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Gbajabiamila hails military, unveils 1,200-seater auditorium at Lagos Army Barracks

The Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila on Friday inaugurated a 1,200-capacity auditorium he facilitated at Abalti Army Barracks, Surulere, Lagos.

The News Agency of Nigeria(NAN) reports that, the auditorium, named Bola Tinubu Hall, is one the projects facilitated by the Chief of Staff at the barracks.

At the inauguration, Gbajabiamila, a former Speaker of the House of Representatives, said that the military deserved better recognition and dividends of democracy even when they do not ask like the electorate.

He said, “The military has done so well in stabilising this country and this democracy.

“And that is why when you talk about dividends of democracy, normally it is the civilians, our people, our electorate that talk about and ask for dividends of democracy.

“But you guys don’t ask for it. It is given to you naturally because we understand the role you play in Nigeria.

“If you are doing that, it behoves on us, as elected officials, and unelected officials as I am now, to make sure that you live in a comfortable environment, that you operate within a comfortable environment that will make your work easier.

“That’s why we commission projects here on a regular basis. This is another one of them: over 1,000 capacity hall, it is furnished, fully air-conditioned, with an 80 kVA generator and it is ultra-modern.

“And why do we do that? We do that because the army, the military is an integral part of any democracy.”

According to him, without security, there cannot be democracy.

Gbajabiamila conveyed President Bola Tinubu’s leadership commitment to the welfare and wellbeing of the officers and men of the military.

He expressed the President’s gratitude for the role the men and women in the military play, and for sacrificing, sometimes even paying the supreme sacrifice, to keep the country one.

According to him, the facility allows the military to host events, to do training and conferences as well as help to generate revenue.

Gbajabiamila added that he was working to pull down the old bungalows in the barracks and replace them with a multi-storey residential building, “which will be our next project for this barracks”.

He added that efforts had been made to build and inaugurate an ultra modern new residential building at the nearby police barracks, “Yours is coming, too”.

He added, “I want to thank you for all that you have been doing, not just in Surulere, but for what you’ve been doing for everyone, even outside Surulere.

“We thank you for how you have been able to maintain peace and security within Surulere

“The traditional role of the military, even constitutionally, is to protect the territorial integrity of our country, but sometimes you are called upon to step outside that traditional role to maintain internal security.

“And not once have you wavered in that call to duty. May God continue to bless you. May God continue to keep all of you.

“May you continue to serve your motherland dutifully, responsibly and with the same commitment and faith that Nigeria will continue to be one. Nigeria will continue to be strong.”

According to him, the nation’s democracy is growing and doing well, noting that the President has full commitment towards the welfare of the men and women in uniform.

“I have served many presidents, I have seen many presidents and I have worked with many presidents. They all have the same commitment towards our men and women in uniform. They all have commitment towards you.

“But I have not seen one that has the kind of commitment, the kind of passion, like President Bola Tinubu does for you,” he added.

Speaking, Mr Muiz Dosunmu, the Vice Chairman, Surulere Local Government, who described the council as the best in Nigeria, said that council had been relating peacefully with the Abalti Barracks community.

He said that the cooperation and collaboration between the two parties had facilitated many notable projects in the barracks.

“Surulere is leading in all facets: development, education, sports, health infrastructure. We have tried to be the best and people can see, we don’t need to blow our trumpet unnecessarily.

“We believe we can do more than we are doing and we promise to do more than what we are doing. We are not leaving any man behind, everybody is being carried along, involved and integrated, as advised by the chief of staff to the President.

“We keep promising that we will always be the vocal point of whatever is happening in Nigeria,” he said.

He applauded Gbajabiamila for doing his best not for the council alone ,but for the state and the country.

In his keynote address, Director of Nigeria Army on Corps, Lt.-Col. Michael Toriola, who described Gbajabiamila as a role model, philanthropist and a man with a good heart, commended the chief of staff vision and commitment to the welfare of the military.

Toriola applauded Gbajabiamila for building the Hall and other projects that had been put in place in the barracks out of his magnanimity.

“Sir, we appreciate you. This is a true reflection of your commitment to the well-being of officers, our family and men. It underscores the importance of creating an environment where we can perform and thrive.

“The completion of this facility (Bola Tinubu Hall) goes beyond mere infrastructure, it represents progress, professionalism and a deep pride in service.

“As we commission this gigantic hall today, may it stand as a lasting symbol of our shared commitment to excellence and service,” he said.

