Top Ten Best Players To Look Out for In The UISU 2024 Super Cup

By: Adebowale Akinjide 

The stage is set, the UISU Super Cup starts today, and many football lovers are ready to feast. The Old SUB pitch is set to be filled to the brim again as 14 departments will be hoisting the flag of 14 faculties while the fans cheer on.

The Super Cup is the first of its kind; modeled exactly after the FIFA Club World Cup, where the winners of the last Dean's Cup from each faculties will be squaring against each other in one-legged knockout games.

If there was at least one thing the last SEALS Cup showed, it is that UI, apart from her leading role in the Nigerian academia space, it is a also a fertile land for football talents. As the Super Cup kickstarts today, here are the top ten best players to look out for. 

Note: This list has been compiled by the UISU Sports Committee

10. Oshobue Robin Oshozie aka Robinson 

Robinson is a 300 Level student of the department of  Animal Science. Majorly a left winger, he has  represented his department at two editions of the SEALS Cup. 

While his performances for Animal Science has relatively not been too impressive in the SEALS Cup, he can boast in his recently concluded Sigma Chief's League gold medal being a major feature for SFA. 

9. Oyewole Gbenga Emmanuel aka Sulphur

Sulphur is a versatile player who can play as a fullback and as a holding midfielder. He is a 300 level student of Wildlife and Ecotourism, and also an important figure for UI Pioneer, while he also dons his Sigma Chief's League Silver medal.

8. Olusola Segun Boluwatife pka John

John is a central defender and a 300L Microbiology student. He is an astute defender who can be trusted at the back. 

As a captain, he earns the trust of his teammates at the back for his aerial prowess and the ability to clear his lines.  

He led an underdog Microbiology team that battled it out against MBBS at the 2023 SEALS Cup RO16, forcing the game to a penalty shootout, although, Microbiology would later succumb to MBBS during the penalties. 

7. Odunukan Gbemiga aka Bobby Jay 

Bobby Jay is a 300 Level Student of Human Nutrition. He was a main figure for Human Nutrition in the last Provost Cup when they beat a fully stacked MBBS to the gold medal. 

As the team's goalkeeper, Odunukan gave Human Nutrition the glory by stepping up to save numerous penalties, earning him the competition's MVP (most valuable player). 

He is also a Survival Cup silver medalist and currently Indy Hall's Sports Commissioner. 

Bobby Jay can also step up for his team when needed as a defender. 

6. Adesina Daniel pka Oscar

His two goals for KHE as a midfielder in the just concluded NUESA Dean's Cup is a testament to his significance for KHE in their Dean's Cup triumph. 

Oscar's winning spree goes beyond KHE, as he also was a member of the 2021 Zik Hall team that won the 2021 Inter Hall as an 100 level student. He was also a part of the Zik Hall team that won the INFINIX FIVE-A-SIDE competition. 

Daniel currently serves in Zik as the Halls' Sports Minister.

5. Ogunleye John pka JohnTomi

If there is an amazing record JohnTomi has, it is that being a 500 level student of Mechanical Engineering, he has won the Faculty of Technology's Dean's Cup four times as a striker.

While Mechanical Engineering's outing in the last SEALS Cup was one to forget, both for Mech and JohnTomi himself, he can be consoled by his Gala Cup Winner's medal. 

Ogunleye is also an Inter Faculty Bronze medalist, and also an important player of UI Pioneer. 

In a Mechanical Engineering team that looks shaky, JohnTomi should be a player the team can count on.

4. Awolowo Oluwadamilare pka Awolowo

Awolowo is a 400 Level attacking-midfielder for Philosophy. He was an integral member of Philosophy's popular Plato Academy. He was nominated for player of the tournament in the 2022 SEALS Cup where Philosophy lost to Geography in the final in a penalty shootout. 

Awolowo would later win the MVP in the 2023 SEALS Cup while Philosophy would also later win the gold medal in a similar shootout against Political Science with Awolowo's late freekick handing Plato Academy a lifeline at the death. 

Awolowo has also won the Faculty of Arts Dean's Cup twice, AFAS Super 4 trophy twice, INFINIX 5-Aside gold medal, Zik Hall Interfloor gold medal and other titles. 

3. Benjamin Adekunle aka Karbon 

Karbon is that winger you would peeing in your pants defending. Known for his beastlike work-rate and his ability to press any defender with high intensity, Karbon is also a fast runner with the ball, with his short frame giving him a low center of gravity to keep the ball while at high speed. 

In a seemingly Karbon fashion, he scored the only goal in MBBS 1-0 win in their quarterfinal game against IPE in the last SEALS Cup. 

As a 500 Level student of MBBS, Karbon has won every ABH tournament, SEALS Cup bronze medal and a Provost Cup silver medal. 

2. Elkana Ayuba aka Pogba

Pogba is the only Postgraduate student in this list for a reason. He is the most active postgraduate student in UI football. He was a central figure for Political Science in their 2023 SEALS Cup first runner-up finish.

