The Ideal News

  As the year 2024 comes to a close, the Executive Director of RoseHope Foundation - Rose Afolabi, was excited about the impressive scorecard, highlighting the foundation's remarkable achievements in empowering over 100 individuals across Africa. With a presence in Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda, South Africa, Ghana, and North Carolina, RoseHope Foundation has truly made a significant impact on the continent. The Executive Director expressed her gratitude to the foundation's followers, stakeholders, benefactors and beneficiaries, while also extending a message of hope to the hopeless in the coming year. With a strong commitment to providing comprehensive caregiving, research, and advocacy programs, RoseHope Foundation is poised to make an even greater impact in 2025. One of the most exciting developments for RoseHope Foundation is the planned official opening of its office in Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria, scheduled for August 2025. Located at Number 2 Agba Dam Road, the office will ser...

  The Otunba Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke Memorial Cup 2025 has indeed become a landmark event in Osun State's sporting calendar, blending the passion for football with a celebration of community spirit and legacy. The tournament's transition into the quarterfinals has only amplified its reputation as a platform for discovering grassroots talent while uniting diverse local government areas through the shared love of the games The decision by Hon. Bamidele Salam to equip all eight quarterfinalist teams with new jerseys symbolizes his dedication to grassroots sports development. It reflects his belief that football is not merely a game but a tool for fostering inclusivity, camaraderie, and pride among Osun communities. The eight teams progressing to the quarterfinals embody the aspirations of their respective local government areas. Each match is more than a competition; it is a showcase of talent and community pride, with teams representing: Ejigbo LG Boripe LG Ede South LG Ifelodun ...

  The Round of 16 of the Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke Memorial Cup delivered an unforgettable day of football, grit, and emotional intensity.  The tournament, now in its fifth edition, continues to embody the spirit of community, sportsmanship, and the legacy of Otunba Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke, Osun State’s first civilian governor. Powered by Hon. Bamidele Salam, it has grown into a platform where local talents shine and rivalries are etched into history. The day kicked off with a breathtaking clash between Ejigbo LG and Irepodun LG. From the onset, both teams displayed relentless energy, with Ejigbo’s LG, finding the net in the 23rd minute. Irepodun LG responded with a stunning equalizer from their captain, in the 62nd minute, leveling the game. The match headed into a tense penalty shootout where Ejigbo's goalkeeper, Segun Adedeji, emerged as the hero, saving two decisive spot-kicks. Ejigbo LG advanced, leaving Irepodun’s fans heartbroken but proud of their team’s fight. Boripe LG...

  Nigerian striker Taiwo Awoniyi of Nottingham Forest received a surprise Christmas visit from renowned agent Nureni Makanjuola in Nottingham on Wednesday. The chairman of Water FC, who chose to spend the holiday season in the United Kingdom, offered heartfelt prayers for the talented forward. Makanjuola, often referred to as MK, described his visit to Awoniyi's impressive residence as unforgettable. "I thought it would be a wonderful gesture to come and greet Taiwo Awoniyi and wish him a Merry Christmas," Nureni Makanjuola stated. "Typically, I celebrate Christmas in Abuja with my family, but this year I decided to be in the United Kingdom. I felt it was important to visit Taiwo and his family, who welcomed me warmly." MK praised Awoniyi as a model of humility and acknowledged his significant contributions to the society at large. He extended his best wishes for Awoniyi's future endeavors, both at the club and international levels. In gratitude for the visi...

  36 Lion Football Club has send heartfelt holiday greetings to the Football Family, especially to those celebrating the Christian faith as they prepare for Christmas. Tomorrow (Wednesday), Christians worldwide will unite to commemorate the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Akinshola Akinrele, the technical director of 36 Lion, affectionately known as Baba Arigo, remarked: "Christmas is a splendid occasion for gathering, allowing many of us to share joyful moments with our loved ones." "We wish to convey our gratitude to all football stakeholders, including referees, security personnel, medical staff, the media, and our loyal supporters." "This season also encourages us to consider the larger picture, inspiring us to promote peace and goodwill within our neighborhoods and communities, embracing the unity of humanity that is central to this important celebration." "Additionally, it is a time for joy, and we hope everyone will partake in cheer...

