity for his uncommon spirit of generosity. He is a man who doesn’t want to know what part of the country you came from before doing greats for you. God has used him to promote humanity, and he is worthy of our trust, support and prayer.
“Recently, I visited Rt. Hon. Edeh for a function and what I saw at Amagunze dumbfounded me. The 5.4 kilometre road undergoing construction is through his hard earned money. This is a testament to his reliability.
“When I also visited my friend, Hon. Frank Anioma, who is incidentally the Chairman of Coal City Keep Fit, and I asked who’s constructing this road, I was told it’s Chief Odengene, and this has added my respect for him.
“Sir, you are a man of honour and your philanthropic nature has no boundary; it cuts across Enugu state. By your act today, you have shown that you are a man of peace. Sir, there is no other person who can bring these clubs together because it is not possible. But see, you just did. You made it happened.”
Meanwhile, Hon. Frank Anioma, who is the Chairman of the Coal City Keep Fit has poured encomiums on the pilot and entrepreneur stating that Chief Odengene was his brother, friend and ally. Hon. Anioma who spoke on behalf of his club expressed delight over the presence of Chief Odengene adding the he’s a man of peace who could be trusted with the state.
He reiterated their commitment to keep partnering the Odengene People’s Movement (OPM), and promised they would continue to support him. “We are glad to receive you here today. You’ve done well and we are happy. Your participation is a great motivation and has boosted us. We will continue to support and work with you,” he added.
Responding to the cheering athletes, Chief Odengene said he was humbled by the love shown to him by the gathering crowds, and promised to continue to partner with them to keep fit. According to him, health is wealth, and one of the ways to achieve a good health was through exercising the body.
“First of all, I want to thank the leaderships of the clubs; Coal City Keep Fit and Coal City Exclusive. These are the two most powerful fitness clubs in Enugu state, and when I look at you, I see that you’re the energy for the city. You’re the power for the city. I see youthfulness. I see beauty. I see handsomeness. I see blossom hearts. When I look into your face I see bright future. It is my honour this morning to be here with you in this very arena. Your action today, as I’m just being told this is the first time you are coming together is not a surprise to me because your action tallies with the spirit of the state. Enugu state as we have it today is a peaceful and rancour-free state. It is a place where His Excellency, our performing and unassuming Governor, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi has enthroned peace and equity. So I am not surprised that you are able to come together. It is also in tune with the spirit of the moment.
“I want to thank and appreciate you for the honour you’ve given me today by coming together to run with me in this wonderful morning. All I have to say to you is that Enugu state is the heart beat of Eastern Nigeria and it will continue to be so. Every Igbo person has a root in Enugu, and that is why the state will continue to be a peaceful state. The energy generated in that peace must be continued and we will continue to live together because everybody has a stake in the state.
“I’m here this morning to fraternise with you and to support your clubs; to say I am one of you and I want to say that I’m a member of the two clubs. As a matter of fact, this morning, I am going to register with the two clubs, and I will continue to exercise with you.
“Let me employ that the unity we have forged this morning must be maintained. You know, there is strength in competition. For instance, when there was only NITEL in Nigeria, there was no competition, but immediately we had other telecommunications, we saw a healthy competition and the progress made so far. So, likewise, I want you to see yourselves not as two distinct clubs but two competing clubs that are in unity, just like the two biggest banks in Nigeria once started and they operated a healthy competition. There should be a symbiotic relationship among the people and as you have ran today with me, I will employ that you do more of this, even if is once or twice a year in order to show that we are all brothers.
“I will always join you to exercise. I want to thank you very much for this opportunity. Together we can do it. Together we will continue to make Enugu state great. Together, Enugu state will continue to progress in peace and development,” Chief Odengene told the visibly elated youths and other athletes.
While promising to register as a member of the clubs, the philanthropist doled out over two million naira to the clubs to support their activities.
…charges team to bring home continental trophy
Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has gifted players and management of Rangers International Football Club with plots of land and the sum of N150 million for winning the 2025/2026 NPFL title.
