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We’ll raise one million baseball players in the four years – Fingesi
Since the rhythm of sports has centered around soccer, basketball and few not-too-popular others worldwide, the game of polo appeared to be in the background…until now. Features editor, last week discovered the passion and energy driving the game of polo in Nigeria. In this exclusive interview with the President, Nigerian Baseball & Softball Association, Mr. Charles Fingesi reveals the hidden treasure, skill, profitability and global impact among other secrets embedded in this all inclusive game.
Mr. Charles Soala Gbenedior Fingesi is the new President of Nigerian Baseball & Softball Association. Before taking the driving seat of this body, he had been one time president of Port Harcourt Polo Club (PHPC) for three years (2007-2009). In the years between, the Okrika, Rivers state born engineer, technocrat and ‘part time’ politician has been pushing the course of a game acclaimed to be for the rich and accomplished cadre.
He threw some light first into the game of polo which was thought to be unAfrican and not too popular, particularly in Nigeria.
“That was way in the past; things have really changed. Africans are seriously into polo now and the biggest polo country in the Continent is South Africa. Nigeria ranks second in that order.”
What was the focus of his presidency in the polo game and how did he fare?
“I must first point out that polo is an expensive habit; you must first and foremost buy the horses, then you must maintain them; thereafter you will be riding and you start to enjoy them. If you maintain them you enjoy them better, but if you don’t, then you won’t have any excuse…which is why I am not enjoying mine so much.
“Now, when I was president of PHPC, all we did was to take the game to everybody, so to say. We got so many persons around this part of the country to understand what horse riding is all about and got them into the game because that’s what polo game is all about.
“Like we just finished playing a game of polo now; even though I am the president of the Port Harcourt Baseball Association, but I can’t get away from playing polo; the passion is just there and will never go away.”
Born in Okrika town in Okrika Local Government Area of Rivers State, Fingesi currently owns about ten horses and has been active in the last nine months playing polo around the world. He told The Daily Times how he got into the passion in the first place.
“My father was a member of the Port Harcourt Polo Club when I was a kid; we used to visit the club and would watch daddy play and afterwards, we hop on horseback when he would let us. We just ride and….that’s how it started. After a while, the passion went beyond just horse riding and we decided to do polo. I started playing polo about 17 years ago.”
Besides the passion, Fingesi opened up on the elitist and profitability part of the game. Is polo really as profitable as soccer?
“O yes; with polo, you get to meet all the right persons in the world. Polo is the biggest social thing in the world; it attracts very exclusive people. It is an opportunity you can use if you are smart to know good people and when you know good people you do good things too. That is the positive side.”
How does he see the future of polo in Nigeria?
“In Nigeria, Polo had a slight problem, and that problem polo players decided to overcome by allowing two associations to coexist. There is the association called Nigerian Polo Association (NPA) and there’s another called the Nigerian Polo Federation (NPF).
“The rich people in Nigeria who are into the game of polo, own the horses; they own the facilities for polo and they own the clubs; even the grounds and the good horses are owned by members of the NPA.
“But the smaller group players that don’t own horses, that actually were taking care of the owners of horses, decided to create their own association called the NPF, thinking that the Nigerian Sports Commission (NSC) would fund them, but the NSC refused to fund them because polo is an expensive sport in the first place. Then secondly, polo is considered around the world to be for the rich so, why fund the rich when there are other sports associations to fund in the country?
“So that was an error the NPF made, buy now, they are about to come together and play polo as one body. In the next few months or so, polo would be one again in Nigeria, and polo is big time sport here, I tell you.”
Can the same be said of polo in Africa?
“In Africa, the biggest country that plays polo in the Continent is the South Africa where they have a breed of horses that outlive any other horse in Africa in terms of polo. In Nigeria, we play Argentine horses which are imported from Argentina, or we play what we call the Sudanese horses which are also imported from Sudan in North Africa.
“But in South Africa, they play what we call the thoroughbred, and these thoroughbred horses are very good for polo. South Africa is the only country that has a lot of money in polo more than Nigeria, but Nigeria is growing in the game. In Northern Nigeria, polo is big; in Southwest Lagos, polo is big, very big in fact, and polo is developing in the South-East and South-South.”
For a layman, it has always been wondered where skill comes into the game you play on horseback: is it in the horses or on the players?
