NFF inaugurates U-19 Independence Cup Committee

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) inaugurated the organising committee for the maiden U-19 Independence Challenge Cup on Monday.

The tournament will take centre stage from 25th September to 1st October 2025.

Inaugurating the 9-member committee, NFF President Ibrahim Musa Gusau said the Federation will always lend its support to any initiative that discovers talents and promotes peace and unity among the youths.

Gusau, who was represented by the General Secretary, Dr Muhammed Sanusi, expressed the commitment of the football house to the competition.

He said, “There is no doubt that this tournament will uncover a multitude of talents. We stand ready to support any initiative that promotes talent discovery and fosters unity among Nigerians.”

Chairman of the committee, Naseeb Sadiq Danpullo, said the competition is not just about football or any sporting event but a symbol of hope, unity and focus on youth development in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu-led administration. He added that the tournament was initially scheduled to accommodate teams from the 36 states and the FCT, but due to late endorsement.

“Independence Day is a significant occasion in our nation, and many of our youth celebrate this anniversary. This inspired us to create this idea. As a sport, football, in particular, is a unifying force among Nigerians. Statistically, around 70 per cent of our population celebrates Independence Day. The Independence Challenge Cup will serve as a platform for talent scouting, marking a first-of-its-kind event for our country.

“Originally planned to feature 37 teams from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the tournament will commence this year with eight teams due to delayed endorsements,” Dan Pullo stated.

Members of the organising committee inaugurated by the NFF are Ambassador Sadiq Naseeb Danpullo, chairman; Honourable Andrew Tyonongo, secretary; Engineer Igwemma-Zion, head, protocol and mobilisation; Coach Handerson Peter, head technical; Franklyn Imonah, head, media and publicity and Comrade Kator Agera, head transport and logistics.

Others are Olu Olorunlogbon Daniel, head, finance, evaluation and budgeting and Honourable Oforah Emmanuel Ekenedilichukwu and Ms Philips Patience Ojochenemi as members.

Sporting Tribune reports that the competition will kick off on Thursday, 25th September 2025 at Nyanya Football Pitch, Abuja while the final will take place at the main bowl of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.

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