Okwaraji foundation unveils schools football tournament
Okwaraji
By Emmanuel Afonne
The Samuel Okwaraji Foundation has unveiled an annual U-16 football competition for secondary schools in memory of late Super Eagles midfielder, Samuel Okwaraji.
Secretary of the foundation, Chidozie Achonwa, revealed this on Sunday during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja.
Achonwa said the foundation’s president, Patrick Okwaraji — eldest brother of the late footballer — initiated the event to preserve Okwaraji’s legacy and support grassroots football.
“Nigerians see late Okwaraji as a football hero who died in active service,” Achonwa said.
He noted that the competition would also help reach families of former athletes neglected by stakeholders, including government.
According to him, the tournament will be held in partnership with the Nigeria Football Federation, National Sports Commission, Senate and House Committees on Sports, and SWAN.
“We developed the idea and presented it to the NFF. They deliberated and approved it, and we are grateful for their support,” he said.
He added the tournament would offer a platform for talented youths, particularly those lacking exposure, to showcase their skills.
“People across and beyond Nigeria will see these young players, thanks to modern information technology,” Achonwa added.
He said football unites Nigerians, reducing crime, as even criminals pause to watch national matches.
“When a boy from Zamfara plays against another from Imo, friendship can begin,” he said.
Achonwa stressed that Nigeria could gain much by developing grassroots football under the foundation’s initiative.
The competition will begin at state level, where one school will qualify from each of the 36 states and the FCT.
It will then move to zonal eliminations before the final event, which will be held in either Lagos or Abuja.
“This will promote national unity and offer young people a platform to market themselves,” Achonwa explained.
He added that national and club coaches would attend the event to scout fresh talent.
“Each geopolitical zone will produce two schools, making 12 finalists for the championship,” he said.
Before kick-off, a Samuel Okwaraji Memorial Lecture will be held to enlighten participants.
“The lecture will teach patriotism and what it means to serve and die for one’s country,” Achonwa stated.
However, he revealed that funding remains the foundation’s biggest challenge.
He appealed for support from government, corporate, and public bodies to honour Okwaraji’s sacrifice.
“This competition is long overdue due to sponsorship delays, but better late than never,” he said.
The exact date is yet to be announced, pending final discussions with the Sports Commission and other partners. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo
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