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Niger Tornadoes Football Club of Minna bounced back from their 4-1 away defeat to Bayelsa United by securing three crucial points at home against Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) leaders, Remo Stars.
The Tornadoes displayed perseverance and determination to earn a 2-1 victory in match day 15 of the NPFL, held at the Bako Kontagora Stadium in Minna on Sunday.
First-half goals from Joseph Godstime and Papa Daniel in the 26th and 39th minutes, respectively, secured the win for the Ikon Allah Boys. Both teams played cautiously in the opening 15 minutes, studying each other until the 23rd minute when the home side stepped up their game. Captain Abba Khalid’s brilliant effort from the right wing set up Joseph Godstime, who tapped in the ball to open the scoring.
Papa Daniel’s free kick from a critical area in the visitors’ half deceived Remo Stars’ goalkeeper, Serge Obassa, doubling the lead for the home team in the 39th minute.
In the second half, Remo Stars increased the tempo in an attempt to get back into the game, but the Ikon Allah Boys remained resolute, keeping it tight at the back. Outstanding performances by Sunday Akinmoladun and Ahmed Family thwarted all the visitors’ attempts on goal.
Remo Stars managed to reduce the deficit when Michael Ibe capitalized on a mix-up in the Tornadoes’ defense, slotting home a goal just before the final whistle.
In his post-match interview, Coach Majin Mohammed praised the visitors, acknowledging their class and organization. “I think they are the most organized team we have played so far this season. Highly experienced compared to our young team,” he observed.
He revealed that after the midweek defeat to Bayelsa United, the team regrouped and fought hard to ensure they secured the three points at home, which they successfully achieved.
Remo Stars Coach, Daniel Ogunmodede, attributed their loss to a lapse in concentration, noting that it was a game they could have won. He recounted the missed opportunities that could have changed the outcome but acknowledged the home team’s solid defense.
“It is a victory that is good for them and a loss that is not good for us. Nevertheless, we will take the positives and move to the next game,” said Ogunmodede.
Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has extended his heartfelt sympathies to Comrade Abu Nmodu, Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Niger State Council, following a fire incident that affected part of his residence in Minna.
In a separate statement, the governor also expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Dr. Mahmud Mohammed Ndatsu, a retired permanent secretary in the Niger State civil service and a surgeon at General Hospital, Minna.
Governor Bago, through his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, described both incidents as unfortunate and deeply saddening. He encouraged Comrade Nmodu to accept the situation with faith, viewing it as the will of Allah. The governor prayed that Allah would replace whatever was lost in the fire incident.
Regarding the death of Dr. Mahmud Mohammed, Governor Bago highlighted the monumental loss to the state, noting Dr. Mahmud’s significant contributions to the education and health sectors. He extended his deepest condolences to the immediate and extended family of the deceased, as well as to his colleagues, friends, and all who knew him.
Dr. Mahmud and his friends had recently distributed gifts to patients at General Hospital Minna as part of their 40th anniversary celebrations. Tragically, he collapsed and died after participating in a football match.
The funeral for Dr. Mahmud Mohammed Ndatsu is scheduled to take place today at the Central Mosque in Minna at 10:00 AM.
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