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Nigeria News (Standard)

U.S.-Based Athletes Arrive Lagos for Commonwealth Games Trials at YABATECH

AFN postpones 100m final as thunderstorms delay flights, over 10 foreign stars now present in Lagos

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AFN postpones 100m final as thunderstorms delay flights, over 10 foreign stars now present in Lagos

Over 10 United States-based athletes arrived in Lagos on Friday for the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) National Trials ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games, following flight delays caused by a thunderstorm. The event, initially scheduled to begin on Saturday at Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH), was shifted by one day to accommodate the late arrivals.

The athletes began arriving at YABATECH yesterday afternoon, with more expected as at press time. The delay in their arrival prompted organisers to postpone the highly anticipated men’s 100 metres final, which will now hold today instead of the original schedule. Among the foreign-based stars already present are Favour Ashe, Nyenuchi Okemgbo (400m hurdles), Chukwuebuka Enekwechi (shot put), Oyesade Olatoye (hammer throw and shot put), Dolapo Divine Oladipo (shot put and discus), and Obiageri Amaechi (discus).

The AFN National Trials serve as the major selection event for Nigerian athletes hoping to represent the country at the Commonwealth Games later this year. The influx of U.S.-based competitors is seen as a boost to Nigeria’s medal prospects, with many of these athletes having recorded impressive performances in recent international competitions.

An official from the Athletics Federation of Nigeria confirmed that the schedule was adjusted to ensure fair competition among all participants. “We had to move some events forward so that all qualified athletes can take part,” the official said. No official reaction has been received yet from local-based athletes or their coaches regarding the schedule change.

With more foreign-based competitors expected to arrive before the end of trials, stakeholders believe that this year’s selection process will be highly competitive. The final list of Team Nigeria representatives for the Commonwealth Games is expected to be released after completion of all events at YABATECH.

Source: https://guardian.ng/sport/u-s-based-athletes-flood-yabatech-for-commonwealth-games-national-trials/

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Nigeria News (Standard)

Abua, Bassey Clinch CBN Senior Tennis Titles at Abuja’s MKO Abiola Stadium

Both players secure their first senior singles crowns as CBN marks 47th championship edition in the FCT

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June 22, 2026

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Both players secure their first senior singles crowns as CBN marks 47th championship edition in the FCT

Canice Abua and Etoro Bassey emerged as champions in the men’s and women’s singles categories respectively at the 47th Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Senior Tennis Championship, which concluded at the Package B of MKO Abiola Stadium in Abuja on Saturday. The tournament saw top local tennis talents battle for national honours over several days in the Federal Capital Territory.

Abua, who entered as the men’s top seed, delivered a commanding performance against defending champion and third seed Michael Akpan Emmanuel. The final ended in straight sets with Abua winning 6-1, 6-2, marking his first-ever triumph at this prestigious event after several previous attempts. In the women’s final, 18-year-old Etoro Bassey overcame a shaky start to defeat Ogunjobi Success 3-6, 6-0, 6-3 and lift her maiden senior singles trophy.

The CBN Senior Tennis Championship remains a crucial fixture on Nigeria’s sports calendar, offering homegrown athletes a platform to showcase their skills and advance their careers. Abua’s victory is seen as a breakthrough for the experienced player who is currently part of Nigeria’s Davis Cup squad for 2026. For Bassey, her win signals the rise of new talent in women’s tennis as she steps up from junior ranks to senior competition.

Speaking after his victory, Abua dedicated his title to God. “I thank God for His mercy and making me proud to be who I am,” he said at the post-match presentation. Bassey also expressed gratitude for her support team and looked forward to more opportunities at the senior level.

With this year’s edition concluded, organisers and tennis stakeholders have reaffirmed their commitment to supporting young talents and sustaining the annual championship. Attention will now shift to preparations for Nigeria’s Davis Cup campaign and other national competitions where both champions are expected to feature.