The event was attended by many APC leaders including a member representing Surulere Constituency I in the House of Assembly, Mr Desmond Elliot, officers and men of the Nigerian Army. (Nation)

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Temi Otedola sparks debate, drops father’s name, now Temiloluwa Ajibade

Temi Otedola, actress and daughter of billionaire Femi Otedola, has set social media abuzz after officially changing her surname to “Ajibade” on Instagram, following her marriage to Nigerian singer Mr Eazi (Oluwatosin Ajibade).

The couple, who tied the knot in a series of lavish weddings across Monaco, Dubai, and Iceland in 2025, showcased a blend of Nigerian tradition and global flair.

From the Yoruba wedding at her family’s Dubai residence to the intimate church ceremony in Iceland, their union was a celebration of heritage, family, and love, capped by Temi’s public adoption of her husband’s name.

This move, however, has reignited an old debate in Nigerian feminist circles, whether a woman should take her husband’s surname or keep her maiden name.

Back in August, feminist commentator Rachelle (@omo_kosoko) caused waves on X when she declared:

“To every girl who is considering getting married, you CAN absolutely keep your name after marriage, and I think you should. Four years married now, I have relocated, had a baby, held a joint account, travelled solo with my child and not one issue. Don’t let anyone lie to you.”

Her statement drew mixed reactions. Barça Principal (@BarcaPrincipal) challenged the sentiment, asking,

“If you were married into the family of a Dangote, Adenuga, Otedola, Adeleke, or so, would you prefer to still keep your father’s name as surname? Note: I’m not against keeping your surname, I just want to establish something with the question.”

Others offered a more neutral stance, with @innershift05 stressing,  “A name doesn’t hold a marriage together,  character, loyalty, and shared vision do. Keep your name or change it, what matters is building a union that can’t be broken.”

This exchange sparked a nationwide discourse on identity, culture, and the expectations placed on married women, a conversation that has now resurfaced with Temi Otedola’s decision.

During an emotional moment at the wedding, Femi Otedola, known for his business empire and larger-than-life presence, offered a piece of advice to his daughter, “You have to succumb to your husband; he’s your boss. Temi, I wish you all the best in your future endeavours. You found a great guy. Very great guy. Blessed guy. He comes from a very decent family.”

His words, seen by some as traditional and by others as affectionate guidance, added more fuel to the ongoing cultural debate.

On X, the reactions came from all angles.

Some, like @_joelad, believed the entire uproar was unnecessary and rooted in overzealous feminism, stating that feminists were “doing too much” and that choice was what truly mattered, “If una neva mention feminists, your day never soft. Feminists are fighting for the right to choose. If she chose to take it, good for her. If she chose to keep ‘Otedola’, e still good. Any feminist who’s wailing is doing too much.”

Others praised the decision as a symbol of femininity and commitment.

@Mr_DaveChigozie applauded Temi’s move, calling it the kind of gesture men should expect in marriage, “Congratulations to her, that’s how feminine women move. They embrace their husband fully. As a man make sure you marry a woman that will embrace your surname fully.”

Some were more nuanced, like @WEB3_JUNKID, who recognised the traditional undertone but emphasised individual freedom, “Choosing to be submissive is nice, but everybody is entitled to their choices.”

Meanwhile,  @NihinlolaOlowe brought a historical and cultural perspective, reminding followers that surname changes after marriage are not a traditional African norm but a colonial influence:, “Changing surname after marriage is Western culture, not African. In Nigeria, it’s not compulsory by law. Temi Otedola chose to change hers; that’s her decision. Respect women’s choices, don’t insult them.”

On Instagram, the discourse became a mix of humour, class commentary, and cultural expectation.

King_Otega mocked the debate by hinting that only “poor man’s daughters” insist on keeping their maiden names, “Poor man daughter go say she must keep her papa name o.”

Similarly, Makanakiiil took a jab at critics, suggesting their resistance was rooted in envy or lack of legacy, “As she should!!! All of you poor masses saying you wouldn’t drop your father’s name, why not live and kpai with your father  Many of una no even dey proud of una papa name cos the man no get money.”

Some, however, struck a more neutral tone. Chubbitee simply defended personal choice, “That’s a choice she chose. Let others make their choices too.”

And for lucas_ugoh, the act symbolised devotion: “When a woman genuinely loves a man she respects and honours him .”

On Facebook, reactions mirrored the same class and cultural lines.

