₦airaland Forum

Former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has been officially charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, according to the Metropolitan Police. The charges relate to alleged incidents involving three different women, occurring between 2021 and 2022.

The 32-year-old Ghanaian international, who departed Arsenal earlier this month, is scheduled to appear in court in early August.

Contibue reading: https://nairasports.com.ng/former-arsenal-star-thomas-partey-charged-with-rape-and-sexual-assault/

A 12-year-old boy identified as Wasiu was killed by a stray bullet during a violent cult clash in the Olosha area of Mushin, Lagos State, on Wednesday evening.



According to residents, the fatal incident occurred around 8 pm when rival cult groups engaged in a gun battle, throwing the community into chaos. Wasiu, who had gone to buy food from a local vendor known as Iya Ibeji, was caught in the crossfire as gunshots echoed through the neighborhood.

Continue Reading: https://thelagosvoice.com/2025/07/04/12-year-old-boy-killed-by-stray-bullet-in-mushin/

Nigerian football is in mourning following the death of legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai.

According to FRCN, Rufai passed away on Thursday morning after a prolonged illness.

While his family is yet to issue an official statement, a top Lagos State Government official has confirmed the news of his demise.

Peter Rufai was a towering figure in Nigerian football, celebrated for his exceptional goalkeeping skills and charismatic presence on the pitch.

Born on August 24, 1963, Rufai had a distinguished career spanning two decades, playing professionally in Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain.

Continue reading: https://nairasports.com.ng/former-super-eagles-goalkeeper-peter-rufai-is-dead/

The Federation of Epe Division Students’ Association (FEDSA) has lauded the success of the Grand Finale of the Lagos State Inter-Public Schools Debate Championship Season 5.0, hosted in the Epe Division.

The event brought together students, educators, community leaders, and youth advocates to celebrate academic brilliance, civic awareness, and leadership through spirited debate.

Held under the theme of empowerment through education and expression, the championship featured 16 schools from across Epe and Ibeju-Lekki Federal Constituency, competing in junior and senior categories.

Source: https://thelagosvoice.com/2025/07/03/fedsa-celebrates-academic-excellence-at-lagos-inter-public-schools-debate-championship/

Lagos State is Nigeria’s bustling economic hub and most populous city, is strategically organized into five administrative divisions, collectively known by the acronym “IBILE.”

This term is derived from the first letter of each division: Ikorodu, Badagry, Ikeja, Lagos Island (Eko), and Epe

These divisions (LCDAs), reflecting Nigeria’s federal structure and the drive for participatory democracy at the local level.

Continue reading: https://thelagosvoice.com/2025/07/03/from-ikorodu-to-epe-understanding-lagos-states-five-administrative-divisions/

Former Super Eagles midfielder John Obi Mikel’s long-time agent, John Shittu, has denied allegations made by ex-Nigeria U23 coach Samson Siasia, who claimed he was offered €50,000 to include Mikel in Nigeria’s 2008 Olympic Games squad.

Siasia, in an interview, alleged that Mikel, who was not part of Nigeria’s Olympic qualifiers, attempted to join the team after they had secured qualification to the Beijing Games, a move allegedly backed by a cash incentive from his representative.

“Going to the Olympics, Mikel wanted to come and play. His agent said he would give me €50,000 to include him,” Siasia claimed.

However, the former coach said he rejected the offer, citing fairness and loyalty to players who had helped the team secure Olympic qualification.

“He didn’t play the qualifiers. So I should remove someone who helped us qualify to bring him in? It won’t happen. People who played to qualify should go,” Siasia said.

Source: https://nairasports.com.ng/mikel-obis-former-agent-denies-e50000-olympic-bribe-claim/

Kenny Nwankwo, head coach and quality control director of the Nigerian male flag football has revealed how the team qualified for the 2026 World Cup.

Nigeria's male and female flag football teams both won gold at the inaugural African Flag Football Championships in Cairo, Egypt, making history as the first African champions.