Pogba was also a main figure for PG Hall in their INFINIX 5-Aside silver medal win. 

As a defensive midfielder, Pogba's tall and imposing frame makes him an outstanding ball-winner, while he also excels at playing as a Regista, starting plays from the middle of the park.

In 2021, Pogba also won the FATSSSA Dean's Cup and the Inter Faculty Tournament. 

Pogba would prove to be important again for Political Science as they go on in their quest in UI football. 

1. Agbetuyi John aka Papi 

Undisputed as numero uno for numerous reasons-- 2022 Seals Cup Golden boot winner, UI School team's striker, scored 5 goals for Philosophy in the 2023 SEALS Cup (4 in the knockouts). 

A 300 Level student of Philosophy, Papi was already a main player for Philosophy since his 100 level days, and he has only gotten better since then. 

Papi has won one  AFAS Dean's Cup trophy, two AFAS Super 4 trophy, SEALS Cup silver medal, SEALS Cup gold medal, one-time SEALS Cup golden boot. 

His athletic frame makes a him good header of the ball, while his speed and his dribbling ability makes him able to operate from the flanks as an explosive winger, where he was deployed most times in the last SEALS Cup. 

Goodluck to your defense when Papi runs at it. 

UHS SHARES INTERNAL MEMORANDUM

By Adegbite Adewale 

The University Health Service (UHS) of University of Ibadan, passed a health advisory note to the university community, in a bid to educate the university community about recent health hazards within the community on Friday 26th of February 2024.

In an internal memorandum signed by the Director of the Health service, Dr. Aderonke B. Ajav, it was stated that most of the patients visiting the clinic in recent times present with features of Upper Respiratory Tract Infection (URTI) for which environmental conditions are known major contributors. "URTI contributes to significant avoidable loss of man hours at school (for students) and workplace (for staffs) both from time spent seeking care and the period of recovery as well as rapid depletion of hospital resource".

To reduce the incidence of this largely preventable disease and the accompanying losses that comes with it, the UHS has put out guidelines which its advice the public to follow. The guidelines includes as follows: The use of face mask in public; Practice regular hand hygiene (with soap and water sanitizer); Boost immunity by taking fruits (especially citrus fruits); Stay hydrated, drink at least 3-4 liters of water daily; Avoid gathering or crowded places and use face masks when ill.

In the memo, it was further stated that, it has been projected by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency that air temperatures could remain high (up to 40°C) in the coming days. Hence it was advisable for the general public to: seek shades, use fans and wear light breakable clothing to reduce the negative effects of high temperature; Avoid strenuous physical outdoor activity during peak heat hours; Stay indoors as much as possible during 12noon and 4pm.

With the recent high rate in heat temperature in the country, it will be best for the students and staff alike, to abide with the new guidelines stated in the memo to avoid unforseen health issues and casualties in the University community.

'Zik Is Home': How True Is This Assertion?

The concept of 'Home' is one of the greatest tangibles and intangibles known to man. It has always had a special place in the heart of man. Home is a gathering place, shelter, and sanctuary, providing escape from the busyness and intrusiveness of the world. It is the abiding place of the affections, especially of the domestic affections. A house that has been made home-like, to suit the comfort of those who live there. So, it is of no surprise when people regard their home as ‘home is where the heart is’ or better still ‘home sweet home’. It shows the affection and connection and individual have attached with the concept of 'Home'.

In Nnamdi Azikiwe hall of residence, the concept is no different. The mantra 'Zik is home' is a popular saying among Zikites as part of their usual fun and banter. And it has become a regular anthem through which students profess their love for the hall of residence. But the big question still remains, is Zik truly a home?

To start with, for a place to truly serve its purpose has a home, it must not just provide shelter, but also provide comfort or at least provide the basic amenities that will drive the comfort of the place. A good home must provide basic amenities such as shelter, water and electricity. In Zikhall although the former is available the latter (the last two) has been a constant cause of concern. The non availability of water and the constant electricity outage in most of the floors leaves so much to be desired, making the appellation of home difficult to ascribe to the hall.

Just recently, last week sunday, the hall experienced its usual water crisis as there was no single water running through out the hall, even though there was electricity through out the day. Students were forced to move out of the hall to source for water, with some having to go neighbouring halls to have their bath and do their chores. 

It will interest you to know that this crisis ran throughout the week as students were forced to go to other halls to get water as they prepare to go to their classes during the week. This actions provoke jeering response from the neighboring most especially Indy where an individual chastised Zikites for always alluding to the fact that 'Zik is home', but yet they do not have stable water supply. 

This individual cannot be faulted for his point of view, because although we pride ourselves as being the most vibrant hall of residence in the whole of the University, we lack the basic amenities to back up this illusion. This situation can be likened to the state of Nigeria who prides itself as the 'Giant of Africa', but cannot match up to it's African counterparts such as Ghana and South Africa, interms of providing basic amenities to it's citizens. This situation has only led to the constant mockery of the Country's image, which it's citizens find hard to defend every single day.