David Amto argued that the wealthy rarely complicate these matters, unlike those still struggling financially, “People with real wealth don’t make things hard on themselves, but you see poor man pikin with 1.2m net worth, them no dey rest.”

Divine Arthur proposed a middle path, suggesting Temi could have kept both names to honour both families, “If na me be her I for keep the two names oo, both her father’s own and her husband’s own.”

However, Esther Ndyip Tabat firmly reminded critics of tradition, “She didn’t end up with her father, please. Because even if she still carries her father’s name, her children  must and will bear her husband’s name, Ajibade.”

Temi’s choice reflects a reality many Nigerian women face, navigating tradition, personal identity, and societal expectations.

Should a woman take her husband’s surname? Does keeping your maiden name signal independence or disrespect? Does changing it mean submission or unity?

At its core, this debate isn’t about Temi Otedola alone; it’s about choice, culture, and the evolving meaning of marriage.

Whether a name holds the power to define a woman’s place in her home or not remains a deeply personal decision, one that, as this saga shows, the public will always have an opinion on. (Punch)

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Actress Wumi Toriola hospitalised after online backlash

Actress Wumi Toriola has been hospitalised following intense online criticism for her response to actor Afeez Owo’s comments about her movie character.

Wumi, via her Instagram page, shared a photo from her hospital bed, stating, “Internet dragging and ICU are siblings”.

In a subsequent post, Wumi expressed regret and promised to “do better next time,” asking her fans for well wishes for a quick recovery.

The incident began when Afeez Owo discussed Wumi’s acting style, sparking a heated exchange online.

Wumi’s fans have flooded her page with messages of encouragement and goodwill, wishing her a speedy recovery. (Nation)

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Sabalenka beats Anisimova to retain US Open title

World No 1 Aryna Sabalenka, on Saturday, successfully defended her US Open title with a thrilling 6-4 7-6 (7-3) win over Amanda Anisimova in New York, United States.

Sabalenka sealed a hard-fought victory against Anisimova at Flushing Meadows, making her the first woman to win the tournament in consecutive years since Serena Williams in 2014.

The Belarusian picked up the fourth Grand Slam title of her career as a result, all on hard courts – having now added two New York triumphs to her pair of Australian Open trophies.

Both women were looking to bury recent scar tissue, with Anisimova back in a major final 56 days after her Wimbledon whitewash, while Sabalenka suffered heart-breaking defeats at the Australian Open and French Open – forced to apologise after an ungracious press conference towards winner Coco Gauff at the latter.

Sabalenka also lost to Anisimova in the semi-finals at Wimbledon, putting her in the strange position of being by a distance the best player in the world but without a major trophy in 2025, but she quelled a fightback from her opponent to secure the silverware.

The set was threatening to run away from Anisimova in a similar fashion to Wimbledon, but she told herself above all this tournament to be brave and she powered winners into opposite corners to finally get on the board.

Having won one game, she quickly made that three in a row, the crowd greeting every winner with a huge cheer.

The American was dominating both the winner and error count and it was the latter that climbed again as Sabalenka responded with four games in a row to take the opening set.

Anisimova, who was struggling with the roof lighting on her ball toss, was too inconsistent to apply any solid pressure.

Anisimova slammed a ball down in frustration when a backhand pass from Sabalenka gave her another break in the third game of the second set and, although she fought back to level, the eighth seed’s serve was too much of a liability.

Sabalenka forged ahead again to lead 5-3 and soon found herself serving for the title.

Perhaps it was inevitable that it would not be straightforward. Anisimova somehow dug out a backhand lob that Sabalenka dumped into the net to give herself a chance to level and more huge hitting made it 5-5.

If there was a moment for the demons to resurface, it was now, but Sabalenka took the set to a tie-break, where she has been untouchable this season, and this time finished the job.

Anisimova’s final tally of 29 unforced errors, including seven double faults, was ultimately too many, but the American, who started the year ranked outside the top 30, will have the consolation of being a top-four player on Monday.

Reacting to her win, Sabalenka, who fell to her knees after clinching victory with an unreturnable serve and jumped up and down with her coaches in the stands in a scene of utter joy, said, “I want to thank everyone who came here, who flew in to be there in my box.

“I’m going to reach a lot more finals and I don’t care where you are in the world I want you in my box.”