The tournament, which ran from Friday, June 20 to Saturday, June 21, brought together 11 teams from eight African nations but it was team Nigeria that dominated both categories, clinching gold in the male and female events.

Contnue reading: https://www.pulsesports.ng/other-sports/story/we-scouted-for-the-best-players-coach-kenny-on-how-nigeria-qualified-for-2026-world-cup-2025062906595374264

Former U23 national team coach, Samson Siasia, has revealed how ex-Super Eagles captain John Mikel Obi offered him $50,000 to be part of Nigeria’s squad for the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing.

Speaking during an interview with Elegbete TV on YouTube, Siasia explained that Mikel only showed interest in playing at the Olympics after the team secured qualification without him.

“Mikel wasn’t a regular starter at Chelsea then; he was mostly on the bench. I told him we only had one match left against Ghana — and I pleaded with him to come and help us,” Siasia said.

continue reading: https://nairasports.com.ng/samson-siasia-claims-mikel-obi-tried-to-buy-olympic-spot-with-e50000-offer/

The Rivers State Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd), has applauded Rivers Angels Football Club for their historic 10th President Federation Cup title, calling the achievement “absolutely unprecedented.”

The Port Harcourt-based side defeated Nasarawa Amazons 4-2 on penalties after a goalless draw in regulation time at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Lagos, on Saturday to retain their crown.

Source: https://nairasports.com.ng/16492-2/

In a surprising twist to Victor Boniface’s transfer saga, popular Nigerian journalist Onyebuchi Onokala, also known as Buchi Laba, has claimed that Cristiano Ronaldo played a direct role in the Super Eagles striker’s failed move to Al Nassr.

Al Nassr had shortlisted both Victor Boniface and Jhon Durán as transfer targets, but the final decision was left to the club’s superstar and captain, Cristiano Ronaldo.

Continue reading: https://nairasports.com.ng/cristiano-ronaldo-reportedly-blocked-victor-bonifaces-move-to-al-nassr-report/

Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye is now officially under investigation in Italy for alleged match-fixing, with the Udinese shot-stopper facing a possible four-year ban from football if found guilty of sporting misconduct.

The troubling development stems from a Serie A match against Lazio on March 11, 2024, in which Okoye received a yellow card for time-wasting in the 64th minute while his side was leading 2–1. At the time, the incident appeared routine.

Source: https://nairasports.com.ng/maduka-okoye-set-to-risks-4-year-ban-over-match-fixing-probe-in-italy/

Brighton & Hove Albion has announced the signing of Nigerian goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, subject to the usual regulatory processes.

Chiamaka will join Albion on July 1 when her contract with Paris FC expires.

Women’s first team head coach Dario Vidosic said, “We’re thrilled to welcome Chiamaka to the club. She’s a talented and commanding goalkeeper who will bring consistency and confidence to our defensive line.

“She has competed at the highest level, with valuable experience in a variety of cup competitions including the Champions League. We’re confident she’ll add both depth and drive to a squad already full of ambition as we continue to build for next season.”

Source: https://nairasports.com.ng/super-falcons-goalkeeper-chiamaka-nnadozie-joins-brighton-hove-albion/

Veteran sports journalist and SWAN NEC Member, Abiodun Ogundipe, has called for the revival of standard television broadcasting in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), citing its importance for visibility, documentation, and sponsorship.

Reacting to a recently resurfaced “television goal” that went viral online, Ogundipe expressed both admiration for the moment and concern about the many brilliant goals that go unseen due to the absence of consistent broadcast coverage in the domestic league.

“Thank you for reminding us of this beautiful goal (television goal in our street parlance). It was made very popular then by the fact that it was captured on TV and went viral on the internet,” Ogundipe noted.

Source: [https://nairasports.com.ng/abiodun-ogundipe-urges-return-of-quality-tv-broadcasts-for-npfl-visibility/]Naira Sports[https://nairasports.com.ng/abiodun-ogundipe-urges-return-of-quality-tv-broadcasts-for-npfl-visibility/]

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has served as the breeding ground for some of Africa’s finest football talents. Among the most prestigious individual honours in the league is the NPFL Golden boot winners award given to the top goalscorer each season.