Mbah announced the gifts during a dinner reception he hosted in honour of the players, technical crew and management of the team at Government House, Enugu, on Tuesday night.
Rangers FC won the league for a record-equaling ninth time and also for a second time in three years under the Mbah Administration following a 2-1 win over Ikorodu City Boys in Lagos on May 24, 2026.
Speaking at the event, Mbah likened the reception to welcoming home a child who had excelled academically, saying the government and people of Enugu State were delighted to celebrate the team’s success.
“We are providing you with a cash gift of N100 million for the players and N50 million for the technical and management crew.
“In addition to that, we have approved a plot of land in Enugu for every player, while additional plots will be allocated to the General Manager, Head Coach, Secretary and Assistant Coach,” Mbah said.
The governor noted that Rangers was more than a football club, describing it as a symbol of resilience, unity, hope and social renewal established in the aftermath of the Nigerian Civil War.
According to him, the club carries a rich history and legacy associated with football legends such as the late Christian Chukwu, Emmanuel Okala and Austin “Jay-Jay” Okocha.
He commended the players, coaches and management for their hard work, sacrifices and discipline throughout the season, noting that the trophy was the product of countless acts of determination and effort.
Mbah also praised Rangers General Manager, Amobi Ezeaku, for his leadership, resilience and commitment, saying the qualities required to build a successful football club were similar to those needed to build a successful state.
The governor assured the team of continued government support, stressing that sports remained a key component of his administration’s development agenda.
He also stated that renovation works at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, popularly known as “The Cathedral,” would be completed in time and to international standards for Rangers’ continental matches.
He added that Enugu State, under his leadership, would continue to invest heavily in sports infrastructure and development, noting that the state would host the 2026 National Sports Festival in a manner that would leave lasting marks in the sands of time.
Mbah, however, identified complacency as an enemy of success, urging the team not to rest on their laurels and well-deserved accolades.
“So, brace up, fight on, keep winning and ensure you bring the continental trophy home,” he concluded.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, Mr. Lloyd Ekweremadu, thanked the governor for hosting the champions and for his sustained investment in sports development.
Ekweremadu described the league triumph as a testament to the governor’s commitment to excellence and service delivery across sectors.
The commissioner recalled that Enugu State emerged overall winner of the National Para Games in March with 55 medals comprising 40 gold, eight silver and seven bronze medals.
Responding, Ezeaku noted that success was built on discipline, preparation and ambition, drawing inspiration from renowned philosophers such as Aristotle, Seneca and Ralph Waldo Emerson.
He emphasised that the celebration extended beyond the lifting of a trophy and represented a celebration of leadership, vision and the power of unity among government, management, players and supporters.
The General Manager expressed profound gratitude to Governor Mbah for his unwavering support of the club, stating that Rangers had enjoyed one of its most successful periods in recent history under the governor’s administration.
According to him, Rangers has won two NPFL titles within three years of Governor Mbah’s tenure, a feat he described as remarkable in contemporary Nigerian football.
“This is credited to the governor’s commitment to sports development, youth empowerment and excellence, helping to restore the club’s competitive edge,” he said.
The club also highlighted the governor’s broader achievements in infrastructure, education, healthcare, technology and economic development, while stressing that his contribution to sports deserves equal recognition.
Reflecting on the club’s title-winning campaign, Ezeaku revealed that the journey was marked by intense competition, with rival clubs reportedly receiving promises of substantial incentives, including cash rewards, vehicles and landed properties.
“Despite these developments, the club maintained focus and confidence, believing that hard work and excellence would ultimately be rewarded.
“We remained resolute and focused throughout the season. Our confidence came from our belief in the leadership of Governor Peter Mbah and our conviction that sacrifice and excellence would not go unnoticed,” he stated.
Looking beyond domestic success, he declared Rangers’ intention to compete among Africa’s elite clubs and challenged stakeholders to support the club’s continental ambitions.