Source: https://guardian.ng/sport/abua-etoro-crowned-cbn-senior-tennis-champions/

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Nigeria News (Standard)

Ochei Flags Off Devnotch National Tennis Championship in Abuja, Promises Enhanced Prize Money

Sixth edition of weeklong tournament opens at MKO Abiola Stadium; Nigeria Tennis Federation president assures improved welfare for players and officials

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June 22, 2026

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Sixth edition of weeklong tournament opens at MKO Abiola Stadium; Nigeria Tennis Federation president assures improved welfare for players and officials

The Devnotch National Tennis Championship commenced at the Tennis Arena, Package B of MKO Abiola Stadium in Abuja on Friday, marking the start of the sixth edition of the annual event. The weeklong tournament, which began on June 21 and runs till June 27, 2026, is expected to feature top tennis talents from across Nigeria competing for honours.

Victor Ochei, who doubles as Chairman of Devnotch Nigeria Ltd and President of the Nigeria Tennis Federation (NTF), flagged off the championship. Ochei, who recently led Nigeria to qualify for the second round of the Davis Cup for the first time since 1989, assured participants and fans that this year’s edition will introduce new features including higher prize money and improved welfare packages.

The Devnotch National Tennis Championship has become a recognised breeding ground for emerging champions in Nigerian tennis. Organisers say it offers an important platform for young talents to showcase their skills and gain national recognition. The ongoing edition is expected to attract significant attention within the tennis community as well as among sports enthusiasts nationwide.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Ochei highlighted his commitment to advancing tennis in Nigeria both through corporate sponsorship and his role at the NTF. He stated that enhanced incentives this year are aimed at motivating players, officials and even spectators, thereby raising the standard of competition and overall experience.

The championship will conclude with a finals event on June 27. Stakeholders believe that sustained investments like those from Devnotch Nigeria Ltd are crucial for developing grassroots sports in Nigeria. Expectations are high that this year’s championship will set new standards and inspire further growth in Nigerian tennis.

Source: https://guardian.ng/sport/devnotch-national-tennis-championship-serves-off-in-abuja/

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Nigeria News (Standard)

Iran Coach Amir Ghalenoei Blasts U.S. Officials Over Disrupted FIFA World Cup Training Schedule

Iran forced to relocate base to Tijuana, Mexico as visa restrictions and inconsistent match preparations draw official protest

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June 22, 2026

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Iran forced to relocate base to Tijuana, Mexico as visa restrictions and inconsistent match preparations draw official protest

Iran national team coach Amir Ghalenoei has criticised United States authorities for what he described as inconsistent treatment and disrupted preparations during the ongoing FIFA World Cup, following a series of logistical challenges that have affected his squad’s readiness for Group G matches. The comments were made on Saturday after Iran’s training schedule was altered at short notice, reportedly leaving the team with less than 16 hours to prepare for their next fixture.

The Iranian delegation, originally set to be based in Tucson, Arizona, was compelled to move its camp to Tijuana, Mexico due to diplomatic tensions and a lack of visa approvals for several coaching staff. As a result, the squad has been forced to travel into the U.S. for each matchday—a process complicated by what Ghalenoei labelled as inconsistent enforcement of travel restrictions from one game to another.

These issues come amid heightened political strain between Iran and the United States, casting a shadow over Iran’s participation in the tournament. Nigerian football observers say such disruptions can have significant impacts on team performance at high-stakes competitions like the FIFA World Cup. Many Nigerians recall similar logistical setbacks affecting African teams in past tournaments.

Addressing journalists in a post-training press briefing, Ghalenoei expressed frustration: “Our team is being placed at a disadvantage because our preparation times are being cut short by last-minute changes imposed by U.S. officials.” He further stated that several staff were denied entry visas, complicating technical preparations. No immediate response was issued by U.S. tournament organisers or FIFA regarding the allegations at press time.

Looking ahead, stakeholders expect both FIFA and host country authorities to address the situation and ensure fair treatment for all participating teams. The Iranian squad continues preparations from their temporary base in Tijuana, while their next Group G encounter is set to proceed as scheduled.

Source: https://guardian.ng/sport/fifa-world-cup-iran-coach-questions-u-s-officials-inconsistency-as-training-sessions-clash/

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