Also speaking after her loss, Anisimova, who was left in tears yet again after the heartbreak of her 6-0 6-0 drubbing in the Wimbledon final two months ago, said, “It’s been a great summer, losing in two finals in a row is great but it’s also super hard.

“I didn’t fight hard enough for my dreams today.”

She later admitted having problems seeing the ball with the glare of the roof causing her issues when serving.

“I haven’t played on the court during the day with the roof closed. It was literally white, and I couldn’t see the ball when I was serving the whole match.

“It started from the warm-up. I was like, ‘this is really going to be a problem for me’. I didn’t know what to do.

“There was no way of adjusting, because I could not see the ball when I was serving, and that was a huge shock to my system, because I knew if I can’t hold my serve, it was going to be very tough to stay in the match,” she said. (Punch)

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‎Alcaraz beats Sinner to win US Open, reclaims No.1 ranking

Carlos Alcaraz beat Jannik Sinner in four sets on Sunday to win the US Open as loud boos — mixed with a smattering of cheers — greeted President Donald Trump at the final in New York.

‎The 22-year-old Alcaraz won 6-2, 3-6, 6-1, 6-4 to capture his second US Open crown and sixth Grand Slam title, avenging his lone defeat in a major final by Sinner at Wimbledon in July.

‎Alcaraz will reclaim the world number one ranking from Sinner, returning to top spot for the first time since September 2023 after ending the Italian’s 27-match winning run at hard-court Grand Slams.

‎”I tried my best today. I couldn’t do more,” said Sinner, who was also defeated by Alcaraz in an epic French Open final in June.

‎Sinner’s defeat extends the longest drought without a successful men’s title defence of any Grand Slam in the Open era.

‎No man has retained the US Open crown since Roger Federer won five in a row from 2004 to 2008.

‎Anticipation for the third straight Grand Slam final between the sport’s top two players assumed an even greater dimension with the presence of Trump.

‎It was the latest in a series of visits to major sporting events for the US leader after his trip to the NFL’s Super Bowl in February and the FIFA Club World Cup final in July.

‎He appeared before the playing of the Star-Spangled Banner, waving to the crowd, which greeted him with a mix of cheers and boos. He was given a frostier reception later in the match though when shown again on the stadium’s big screens.

‎A constellation of showbiz and sports icons turned out as well, with rock star Bruce Springsteen, fashion icon Tommy Hilfiger, actor Michael Douglas and basketball superstar Stephen Curry all on hand.

‎The start of the final was pushed back 30 minutes to allow fans additional time to enter Arthur Ashe Stadium as a result of tighter security measures in effect due to Trump’s attendance.

‎Even then the 23,000-capacity venue was no more than three-quarters full when Alcaraz broke Sinner in the opening game of the match.

‎As he did in the Wimbledon final, Alcaraz pinned Sinner on the back front early and broke a second time for a 5-2 lead before serving out to love.

‎With hundreds of spectators still waiting to get in at the start of the second set, Alcaraz sought to hammer home his advantage.

‎He created a break point but Sinner hung on and stalled Alcaraz’s momentum, belatedly ramping up his game and surging 3-1 ahead as the Spaniard suffered a brief dip on serve.

‎Sinner levelled the contest at a set apiece but Alcaraz stormed back with another break early in the third, wriggling out of a tight spot on serve with the help of a sensational baseline smash that sliced away from his rival for a 3-0 edge.

‎He padded his lead with another break and quickly wrapped up the set, keeping his foot down to corner Sinner again to begin the fourth set.

‎This time Sinner saved two break points but Alcaraz made another charge in the fifth game, delivering the decisive blow for an advantage he never relinquished as the Spaniard became only the fourth man to win multiple majors on hard court, grass and clay. (Punch)

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Sanwo-Olu congratulates Team Lagos for winning 9th national youth games

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has lauded Team Lagos for their record-breaking performance at the 9th National Youth Games, which ended on Saturday in Asaba, Delta State.

The state emerged as champions with a total of 110 medals, including 52 golds, 32 silvers, and 26 bronzes, confirming its dominance in youth sports nationwide.

“I am immensely proud of Team Lagos for their outstanding performance at the 9th National Youth Games in Asaba, where they finished first on the medals table with a total of 110 medals; 52 gold medals, 32 silver, and 26 bronze,” he said.

The governor emphasised that this achievement reflects not only the talent of the athletes but also Lagos State’s growing commitment to sports development.

“Our young athletes, together with their coaches and the Lagos State Sports Commission, have made history and demonstrated the strength of Lagos in sports,” Sanwo-Olu added.

