Senate President Akpabio pushes grassroots football development, urging youth talent discovery at the U-18 Unity Cup to restore Nigerian football glory.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has reiterated his commitment to grassroots football development, emphasizing the importance of discovering and nurturing young football talents across Nigeria.
Speaking during the opening of the second edition of the 10th Senate President’s U-18 Unity Cup in Abuja, Akpabio stressed that structured youth programs are essential to reviving Nigerian football and producing the next generation of national heroes.
Represented by the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Sports Development, Senator Abdul Ahmed Ningi, the Senate President revealed plans to institutionalize the Unity Cup as an annual competition.
He said the tournament would provide a platform for young athletes to demonstrate their skills, gain professional exposure, and ultimately represent Nigeria at continental and international tournaments.
“The future of Nigerian football lies in grassroots football development. We cannot expect success on the world stage without investing in our young players at the community level,” Akpabio said.
“This tournament gives us an opportunity to identify and nurture future stars like Okocha, Kanu, and Keshi.”
Akpabio also commended President Bola Tinubu for prioritizing sports in his administration, noting that the renewed attention to youth programs presents a unique opportunity for sports administrators to adopt a more strategic and professional approach.
“It should not be business as usual. We must take advantage of this moment to invest in our young talents,” he said.
The Senate President praised the efforts of the Grassroots Sports Federation (GRASOF) for organizing the tournament and providing a platform that promotes grassroots football development.
He described the event as a critical step in developing Nigerian youth while fostering national unity, discipline, and sportsmanship.
In his remarks, Tournament Coordinator Hon. John Bassey Ekpenyong highlighted the benefits of sustaining the U-18 Unity Cup.
He noted that regular competitions provide young athletes with opportunities to hone their skills, pursue professional careers, and contribute to the broader development of Nigerian football.
“This tournament ensures continuity in youth football development. By giving our young talents a platform to excel, we are investing in the long-term future of Nigerian football,” Ekpenyong said.
This year’s competition features 21 teams — 16 male and 5 female — drawn from across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. The teams arrived in Abuja ahead of the tournament kickoff at the Old Parade Ground, Garki.
The opening match saw Jaguar Football Club of Abia State narrowly defeat Amahus Football Club of Yobe 1-0, demonstrating the high level of skill and determination among the young players.
Akpabio emphasized that grassroots football development is not only about discovering talent but also about building the structures needed to support these players long-term.
This includes professional coaching, mentoring programs, and partnerships with football academies and clubs at home and abroad.
“Talent alone is not sufficient. We must provide guidance, infrastructure, and opportunities to turn potential into achievement,” Akpabio said, adding that corporate organizations and private stakeholders should invest in youth football programs.
He concluded by urging football administrators to adopt a proactive approach to nurturing young players.
The Senate President reiterated that sustained commitment to grassroots football development would restore Nigeria’s reputation as a powerhouse of African football.
The 2025 Senate President’s U-18 Unity Cup continues throughout the week at the Old Parade Ground, providing a platform where young talents can shine, develop professionally, and contribute to the growth of Nigerian football.
With the continued support of the Senate, sports organizations, and stakeholders, this tournament is positioned to become a flagship initiative for youth empowerment, sportsmanship, and national pride.
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