This award not only celebrates goal-scoring excellence but also tells a rich story of local dominance, rivalries, and rising stars who often go on to represent Nigeria at international levels or earn lucrative transfers abroad.

Continue reading: https://nairasports.com.ng/who-are-the-npfl-golden-boot-winners-in-history/

In a match that will forever be etched in the memories of Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) fans, Sikiru Olatunbosun scored a breathtaking goal against Rangers International at the Agege Township Stadium.

On February 24, 2017, Olatunbosun took down a back-heel flick from teammate Stephen Odey and improvised with a flick of his own over Rangers defender Emmanuel Etim.

Despite being off-balance, he managed to hit an unstoppable left-footed volley into the top corner, leaving the Rangers goalkeeper with no chance.

Continue reading: https://nairasports.com.ng/npfl-throwback-sikiru-olatunbosuns-stunning-goal-against-rangers-international/

The Executive Chairman of Lekki LCDA, Engr. Rasaki Bamidele Kasali (MNSE, MNATE), and his Vice Chairman, Hon. Oluremi Abiodun Alogba, have officially received the party flag from the Lagos State APC Chairman, Hon. Cornelius Ojelabi.

The presentation took place during the official flag-off and unveiling of candidates for the 2025 Local Government Elections, held at the party’s secretariat in ACME, Ikeja.

RBK was presented as the party’s candidate for Lekki LCDA, as party leaders, councillors and supporters gathered to show their support ahead of the polls.

Source: https://thelagosvoice.com/2025/06/18/apc-unveils-rbk-as-lekki-lcda-for-2025-polls/

Cristiano Ronaldo Jr. and Thiago Messi, sons of football legends Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, have begun their journeys in the round leather game, sparking discussions about their potential to mirror their fathers' extraordinary careers.

At 14, Cristiano Ronaldo Jr. has started his career with Al Nassr, plays. He has expressed a strong desire to play alongside his father before Cristiano Ronaldo retires, aiming for a father-son moment reminiscent of NBA stars LeBron and Bronny James.

Thiago Messi, aged 12, has been making headlines with his performances for Inter Miami's U-13 team.

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/lifestyle/story/tiago-messi-vs-cristiano-ronaldo-jr-can-they-replicate-the-successes-their-fathers-enjoyed-2025020711090957985

Nigerian international Victor Boniface has broken his silence following his failed transfer to a Saudi Arabian club.

The 24-year-old striker appeared to be on the cusp of a major move from Bayer Leverkusen to Al Nassr.

A €60 million transfer fee was reportedly agreed upon, and it seemed personal terms were also finalised, suggesting the deal was all but done.

What Boniface said
The Super Eagles star took to social media to express his thoughts on the matter, saying, "Una don calculate finish," which roughly translates to "You've finished calculating" in Nigerian Pidgin.

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/una-don-calculate-finish-super-eagles-star-victor-boniface-breaks-silence-after-failed-saudi-move-2025013016412981644

Former Super Eagles captain Joseph Yobo said Nigeria was unlucky in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations draw.

Nigeria was placed in Group C with Tunisia's Carthage Eagles, who failed to advance from the knockout stage in the last tournament held in Ivory Coast.

The other two opponents are East African teams: Tanzania and the 2016 CAF National Team of the Year, Uganda.

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/we-were-very-unlucky-super-eagles-legend-reflects-on-afcon-draw-2025012806302161244

Super Eagles captain, Ahmed Musa will lead Kano Pillars to Lagos for a date against Ikorodu City.

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) match against Oga boys is scheduled for Wednesday, January 29th, at the Mobolaji Jhonson Arena in Lagos.

Kano Pillars will be searching for maximum points against the Lagos-based side after thrashing the newly promoted side 3-0 in their season opener.

