The Ballon d’Or, on Thursday, officially unveiled the 30-player shortlist for the 2025 Men’s Ballon d’Or, spotlighting the world’s finest footballers who have delivered exceptional performances over the past year, as reported by The Punch.

Among the top contenders are Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland, Vinicius Jr., and Harry Kane, all of whom had standout seasons for club and country.

The list also features experienced names such as Mohamed Salah, Robert Lewandowski, and Virgil van Dijk, alongside emerging stars like Lamine Yamal, Joao Neves, and Cole Palmer.

Other notable nominees include Alexis Mac Allister, Désiré Doué, Scott McTominay, Raphinha, Florian Wirtz, Declan Rice, Achraf Hakimi, and Pedri.

The Ballon d’Or remains the most prestigious individual award in world football, recognising extraordinary talent, consistency, and influence on the global game. The winner will be crowned at the annual Ballon d’Or ceremony later this year.

Full list
Jude Bellingham
Ousmane Dembélé
Gianluigi Donnarumma
Désiré Doué
Denzel Dumfries
Serhou Guirassy
Viktor Gyökeres
Erling Haaland
Achraf Hakimi
Harry Kane
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia
Robert Lewandowski
Alexis Mac Allister
Lautaro Martinez
Kylian Mbappé
Scott McTominay
Nuno Mendes
Joao Neves
Michael Olise
Cole Palmer
Pedri
Raphinha
Declan Rice
Fabian Ruiz
Mohamed Salah
Virgil van Dijk
Vinicius Jr.
Vitinha
Florian Wirtz
Lamine Yamal

Advertisement

Zenith Bank Plc, a long-standing sponsor of the Women’s National Basketball League, hosted a distinguished reception yesterday at its Abuja headquarters in Maitama to honor Nigeria’s D’Tigress for securing a historic fifth consecutive AfroBasket title.

The bank presented the triumphant team with a generous cash reward of N200 million.

D’Tigress achieved victory over Mali with a score of 78-64 in the final match held in Abidjan on Sunday, subsequently returning to Nigeria on Monday, where they were warmly received by President Bola Tinubu.

During the Presidential reception, the team was awarded national honors in the form of the Order of the Niger (OON) and received additional cash incentives.

Zenith Bank has demonstrated an enduring commitment to women’s basketball for 18 years, and its league has produced several notable players, including Murjanatu Musa, the Most Valuable Player of the Air Warriors’ title win in 2022, and Ifunanya Okoro.

Current head coach Rena Wakama also played in the Zenith League for the First Bank Women’s Basketball team.

In attendance at the elegant reception were Zenith Bank Executive Directors Adobi Nwapa, Akin Ogunranti, Henry Oroh, and Louis Odom, who all expressed their pride in the team’s accomplishments. Additionally, notable attendees included National Sports Commission Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko, NBBF President Musa Kida, and several board members.

Advertisement

GMD/CEO of Zenith Bank, Dame (Dr.) Adaora Umeoji OON, praised the team and reaffirmed the bank’s continued support:

“Your victory at the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket is not just a win for Nigeria, it is a win for African sports,” she said.

“At Zenith Bank, we celebrate your victory – not just as supporters, but as longstanding partners in the development of women’s basketball in Nigeria.

“I hereby reaffirm Zenith Bank’s steadfast commitment to advancing women’s basketball and promoting sports development across Nigeria.”

Team captain and MVP of the tournament, Amy Okonkwo, responded on behalf of her teammates:

“We appreciate the financial institution for doing a lot for women basketball in the country.”

Advertisement

As the football community buzzed with excitement over Victor Osimhen’s recent departure from Serie A giants Napoli—marked by a controversial transfer saga. Amid the celebrations, a Nigerian prophet emerged with a disquieting prediction regarding Osimhen’s future at Galatasaray, raising eyebrows and fueling speculation.

The prophecy, which quickly gained traction on various social media platforms, caught the attention of Osimhen’s camp, prompting a strong and defiant response.

