Joel Ajayi
Almost Four decades after the enduring legacy of Sam Okwaraji continues to inspire generations, a new chapter in youth football development has been launched with the unveiling of the FirstBank Sam Okwaraji U-16 Championship in Abuja.
Director-General of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade, said the initiative is strategically designed to discover and groom young talents capable of representing Nigeria at the U-17 World Cup.
Olopade made this known during the official unveiling of the maiden championship at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium on Monday. The event, endorsed by the Nigeria Football Federation, Nigeria School Sports Federation, NSC and the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, drew key stakeholders in sports development.
Organised by the Samuel Okwaraji Foundation, the championship aims to promote patriotism, education, and youth development through football, while immortalising the legacy of the late Nigerian hero.
Born on May 19, 1964, Sam Okwaraji was not only an accomplished international footballer but also a lawyer with a master’s degree in international law. He tragically passed away on August 12, 1989, after collapsing during a World Cup qualifier against Angola in Lagos.
Olopade commended Osita Izunaso for sustaining Okwaraji’s legacy through the foundation, noting that his story continues to inspire unity, patriotism, and sacrifice among young Nigerians.
“Okwaraji’s legacy transcends generations and remains a powerful symbol of national pride. This championship will impact millions of youths across the country,” he said.
He also highlighted ongoing reforms at the National Institute for Sports, aligning with the vision of the NSC and the Renewed Hope Agenda of Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“For the first time, sports is being recognised as a major contributor to Nigeria’s GDP under the RHINSE initiative aimed at transforming the sports industry,” Olopade added, urging corporate organisations to emulate FirstBank’s commitment to grassroots sports development.
In his remarks, Izunaso described the championship as a robust platform for nurturing young football talents nationwide. He assured that participating schools would benefit from full logistics support, including accommodation, medical services, officiating, and security.
“Integrity is the foundation of this championship. We will ensure strict compliance with age verification and officiating standards,” he said, while calling on governments to provide adequate infrastructure and security for sporting activities.
Managing Director of First Bank of Nigeria, Olusegun Alebiosu, who was represented by Acting Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications, FirstBank Olayinka Ijabiyi, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to youth development through sports.
“This project aligns with our vision of nation-building. It will not only discover talents but also instil discipline and character in young athletes,” he noted.
Also speaking, President of the Nigeria School Sports Federation, Olabisi Joseph, emphasised the importance of balancing academics with sports.
“School sports must combine learning with physical development. The maiden edition will be held nationwide and will feature only boys,” she said.
The championship is expected to serve as a pipeline for future national team stars, ensuring that the spirit and sacrifice of Sam Okwaraji continue to shape Nigeria’s football future.