“The horse represents 70 percent of the game; if you have a horse that acts like a donkey, then you cannot really play polo. If you have a horse that is fast, that can turn left and right and stop when you want it, then that kind of horse can play polo.
“The player or rider, 30 percent of the rest of the work is his, because you must know how to ride well, and you must have the skill of picking up small ball into a big post which may sound very easy, but picking a small ball into a big post when you’re on horseback and running at neck breaking speed, sometimes it is difficult.”
Base Ball, a game of intelligence
Currently the president of the Nigerian Baseball and Softball Association; Fingesi explains the sameness of the games.
“Baseball and Softball can be likened to a man or woman, or the masculine and the feminine because baseball is for the men and softball is for the women.
”I became the president in November 2014; before me was Gen Ishola Williams who was president for the baseball association for some 16 or 17 years. She just decided to retire and I became the next president.”
What do you aim to achieve during your tenure?
“There are thousands of girls in Nigeria that play softball; also there are even more thousands of young men in Nigeria that play baseball; the sports is expanding. It has not made a lot of inroad into Northern Nigeria like it has in Southern Nigeria and that is where my tenure is working at, to make sure that there is baseball in every part of Nigeria because there are hidden talents everywhere in this country.
“Now, besides expanding the sports and creating awareness, baseball and softball around the world is known to be a game for intelligent people; ‘intelligent sports’, it is called. It is a game where you use your brain power to outdo the other team you are playing against and outside that, you require some physical strength too to be able to run, throw ball and to be able to catch ball while you’re running. It requires a lot of intelligence and coordination to play baseball.”
How does that relate with the younger ones?
“Oh, children like it. When you start grooming children from the age where they throw balls while running and you’re scoring them points, they get interested and it doesn’t take too much time to get into the game. Then it helps them in their development: children develop more properly playing baseball or softball.”
What is your dream for the game?
“I can tell you that baseball and softball is one of the most lucrative sports in the world, but hardly in Africa has the game reached where we envisage it to reach because of its funding. It is difficult to fund baseball like it is difficult to fund polo because you require a very large space for baseball just as you require a large space for polo. Now when you say large space, it requires money and I will tell you why:
“Baseball cannot be played in your compound, just as you cannot ride horses inside your compound. Large spaces in the property market does not come cheap, that is why we are out encouraging state and local governments. Our proposal and package is, provide us with the space and we will come teach your people the game of baseball and softball. Happily we are beginning to get responses around the country where even local government areas are contributing land.”
The good thing about land for baseball or softball is that you can do so many other things on it, Fingesi further said. “You can play football, basketball, cricket, etc on it and you can ride your horses. All you need is just an open space; what you do is just mark the field for your bases and you run around from one base to the other.
“Having said that, what we intend to do in Nigeria is to make sure that up to a million children play baseball in the next four years, that is our target.”
Now for the profitability of the game: how do we make good money?
“Baseball is the most lucrative of all sports in the world; players earn more money than footballers and basketballers, etc. Those who have the talent have limitless opportunities.”
Where does the money come from?
“The money comes from sponsorship of baseball; it is one of the games that is most funded in the world. In Asia, the Asian giants all play baseball, China, Japan and Korea all play baseball; they all have baseball parks all around their countries.
“In Nigeria, we have only two baseball parks and that’s not good for the country. We have one in the National stadium in Abuja and another in Ilorin, Kwara State. We are looking at having six baseball parks in the next one year around country; what we are trying to do now is find those who will fund it.
“The minute we succeed, the interest of baseball will keep increasing and by the grace of God we will achieve our ultimate goal of getting a million children to play baseball in the next four years.”
Cost of a baseball park
“It’s one of the cheapest things to fund. Let’s assume that you give us a large piece of bush; what it takes to cut down and remove the trees and shrubs in the bush is what it costs to set up a baseball ground. It becomes a park when you build sitting areas around the ground, but what it costs to flatten the ground after you remove all obstacles besides cutting and removing the trees is all it costs.”
The sport is growing so fast and Fingesi is optimistic that the next generation of Nigerians will rule the world with baseball and softball.
Now, a little of Fingesi’s political personae seeing the volatile state of the polity in Rivers State, is Fingesi involved in politics, by any chance?
“Yes, I would call myself a politician, but I really don’t do active politics because I also work for a multinational company; I however support politics truly.”
