Connect with us

news

Nigeria’s Teen Cyclist Osarenti Is Pedaling Toward Olympic Greatness

Published

on

 

By Prince Adeyemi Shonibare

Annaba, Algeria
August 04, 2025

In the heat of Algeria’s Annaba sun, a slender, fair-complexioned Nigerian teenager named Osarenti mounted her bike at the edge of the velodrome, leaned into the wind, and—with a thunderbolt sprint—wrote her name into Africa’s cycling history.

The 16-year-old, hailing from the red-earth roads of Edo State, clinched gold in the Girls’ Sprint Final at the inaugural African School Sports Championship, a photo-finish victory that sent shockwaves through the African youth sports scene—from the classrooms of Benin City to the grandstands of Annaba. It wasn’t just a win. It was a bold statement of intent.

“I’ve trained every day thinking of this moment,” Osarenti said, wrapped in the Nigerian flag and breathless from her final lap. “Now I’m thinking of the Olympics.”

What the world may be witnessing is the rise of a once-in-a-generation athlete—one whose determination, confidence, and timing align with a reinvigorated national sports movement.

Blazing Tracks from Abeokuta to Annaba

This victory in Algeria is not Osarenti’s first taste of gold. Just a few months earlier, she stunned Nigerian sports fans when she upset Olympic cyclist Ese Ukpeseraye at the 22nd National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, claiming gold in the women’s 200-meter cycling sprint. The moment was dubbed the “passing of the crown,” as the teenager’s backstretch acceleration left no doubt—Nigeria had a new queen of cycling speed.
“She didn’t blink,” said one official after the Abeokuta final. “A teenager beat an Olympian and did it with cold precision.”

Now, in Algeria, on a bigger stage and under heavier pressure, Osarenti has done it again. And this time, the whole continent is watching.

The Girl Behind the Grit

Known among teammates simply as “Osa,” Osarenti comes from humble beginnings in Benin City, where her first bicycle was borrowed and her earliest training track was a dusty school playground. Friends recall her racing buses down the street and coming home with bruises—and victories.

Scouts discovered her during state-level school trials, and by 2023, she was already a standout at the National Youth Games, scooping medals in both time trials and sprints. But it wasn’t just talent that fueled her rise. It was hunger.

“I watch Olympic races on my phone before I sleep,” she said. “I imagine it’s me.”
That imagination has become inspiration—for young girls across Nigeria who now see in Osarenti a reflection of themselves and a roadmap to international greatness.

Nigeria’s New Flag-bearer

Her victory in Annaba wasn’t just a personal triumph. It was a defining moment in Nigeria’s renewed sporting narrative—one driven by policy, planning, and presidential commitment. Osarenti’s gold glistened not only as a symbol of her brilliance, but also of a national shift.

For the first time in years, sports is no longer an afterthought in Nigeria’s budget. Under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the Nigerian Sports Commission has received direct backing to fund athletes’ training, travel, equipment, and welfare.

“Every sport in Nigeria will get the attention it deserves,” says Dr. Sheu Dikko, Director General of the Nigerian Sports Commission. His words are echoed by Mr. Bukola Olopade, the Commission’s Managing Director, who adds, “We are done with excuses. If the president is giving us what we need, when we need them, why should we fail?”

This new approach is already producing results. Coaches are being hired, trained, and paid. Sports federations are being held accountable. And support no longer stops at football.

“Every sport. Every needed attention. That is our new motto.”

Just recently, President Tinubu rewarded the Super Falcons with $100,000 each for the winning players and their officials, including houses at the Renewed Hope Estate and another round of national honors.

What Comes Next

Osarenti is now being lined up for the 2026 African Youth Games, with eyes firmly on Paris 2028 and Los Angeles 2032. The Nigeria Cycling Federation is developing a bespoke training and sponsorship plan for her—one that protects her education while accelerating her performance.
She may soon become Nigeria’s first female Olympic medalist in cycling. But more importantly, she is the face of a future where no talent is wasted and no dream is too big.