Representatives for the striker did not hold back, issuing a sharp rebuttal directed at the prophet’s unsettling claims. Emotions ran high as they sought to defend Osimhen’s reputation and dismiss any ill intentions behind the prediction, highlighting their determination to protect the player during this pivotal moment in his career.

CONTINUE READING

CONTINUE READING

Primate Elijah Ayodele, a Nigerian cleric, stirred controversy with a scary prophecy about Victor Osimhen’s recent transfer to Galatasaray.

Speaking during a sermon at his INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church located in Lagos, Ayodele stated that the 26-year-old striker would not enjoy the new transfer. Osimhen sealed a permanent move from Napoli to the Turkish giants in July 2025 for €75 million ($87.7 million).

Inside Osimhen’s deal with Galatasaray

The transfer includes €40 million upfront and €35 million in installments by 2026, plus a 10% sell-on clause, which is a record-breaking transfer for Turkish football.

Advertisement

The Super Eagles forward signed a four-year contract with a €15 million annual salary and a €1 million loyalty bonus.

This comes after a prolific 2024/25 loan spell, where he scored 37 goals and provided eight assists in 41 appearances, helping the club secure the Turkish Super Lig and Turkish Cup.

Several elite clubs had shown interest in signing the star including Chelsea, Manchester United, Arsenal, and Paris Saint-Germain, but all negotiations collapsed due to Napoli’s high demands and the player’s high wage expectations.

London club Chelsea explored multiple deal structures but couldn’t meet his financial terms, while French giants PSG’s €220 million joint offer for Osimhen and teammate Khvicha Kvaratskhelia fell through.

Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal also pursued the striker aggressively, offering €75 million and a €30 million annual salary, but he rejected the move, prioritising European football, per Yahoo Sports.

A previous $170 million bid from Al-Ahli in 2024 was similarly declined, as Osimhen’s agent emphasized his desire to stay in Europe.

These rejections, coupled with Napoli’s fractured relationship with the former Lille of France striker paved the way for Galatasaray.

Advertisement

However, there are concerns over Primate Ayodele’s prophecy on the player who has emotional connection to Galatasaray, partly driven by his daughter’s affection for the fans.

The prophecy suggests potential challenges, possibly related to the high expectations or the pressure of a record transfer.

Ayodele said in a viral Instagram footage: “The four-year deal is failed. You will not enjoy it. You better have a rethink. Who gave you that advice Osimhen? Oshi lo dey yen o.”

Osimhen’s camp said: ‘I think this man should just focus on his usual politicians, he wants attention but he can’t one, he should focus on Liverpool prediction”, the source sounded off.

CONTINUE READING

Advertisement

President Bola Tinubu has celebrated Nigeria’s national women’s basketball team, known as D’Tigress, with a generous reward package.

This includes $100,000 for each player and $50,000 for every member of the 11-man coaching and technical staff, according to a report from The Punch. Additionally, all team members and staff will receive a three-bedroom flat at the Renewed Hope Estate.

Moreover, the President bestowed upon the players and their coaching crew the esteemed national honor of Officer of the Order of the Niger. This announcement was made by Vice President Kashim Shettima during a presidential reception held in their honor at the State House Banquet Hall in Abuja.

The victorious D’Tigress, along with their officials, were warmly welcomed by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu and the Vice President’s wife, Nana Shettima, at the New Banquet Hall in the Presidential Villa at 5:05 PM. Representing President Bola Tinubu, Shettima received the team to acknowledge their remarkable achievement.

Also present at the reception were Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; Chairman of the Senate Committee on Youths and Sports Development, Garba Maidoki; and Chairman of the House Committee on Sports, Kabiru Amadou. The D’Tigress arrived home after winning their historic fifth consecutive AfroBasket title, defeating Mali 78–64 in the final held at the Palais des Sports de Treichville in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. This victory marks their seventh overall championship, solidifying their dominance in African women’s basketball.