The general manager described Rangers as one of Africa’s historic football brands with the fan base, identity and pedigree to compete successfully at the highest level.
He expressed confidence that with strategic investment and continued government support, Rangers could one day lift the CAF Champions League trophy and bring continental glory back to Nigeria.
“Every great achievement begins as a dream. Today, we dream of Rangers defeating Africa’s biggest clubs and bringing the CAF Champions League trophy to Enugu,” the management said.
Meanwhile, Rangers FC and their fans had earlier celebrated their NPFL win at Okpara Square and paraded their trophy through the capital city with much jubilation and fanfare before retiring to Government House for the dinner reception and presentation of the trophy to the governor.
..laud Mbah’s massive support
By Chinedu Sabastine
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Enugu State Council, has extended its heartfelt congratulations to Rangers International F.C. for emerging champions of the 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League season.
The Union described the club’s victory as well-deserved, noting that the players, coaching crew and management displayed resilience, discipline and consistency throughout the season.
The Union stated that the Flying Antelopes remain the pride of Enugu and a symbol of resilience for the South East.
In a statement signed by the Enugu State Council Chairman, Comrade Obinna Ogbuka, the Union also extended its warmest congratulations to Peter Ndubuisi Mbah on the landmark achievement.
The NUJ further commended Governor Mbah for his unwavering commitment to sports development and continuous support for the club.
According to the Union, the governor’s massive investments and reforms across critical sectors created an enabling environment that has helped the club win the NPFL title twice within three years.
“Your visible backing has rekindled hope, restored confidence, and shown what purposeful leadership can achieve when it aligns with the aspirations of the people.
“This victory stands as clear evidence of your administration’s unwavering commitment to the development of sports, alongside the remarkable strides being made in human capital development, social welfare, and investment across the state. Your support for Rangers International FC is not a peripheral gesture; it is a deliberate investment in the pride, identity, and unity of Ndi Igbo,” he said.
The Council further praised the Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Lloyd Ikekweremadu Jnr., for his dedication to the growth of sports in the state and his support towards the success of Rangers International.
The NUJ expressed confidence that the latest achievement would further inspire young talents in the state and strengthen Enugu’s position as a major force in Nigerian football.
Chelsea have confirmed the sacking of Liam Rosenior, just three four months into his six-year deal at the club. The decision comes after the club suffered their sixth loss in seven matches across all competitions.
In a statement published by the club, the FIFA Club World Cup champions confirmed that the decision was not taken lightly but rather forced after the poor form. They praised the Englishman for his time and Stamford Bridge and said:
“Chelsea Football Club has today parted company with Head Coach Liam Rosenior. On behalf of everyone at Chelsea FC, we would like to place on record our gratitude to Liam and his staff for all their efforts during their time with the Club. Liam has always conducted himself with the highest integrity and professionalism following his appointment midway through the season.”
“This has not been a decision the Club has taken lightly, however recent results and performances have fallen below the necessary standards with still so much more to play for this season. Everyone at Chelsea FC wishes Liam every success in the future.”
The Blues hired Rosenior after Enzo Maresca resigned from his post on New Year’s Day. The Englishman had impressed at sister-club Strasbourg and was given the chance to show his skills at the Premier League club.
The 41-year-old took charge of just 23 matches before he was sacked. He won 11 matches, eight of which came in his first 11 matches at the club. The Blues kept just four clean sheets in all competitions, while conceding 38 goals and scoring just 47.
Chelsea reappoint Calum McFarlane as interim coach
Chelsea appointed Calum McFarlane as the interim coach after Enzo Maresca parted ways, and the former U21 coach is back at the helm for the rest of the season. He was a part of Liam Rosenior’s backroom staff and will take charge of the first-team for the rest of the season.
“Calum McFarlane will take charge of the team as Interim Head Coach until the end of the season with support from existing Club backroom staff, as we strive to achieve European qualification and progress in the FA Cup. As the Club works to bring stability to the Head Coach position, we will undertake a process of self-reflection to make the right long-term appointment.”