He said of his party and the state.
“Rivers state is a PDP state. The ex governor, Amaechi tried to turn the state into an APC state when he crossed to the opposition but they didn’t succeed.
“And this APC thing, we are taking a second look at it – and by that, I mean that for as long as the former governor doesn’t have influence in Rivers state politics again, a lot of people might decide to embrace APC; but because the former governor is still dominating the polity in Rivers state, everybody here remains PDP.”
Why is there so much bloodshed in the state polity? Why should someone die on account of someone else’s political ambition?
“I like that question because it is a touchy one. I will put it this way:
“Rivers is a rich state in terms of revenue it generates and in terms of the subventions that come to the state from the Federal Government.
“And ‘Nigerians’ being what they are, they want to dominate the big funds that come to Rivers state. Now, those who dominate it become influential so, instead of playing the right politics and win election fairly, they’ve gone beyond that to carry the gun to forcefully win elections.
“This started in 1999; the election that brought Peter Odili to power was violent and thereafter till today, it has never been without violence: it just gets worse every time there’s an election, like what we are witnessing now.”
Source: Daily Times
celebrity radar - gossips
Again! Fuji Star, Saheed Osupa Prevents Portable Re-Arrest in Kwara On New Petition (See Full Details)
Again! Fuji Star, Saheed Osupa Prevents Portable Re-Arrest in Kwara On New Petition (See Full Details)
Nigeria fuji icon, Saheed Akorede popularly known as Osupa, on Tuesday prevented the re-arrest of Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable after another petition surfaced against him.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that legendary Fuji musician discontinued his case against Portable on Tuesday following an appeal by prominent Nigerians to settle the matter out of court.
In a new development, Mr Yemi George, Managing Director of Starwood Hotels Ilorin, told NAN on Tuesday that Osupa prevailed on him not to re-arrest Portable after collecting the sum of N6.3m for a show that he did not perform.
“I have obtained every necessary documents to re-arrest him today in order to refund my money but out of respect for the legendary fuji musician (Osupa) , he prevailed on me not to.
“My company, Starwood Hotels O2 Arena in collaboration with the leadership of the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN) put an event together for Portable to perform but he never did” George said.
According to a document obtained by NAN, titled Petition for fraudulent and obtaining by false pretense the sum of N6.3m, the petitioners said they entered agreement with Portable on July 22, 2024, which he never respected.
According to the petition, Portable was paid N6.3m to perform at the ‘Kwara Tampan Fiesta’ on September 29, 2024, but failed to appear on stage at the agreed-upon time.
Despite arriving over 16 hours late, he allegedly sneaked out of his hotel lodging without fulfilling his promise to perform.
The petitioners claim that Portable’s actions caused significant financial loss and distress, and they are seeking a thorough investigation, prosecution, and restitution of the N6,300,000 allegedly obtained through fraudulent means.
The petition was signed by Chief Olu Amusan, Governor, TAMPAN and Ayodele Demokun on behalf of Starwogd Hotels 02 Arena
NAN recalls that the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of Kwara command, Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, had in a statement on Sunday confirmed the arrest of Portable following a petition received from Osupa.
The petition borders on serious allegations which includes criminal defamation, threat to life, incitement, character assassination, conduct likely to cause a breach of peace and the use of abusive and insulting words.
Opinion/Letter to the Editor
H.E. Tukur Yusufu Buratai: A Comprehensive Profile from Deepseek
Out of sheer curiosity and a desire to delve deeper into the intricacies of Nigeria’s military history, yesterday I decided to engage with the AI application known as Deepseek, posing a question about what it knows concerning Nigeria’s former Chief of Army Staff, General Tukur Yusufu Buratai. My intention was not only to test the depth of the intelligence capabilities of this innovative AI tool but also to acquire a neutral and unbiased report or profile of the former general—something that would be entirely devoid of any flattery or vindictive vilification of his character. What I received from Deepseek as feedback was a detailed and well-structured overview that encapsulated General Buratai’s significant military career.
General Tukur Yusufu Buratai, who served as Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS) from 2015 to 2021, is widely recognized for his transformative leadership and significant contributions to the Nigerian Army. Below is a synthesis of his key achievements, supported by context from the provided search results:
1. Counterinsurgency and National Security
Buratai spearheaded Nigeria’s fight against Boko Haram and ISWAP, drastically reducing their territorial control. Under his command:
– 75% reduction in attacks within five months of his appointment (2015), and a 90% decline in suicide bombings by 2017.