  Super Eagles goalkeeper Ojo continues to enhance his philanthropic image by supporting those in need. Ojo Olorunleke, the goalkeeper for Nigeria's Super Eagles, has contributed food supplies and monetary assistance to widows in the Bunu region of Kogi State. The less privileged was also showered with blessings by the goal tender. Prior to achieving success as a professional footballer, Ojo began his journey in Bunu. The former captain of Enyimba is recognized for his commitment to community service. He chose to extend his support to widows in Bunu by offering them food and cash donations for the Christmas and New Year. Ojo subsequently shared images from the event on his official Facebook page. Accompanying the photos was a message that stated, "Super Eagles goalkeeper Ojo Olorunleke MON stretches Christmas and New Year's joy and happiness by reaching out to widows and the less privileged across Bunuland through his charitable gesture. He distributed cash and food materi...

  An Aspirant for the post president in the forthcoming National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) convention; Com. Abubakar Mahmud has commended the improved allocation to the education sector by the President Bolaji Ahmed Tinubu's 2025 budget presentation. Com. Abubakar Mahmud made this commendation in a statement on Friday, 20th December and made it available to newsmen emphasising that this highest the educational sector of the country has ever got in history. He noted that this is a significant improvement in investment in education in Nigeria.  The full details of the below: Comrade Abubakar Mahmud, Express his heartfelt commendation and appreciation for the  allocation 3.5Trillion for education recently announced by your esteemed President Of the Federation, the highest in the history of our dear country Nigeria.This significant investment in our education sector is a testament to the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's commitment to the future of...

  The second day of the Otunba Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke Memorial Cup, held on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, at multiple venues across Osun State, delivered thrilling football action, intense rivalries, and remarkable displays of skill. This tournament, honoring Senator Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke, Osun State's first civilian governor, is powered by Rep. Bamidele Salam. His dedication to grassroots sports development has united communities in celebrating the beautiful game and the legacy of a visionary leader. The day’s matches offered a captivating mix of drama and excitement as teams fought valiantly for a place in the next round. Match Highlights Ayedaade LG 2-1 Ola-Oluwa LG Ayedaade LG edged out Ola-Oluwa LG in a nail-biting encounter, showcasing resilience and teamwork. Despite Ola-Oluwa’s spirited display, a last-minute strike secured victory for Ayedaade, keeping fans on the edge of their seats. Iwo LG 2-0 Ayedire LG Iwo LG dominated Ayedire LG with an assured performance, spearhe...

  The Tyler Fray Foundation, in partnership with the renowned Ten Strings Music School, has launched a transformative music scholarship program aimed at unlocking the immense creative potential of young Nigerians. The groundbreaking initiative, unveiled in a statement on Monday represents a significant step in empowering the nation’s youth to achieve their dreams and establish enduring careers in the music industry. This scholarship program is designed to address a critical gap in Nigeria’s music ecosystem, the need to transform raw talent into professional artistry. Open to Nigerian residents, the initiative provides an avenue for young musicians to refine their skills within a structured, nurturing environment.  The program was officially launched on Monday at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island in Lagos, attended by an array of prominent personalities from the worlds of music, sports, governance, and business. The event served as a rallying point for influential figures to en...

  ar of the University of Ilorin, Mr. Mansur Adeleke Alfanla, has called on the federal government and other stakeholders to swiftly halt the challenge of brain drain facing the country, particularly the nation's university system.           Mr. Alfanla made the call recently while featuring on a radio programme in Ilorin, which was monitored by correspondent. The Registrar expressed dissatisfaction with the prevalence of brain drain across public institutions in the country and urged the government and relevant stakeholders to look for a way to swiftly stem the ugly tide. He said that the rate at which people abandon their work and families to go elsewhere in search of greener pastures is scary. The Registrar pointed out that the challenge does not only affect the University of Ilorin but also all the nation's universities. Mr Alfanla urged university teachers and other professionals to be patient, saying that we all need to s...

  The management of the University of Ilorin has unveiled plans by the University to sponsor five hundred students of the institution on the use of Artificial Intelligence.           The Vice-Chancellor of the university; Prof. Wahab Egbewole stated this last week during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with the management of Tech Mindset Africa in Nairobi, Kenya, as part of the activities marking his working visit to the East African country.           The Vice Chancellor, who is also the Secretary-General of the Association of West African Universities (AWAU), explained that the proposed training of the Unilorites is targeted at encouraging the beneficiaries to acquire and expand needed skills in the exploration of Artificial Intelligence for innovations and career progression.   While on the visit, Prof. Egbewole also took time to hold consultations and sign M...

