* Ogbomoso marathon kicks off Nov 28
After seven months of lockdown, the Nigerian domestic football may roar back to life as the restriction imposed on contact sports, especially football, has been lifted by the Federal government, an indication that life is gradually returning to normal.
In a tweet on Thursday evening, the Minister of Sports, Mr. Sunday Dare, disclosed that the ban imposed on football by the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19 has been lifted.
The body in charge of the Nigerian lead football league, the League Management Company (LMC) had on 18 March issued a press statement announcing the suspension of the league owing to the global outbreak of coronavirus.
That was after some clubs had honoured the Matchday 25 fixtures. In his tweet on Thursday evening, the minister wrote:
“We welcome the lifting of D ban on football by the PTF. “The lifting of restriction on outdoor activities including football is in line with earlier consultations with Ministry of Youth and Sports and NCDC. However, this is limited to the actual sports itself & not mass gathering.”
In essence, the football matches, as is done in Europe at the moment, will be played without crowd. Nigeria is expected to host Sierra Leone next month in match day 3 of the Africa Cup of Nations qualifying series.
The match will most likely be played behind closed doors.
Meanwhile, Dare is billed to flag off the maiden edition of the Ogbomosoland marathon on Saturday, November 28.
Chairman of the Organising Committee, Prince Oyebamiji Aderemi said: “The Honourable Minister who is a proud son of Ogbomoso will flag off the historic race at the start off point at Oja Akande. The race is the first ever road race in Ogbomoso land and has received the backing of all the sons and daughters of the town including His Royal Highness, Soun of Ogbomoso.
He added that all arrangements have been concluded for a hitch free race come November 28 with over 1000 participants have registered so far for the race via http://bit.ly/ogbomosolandmarathonrace2020 as the registration is still ongoing.
“The essence of the race is not just to put Ogbomoso on the map of the world as a destination for sports and recreational activities but also to ensure our people live a healthy life. Scientists have told us the importance of running and jogging which among other things help to build strong bones. Exercises strengthen muscles, help improve cardiovascular fitness and maintain a healthy weight,” said Prince Oyebamiji.
“The race will also help to unearth hidden talents who can be developed to represent the town and the state (Oyo) in major national events and of course represent Nigeria in international events.”
With the decision of the Sports Minister to develop middle and long distance running in Nigeria, this event could not have come at a better time to key into that wonderful and thoughtful vision. In essence, it is a sport development programme aimed at taking the youth out of unproductive ventures to showcase their talents with the hope of getting it maximized.”
He assured athletes and spectators of adequate security.