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/super-eagles-captain-ahmed-musa-to-lead-pillars-to-lagos-to-battle-oga-boys-2025012706155967961

Emmanuel Adebayor has revealed the circumstances surrounding his departure from Arsenal; he was barred from the training ground after falling out of favour with manager Arsene Wenger.

The former African Player of the Year joined Arsenal in 2006 and enjoyed a successful period with the Gunners, notably scoring 30 goals in the 2007-08 season.

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/blame-arsene-wenger-emmanuel-adebayor-reveals-why-he-left-arsenal-2025012608321572703

Super Eagles legend Jay-Jay Okocha has shared that he learned to play football without any formal instruction.

Okocha's captivating flair and unique style set him apart in the game, leaving a lasting impression on fans and fellow professionals.
Okocha's extraordinary abilities originated from his upbringing in Enugu, Nigeria, where football was more than just a game, it was a form of expression.

For Okocha and his peers, football was a source of joy and freedom, stressing that it was an unstructured, playful environment that nurtured his natural talent and creativity, which he later brought to the professional stage.

That's unforgivable: Angry fans attack Sancho for picking Portuguese star over Jay Jay Okocha as best dribbler

source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/i-wasnt-taught-how-to-play-football-super-eagles-legend-okocha-opens-up-on-his-career-2025012608111867005

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has likened forward Cole Palmer's influence on his team to that of Liverpool's prolific goal scorer, Mohamed Salah.

Maresca's comparison extends beyond mere goal and assist numbers as he highlighted Palmer's willingness to step up in challenging situations, similar to Salah's role at Liverpool.

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/not-just-goals-and-assists-enzo-maresca-compares-cole-palmer-to-mo-salah-2025012512550139616

According to Il Mattino, winger Alejandro Garnacho has agreed to personal terms with Napoli and has reportedly informed Manchester United of his desire to move to the Stadio Maradona this month.

Sky Sport Italia and Il Mattino both corroborate the news of Garnacho's agreement with the Italian club.


However, a big hurdle remains in the transfer fee as Manchester United are reportedly demanding around €80m for the Argentine winger, while Napoli's current offer stands at €50m, with a willingness to increase it to a maximum of €60m.

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/give-us-garnacho-get-discount-on-osimhen-napoli-to-manchester-united-2025012113133103495

Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso has confirmed that Nigerian striker Victor Boniface has recovered from his hamstring injury and will travel with the squad for their Champions League match against Atletico Madrid at the Metropolitano Stadium on Tuesday.

Boniface has been out of action since November after picking up an injury while on international duty with Nigeria during the final round of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

His recovery was hampered by some setbacks, causing him to miss 11 matches across all competitions.

Continue Reading: https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/alonso-confirms-bonifaces-return-for-atletico-madrid-champions-league-clash-2025012108400857045

Former Super Eagles star Victor Ikpeba has urged his former colleagues to rally behind the new coach, Eric Chelle.

He specifically lamented the lack of support from ex-interbationals for previous coaches, particularly during times of player disputes.

Speaking on Brila FM, Ikpeba called for unity and support for Eric Chelle, while also criticising the silence of some former internationals during past controversies.

He said, “Let us rally around the manager and players. If we win the 2 games in March, we are back in contention for the World Cup


Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/shut-up-victor-ikpeba-blasts-super-eagles-legends-over-eric-chelles-criticism-2025012013344610824

Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer has revealed who his greatest footballer of all time (GOAT) is.

Shearer's illustrious career saw him score a record-breaking 260 Premier League goals across 14 seasons with Blackburn Rovers and Newcastle United.

His 112 goals in 138 appearances for Blackburn played a crucial role in their 1994-95 Premier League title, the only league championship of his career.

He then moved to Newcastle in 1996, adding 148 goals in 303 appearances over a decade. Shearer holds the unique distinction of being the only Premier League player to have scored over 100 goals for two different clubs.

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/lifestyle/story/ronaldo-vs-messi-premier-league-legend-settles-goat-debate-2025012011225889137