Tinubu also rewarded all team members and staff with a three-bedroom flat at the Renewed Hope Estate.

In addition, the President conferred on the players and their technical crew the prestigious national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger.

Advertisement

This was announced by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the presidential reception in their honour at the State House Banquet hall, Abuja.

The triumphant D’Tigress alongside their officials, were warmly welcomed by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, supported by the wife of the Vice President, Nana Shettima, at the New Banquet Hall in the Presidential Villa at 5:05 pm.

On behalf of President Bola Tinubu, Shettima received the team in recognition of their outstanding achievement.

Also in attendance at the reception were Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; Chairman of the Senate Committee on Youths and Sports Development, Garba Maidoki; and Chairman of the House Committee on Sports, Kabiru Amadou.

The D’Tigress arrived after clinching their historic fifth consecutive AfroBasket title, outplaying Mali 78–64 in the final held at the Palais des Sports de Treichville in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.

This win marks their seventh overall championship, reinforcing their supremacy in African women’s basketball.

The ceremony at the Presidential Villa mirrors a similar reception President Tinubu hosted a week earlier for the national female football team, the Super Falcons, who recently secured their tenth WAFCON title in Rabat, Morocco.

Advertisement

Tinubu’s remarks, delivered by Shettima at the reception noted, “Beyond being ambassadors of our nation and symbols of excellence, you have reminded us all of the power of sports to unite a diverse nation. Your victory is a testament to what we can achieve when we work together. You have brought home not just a trophy, but valuable lessons for all Nigerians.

“It is a great honour, on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, to welcome our formidable D’Tigress to the State House. Once again, you are continental champions and now the top African team to qualify for the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup pre-qualifying tournament. You conquered Africa with a score of 78 to 64—showcasing not just tactical skill, but remarkable determination and resilience. The entire nation stands behind you with pride and support.

“My dear daughters, you faced challenges bravely, especially in the final quarter, responding not with panic but with poise. When you wore the green and white, it was more than just a uniform—you wore it with purpose, and now you wear the crown of African basketball for the fifth consecutive time.”

The President hailed Rena Wakama’s strength and inspiring young girls in the country.

“Coach Rena Wakama, you embody the evolution of leadership in Nigerian sports. Your quiet strength and remarkable achievements have shattered ceilings and inspired countless young girls across Nigeria. You truly deserve your accolades as the best coach in Africa and beyond.

“To Amy Okonkwo, the tournament’s Most Valuable Player, and Ezinne Kalu, the top scorer in the final, your brilliance lifted the whole team, but most importantly, you played for Nigeria and made us all proud.

“Let us reflect on one profound truth: Nigerian women have never failed the nation in sports. From the Super Falcons on the world stage, to record-breakers on the track, and now a basketball dynasty, our women have consistently been a source of pride and have proven that where preparation meets opportunity, Nigerian excellence prevails.”

Advertisement

Tinubu said the administration is prioritizing sports as a crucial driver of national development and economic growth, viewing it as more than entertainment but also infrastructure, education, diplomacy, and a tool for youth employment and transformation.

He also recognised the National Sports Commission, led by Mallam Alabi, for its efforts in athlete welfare, institutional reform, grassroots support, and performance-driven development, with visible positive results.

“Special appreciation goes to the National Sports Commission, under Mallam Alabi, for renewed focus on athlete welfare, institutional reform, grassroots support, and performance-based development. The results are evident, and we are proud of you. The Nigerian Basketball Federation, led by Malam Ahmadu Musa Kida, also deserves recognition for consistent team development and dedication to Nigeria’s sporting glory.

“Our government will ensure that D’Tigress, their technical team, and sports leadership in Nigeria are appropriately recognized and rewarded. You have made us proud, and we will stand by you as you prepare for the global stage.

“To all Nigerian youth, let the story of D’Tigress inspire you. Greatness stems from hard work, discipline, and belief. Nigeria belongs to those who dare to dream and are willing to give their all to realize those dreams.