The Women Are Leading

From athletics tracks to basketball courts, Nigerian female athletes have been the country’s brightest lights in recent years. The Super Falcons continue to dominate African women’s football and reached the Round of 16 at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, finishing unbeaten in regular time. Tobi Amusan remains Africa’s queen of hurdles, a World Record holder and Commonwealth Games gold medalist.
In boxing, Elizabeth Oshoba and Cynthia Ogunsemilore made headlines at the 2023 African Games, bringing home medals. Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, have just made history by winning their fifth consecutive FIBA AfroBasket Women’s Championship title—defeating Mali 78–64 in the final. The victory marks their seventh overall AfroBasket title and extends their unbeaten run to 29 matches since 2015.

And now, Osarenti has added cycling to that growing list of excellence—proving that Nigerian women are not just participants, but champions.
Time for the Men to Rise Again
While the women have carried the nation on their shoulders in recent years, questions remain about Nigeria’s male athletes—especially in athletics, wrestling, and team sports. The call is growing louder: it’s time for Nigeria’s male stars to reclaim their legacy.

As the women continue to break barriers and bring glory, the challenge is clear: the men must rise again, match the passion, and join in restoring Nigeria’s dominance across every field of play.

Still, Many Rivers to Cross

Despite the successes, there are still many rivers for Nigerian sports to cross. The journey toward greatness has only just begun. It must start with a focus on building and supporting young talents across the country. Talents discovered at the grassroots—like Osarenti, and others uncovered during the NUGA Games, school sports festivals, and community competitions—must never be allowed to go to waste again.

These young stars need more than praise. They need consistent support, training equipment, qualified coaches, proper allowances, and periodical camping programs that test and sharpen their potential.

Just as important, they must be protected from academic neglect and other forms of abuse. Every policy must ensure that athletes are developed holistically—physically, mentally, and educationally.

But this is not a call to the federal government alone. Sports development must begin from the bottom up. It is not the primary assignment of the federal government to scout for talent. That role belongs to local governments and state structures, who must actively search, nurture, and promote athletes long before they enter the national radar.
The federal government’s role is to build on that foundation—by developing elite systems and preparing athletes for international engagements.

If Nigeria is to build a truly sustainable sporting legacy, then we must go back to basics. Back to the streets, the schools, the local clubs. That is where champions like Osarenti are born. And that is where the future must be secured.

From the red sands of Edo to the podiums of Africa, Osarenti is pedaling toward greatness. If this golden era is to endure, it will be on the wheels of rising stars like her—and on the shoulders of those ready to match her fire.

And this time, the world is not just watching. It’s cheering.

Continue Reading
Advertisement

society

Olowu Celebrates Former Military President, Ibrahim Babangida, At 84

Published

on

Olowu Celebrates Former Military President, Ibrahim Babangida, At 84

Olowu Celebrates Former Military President, Ibrahim Babangida, At 84

 

Olowu of Kuta, HRM Oba Dr Hammed Oyelude Makama, CON, Tegbosun III, has congratulated former military president, Gen Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, rtd, who is 84 today.

Olowu Celebrates Former Military President, Ibrahim Babangida, At 84

Olowu, in a statement he signed, eulogised the former military ruler for his modest achievements while he was in power.

 

According to Olowu, ” IBB is an enigma. He has carved a niche for himself as a former military president. His tenure witnessed the completion of many monumental legacy projects that are still visible today. His Hill Top Mansion in Minna has become a Mecca of sorts for those who aspired to lead Nigeria.”
Olowu, who described Gen Babangida as being grossly misunderstood, said history would be kind to him.

 

He said, “The launch of Gen Babangida’s Autobiography: ‘A Journey In Service’, and the testimonies from the likes of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, Tony Elumelu, Jim Ovia, Abdusalam Rabiu, Oil Magnate, Arthur Eze, and many others, testified to his goodwill despite leaving public office three decades ago.

