Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), has event-in-lagos/” title=”Olamide Unveils “Olamidé” at Star…Studded Breakfast & Coffee Listening … in Lagos”>officially launched the organising committee for Nigeria’s first-ever U-19 Independence Challenge Cup. This tournament is designed to commemorate the country’s independence anniversary while providing a platform to highlight emerging football talents.
The inauguration took place yesterday at the Sunday Dankaro House, located within Package B of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja.
Representing Gusau, NFF General Secretary Dr. Muhammed Sanusi emphasized the federation’s dedication to the event, underscoring its importance in unearthing young football prospects.
“This competition is certain to reveal a wealth of promising players. We are fully committed to supporting initiatives that nurture talent and strengthen national unity,” Sanusi remarked during the official launch of the organising committee for the U-19 Independence Challenge Cup.
Heading the committee is Naseeb Sadiq Danpulo, who shared insights on the enthusiasm among Nigerian youth for this landmark tournament, scheduled from 25 September to 1 October 2025.
“Our Independence Day holds deep significance for Nigerians, with a large portion of the youth actively celebrating it. This inspired the creation of the tournament, as football remains a powerful unifier across the nation. Approximately 70 percent of Nigerians observe Independence Day, and the Challenge Cup will serve as a groundbreaking avenue for talent identification,” Danpulo explained.
While the original plan was to include 37 teams representing all 36 states plus the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the inaugural edition will feature eight teams due to delays in approvals. Nonetheless, Danpulo expressed confidence that future tournaments will see expanded participation.
Committee secretary Mr. Andrew Tyonongo highlighted the partnership between the Inter Sports Promoters Association and key national institutions such as the federal government, the National Sports Commission (NSC), and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), all of which have officially endorsed the event as part of Nigeria’s independence celebrations.
“Beyond showcasing exceptional youth talent, this tournament aims to foster unity, peace, patriotism, discipline, and national pride. It aligns perfectly with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ‘Renew Hope Agenda’ focused on youth empowerment and development,” Tyonongo stated.
He further pledged the committee’s resolve to ensure the tournament is conducted with transparency, harmony, and lasting impact. Tyonongo also appealed to the public and stakeholders to support the Inter Sports Promoters Association in making this historic event a success, expressing gratitude to the federal government, NSC, and NFF for their steadfast backing in launching Nigeria’s inaugural Independence Challenge Cup.