  The Fifth Edition of the Otunba Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke Memorial Championship began with an unforgettable Match Day one at the Osogbo City Stadium. The competition, solely powered by Hon. Bamidele Salam, Representative of Ede North, Ede South, Egbedore, and Ejigbo Federal Constituency, aims to celebrate the enduring legacy of Osun State’s first civilian governor, Otunba Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke. The day commenced with pomp and ceremony as Rep. Bamidele Salam performed the official kickoff, signaling the start of a competition that embodies unity, sportsmanship, and youthful empowerment. The opening match delivered an edge-of-your-seat encounter as Orolu LG squared off against Osogbo LG. Right from the whistle, it was clear that both teams were determined to make a statement. Orolu LG struck early with a clinical finish that stunned Osogbo’s defense. But the home team responded with equal fervor, leveling the score with a spectacular goal before the halftime whistle.6 The second ha...

  The much-anticipated 2025 edition of the Otunba Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke Memorial Championship officially kicks off today at the Osogbo City Stadium, Osun State.  The annual football competition, which celebrates the legacy of the first civilian Governor of Osun State, Otunba Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke, promises to deliver thrilling matches and vibrant displays of sporting excellence. The opening day will feature two high-stakes games. At 1 PM, Osogbo Local Government will take on Orolu Local Government in what promises to be an electrifying match to set the tone for the tournament.  Following this, Olorunda LG will battle Irepodun LG at 3 PM, with both teams eager to claim an early advantage in the championship. This prestigious competition is powered by Hon. Bamidele Salam, the dedicated representative of Ede North, Ede South, Egbedore, and Ejigbo Federal Constituency in the National Assembly. Over the years, the tournament has grown to become a platform for showcasing lo...

  The General Manager of Unilorin FM radio station, Mr. Idris Alooma, has urged the Union of Campus Journalists (UCJ) in the university to assist in upgrading the ranking of the University of Ilorin. Mr. Alooma made this call during a special program organized by the UCJ at the Faculty of Arts, University of Ilorin. According to Mr. Alooma, the UCJ can play a crucial role in shaping the narratives of the university by publishing personality interviews, research breakthroughs, content creation, news reporting, and assisting in crisis communication and management. He also encouraged the UCJ to provide videography and photography publications, and to present the university in a positive light on all social media platforms. Mr. Alooma highlighted the numerous opportunities available to UCJ members and other students at Unilorin FM, including learning program presentation, production, news casting, news reporting, content creation, and marketing. He noted that the radio station has trai...

  The management of University of Ilorin has announced the promotion of 6 senior academics to professorial rank, while 17 others became Readers. Their elevation was confirmed at the 187th Meeting of Council, held recently at the Ikogosi Resort, Ekiti State. The Registrar and Secretary to Council, Mr. Mansur Alfanla, fciml, commended the new professors on their exceptional achievements in teaching, research, and community service, noting that the six scholars had excelled in these areas. The promotion exercise saw two new professors emerge from the Faculty of Agriculture. They are, Prof. Sijuade A. Adebayo from the Department of Agricultural Extension and Rural Development, and Prof. Kevin Eifedeyi from the Department of Agronomy.   The Faculty of Arts produced Prof. Caleb Ogunkunle from the Department of Religions. Also promoted were Prof. Abdulkarim Oloyede of the Department of Telecommunication Science, Faculty of Communication and Information Sciences, and Prof. Ade...

A former Ag. Dean of the Faculty of Law, University of Ilorin, Prof. Abdulquadir Ibrahim Abikan, has been appointed the new Director-General and member of the Council of the National Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS), Abuja. The appointment of Prof. Abikan, who had one time served as the Director, School of Preliminary Studies, University of Ilorin, was conveyed to him through a letter dated Thursday, December 5, 2024 and signed by the Solicitor-General of the Federation and Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Justice, Mrs. B. E. Jediy-Agba, a copy of which was sighted by UNILORIN Bulletin. The letter explained that the appointment, which takes immediate effect, is for a single term of five years. Meanwhile, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, has welcomed the appointment of the new Director-General. In a statement issued on his behalf by the Director of Corporate Affairs, Mr. Kunle Akogun, the Vice Chancellor said th...

