Pius Ikedia: The Diminutive Dynamo of Nigerian Football

Pius Nelson Ikedia, born on July 11, 1980, in Lagos, Nigeria, is a retired professional footballer best known for his blistering pace, flair, and creativity on the right flank. Though modest in stature at 1.66 meters, Ikedia’s presence on the pitch was anything but small. His speed, agility, and dribbling ability made him one of Nigeria’s most exciting wingers during his playing years.

Early Career and Rise to Prominence

Ikedia began his football journey on the streets of Lagos and quickly rose through the ranks at Bendel Insurance, a club renowned for grooming local talents. His impressive displays earned him a move to ASEC Mimosas in Ivory Coast, where he further honed his skills and attracted the attention of European scouts.

In 1999, his big break came when Ajax Amsterdam signed him a significant achievement for a young Nigerian footballer at the time. Although he struggled to cement a regular starting spot at the Dutch giants, his speed and technique showed promise, particularly in his early appearances.

European Club Career

Ikedia spent six seasons in the Netherlands, playing for Ajax, Groningen (on loan), RBC Roosendaal, and AZ Alkmaar, among others. Some of his career highlights include:
• Ajax (1999–2005) – 25 league appearances, 2 goals
• Groningen (Loan, 2002–03) – 27 appearances, 1 goal
• RBC Roosendaal – Over two seasons, he played 53 games and scored 5 goals
• AZ Alkmaar & RKC Waalwijk (Loan) – 12 appearances combined

He also had brief spells outside the Netherlands, featuring for Metalurh Donetsk in Ukraine, AZAL in Azerbaijan, and Mağusa Türk Gücü in Northern Cyprus. Ikedia concluded his career playing amateur football in the Netherlands, officially retiring in 2016.

International Career with the Super Eagles

Ikedia was a key figure in the Nigerian national setup in the early 2000s, earning 15 caps and scoring one goal for the Super Eagles between 1997 and 2004.

He represented Nigeria at several major tournaments:
• 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney
• 2002 FIFA World Cup in South Korea and Japan featured in group-stage matches, including high-profile games against Argentina and England
• 2004 African Cup of Nations made appearances in the tournament as Nigeria pushed for continental glory

While not always a first-choice starter, Ikedia brought energy and pace off the bench, often changing the tempo of games.

Health Scare and Resilience

In August 2016, Ikedia suffered a major health scare during an exhibition match in the Netherlands involving former Ajax players. He collapsed on the pitch and was immediately resuscitated. Thankfully, he survived the ordeal and recovered fully a testament to his resilience both on and off the field.

Legacy

Though his name may not be mentioned among the all-time greats of Nigerian football, Pius Ikedia’s career remains a story of talent, determination, and heart. From the dusty fields of Lagos to the iconic stadiums of Europe and international tournaments, he earned his place in the rich tapestry of African football.

Fans will forever remember him for his electric pace, fearless dribbling, and his unwavering passion for the beautiful game.

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CAVE HIRA — WHERE HEAVEN TOUCHED THE EARTH

High in the rugged mountains of Makkah, on the peak of Jabal al-Noor (The Mountain of Light), lies a small, unassuming cave. But it was here that the course of human history changed forever.

Before the revelation, the Prophet Muhammad would retreat to this cave for days — seeking solitude, truth, and connection with his Creator.

One night in Ramadan, while he was deep in worship, the Angel Jibreel descended with the first words of the Qur’an:

“Read in the name of your Lord who created…” (Surah Al-‘Alaq, 96:1)

That was the beginning of the final revelation — and the birth of Islam.

Climbing to Hira is not easy: 600+ rocky steps, under the desert sun, with nothing but your breath and your niyyah (intention). Yet every step feels sacred.

Interesting facts:

Jabal al-Noor means “Mountain of Light”, named after the revelation.
The cave actually faces the Kaaba — you can see it if you lie down and look through the entrance.
The cave is about 3.5 meters long and barely 1 meter wide — just enough for one to sit, pray, and reflect.

This is not a tourist spot. It’s a place of silence, surrender, and sincerity.

Alhamdulillah!

Muslim Navigators: Who Sailed the Oceans Before Columbus?

Long before the European “Age of Discovery” Muslim explorers were already charting the seas, documenting coastlines, and advancing the science of navigation.

Ahmad ibn Majid

A legendary Arab navigator and seafarer of the 15th century, often called “The Lion of the Sea.” He authored detailed manuals on maritime navigation, including the famous “Book of Useful Information on the Principles and Rules of Navigation.”

Ibn Battuta

One of the greatest Muslim travelers in history, who journeyed across more than 40 countries, from North Africa to China, India to the Maldives. His travel logs offer unmatched insights into the geography, cultures, and faiths of the medieval world.

Suleiman al-Tajir

A 9th-century merchant and explorer. Among the first to describe China in detail, he also documented maritime routes across the Indian Ocean and the thriving Arab trade networks.

These men were not just explorers — they were seekers of knowledge, driven by faith and a desire to benefit the Ummah. Their legacy in geography and seafaring continues to inspire today.

Alhamdulillah!

Agada....

This was the extent my ancestors got to building their own bed called "Elu akwa" when complete with the grass filled mattress. I don't know the history of its creation so I can't venture there.

This piece of artistry is already extinct even in the most rural of Igboland.

This wooden structure itself is called Agada in my Mbaise dialect, and few other Igbo speaking areas I know.