Like the case of Nigeria, Zikhall seems to be no different. The halls serves as a perfect reflection of the country with the standard of living continuing to deteriorate due to lack of basic amenities. The hall serving as a gateway to other halls of residence, there is little to no hiding place for the hall's deficiency. As each and every passing day, there is constant complaints about the lack of and maintenance of basic amenities in the hall, with electricity and water being the common problems. 

As it has been highlighted earlier, it will be difficult to ascribe to Zikhall the appellation of 'Home', with the constant problems that has always been the bane of the hall. The need to provide comfort for its residence students leaves much to be desired and 

it now begs the question, like the assertion 'Zik is home' ascribed, is Zikhall truly a home?

Zik, Tech Advance To First Ever Jawwar Final; Arts, ABH Crash Out

Nnamdi Azikiwe hall of residence and Faculty of Technology were among the winners at the Jawwar's semifinals held at Social sciences Lecture Theatre on the 16th of February, 2024.

The semifinals had Nnamdi Azikiwe hall facing Alexander Brown Hall, and Reverend Ransome Kuti hall going against Obafemi Awolowo hall. 

In the faculty category, Arts went against social sciences while Law went against Tech

In the end, Zik had the better of ABH, gathering 60.8% to ABH's 58.1% while Kuti beat Awo with 70.8% to 65.1% to advance to their second consecutive final.

In the faculty category, Tech defeated Law 69.3 to 69.1 to set up a Jawwar final clash with faculty of social sciences who defeated reigning champions faculty of arts 68.3 to 65.3

Jawwar continues on the 23rd of February with the Return of the Legends event.

I'd Rather Pick A Zikite As My Val Over Any Other Male Hall Resident -- Ms. Damilola Adewale, ZHPO Village Beauty

Damilola Adewale (Dammy) is ZHPO's Village Beauty for this week. Ms. Dammy is a student of Computer Science department. She's into programming. In her interview with ZHPO, she shared about her interest in hacking and also spoke on her perception of Nnamdi Azikwe Hall , its vibrant residents (Zikites) and aroism.

 

Generally, many believe that Zik is distinct from other Halls. What do you think makes Zik different?

Ms. Damilola: In my own perception, Zik Hall is very lively. Most times I’ve come to Zik Cafeteria and pass through the Hall, and I have not for once experienced an iota of dullness.

Have you experienced aro before in Zik Hall and if yes, how do you see it?

Ms. Damilola: Yes...some times it feels fun-filled, sometimes, mere shouts

Ms. Damilola Adewale

So, how do you see Zikites?

Ms. Damilola: Hmmmm, to me, Zikites are kind of good but I do hear a lot about them like ‘those people are rough, they only know how to shout and so on’. However, I do see and hear optimistic things too about them especially when it comes to sport and politics.

If you were to pick a Val, would you pick a Zikite or other Halls like Indy?

Ms. Damilola: Well, I’ll would rather pick a Zikite, they’re courageous, some handsome, anyway I think a Zikites would be cool for me. Though before I had this kind of animosity against Zik Hall due to our (Queens Hall) recent clash at Jaw war but then that’s just by the way.

So, what are your hobbies?

Ms. Damilola: My hobby is music, I like music and reading too, though I’m into programming but then music is still my hobby.

By: Joshua Aduragbemi

Zik Health Minister, Porters, Volunteers, Carry Out Sanitation Exercise

By: Joshua Aduragbemi

The Nnamdi Azikwe Hall health minister, Elisha Ajibola held on Saturday a cleaning exercise in the Hall together with the Hall health committee and volunteered Zikites.

Prior to the sanitation exercise, the Hall health committee took to Zik’s WhatsApp groups to publicize the event, also the Hall IPM in the early morning of Saturday announced the cleaning exercise, assuring volunteer Zikites of refreshments. 

Elisha disclosed to Zik Press that the exercise was done in conjunction with the cleaners and the porters and that it lasted for about four hours.

“We picked the surroundings by giving each participants a refuse bag and gloves which was sponsored by the The Hall Chairman and me, the Health Minister. We cleared the gutters in A block mostly and some in front of B block. We fixed the blockage that is causing water not to move to a large extent; We had to go to the other side of the fence close to Zik river. We burnt some dried plants and waste too which was driven by Porter Seyi. We had over 30 participants."

He also appreciated the efforts of the volunteer Zikites, Porters and others who were of help during the sanitation. “It was nice seeing passionate Zikites coming out to make sure that Zik Hall is clean. I will love to give a special appreciation to Porter Seyi for helping us from the beginning to the end and for being a drive, also the Hall Chairman, Uthman for his maximum participation and the morale support to everyone that came, the cleaners for their helping hands, Iya Elewa for sponsoring us with 2 bags of pure water and also New Flava for giving us some of their equipment. It gives me joy and makes me feel fulfilled and I will encourage Zikites that when next we're having this kind of event, they should come out more because we had low workforce. If not for that, we would have done more,"

"Let's Bring This Home" -- Josh, Zik Hall Mr. Macho Pleads UITES's Support

By: Joshua Aduragbemi

In an interview on Tuesday by ZHPO with the Nnamdi Azikwe Hall Mr. Macho, Josh following his victory at the first round of Mridealnigeria body aesthetic competition, Josh solicited UITES's  support in the next round of the competition.