  Abdul-Majeed Akogun, the son of the Director of Corporate Affairs, University of Ilorin Alh. Kunle Akogun has on Saturday, the 7th of December, 2024 married his long time heart rob Fareedah Abubakar in a well attended event that took place at the Grand event centre, Sun City Abuja. The Groom, Abdul-Majeed Akogun  The wedding ceremony which took place on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at the National Mosque in Abuja, where a Nikha ceremony was held to join the couple together. The Groom's father, Alhamdulillahi. Kunle Akogun third left,   Prof. Suleiman Olanrewaju Abubakar, Director-General of the National Institute for Democratic and Legislative Studies (NILDS) Abuja second left, at the centre is Mal. Bolaji Abdullahi the former Sports and Youth Development Minister and others at the event on Saturday. The officiating Imam, Prof. Ibrahim Makari, advised the newlyweds to be friends and confidants of each other, living together in peace and harmony. He also emphasized t...

  The National Sports Commission has confirmed that the Nigeria Football Federation is under investigation of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC over alleged misappropriation of funds. A statement from Office of the Director General National Sports Commission and signed by Micheal Obasi, says the commission frowns at the malicious the headline given by some news medium that NSC is under investigation. "The NSC found it very malicious the headline in some online publications that reads " The EFCC probes National Sports Commission over alleged misappropriation of funds" "The Leadership of the NSC sees this as very unprofessional and an extreme case of distorted sensationalism. "While in the body of the story, there was nowhere it explained what the headline portrayed that the newly established Sports Commission is being investigated, it is therefore very easy to conclude that the writer was intentional in a bid to malign the newly established Spor...

  In a bold move that has raised eyebrows and sparked controversy, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has reportedly defied the orders of the Presidency and flouted civil service rules by re-appointing Mohammed Sanusi as General Secretary for another three-year term. Despite strong indications that Sanusi's tenure was set to come to an end, the NFF extended his contract from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2027, in a decision that has drawn criticism from various quarters. Sanusi, who has held the position since 2015, has faced allegations of corruption, incompetence, mismanagement, and nepotism during his nine-year tenure. Critics argue that the push for his re-appointment is driven more by personal interests than the welfare of Nigerian football. The controversy surrounding Sanusi's re-appointment has now become a major test for the newly-established National Sports Commission (NSC), which was tasked with reorganizing the NFF secretariat with new leadership. The NFF, as a...

  Ahead of the 2024/2025 NNL season, the leadership of Lagos State Football Association has once again reiterate its avowed support and encouragement for all Lagos State teams participating in the various cadres of the male and female national football league championships. Speaking on the new league season, the Lagos FA boss, Hajji Gafar Olawale Liameed, stated that it is very important that the teams representing Lagos in the NPFL, NNL and the NLO perform very well, for the benefits and development of the game in the state. "We also believe in the capabilities of the Lagos teams in the different national football leagues to make us proud. And towards achieving the set goals, we'll continue to provide them with the needed technical support, at all times," he said. "Lagos State is not only the centre of excellence, it is also the home of football. And with the peaceful and enabling environment provided by His Excellency, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, we...

  The Lagos Supremacy Cup 2024 has once again fulfilled its mission of discovering and promoting grassroots football talent on an international level.   Under the leadership of Hajji Gafar Olawale Liameed, Chairman of the Lagos State Football Association (LSFA), the tournament has reached a significant milestone: 24 players from various grassroots clubs have been selected for international trials.   Reflecting on this remarkable achievement, Hajji Gafar mused, "We have a clear goal. Our considerable investment in scouting demonstrates our dedication to nurturing talent."   "This year, we exceeded our expectations, with 24 players chosen from a pool of 200 boys—an accomplishment that establishes a new benchmark for West Africa."   "These promising athletes, hailing from clubs such as Beyond Limits, Dino SC, Broad City, and others, are set to pursue opportunities with clubs in Europe and South America. Their dedication, talent, and enthusiasm ha...

    The Osun Intercollegiate Games 2024 concluded in a blaze of glory on Wednesday at the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) Sports Complex, marking the end of a thrilling two-week competition that brought together over 1,000 athletes from thirteen tertiary institutions across Osun State. With cheers resonating across the stadium and a vibrant display of sportsmanship, Team OAU emerged as the undisputed champions, securing 14 medals, including a staggering 12 golds and two bronzes. Team OAU’s triumph was built on sheer dominance in strategic and physical sports. Their athletes shone brightest in Chess and Scrabble, but it was in Athletics where they truly stamped their authority. The iconic sprints, especially the 100m and 200m races, saw OAU’s stars blaze past their competitors. Oyeyemi Adedoyin clinched gold in the 100m female category, while Jegede Mariam and Ogunnaike Adegoke topped the podium in the 200m female and male categories, respectively. The relay events were no dif...