“D’Tigress: you are champions, role models, pathfinders, and true daughters of this land. It is my honor and privilege, on behalf of President Tinubu, to announce national honors for the team, coach, and technical staff; $100,000 for each player; $50,000 for the coach and technical team; and more rewards to come.

“This is true leadership—recognizing and rewarding those who have excelled for our nation. May God bless you all, may God bless Nigerian sports, and may God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he concluded.

Advertisement

Nigeria’s D’Tigress defeated a resilient Senegal to reach the final of the 2025 Afrobasket on Saturday.

The Nigerian team won 75-68 in a hotly-contested game in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire.

Recall that D’Tigress advanced into the semi-finals of the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket with a crushing 83-47 victory over Cameroon on Thursday night.

Nigeria and the three other African teams that reached the semifinals have secured their spots in the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup qualifying tournaments in March.

Mali, Nigeria, Senegal, and South Sudan join a group of 24 national teams that will compete in four FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup 2026 qualifying tournaments.

Brazil, Argentina, the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, and Colombia will represent the Americas in the World Cup Qualifiers.

More to come…

Advertisement

Victor Osimhen has completed his permanent switch from Napoli to Galatasaray, becoming the sixth Nigerian footballer to play for the club.

Osimhen spent last season on loan at the club after Napoli botched his permanent exit and helped them win the Turkish Super League and Ziraat Cup double.

He decided to continue in Turkey despite a lucrative offer from Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal and interest from top European clubs.

As broadcast by Galatasaray TV, he arrived in Istanbul on Wednesday evening to a crowd of supporters who had been waiting to welcome him.

His haul of 37 goals and eight assists last season endeared him to the fans, and it was a delight for them to see him sign for the club permanently.

Legit.ng looks at other Nigerian players who have featured for the Turkish champions, as noted by Transfermarkt.

Nigerians who have played for Galatasaray 

Advertisement

1. Oghenekaro Etebo

Former Super Eagles midfielder played for the Lions in the 2020/21 season on loan from English club Stoke City. He featured in 29 games but failed to score nor did he assist, and returned to England at the end of the season. The 29-year-old currently plays for Gençlerbirliği in the second division of Turkish football.

2. Henry Onyekuru

Onyekuru played for Galatasaray in three spells, all of which came on separate loans. He joined on loan from Everton in the 2018/19 season, after which he was sold to AS Monaco. He returned to Galatasaray in January 2020 on loan until the end of the season and had another six months from January to June 2021.

He scored 22 goals and provided 11 assists in 72 games and won the league and cup double in 2019. He recently joined Etebo at TFF First League side Gençlerbirliği.

3. Jesse Sekidika

Port Harcourt-born winger Sekidika has spent the majority of his career in Turkey. He was on Galatasaray’s books for two seasons and featured in 12 games. He went on loan at Konyaspor, OH Leuven and Eyüpspor. He currently plays for the Azerbaijani club Sabah.

Advertisement

4. Valentine Ozornwafor

Ozornwafor joined Galatasaray from the Nigeria Premier Football League side Enyimba in 2019 and was signed at the club for three years. He went on loan at Almeria and Sporting Charleroi before signing for the latter permanently in 2022. He currently plays for Septemvri Sofia in Bulgaria.

5. Dominic Iorfa

Iorfa was the first Nigerian to play for Galatasaray in 1991 when he signed from Queens Park Rangers, but was sold to Peterborough seven months later. In his 16-year career, he played for 22 clubs, including seven clubs in 1998. He retired from Lobi Stars in 2000.

Super Falcons star Oluwatosin Demehin signed for Galatasaray women’s team last summer, weeks after Osimhen joined on a season-long loan.

Osimhen made a promise to Galatasaray fans

Legit.ng reported that Osimhen promised Galatasaray fans that he and his teammates would fight to bring success to the club after joining permanently. Thousands of Galatasaray fans followed his flight live and welcomed him at the Atatürk International Airport in Istanbul on Wednesday evening.

Advertisement