The competition sponsored by Mr. Ideal Nigeria is a long-existing body aesthetic contest well known for featuring people with great gymnastic physique.

While interviewing Joshua Adeoye fondly called Josh on his victory in the first round of the competition, he appreciated the effort of many Zikites and UITE's in general for the massive support given him by liking and commenting on his picture on Mridealnigeria Instagram handle which was the major requirement to proceed to the next stage of the competition.

"Many people helped in liking and sharing the link, I really appreciate, with the constant support of UITES's, I think I got this."

He also revealed that the subsequent stage could be very intense. " It's going to get more serious in the next stage where people have to vote with money, I solicit and really hope that UITES's give me a massive support, let's bring this home".

JCI'UI Holds Press Conference Ahead Of FOPA Award

By: Faith Adediran

The Junior Chamber International (JCI), University of Ibadan held a press conference ahead of the Fifteenth Outstanding Persons Award (FOPA) and dinner night of the organisation on Saturday, 10th of February 2024 at the organisation's office in the Students' Union Building, University of Ibadan.

In his speech, the President of the JCI, Waheed Ojo, answered questions on the essence of the FOPA awards, its essence to the University community and the significance of the number of the fifteen awards.

"The Fifteen Outstanding Persons Award serves as a beacon of hope, recognising the extraordinary input of individuals above mixed significance in our community. So FOPA in it's essence is not just an award ceremony, it is a platform to celebrate exceptionalism across diverse fields...this number holds a special significance for us as members of JCI University of Ibadan and I believe the university community at large. It represents resilience, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to strive for excellent qualities that each of these awardees embodies. Fifteen is also a symbol of unity reminding us that individual achievements are interwoven."

 

Speaking at the event to address how the award will be conferred on the fifteen individuals in each category, the director of FOPA, Jesudara Akano revealed that the voting category is not the only criterion for selecting each awardee.

"We have seen people doing broadcasts for their nomination into different categories but we don't go by that, I will say that is what makes FOPA different from other awards. We have to see your CV, meaning that there should be a written document that backs up your work and not just by mouth", she explained.

She further noted that there will still be a panel that will sit on each nomination to assess how worthy a nominee is of an award.

It was again informed that the upcoming FOPA will be held on Saturday, 25th of February 2024 at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan.

UI Holds Town Hall Meeting, Address Pressing Issues

 

By: Marvelous Olalekan

The University of Ibadan held a town hall meeting to discuss matters of concern affecting the institution and the student body on Thursday 15^th of February 2024 at the Trenchard hall

The meeting which was held at mid-day had in attendance, the presence of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Kayode Adebowale, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, the Chief Security Officer of the University, the Registrar, the Dean of Students and the chairman of the Intr-Campust Transport Committee alongside others.

In addition to the students in attendance, other attendees that were present for the meeting include the Presidents of Faculties, Members of the Students Representative Council, President of the Students Union, and other executives of the SU.

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Kayode Adebowale addressing electricity and water issues, conveyed that the school is currently on improving the quality of water.

The Chairman of the Intra-Campus Transport Committee while responding to the Union's president,  Samuel Samson Tobiloba's complaints about the outrageous cost of transportation, announced that the new fee for 'drop' is now pegged at N300.

Also responding to one of the student leaders on the  issue of sexual harassment and intake of hard drugs, the Chief Security Officer  warned that ladies should mind boundaries while also staying careful of their closeness to the opposite sex. 

“Though we provide a lot of security, it’s crucial that students pay attention to their own safety. Ladies should not dress carelessly, and ladies should understand the boundaries of how close they can get to the opposite sex."

Speaking on the same issue, the VC stated that any student guilty of hard drug use will face the disciplinary committee.

“You can report any form of hard drug consumption and sexual harassment by calling the chief security officer’s line. Anyone found guilty will face the student disciplinary committee, which includes staff members.”

ICTC Chairman Announce Reduction In 'Drop' Price From N400 to N300

By: Kolawole Oluwagbenga

The Chairman of The Intra-Campus Transport Committee announced that the new price for drop is now N300.

He said this while responding to questions on transportation during the Townhall meeting between the school authorities and the student body which held at Trenchard Hall on Thursday, 15th of February, 2024. 

This is coming amidst the rising costs of transportation which in turned followed the increase in fuel price in the country.

The town hall meeting also addressed different issues of lab fee, University Health Service, and other issues  affecting student welfare.

"Jaja's services have improved"-- UHS Official

By: Kolawole Oluwagbenga

An official of the University Health Service has revealed that the quality of healthcare delivery has improved in the University's Jaja clinic.