Reports indicate that the Nigerian international was confronted by intruders who forced their way into his home and threatened him with a knife while searching for valuables. The attackers reportedly ransacked the property and carted away expensive items, including luxury wristwatches, jewellery, mobile phones, and other personal belongings.
Sources close to the incident revealed that the robbers also accessed a safe inside the residence and stole valuables estimated to be worth hundreds of thousands of pounds.
Fortunately, the Super Eagles star escaped without physical injuries, although the shocking incident has raised serious concerns about the safety of footballers living in Europe.
Alex Iwobi Robbed At Knifepoint: Iwobi Yet To Speak Publicly
As of the time of filing this report, Alex Iwobi has not released an official public statement regarding the robbery incident.
However, a source familiar with the situation said the midfielder is safe and recovering from the traumatic experience.
“He is doing okay and thankful that no one was injured. The most important thing is that he is safe after the frightening incident,” the source reportedly disclosed.
The source added that the player is cooperating with authorities as investigations continue.
Security agencies in the United Kingdom have reportedly launched an investigation into the robbery, with efforts underway to identify and arrest the suspects involved in the attack.
Authorities are believed to be reviewing security footage and gathering intelligence to track down the criminals responsible for the home invasion.
Although details of the suspects remain unclear, law enforcement officials are said to be treating the case as a targeted burglary involving a high-profile footballer.
Growing Concern Over Footballers’ Safety
The incident involving Alex Iwobi has once again highlighted the growing security risks faced by professional footballers in Europe.
In recent years, several footballers in the English Premier League and other European leagues have become targets of organized criminal gangs who monitor their movements and attack their homes in search of valuables.
Security experts say such attacks are often carefully planned, especially when players are away for matches or public engagements.
As a result, clubs and players are increasingly investing in advanced security systems and private protection to reduce the risk of home invasions.
Jamie Redknapp called for Mikel Arteta to take the blame for Arsenal’s defeat by Manchester City in the Carabao Cup final for a huge decision – starting his second-choice goalkeeper.
Kepa Arrizabalaga got the nod to start between the sticks for the Gunners at Wembley, chosen ahead of David Raya as Arsenal’s cup goalkeeper, having played every other match in the competition.
It was widely deemed as a risk and a downgrade on Raya, who usually plays Arsenal’s Premier League and Champions League matches, and that proved to be true in the second-half.
Just after the hour mark, Kepa came out of his goal to try and catch Rayan Cherki’s cross, but fumbled the effort and the ball fell kindly into the path of Nico O’Reilly. Four minutes later, O’Reilly would score again as City won 2-0.
And Redknapp suggested that it was the wrong call to play the Spaniard – and that Arteta needs to take the blame for that.
He told Sky Sports: ‘I know people will say sentiment because he’s played in the earlier rounds, but Kepa is not as good as Raya, that’s why he’s your No2.
It was put to Redknapp that James Trafford, playing in goal for City, is the winners’ No2 and made three top-class saves in the first-half.
‘I’m not saying he’s a bad goalkeeper, but he’s not as good as Raya and it has backfired big time,’ Redknapp added. ‘You can turn around and say Trafford isn’t your No1 either, but he made three big saves and then he was hardly tested.’
Micah Richards went onto echo Redknapp’s views, explaining why the situation is different with Trafford.
Many thought the England star would be City’s No1 this season when he joined the club, but Gianluigi Donnarumma signed from Manchester City soon after to dislodge his spot.
Trafford has therefore been subject to mostly cup competitions, with nine of his 13 games this season coming in either the FA Cup or League Cup.
‘I think you’re right,’ Richards said. ‘When you asked about goalkeepers at the start, Trafford was brought in as a No1, he was ready – it’s just that Donnarumma came on the market.
‘The difference between Raya and Kepa is so big, so in a big game, you’re thinking, “you’ve got to go with Raya”. Look, we can talk about it after, but ultimately we’re talking about it because (it) cost Arsenal the game.’
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