Sam Okwaraji U-16 Football Tournament Gets Reps’ Support

A Historic Initiative in Nigerian Football

Members of the House of Representatives Committee on Sports have pledged their support for the inaugural Sam Okwaraji National U-16 Football Championship, aimed at secondary schools across Nigeria. This tournament seeks to honor the late Sam Okwaraji, a Super Eagles player who tragically lost his life on the pitch in 1989 during a World Cup qualifier against Angola.

A Distinguished Welcome

The committee welcomed the organizing delegation at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja. Chairman Kabiru Amadu, along with Deputy Mohammed Buba Jajere and member Adamu Hashimu, expressed their admiration for the initiative to immortalize Okwaraji. “This tournament by patriotic Nigerians celebrates a football icon whose sacrifice has been overlooked,” Amadu stated.

Grassroots Football Development

The chairman emphasized the tournament’s potential for promoting grassroots football in Nigeria: “We’ll support the tournament because it fosters development at the grassroots level. I urge you to ensure the championship proceeds as planned.”

Seeking Support and Transparency

Chidozie Achonwa, leader of the organizing committee and secretary of the Samuel Okwaraji Foundation, sought moral and financial backing from the committee. He assured that the tournament would enhance community relations among participants. The visiting members, including Dr. Okechukwu Duru, Stella Agu, and Chiamaka Chinaka, praised the committee for its oversight functions in the sports sector and pledged transparent management of the tournament.

Goodwill Messages

Warm messages of support arrived from prominent figures, including Chief Anyansi Agwu, second Vice President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), and former Super Eagles Coach Samson Siasia.

Upcoming Tournament Details

The Sam Okwaraji Memorial Tournament is set to kick off in August, featuring competitions across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, with the top two teams from each zone qualifying for the national stage.

The visit concluded with the ceremonial presentation of the tournament’s trophy to the House Committee members, marking a significant step in honoring a football legend.

Meta Description: Discover how the House of Representatives supports the Sam Okwaraji U-16 football tournament, honoring the late icon while promoting grassroots football in Nigeria.