  The stage is set for an electrifying conclusion to the Osun Intercollegiate Games 2024, as the OAU Sports Complex in Ile-Ife braces for a spectacular final day on Wednesday, December 4th. Dignitaries, athletes, and fans are eagerly anticipating a day of thrilling sports, entertainment, and cultural displays, marking the culmination of a two week-long celebration of youth talent and sporting excellence. The prestigious event will be graced by notable personalities, including the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, who will bring his royal presence and blessings to the occasion. Governor Ademola Adeleke, known for his support of youth development and sports, will also be in attendance, alongside the Deputy Governor, Prince Kola Adewusi, the Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, RT. Hon. Wale Egbedun, Commissioner for Education, Permanent Secretaries Ministry of Sports, Education and other distinguished guests. The final day kicks off at 9:00 am with high-energy athleti...

  The Chairman of the House Committee on Sports, Hon. Abiola Awoyeye, alongside his Deputy, has expressed profound satisfaction with the ongoing Osun Intercollegiate Games 2024. During a briefing on Monday, Hon. Awoyeye lauded the event's organizers for their outstanding efforts in putting together a competition that has captured the spirit of unity, excellence, and youth engagement across tertiary institutions in the state. Speaking on the sidelines of the event’s progress report, Hon. Awoyeye described the Games as a beacon of hope for grassroots sports development in Osun State. He praised the seamless coordination, the level of participation, and the high standards of competition observed so far. "The Osun Intercollegiate Games have not only fostered healthy competition among students but have also created a platform to identify and nurture young talents who could represent the state and the nation in the future," he said. The Deputy Chairman of the Committee echoed t...

  Following the recent increasing threats and reports of hacking of personal data by unscrupulous individuals and organisations, a Professor of Computer Science at the University of Ilorin, Oluwakemi Christiana Abikoye, has encouraged owners and users to ensure greater security of their information arsenals through deliberate synergetic efforts. Prof. Abikoye made this call recently while delivering the 270 th Inaugural Lecture of the University, titled "Invisible Bouncers in the World of Information Security" at the University Auditorium. She explained that the primary objective of information security is to protect valuable assets such as data, hardware and software and physical devices from being manipulated by unauthorised agents, saying that personal data must be protected against unauthorised access, disclosure and change of destination. Prof. Abikoye pointed out that "it is important that sensitive information is protected in an increasingly interconnected ...

  A delegation at the just concluded 3 rd Summit of the D-8 Network of Pioneers for Research and Innovation (D-8 NPRI) have commended the University of Ilorin on making an indelible mark in the annals of the Network despite joining the organisation recently. The Director of Administrative, Legal and Internal Issues of the Developing Eight Organisation for Economic Cooperation (D-8), Mr. Ahmar Ismail, who spoke on behalf of the delegates from the eight countries that make up the D-8, stated this recently at a press briefing at the Council Chamber of the University of Ilorin on the sidelines of the Summit hosted by the University between November 24 and 27, 2024 Mr Ahmar noted that the University of Ilorin, with over 50,000 students, is one of Nigeria's leading and oldest universities. He commended the institution's remarkable initiative in hosting the D-8 countries and steering them towards adopting the charter. The diplomat, who acknowledged UNILORIN's contributions ...

  Excitement is building across Ekiti State as preparations reach its peak for the grand finale of the Ekiti Governors Cup 2024, set to take place on Tuesday, December 3rd, 2024, at the iconic Oluyemi Kayode Stadium in Ado-Ekiti. This year’s showdown promises to be an unforgettable spectacle as Christ School, Ado-Ekiti faces off against Efon Alaaye High School, in what is expected to be a fierce battle for school football supremacy. The event will be graced by a host of distinguished dignitaries, led by the Executive Governor of Ekiti State, His Excellency, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, who has been a passionate advocate for youth and sports development in the state, joining him are the Honourable Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Stephen Aribasoye, the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Koforowola Aderiye, Dr. Olusola Osetoba, who is the Technical Advisor to the Governor on Sports, others includes the Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun, Permanent Secretari...