…As Amos Adamu , Augustine Eguavoen , Samson Siasia, NFF, NSC pledge support
Organisers of the forthcoming maiden Sam Okwaraji U-16 football tournament for all secondary schools in the country have announced that the competition will kick off on November, 8, 2025
Disclosing this in a world press conference to herald the tournament, Chairman of the Steering Committee of Senator Osita Izunaso, said the championship and the memorial lecture with the theme, “Patriotism, Education & Soccer,” was carefully selected because of the committee’s believe that education and sports can be powerful tools for nation-building.
According to the Senator representing Imo West in the Upper Legislative Chambers, while the late Sam Okwaraji may not benefit from the tournament being organized to immortalize him, thousands of young Nigerians will have the opportunity to showcase their football talents and bring glory to the nation.
He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support to sports development, even as he appealed to the Presidency to extend the same support to the tournament aimed at remembering a patriot who died playing for Nigeria 36 years ago, stressing that developing grassroots football is crucial for the growth of the country’s sports.
“We are happy with the way President Tinubu honored the Super Falcons, we must continue to recognize and celebrate the contributions of individuals who have shaped Nigerian football and I appeal to him to extend the same support to this championship.
“Developing grassroots football is crucial for the growth of our sport. Indeed it is the future. By investing in young talents, we can unlock their potential and create a brighter future for Nigerian football.
“Countries like the United Kingdom, Spain, and Italy have demonstrated the impact of football on national identity, economic growth, and social cohesion.
We can draw inspiration from their examples and strive to create a similar impact in Nigeria”, said the two time Senator.
Senator Izunazo while emphasizing that the benefit of football goes beyond the pitch noted that the committee can not do it alone with an appeal to corporate Nigeria to partner with them inorder to have a seamless competition.
“We need the support of the corporate organizations, governments at all levels, and wealthy individuals to make this initiative a success.
“By partnering with us, you can contribute to the development of young talents and your support can help us provide resources, training, and opportunities for young footballers to excel.
“Also by associating with this championship, you can help promote the growth of football in Nigeria and showcase our country’s potential to the world as well as investing in the future of our nation, empowering young people, and contributing to the development of our society”, he emphasized.
He used the occasion to extend special appreciation to the Senate Committee on Sports led by Senator Abdul Ningi and that of House or Representatives led by Hon. Kabiru Amadu Mai Palace, the NFF led by Mallam Ibrahim Musa Gusau, the Management of the NSC led by Mallam Shehu Dikko and Hon. Bukola Olapade and ex-internationals, Samson Siasia, and Augustine Eguavoen for their unflinching support to the tournament.
He also commended the Former Director General of the NSC, Dr. Amos Adamu, the grand patron of tournament for his support as well as Chief Anyansi Agwu , the representative of South East on the board of the NFF for their support to the project.
A minute silence was also observed for late Super Eagles goalkeeper Peter Rufai who was a team mate to late Okwaraji
