Shaibu harps on discipline at First Bank Okwaraji U-16 Cup unveiling

The maiden edition of the First Bank Sam Okwaraji memorial U-16 football competition for secondary schools in Nigeria was unveiled at a media conference which was held yesterday in Abuja. The event was attended by key stakeholders in the sports sector, including the Director-General (DG) of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade , […]

The maiden edition of the First Bank Sam Okwaraji memorial U-16 football competition for secondary schools in Nigeria was unveiled at a media conference which was held yesterday in Abuja.

The event was attended by key stakeholders in the sports sector, including the Director-General (DG) of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade , DG of National Institute for Sports (NIS) Comrade Philip Shaibu, Senator Osita Izunaso , the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), and other sports stakeholders.

Speaking at the unveiling of the grassroots football tournament, the DG of NIS, Comrade Philip Shaibu, charged Nigerian youths to live disciplined and purposeful lives that will positively impact national development.

While reflecting on the life and legacy of the late Super Eagles midfielder, Samuel Okwaraji, Shaibu emphasized the need for young Nigerians to emulate values worthy of national pride.

He noted that Okwaraji remains a shining example of patriotism, having died in active service to the country.

“We were all in the comfort of our homes when we heard the sad news of his death while serving Nigeria at the international level.

“You cannot have someone like Samuel Okwaraji as a reference point and still be searching for role models in Nigerian sports,” said the former Deputy Governor of Edo State.

Shaibu also noted the importance of education and planning beyond active sports careers, noting that Okwaraji successfully combined academics with football.

On his part, Mr, Olayinka Ejabi, who represented First Bank Ltd, described the sponsorship as “not as a marketing effort, but as an investment in the development and future of Nigerian youths.”

The competition will kick off on May 16, with zonal preliminaries across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.