– He introduced innovative military strategies, such as the Super Camp Maneuver Concept and Mobile Strike Teams, which disrupted terrorist operations.
– The northeast became safer, enabling the 2019 general elections to proceed peacefully in previously insecure regions.
2. Institutional Reforms and Training
Buratai prioritized professionalism and capacity-building:
– Established the Nigerian Army Resource Centre (NARC) to address strategic defense gaps and foster research.
– Revived training exercises like Python Dance, Crocodile Smile, and Ayam Akpatuma, enhancing troops’ readiness for internal security operations.
– Expanded foreign training opportunities for officers and soldiers, improving Nigeria’s competitiveness in international military engagements.
3. Infrastructure and Welfare Development
His tenure saw unprecedented infrastructural growth:
– Founded Nigerian Army University, Biu (NAUB), Africa’s first Army university, focusing on technological and military education. The institution expanded rapidly, with 75% of admissions reserved for civilians.
– Upgraded barracks, hospitals (e.g., Level 4 facilities), and housing projects nationwide, significantly boosting troop morale.
– Launched initiatives like Army Farms and Ranches and Barracks Investment Programme to improve soldiers’ welfare and self-sufficiency.
4. Technological and Operational Innovations
Buratai modernized the Army’s capabilities:
– Created the Nigerian Army Cyber Warfare Command to combat digital threats.
– Commissioned indigenous Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles, reducing reliance on foreign equipment.
– Established specialized units like the Motorcycle Battalion and Special Forces Command for terrain-specific operations.
5. Leadership and Diplomacy
– Personal involvement in combat: Buratai frequently led troops on frontline missions, such as the 2020 Limankara hills operation, inspiring soldiers.
– Post-retirement, he served as Nigeria’s Ambassador to Benin Republic, strengthening bilateral ties and curbing cross-border crime.
– Promoted physical fitness within the Army, instituting policies like the Body Mass Index standard and completing a 60km run at age 60 to set an example.
6. Awards and Legacy
Buratai received numerous honors, including:
– Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR).
– Traditional titles like Betara of Biu Emirate and Jagunmolu of Saki Land.
– A Doctor of Letters (DLitt) honoris causa from NAUB.
Conclusion
General Buratai’s tenure reshaped the Nigerian Army into a more professional, technologically adept, and responsive institution. His legacy spans counterterrorism victories, educational advancements, and infrastructural development, earning him recognition as one of Nigeria’s most impactful military leaders.
For further details, refer to the cited sources.
As I wrote earlier, the information provided above is sourced from Deepseek, and it is a raw, unedited account of the current state of affairs. I firmly believe that it is crucial for Nigerians to learn the importance of acknowledging and commending leaders who are performing well or making significant positive contributions to the country, rather than indulging in the spreading of falsehoods, rumors, and smear campaigns simply because certain insecure individuals feel threatened by the rising prominence of others. This tendency to “kill their prophets” is detrimental to our collective progress.
For instance, take a closer look at the troubling situation in the North-East today; observe the morale of the troops, the quality of their training and kitting, and the overall leadership structure. Unfortunately, the situation has deteriorated significantly. During his tenure as Chief of Army Staff, General Buratai demonstrated an unwavering commitment to safeguarding Nigeria, even placing his own life on the line and facing numerous life-threatening situations.
In stark contrast, we now witness a disheartening trend where current commanders seem reluctant to lead from the front lines. The theaters of war in both the North-East and North-West regions have ceased to serve as bastions of operational strength or secondary offices for the Service Chiefs. I am aware of several nearby villages to Maiduguri Metropolitan Council (MMC) that are under constant threat, with terrorists freely roaming about and yet, tragically, no one appears ready or willing to confront them. It is no surprise that our great nation is currently in a state of turmoil and unrest.
Securing a complex and diverse society like Nigeria is not a task for the faint of heart; it requires immense dedication, strategic planning, and REAL HARD WORK. I strongly believe that we must address these challenges head-on, with a united front and a renewed sense of purpose, if we are to restore peace and stability to our beloved country.
MS Abubakar writes from Maiduguri
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