When the Igbo say that "Iko anaghị eku nwa, ihe o ketere bu aziiza elu ákwà", meaning that "a concubinus doesn't make paternity claims rather his only gain from the relationship is the heat of sexual intercourse." This is the"elu ákwà we talk about.

But seeing this photograph which I got from the walls of my brother Kelechi Sam Nwagbaraocha brought up something else.

We have a saying that "Agada gbachiri ụzọ" this basically means the Agada that blocked the door.

Those days, the doors of the thatched roofed houses our ancestors built were tiny, and it was always a rigourous spectacle either taking the bed inside the room or bringing it out.

And this process was always a real battle as it often gets stuck on the door blocking entrance and exit.

It is from this obstruction that the phrase "Agada gbachiri ụzọ" came from.

I know over the years some have used that term in religious contexts to refer to higher beings or even God as "the one who blocks the way".

Some have also used it to refer to someone who tries to obstruct the success of others. Or someone who actively tries to undermine or sabotage the success of others, often after they have achieved something themselves.

However, I have always wanted to know the context in which Chief Ozumba Mbadiwe took the title of Agada Gbachiri Ụzọ. Was it about his role in the NCNC or NPN?

First, Mbadiwe didn't have the key to the River Niger like The Great Zik, and he also didn't have the power to trick the Mamiwata into a bottle and locking her up, after which he crushed her to make the popular powder 'Saturday Night'. If you don't know about these stories then I am your real elder.

So who knows why Ozumba Mbadiwe was "Agada Gbachiri Ụzọ"?

How to Keep Your Kidneys Healthy

The kidneys play a vital role in filtering waste, regulating fluid balance, and maintaining overall body health. Keeping them in good condition is crucial for preventing kidney diseases and other health complications.
Below are simple yet effective ways to maintain healthy kidneys:

1. Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water helps your kidneys flush out toxins and prevent kidney stones. Aim for 6–8 glasses of water daily, but avoid overhydration.

2. Eat a Balanced Diet: Limit salt, processed foods, and excessive sugar. Incorporate fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and foods rich in antioxidants to reduce kidney strain.

3. Control Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar: High blood pressure and diabetes are leading causes of kidney damage. Regular check-ups and a healthy lifestyle can keep them in check.

4. Exercise Regularly: Staying active improves blood circulation, helps manage weight, and reduces the risk of conditions that harm the kidneys.

5. Avoid Excessive Painkillers and Alcohol: Overuse of pain relievers and heavy drinking can damage kidney tissues over time. Always follow medical advice.

6. Quit Smoking: Smoking reduces blood flow to the kidneys and increases the risk of chronic kidney disease.

7. Get Regular Screenings: Early detection of kidney problems can save you from long-term damage. If you have a family history of kidney disease, monitor your kidney health more closely.

In summary: Healthy kidneys require good hydration, proper diet, regular exercise, and avoidance of harmful habits. Taking care of them today means a healthier tomorrow.

Ashleigh Plumptre is a 25-year-old British-Nigerian footballer currently playing for Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia. Born in Leicester, England, on May 8, 1998, she has a unique dual heritage, with a Nigerian father and a British mother. This background significantly influenced her decision to play for the Nigerian national team, the Super Falcons, despite previously representing England at youth level .



Her football journey began at a young age with Asfordby Amateurs, followed by stints at Leicester City, Birmingham City, and Notts County in England. She also played college soccer in the United States for the University of Southern California Trojans. After her college career, she returned to England to play for Leicester City, contributing significantly to their promotion to the Women's Super League .



Plumptre's decision to represent Nigeria has been met with both support and curiosity. She has openly discussed her connection to her Nigerian heritage, emphasizing the importance of family and exploring her roots. Her performances for the Super Falcons, particularly during the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup, have solidified her status as a fan favorite. Her father, Tim Plumptre, and grandfather, Harry Dotun Plumptre, are of Yoruba descent, further strengthening her ties to Nigeria .



Beyond her impressive football career, Plumptre maintains a relatively private personal life. She has an estimated net worth of $5 million, a testament to her success both on and off the field. Her younger sister, Bayleigh Bisi Plumptre, also shares her Nigerian heritage and is a drummer. Ashleigh's story is one of talent, dedication, and a strong connection to her roots .

We Are First in Everything—Super Falcons of Nigeria Have Earned Those Badges 🎖

1️⃣. First Team To Produce Top Scorer At WAFCON: Nkiru Okosieme (Golden Boot), 1998.

2️⃣. First Team To Produce WAFCON Player Of The Tournament: Perpetua Nkwocha.

3️⃣. Only Team To Successfully Defend The WAFCON Title: 19982000

4️⃣. Only Team To Reach Semi-Finals In All Previous 12 WAFCON Editions

5️⃣. Most Hat-Tricks Scored In WAFCON History:
Perpetua Nkwocha—4️⃣ (2004, 2006, and twice in 2010)
Asisat Oshoala—2️⃣ (2016 and 2018).

6️⃣. Only Team Never To Lose A WAFCON Final

7️⃣. First Team To Win WAFCON Without Conceding A Goal: 1998—Nigeria scored 28 goals in five matches, conceding NONE:
8-0 vs Morocco
6-0 vs DR Congo
6-0 vs Egypt
6-0 vs Cameroon (semi-final)
2-0 vs Ghana (final)

STORY FOR THE GODS:
18 sitting governors were under EFCC investigation.

~ EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede reveals