She said this while responding to questions from the representative of Nnamdi Azikiwe hall at the SRC, Hon. Fabiyi Damilare during the townhall meeting. 

Hon. Fabiyi had noted that the quality of service in the clinic had reduced when compared to a few years ago. He cited a case of when he was injured and was promptly attended to by the clinic staff in comparison to a case of his friend who recently spent four hours before he could get medical attention. He further asked for an urgent intervention so students would stop wasting productive hours waiting for treatment.

The clinic official responded by reading out the tweet of one of the students who had been attended to at the clinic in which the student was commending the quality of service and staff response.

She further revealed that the clinic has had to get temporary staffs (doctors) due to logistics issues and that efforts were being made so that students will get the best healthcare at the clinic.

Godwin Amos Efe Resigns As Zik UISRC Member After Appointment As Law Judge

 

By: Adediran Faith

Godwin Amos Efe, a former representative of Nnamdi Azikiwe Hall  at the Students Representative Council of the University of Ibadan Students' Union has announced his resignation from the council.

This announcement was made through a broadcast message that signed by the Majority Leader of Students Representative of the Nnamdi Azikiwe Hall of Residence, Hon. Oluwadamilare Fabiyi. A part of the broadcast message reads: 

"This is to bring to the notice of the residents of Nnamdi Azikiwe Hall, the official resignation of  Honorable Godwin Amos Efe’s position as an honorable member of the 10th Assembly of the Students."

Hon. Fabiyi also revealed to Zik Press that Efe's resignation was a result of his appointment as a Judge in the Faculty of Law. He further stated that there is no provision for his replacement in the floor of the council. According to the broadcast, this resignation has taken effect since the 1st of February, 2024.

Zik Hall wins Infinix Five Aside Football Competition

By: Marvelous Olalekan

 

Nnamdi Azikiwe Hall football team wins the Infinix five aside competition beating the postgraduate football team on penalties after an enthralling 3-3 draw, at the Sub pitch on Saturday, February 10.

The game got off to a rough start for Zik when Amaechi, the man behind their sticks made a mistake that allowed Zik to concede a goal.

The resilient postgraduate team amped their attacking prowess as they doubled their lead in an unexpected fashion for most fans, with Zik conceding, considering their offensive form and the thumping of their opponents 6-2 in the penultimate game before the final. The tie, however reached its apex when Zik handed themself a lifeline late in the game as they pulled a goal back which before scoring a successive equalizer, making the score-line 2-2.

The third goal was scored by the postgraduate team but Zik responded quickly, bringing the score to three goals apiece. 

During the game, an important player for the postgraduate hall, 'Pogba', was stretchered off the field following an injury, while another Postgraduate hall player was sent off by the referee for dissent.

In the game, which was a thrilling encounter, Zik hall twice came from behind to send the game to penalties. 

In a highly contested penalty shootout, Zik won with the likes of Jamiu Kareem, Koulibali, Afolabi, Agbowo and others, with the Zik Hall goalkeeper also scoring his own piece of the shootout. 

An amount N300,000 went to the winning team, while a sum N100,000 went to the runner-up. 

Chemistry, W.P.E Advance to CBN Cup Finals

 

By: Marvelous Olalekan 

Chemistry and Wood Product Engineering have now qualified to the finals of the ongoing CBN cup after winning their semi-final games against Petroleum Engineering and Architecture, respectively,  at the SUB pitch on 8^th February 2024.

In a contested match that was played around 1:00, Chemistry, who had been on a good run of form after thumping their previous opponent 5-1, were held to a full-time draw against Petroleum Engineering in a game that was decided on penalties with Chemistry coming out on top. 

in the second semi-final, played later in the day around 3pm, Wood Products Engineering and Architecture faced off in the second semifinal match, with the game ending in a stalemate in a similar manner to the Chemistry-Petroleum Engineering game. The game also went on to penalties with Wood Product Engineering scaling through to the finals. 

Goals, upsets, spectacular football, pitch side drama, frantic penalty shootout and other nerve-wracking events typical of a cup competition were all present in the competition.

After sixty-four games and thirty-two teams, including teams like Physiology, Computer Science, Medicine and Surgery whose elimination was a significant upset alongside other teams, the competition now comes down to Chemistry and Wood Product Engineering, who will square off in an exciting final showdown. 

Zik Knock Mellanby Out Of Infinix 5-Aside Tournament

 

By: Faith Adediran

The Nnamdi Azikiwe Hall football team, Baluba Lions have defeated Mellanby Hall in the quarter-final tie of the Infinix 5-A-SIDE Football Tournament that started today, 9th of February 2024 at the SUB Cricket pitch.

The Infinix 5-A-SIDE Football Tournament is an inter-hall knockout football competition amongst all halls of residence of the University of Ibadan. 

In other encounters, Kuti Hall won against Independence Hall 3-2, while Postgraduate Hall defeated Bello in a 7-5 thriller, with Alexander Brown Hall also suffering a 2-3 at the hands of Lord Tedder hall.