He also expressed excitement about plans to formally recognise the team’s achievement.

“In the coming days, I look forward to hosting the team to celebrate this remarkable achievement.

“Congratulations, Team Lagos. We are very proud of you all,” the governor concluded.

Team Lagos’ success came amid stiff competition, with the host state, Delta, finishing second with 37 gold, 38 silver, and 39 bronze medals, displacing Edo State from the runner-up position.

At the closing ceremony of the games at Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba, Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, commended the winners while also praising all young athletes for their efforts.

He urged the National Sports Commission to urgently tackle the problem of age cheating in youth sports to protect the credibility and fairness of the National Youth Games.

Oborevwori presented the trophies to Team Lagos, celebrating their haul and highlighting the importance of sustained investment in youth sports development across Nigeria.

The 9th National Youth Games in Asaba has now cemented Team Lagos’ reputation as a powerhouse in Nigerian youth sports, showcasing the state’s depth of talent and the effectiveness of its sports development programmes. (Punch)

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Germany fall 2-0 to Slovakia in World Cup qualifying opener

Germany fell to a shocking 2-0 defeat against Slovakia in their World Cup qualifying opener in Bratislava on Thursday, their first-ever away loss in a qualifier for the tournament.

Ranked 52 in the world, Slovakia frequently carved up their heavily fancied opponents and took the lead after 42 minutes through David Hancko.

Slovakia doubled their lead at 55 minutes when David Strelec dribbled in from the right to blast past a flat-footed Antonio Rudiger.

Germany defender Jonathan Tah said his side were the worst team “in all phases” of the match and “we deserved to lose today.”

“There was something missing today, something beyond fatigue. It wasn’t something they did which surprised us — we need to take a look at ourselves and do better in the next game.”

The Germans were toothless up front and disorganised at the back, losing to Slovakia in a competitive fixture for the first time in their history.

The loss, Germany’s third in a row, is their first away defeat in a World Cup qualifier and just their fourth in total after defeats to Portugal in 1985, England in 2001, and North Macedonia in 2021.

The result will turn up the heat on coach Julian Nagelsmann and Germany just under a year out from next year’s tournament.

The four-time winners have crashed out at the group stage of the past two World Cups.

Credited with improving Germany after a decade of poor performances at major tournaments, Nagelsmann was bullish pre-match, speaking of his “healthy desire to win the World Cup.”

Already thin up front without Kai Havertz, Jamal Musiala, and Tim Kleindienst, Germany were hit with another injury withdrawal just before kickoff, with starting striker Niclas Fuellkrug ruled out with a calf injury.

Nick Woltemade was named in Fuellkrug’s place up front, just days after his big-money move to Newcastle United.

The visitors were overrun in the first half, with Leo Sauer repeatedly running into acres of space behind the sluggish German center-backs.

Slovakia failed to convert their chances and looked set to enter halftime unrewarded until Hancko blasted the hosts in front.

The hosts picked Florian Wirtz’s pocket in midfield and went on the attack, Hancko finding Strelec down the left.

Strelec cut back for Hancko, who shed the lethargic Rudiger and cut a left-footed finish past a helpless Oliver Baumann.

Moments after halftime, Germany’s Leon Goretzka shot directly at Slovakia goalie Martin Dubravka when one-on-one with the Burnley shot-stopper.

Things returned to normal service afterwards , however and Slovakia got a second 10 minutes into the second period when Strelec danced his way down the right and smashed the ball home past Rudiger.

The Germans dominated possession but created few chances in attack and will need to improve quickly ahead of Sunday’s next qualifier at home in Cologne against Northern Ireland. (Punch)

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Mr. Beast offers to acquire Nigerian artist’s piece

American YouTuber and media personality James Stephen Donaldson popularly known as Mr. Beast has offered to acquire a Nigerian artwork’s sketch of him.

Mr. Beast announced this on X.

He had earlier posted an AI generated picture on X sent to him by his partner hinting that she wanted something in exchange.

“My fiancé sent me this AI generated image of us with two kids. I can’t quite pit my finger on it, but something tells me she wants something,” he wrote.

The Nigerian artist Ifure Usen, then took the picture and sketched a drawing on it, posted it on X, and tagged Mr. Beast, “I did it guys!!! @MrBeast.”

