Sports
Nigeria submits bid to host 2031 African Games
Nigeria has formally submitted its bid to the African Union Sports Council to host the 2031 African Games, signalling the nation’s ambition to once again welcome Africa’s premier multisport event nearly 25 years after successfully hosting the 2003 edition.
In a statement shared by the Nigeria Sports Commission on Friday, it was revealed that the bid presentation was made during high-level engagements with AUSC, where Nigeria reaffirmed its readiness and capacity to stage another world-class continental festival.
Ace sports broadcaster and administrator, Mainasara Ilo, presented the bid to the AUSC.
Nigeria has demonstrated exceptional organisational capability by successfully hosting a series of major international sporting events, including the CAA Africa U18/U20 Athletics Championships, Africa Karate Championship, ITTF Africa Youth Table Tennis Championship, African Armwrestling Championship, Badminton National Open, West Africa Para Games and the African Cadet and Junior Taekwondo Championship.
Central to Nigeria’s growing influence in continental sports development are the Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko, and the Director General, Hon. Bukola Olopade, who have consistently championed Nigeria’s sports economy agenda.
Nigeria’s successful hosting of the CAA U18/U20 Africa Athletics Championships generated a major economic impact, with more than 5,000 small and medium enterprises benefiting from increased patronage.
Similarly, the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, recognised as a World Athletics Gold Label race, has become a major global showcase for Nigeria, enhancing international visibility, boosting tourism and attracting elite participation from around the world.
Nigeria also hosted the 2024 Africa Military Games, an event that strengthened the nation’s soft power, deepened regional cooperation and advanced military diplomacy on the continent.
The West Africa Para Games and several related events hosted in the country created hundreds of direct jobs while indirectly impacting thousands more in sectors such as hospitality, transportation, tourism, security, merchandising and event services.
Nigeria’s bid to host the 2031 Africa Games is guided by a forward-looking vision to harness sports as a catalyst for national development.
Senegal on Sunday clinched the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title after a tense 1–0 extra-time victory over host nation Morocco at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.
The final was marked by controversy late in regulation time after the Democratic Republic of Congo referee, Jean Jacques Ndala Ngambo, awarded Morocco a penalty in the eighth minute of added time following a VAR review. Senegal defender El Hadji Malick Diouf was adjudged to have fouled Brahim Diaz during a corner kick.
Furious over the decision, Senegal players briefly walked off the pitch on the instruction of head coach Pape Thiaw, leading to a 13-minute standoff. Captain Sadio Mané eventually persuaded his teammates to return to the field.
Morocco failed to capitalise on the opportunity as Brahim Diaz missed the penalty, allowing Senegal to push the match into extra time.
The breakthrough came in the fourth minute of extra time when Pape Gueye fired home a stunning strike following a swift counterattack initiated by Mané. Senegal then held firm to silence the home crowd and secure the trophy.
The victory marks Senegal’s second AFCON title in three tournaments, further cementing their status as one of Africa’s dominant football forces.
Here is a list of AFCON Winners Since 1957
2025 – Senegal
2023 – Côte d’Ivoire
2021 – Senegal
2019 – Algeria
2017 – Cameroon
2015 – Côte d’Ivoire
2013 – Nigeria
2012 – Zambia
2010 – Egypt
2008 – Egypt
2006 – Egypt
2004 – Tunisia
2002 – Cameroon
2000 – Cameroon
1998 – Egypt
1996 – South Africa
1994 – Nigeria
1992 – Côte d’Ivoire
1990 – Algeria
1988 – Cameroon
1986 – Egypt
1984 – Cameroon
1982 – Ghana
1980 – Nigeria
1978 – Ghana
1976 – Morocco
1974 – DR Congo
1972 – Congo
1970 – Sudan
1968 – DR Congo
1965 – Ghana
1963 – Ghana
1962 – Ethiopia
1959 – Egypt
1957 – Egypt
Senegal stunned Morocco in the Africa Cup of Nations final on Sunday as Pape Gueye’s goal gave them a 1-0 extra-time win in a game marred by ugly incidents following a controversial penalty award.
Several Senegal players walked off the pitch in disgust and clashes erupted among their supporters after Morocco were given a spot-kick in injury time at the end of normal time.
The game restarted after a delay of almost 20 minutes but Brahim Diaz’s penalty was saved, taking the final to extra time where Gueye scored before Senegal held on to win the continental title for the second time.
[Vanguard]
The Federal Government has congratulated the Super Eagles for defeating the Pharaohs of Egypt to clinch the third position in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
This is contained in a statement issued by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris on Saturday in Abuja.
“On behalf of the Federal Government and all Nigerians, I congratulate the Super Eagles on winning the bronze medal at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
“Their performance throughout the tournament was a source of pride and joy for our nation.
“They have upheld Nigeria’s rich football tradition with heart, skill, and resilience. From the group stages to the final whistle in Casablanca, they showed courage, unity, and belief in one another.
“They didn’t just play; they inspired millions of Nigerians at home and in the diaspora.
“Securing a bronze medal adds to Nigeria’s remarkable record in AFCON history, where the Super Eagles have now continued their strong legacy at this level.
“The way they competed, especially against strong teams, showed discipline and an unbroken fighting spirit,” Idris said.
He thanked the coaches, support staff, and every player who wore the green and white jersey for their dedication and sacrifice.
The minister noted that they faced challenges with determination and gave their best on every pitch.
“They reminded us that true strength lies in teamwork, belief, and pride in our nation, Nigeria. Their effort has shown that Nigeria remains a powerhouse in African football.
“Although the ultimate prize may have eluded us this time, know that this bronze medal is earned with dignity and effort.
“It belongs to every Nigerian who cheered, believed, and stood by them throughout this competition.
“Celebrate this achievement with pride, and let it strengthen our resolve for future challenges.
“They have done well, and we are filled with gratitude and admiration for how they represented our nation.
“Congratulations, Super Eagles. Nigeria applauds you,” Idris said.
(NAN)
HallowMace Foundation Africa and Partners to Host the National Legislative Awards In July 2026
VIDEO: WATCH moment FG contractors block Ministry of Finance over unpaid contracts
FCTA removes 607 beggars, mentally challenged persons from Abuja streets
Edo Killings: Jibrin Shares Details of His Discussion with Okpebholo
Jail break: One of Seven Escaped Ilesha Inmates re-arrested in Lagos
Police neutralise bandit, rescue 5 kidnapped victims in Katsina
-
Sports12 hours agoSenegal shocks hosts Morocco 1-0 to capture AFCON 2025 trophy
-
News12 hours agoTinubu’s campaign DG abducted in Ondo, whereabouts unknown
-
News11 hours agoShettima in Switzerland for World Economic Forum
-
Entertainment12 hours agoPopular afrofuji singer, Destiny Boy is dead
-
News12 hours ago
Anambra: Witch doctor’s ally lands in police web over alleged kidnap of virgins for rituals
-
News12 hours agoSAD: Ex-Catholic Bishop of Warri Diocese is dead
-
News12 hours ago
FULL LIST: AFCON bronze medal winners since 1957
-
News12 hours agoAlake re-elected African minerals group chairman