In the female league-format category, Awo Hall defeated Idia Hall 4-3 through a penalty shootout after a goalless draw in the regular time. Idia however bounced back from their defeat to Awo Hall through a 3-0 win over Queens Hall.

Super Eagles Conquers South Africa at AFCON

 

By: Korede Teriba 

The Nigerian football team, Super Eagles, has on February 7, 2024, defeated the national team of South Africa, Bafana Bafana.

In the match at Staid de la Paix, Bouake, Cote D'Ivoire, the Nigerian national team defeated Bafana with 4 goals to 2 after a penalty, having in 120 minutes played a 1-1 draw.

Troost Ekong, in the 67th minute, had placed Nigeria ahead, having converted a foul against Victor Osimhen from the penalty, while Stanley Nwabli saved two penalty kicks to secure Nigeria's place in the finals in Cote D'Ivoire on Sunday. The match had an extra time with T. Mokoena's penalty which canceled the Super Eagles' lead in the 90th minute. 

In the finals,  Nigeria will battle  Cote D'Ivoire - the host nation on Sunday. 

Why the Super Eagles Struggled Against South Africa

By: Adebowale Akinjide

It is crystal clear that most of the Super Eagles wins this year’s AFCON have not been outrightly convincing, but few would care less, since what matters most is getting the job done on the big stage. However, in previous matches before the showdown against the Bafana Bafana boys, the Super Eagles have been able to get the job done easily. The answer to last night’s peculiarity is also the one thing that been constant in Peseiro’s tactical setup: sacrificing free-flowing football for defensive solidity.

Defensive Solidity

Barely would anybody contend with the fact that a solid defense is what has taken Eagles thus far at AFCON. In fact, apart from Nwabali’s heroics last night, there have been shouts that Troost-Ekong should win the AFCON golden ball. The Akwa-Ibom-born has been immense at the heart of the defense. His trio with Ajayi and Bassey at the heart of Nigeria’s 3-4-3 setup has been massive. Indeed, Sir Alex Ferguson was right when he said “attack win you games, defense win you titles.”

However, a solid defense comes have with a price for the Eagles: letting go of midfield domination; and this again boils down to two things: profile and priority. The arsenal in Nigeria’s midfield are just not cutout for domination, and apart from that, the team’s body language shows that they prioritize defensive solidity over anything else.

There were a lot of critical voices against Peseiro’s tiny midfield when he first announced his AFCON squad list; well, only the man himself can answer that question. But one thing is now vivid, he foresaw the kind of football he wants his side to play.

Iwobi, Onyeka, Osayi-Samuel, Yusf Alhassan, Aribo are not comfortable at holding possession under pressure. In fact, on most occasions, each of them would rather give a back-pass under pressure than trust risk taking a half-turn to the opponent’s goal. However, all of them excel as a unit in locking up the midfield and applying pressure in a mid-block. In fact, this is the best explanation for Peseiro’s mid-block over a high-press.

Bafana Bafana’s Peculiarity

The difference between South Africa and the previous Eagle’s encounter at AFCON was because the Bafana boys were ready to mask Eagle’s game against them. Like Nigeria in their previous matches, South Africa were comfortable settling for a mid-block, soaking up the pressure, and finding runners in-behind with long passes. In fact, this approached worked so well that there has been no encounter this AFCON where an opponents would get so many chances against Eagle’s defense, but yet again, the backline of Ekong, Ajayi and Bassey were good once again, and also Nwabali’s proper reading of the game, rushing out constantly to sweep behind his defense, and also his safe hands the few times the opponents found a breakthrough.

South Africa being comfortable with soaking up the pressure means at least one thing: that Nigeria would have more possession, something that barely happened in the Eagle’s previous outings. This then necessitated Nigeria’s midfield having more of the ball, something which they did, but would be clueless on what to do with it. Super Eagle’s midfield were most comfortable with having less possessions and running round their opponents in counter-attacks rather than having to build up from the midfield. This made the match drably for every Nigerian who saw the game.

Ola Aina’s Change of Position

Zaidu Sanusi out with a shoulder injury means Peseiro had to react, and that reaction was switching Ola Aina from his most comfortable rightwing back position to replace Zaidu at leftwing back, while Osayi-Samuel replaces Aina at the rightwing back position. Although, Aina is ambi-pedal, but it was obvious yesterday that he was not outrightly comfortable playing on the left. While Aina was still as solid defensively, he struggled running the flank like he mostly did at rightwing back. This also limited Nigeria’s ability to attack properly from the wings.

What Next?

Super Eagles now face host Ivory Coast in the final after the latter toppled DR Congo in a 1-0 semifinal clash. Nigeria will be playing another final on Sunday, 11^th of February after over a decade of their last final where they took the prize over Burkina Faso.

The Eagle’s defense will now be facing the challenge of quieting the likes of the Dortmund forward, Sebastian Haller in a second encounter after the two sides last met in the group stages where Nigeria beat the host 1-0, forcing them to take the best-loser qualification route.