” On behalf of myself, my Oloris and Olowu-In-Council.

All members of the defunct IBB Vision 2003 and Vision 2007, I wish President Ibrahim Babangida, rtd, a happy birthday. I also wish him all the best as he aged gracefully,” Olowu added.

 

Born on August 17, 1941, Gen Ibrahim Babangida, rtd, ruled Nigeria from 1985 to 1993.

 

His presidency was marked by significant political and economic reforms.

Continue Reading

news

HRH Oba Isiaka Babatunde Malik Adekeye Ascends the Throne of Agunjin Land

Published

on

 

A new dawn breaks over Agunjin — a moment etched in gold in the annals of history — as the crown of the Ariwajoye Adekeye Royal Dynasty returns to its rightful home. With this homecoming, the living legacy of Agunjin’s royal heritage is renewed, strengthened, and destined to shine for generations to come.

The proud sons and daughters of Agunjin welcome His Royal Highness, Oba Isiaka Babatunde Malik Adekeye, Ariwajoye III of Agunjin Land, with joy, reverence, and boundless hope for the future.

A distinguished Nigerian based in New York, Oba Adekeye is a dynamic and accomplished professional whose illustrious career spans cinematography, international trade, and hospitality. Born into the revered Ariwajoye Adekeye Royal Family of Agunjin, in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, His Royal Highness now carries forward an ancestral legacy steeped in honor, dignity, and purpose.

The new Oba Adekeye is the proud nephew of the late Oba Jimoh Ajide Adekeye and the grandson of Oba Alade Adekeye — custodians of Agunjin’s noble traditions whose names remain deeply woven into the history of the land.
As the Yoruba say,
“Adé kì í wọ́ lórí aláìní orí.” — The crown does not rest on a head without destiny.”
His Royal Highness wears the crown not as a mere ornament, but as a solemn trust from his ancestors to his people.

The Adekeye Royal Family extends profound gratitude to: His Excellency, H.E.AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON, Chaiman GFON, Sadauna Ngeri of Ilorin, Executive Governor of Kwara State; The Chairman, Kwara State Council of Chiefs, Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, Emir of Ilorin; The Chairman, Igbomina Traditional Rulers Forum, Oba (Barr.) Alh. Ismail Bolaji Yahaya Atoloye Alebiosu, Olupo of Ajase Ipo; The Chairman, Ifelodun Traditional Council, HRM Oba (Dr.) Alhaji Ahmed Awuni Babalola Arepo III, Elese of Igbaja; The Ifelodun Traditional Council Members and the Kwara State Traditional Council.

Our heartfelt appreciation also goes to the Hon. Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Community Development, Hon. Abdullahi Bata, and to the Executive Chairman, Ifelodun LGA, Hon. Femi Yusuf, for their steadfast commitment to upholding historical truths and safeguarding the cherished traditions of Agunjin.

As the newly crowned Ariwajoye III, Oba Adekeye brings decades of professionalism, global exposure, and deep cultural pride to his reign. His vision is noble and unwavering — to champion sustainable development across the Agunjin district, preserve the rich traditions of the land, and unite his people both at home and in the diaspora under one banner of progress, peace, and pride.
In the words of an old royal proverb, “When the king builds bridges, the people will cross to a better tomorrow.” Ariwajoye III now stands as that bridge — connecting the heritage of the past with the promise of the future.

Long live Ariwajoye III. Long live the Ariwajoye Adekeye Royal Family. Long live Agunjin Land.

Prince Oluwatoyin Adekeye For the Family

Continue Reading

news

From Ejigbo to the World: How Primate Ayodele’s Prophecies Shape Public Debate

Published

on

The Man Who Makes Nigeria Listen — Primate Elijah Ayodele’s Prophetic Influence

Primate ELIJAH AYODELE: The Seer, And the Country That Listens

By Femi Oyewale

Ejigbo, Lagos — When Primate Babatunde Elijah Ayodele steps onto the pulpit of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church each week, he does more than preach: he convenes a national conversation. For decades, the clergy has issued blunt, often headline-grabbing prophecies about presidents, markets, and disasters — pronouncements that are dutifully copied, debated, and digested across Nigerian newsrooms, social media, and political corridors.