In response, Mr. Beast wrote: “Love it, I’ll shoot you a dm. Would love to put this on my wall!” (Nation)

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Levy exits role as Tottenham executive chairman

Daniel Levy’s near 25-year reign as executive chairman of Tottenham is over.

Spurs’ official announcement said he had “stepped down”, but BBC Sport understands the decision was taken out of Levy’s hands.

Well-placed sources said the ownership agreed for him to leave his position amid a belief that change would lead to greater sporting success.

Levy was appointed in March 2001 and leaves after the club won the Europa League in May to end a 17-year wait for a trophy.

The 63-year-old was the Premier League’s longest-serving chairman and earned an estimated £50m-plus during his time in charge, but he was also the target of regular protests from Spurs fans, especially last season.

Levy will go with immediate effect and there will be no notice period, with the timing of his departure after the summer transfer window a deliberate move.

However, one source familiar with Levy told BBC Sport the former chairman had to operate with “one hand tied behind his back” during his tenure, and had to diversify revenue streams as a result.

They said they felt there’d been insufficient investment in Spurs for the past 25 years, and the question was whether that would really change.

“I am incredibly proud of the work I have done together with the executive team and all our employees,” said Levy, who had a reputation in football for being a shrewd operator and tough negotiator.

“I am incredibly proud of the work I have done together with the executive team and all our employees,” said Levy, who had a reputation in football for being a shrewd operator and tough negotiator.

“We have built this club into a global heavyweight competing at the highest level. More than that, we have built a community.

“I was lucky enough to work with some of the greatest people in this sport, from the team at Lilywhite House and Hotspur Way to all the players and managers over the years.

“I wish to thank all the fans that have supported me over the years. It hasn’t always been an easy journey but significant progress has been made. I will continue to support this club passionately.”

Tottenham’s European trophy success last season came against the backdrop of a difficult Premier League campaign in which the team finished 17th under head coach Ange Postecoglou, who was sacked in the summer and replaced by Thomas Frank.

There were a number of protests aimed at Levy last season, with prominent banners at the home defeat by Leicester in January carrying the messages “Our game is about glory, Levy’s game is about greed” and “24 years, 16 managers, 1 trophy – time for change”.

There were also regular chants of “Levy out” during the campaign.

During his tenure, Levy oversaw the switch from White Hart Lane to the £1bn state-of-the-art Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, which the club made their new home in 2019.

Spurs also reached the Champions League final under former manager Mauricio Pochettino in 2019 but missed out on the trophy following a 2-0 defeat by Liverpool. (BBC)

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Broadcasting NPFL matches unsustainable, says StarTimes

The Chief Executive Officer of StarTimes, Joshua Wang, has opened up on the cancellation of the broadcast deal with the Nigeria Premier Football League, confirming The PUNCH’s initial report on why both parties ended the partnership.

StarTimes and the NPFL signed a five-year deal worth N6bn in 2023, but the agreement has been terminated after two years.

The PUNCH understands that StarTimes ended their deal as the official broadcast partners of the NPFL following a poor return on investment, especially in the patronage of their decoder and offerings by Nigerians.

Wang also affirmed this in Abuja, during an event orgaised by the NPFL.

“Since StarTimes has been the broadcast partners of the NPFL, during the past two seasons, we have tried to meet our promises to promote and broadcast the NPFL,” he said.

“But unfortunately, we are here because of these economic issues; we are not making it as a business partner for the pay TV business to be sustainable.

“Everything is business; we don’t have the capability to continue. I also heard last week that our partners NTA have taken over the broadcast.”

Chairman of the NPFL, Gbenga Elegbeleye, also revealed that the five-year deal didn’t pass the two-year probation that both parties set.

“Signing with StarTimes that time, we said that the first two seasons are probatory, after that we would discuss again on how to go further,” Elegbeleye said.

“Our last match in Lagos between Ikorodu City and El-Kanemi Warriors was live on NTA. We will still be going ahead with that until we finish the current discussion regarding the broadcast.”

Last week, Elegbeleye led the NPFL board to meet with the management of the NTA to seal a new broadcast partnership for the league, but the future of the arrangement is currently uncertain, no thanks to the premature reshuffling of the station’s management by President Bola Tinubu.

Tinubu appointed Rotimi Pedro (whom the NPFL board met) as the new DG of the NTA on August 20, but the appointment was reversed after the President ordered the reinstatement of Salihu Abdullahi Dembos to complete his three-year tenure as the NTA DG on Tuesday. (Punch)