 

SFA Win SIGMA Cup In Controversial Final

 

By: Adegbite Adewale

Soccer For All (SFA) FC defeated TomTom FC 4-2 on penalties after being held to a controversial 3-3 draw, in the nail biting final of the SIGMA cup, on Sunday 5th of February 2024, to round up an eventful competition.

 

The final which was played at the SUB pitch had in attendance a large number of crowd, with supporters from each side rearing to go and cheering their respective teams in an anticipation of a mouthwatering encounter. And they were not disappointed, with both sides evenly matched during the course of the match.

 

The first half saw both teams slug it out as they failed to break the deadlock in an evenly matched contest. The second half will see a change in the dynamics of the game as SFA draw the first blood midway through the second half when forward Tomide pounced on a through ball to give his team the lead.

 

TomTom FC draw level almost immediately through Ehis, as an error from SFA goalkeeper Gbolahan, will lead to an easy tap in for the onrushing TomTom striker. SFA will regain their lead almost immediately as Tomide turned provider this time, with a well timed cross which was turned home by Babatunde at the back post. SFA added to their lead few minutes later with Ibrahim adding to the woes of TomTom with a well composed finish.

 

The game will turn on its head almost immediately with TomTom bringing themselves back into the game with two controversial goals in quick succession. The third goal was a major talking point, as SFA goalkeeper was tackled midair in the lead up to the goal, and the referee awarded the goal. This almost led to the end of the match with the fans noticeably angry with the match official, who was singled out for his poor sportsmanship and officiating. This led to match being abandoned for a few minutes as angry fans invaded the pitch.

 

The match was eventually recontinued and went straight to penalties after the end of the normal time. SFA came out victorious, winning 4-2 on penalties and emerging as the eventual champions of the SIGMA cup, claiming the 100,000 cash price as the winner of the tournament.

 

In other news Prime FC won 4-1 in their third place match up against Galaticos FC. In the female category Department of Arts and Social Science Education (ASES) placed first and won sum of N50,000 while Department of Statistics and European studies came in second and third respectively.

JawWar: Zik, Kuti, Awo, ABH, Tedder, Idia, Proceed To Quarter Finals

On the second leg of the preliminary round of the inter hall/faculty debate competition of the University of Ibadan: Jaw war 2024, six halls have made it past the preliminary rounds after faceoffs with their opponents in battles of wits and words. 

Independence Hall faced Obafemi Awolowo Hall in a contest on the topic: “Foreign Direct Investment is Doing More Harm Than Good." For the square-off between Nnamdi Azikwe Hall and Queen Elizabeth II Hall, they debated on the topic: “Media regulation: Stifling Press Freedom in Nigeria", while the debate between Ransome Kuti Hall and Sultan Bello Hall was on the topic:  “Should Nigeria consider BRICs as Promising g Platform to Diversify Its International Alliance?”

The results and aggregate scores from the second leg of the debate include the following: 

Zik 73.62 (Agg-71.89) vs Queens 74.67 (Agg-70.31)

Indy72.2  (Agg. 71.80) vs. Awo.77.37     (Agg.  73.99)

Mellanby 72.87 (Agg.65.1 ) vs Idia 73.25 (Agg.74.58 )

Kuti 78% (Agg. 72.12)  vs Bello 78.25   (Agg.  70.87)

ABH 77.75 (Agg.75.33). vs Tedder 79.62 (Agg. 75.72) 

However, despite losing on aggregate, Alexander Brown Hall qualified to the quarterfinals as best losers. 

Structure Without Infrastructure: The Dilemma of Zik Hall

 

The word 'structure' has in recent times been connected with electoral practices all over the world and more so in Nigeria where there is constant talk about structure in relation to political activities in the country. Little wonder President Bola Ahmed Tinubu made mockery of his political opponents for lacking the structure needed to compete against him in the last general election.

 

In Nnamdi Azikiwe hall of residence, it is no different, as structure is seen as a reliable tool to achieve the political goals in and outside the hall. In Zikhall, the term structure has been used to depict the systematic organization of the hall as regards to the socio-political activities in the hall. It is used to celebrate the political success of the hall in recent Student Union elections which saw the hall produce 6 principal officers in the last two sessions including the present President of the SU and the present Speaker of the Student Representative council(S.R.C).

 

Zikhall has always had this aura that resonates around it, about its presumed structural organization that aids its success in many of the social activities in university of Ibadan. In UI there is this popular notion about Zikhall having a prominent structure that has aided it's political and social prominence in the university area with many envying the presumed aura and stature of the hall in terms of her political influence in the school political arena. It has also been  stated that 'when Zikhall sneezes the whole of UI catches cold'.

 

However, In terms of infrastructure the same aura does not exist, as the hall cannot stand toe to toe in comparison with other halls of her caliber in the school. The stark contrast and difference between the infrastructural development of other halls and that of Zikhall leaves a lot to be desired, as there is a visible lack of development and growth when compared to the other halls.