 

The Man Who Makes Nigeria Listen — Primate Elijah Ayodele’s Prophetic Influence

 

Primate Ayodele is best known for two things: the regular release of New Year’s and seasonal “warnings to the nation,” and a large, loyal following that amplifies those warnings into national discourse. He publishes annual prophecy booklets, holds prayer mountain conventions where journalists are invited, and maintains active social media channels that spread his messages quickly beyond his church gates. In July 2025, he launched a compendium of his prophecies titled “Warnings to the Nations,” an event covered by national outlets, which Ayodele used to restate concerns about security, governance, and international affairs.

 

Ayodele’s prophecies have touched on lightning-rod topics: election outcomes, the health or fate of public figures, infrastructure failures, and international crises. Nigerian and regional press have repeatedly published lists of his “fulfilled” predictions — from political upsets to tragic accidents — and his followers point to these as proof of his accuracy. Media roundups in recent years credited him with dozens of prophecies he argued had been realised in 2023 and 2024, and his annual prophetic rollouts continue to attract wide attention.

 

Impact beyond prediction: politics, policy, and public mood

The practical effect of Ayodele’s ministry is not limited to whether a prophecy comes to pass. In Nigeria’s politicised and religiously engaged public sphere, a prominent seer can:

• Move conversations in electoral seasons; politicians, commentators, and voters listen when he names likely winners or warns about risks to candidates, and his claims sometimes become part of campaign narratives.

• Shape popular expectations — warnings about economic hardship, insecurity, ty or public health influence how congregations and communities prepare and react.

 

• Exert soft pressure on leaders — high-profile admonitions directed at governors or ministers often prompt responses from the accused or their allies, creating a feedback loop between pulpit pronouncements and political actors.

 

Philanthropy and institution building

Ayodele’s public profile extends into philanthropy and church development. He runs INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church from Oke-Afa, Lagos, and his ministry periodically organises humanitarian outreach, scholarships, and hospital visits — activities he frames as evidence that prophetic ministry must be accompanied by concrete acts of charity. Church events such as extended “17-day appreciation” outreaches and scholarship programmes have been widely reported and help cement his appeal among congregants who value spiritual counsel paired with material support.

 

What makes him unique

Several features set Ayodele apart from other public religious figures in Nigeria:

1. Productivity and documentation. He releases extensive, numbered lists of prophecies and compiles them into booklets — a tactic that makes his predictions easy to track (and for supporters to tally as “fulfilled”).

2. A blend of national and international focus. His pronouncements frequently move beyond parochial concerns to name international actors and events, which broadens his media footprint.

3. Media-savvy presentation. From staged press events to active social accounts, Ayodele understands how to turn a prophecy into a viral story that will be picked up by blogs, newspapers, and TV.

 

The public verdict: faith, influence, and skepticism

To millions of Nigerians — and to his core following — Primate Ayodele remains a pastor-prophet whose warnings must be taken seriously. To others, he is a media personality whose relevance depends as much on spectacle and circulatory power as on supernatural insight. What is indisputable is his role in magnifying the religious dimension of national life: when he speaks, politicians, congregants, and newsrooms listen. That attention, in turn, helps determine which social and political questions become urgent in public debate.

Looking ahead

As Nigeria heads into another cycle of elections and economic challenges, Ayodele’s annual pronouncements will almost certainly return to the front pages. Whether they are read as sober warnings, political interventions, or performative theology, they will continue to shape conversations about destiny, leadership, and the kinds of risks a deeply religious nation believes it must prepare for.

Continue Reading

Cover Of The Week

Trending