 

A perfect example of this is the stark difference in infrastructural development and maintenance between Zikhall and her direct neighbor Indyhall. The case of Indyhall has been very intriguing, as they have found a way to develop and maintain their facilities which is in stark contrast to what is available in Zikhall. They have been able to maintain a reasonable level of water supply for their students which is the direct opposite to that of Zikhall as in most cases water supply can be hard to get by in the hall.

 

Just recently, there was a renovation of the Indy Hall viewing center which was redesigned with new equipment and structures to serve the students. The viewing center was redesigned with a new shade erected to protect viewers from sun and rain. You cannot just help but wonder if such actions can be replicated in Zikhall. Seeing that most of the chairs at the front of the JCR, which serves as a viewing center, are in bad shape with many of the chairs missing. There are no shades to protect students from the scorching sun or the outpouring rains. Unlike our Indy neighbors where there are two rolls of seats available, in Zikhall we only have one which has left people sitting on the floors or the terraces in a bid to watch a match or other activities.

 

Many have attributed the stark difference and contrast between Zikhall and her neighbors to a lack of strong alumni connection. It's said that the renovations taking place in other halls are projects engineered by these alumnis. This brings the question, don't Zikhall have Alumnis? if the answer is 'Yes'; why doesn't the hall have a strong Alumni body or a strong connection to the Alumni body? It also begs the question of what are the management and the executives doing to reach out to the alumnis in partnering with them in the development of several infrastructural projects that are bedeviling the halls at this stage of time.

 

It will be recalled that just last semester the hall celebrated her 60th anniversary and from reports the executives got support from numerous alumnis to organize the social activities that were carried out during the event. Yet there was no visible plan to engineer those funds for other infrastructural development in the hall. A look at the hall's main gate will give a glimpse to the troubling state of facilities in the hall as the gate is being held together and supported by an iron to stop the pillar from falling apart.

 

In an interview with The hall Chairman, Uthman Adedeji, last semester, he mentioned plans to renovate the gate and make some repairs which will also serve as part of the project to mark the 60th anniversary, with revenue gotten from the additional charges added to the hall's basic dues. However, this has turned out to be a pipe dream as there has been no evidence of anything being done to address the situation.

 

It is believed that for the hall to get back to its glory days, there is a need to look inward, and check for ourselves the lack of standard infrastructural facilities that makes the hall stand out as a vibrant hall. We must not be ashamed to take cues from our neighbors and engineer better development and maintenance of these facilities. It is not enough for us to bask in the strength of our political structure but we must be able to boast of infrastructure that complement this structure. So Structure as against infrastructure is a peculiar dilemma that needs to be addressed in the hall moving forward.

 

 

Zik Hall Legislative Council Appoints Adedayo As New Clerk

By: Korede Teriba

The Nnamdi Azikwe Hall Legislative Council, during an ordinary session that held on the 3rd of February, 2024 has appointed a new clerk, Hon. Sodiq Adedayo to replace Hon. Joshua Owolabi.

You would recall that Owolabi was was suspended and fined for his absence in the last sitting of the House, amidst other allegations of negligence of duties levied against him.

Speaking with Zikpress, the newly appointed speaker clerk, Adedayo expressed his gratitude on his appointment.

"I feel good because this shows that my fellow Honourable members have a belief in me that I can be a good Clerk to the house and they know that I can handle the affairs of the house."

The new clerk further gave his words to perform his duties diligently.

"We already have a laid out rule of the house; the duties of Clerk. So, it's just to follow my duties as written in the constitution."

Legislative Council Inaugurates Ethics and Disciplinary Committee, Audit Committee

By: Korede Teriba

The Legislative Council, Nnamdi Azikwe Hall, in the legislative sitting held on February 3, 2024 has inaugurated two committees: the Audit committee and the Ethics and Disciplinary Committee.

According to the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Igbaoreto Samuel, the Audit Committee has been established to audit the executive council's account, while the Ethics and Disciplinary Committee was established to check and proffer disciplinary measures of erring members. 

The audit committee basically looks at finances. They look at how money budgeted is being spent just make sure that the process is accountable and transparent [sic] ...And the ethics and disciplinary committee, they're the ones that will look at the excesses of any erring members of the house and also erring members of the executive council.

 

You would recall that some weeks back, the absence of the chief whip, Hon. Odunukan Damife, had led to the absence of the Mace, debarring the House from sitting. You would also recall that the clerk of the House, Hon. Owolabi Joshua was also absent in the same meeting, amidst other disciplinary offences levied against him. 

The Audit committee members include: 

Hon. Okechukwu Victor

Hon. Sotomi Daniel

Hon. Adetunji Samson

Hon. Christopher Onuh

The Ethics and Disciplinary Committee include:

Hon. Damife Odunukan

Hon. Adewole Abdulsamad

Hon. Lawal Ridwan Olamide

Hon. Sodiq Hassan Adedayo