Sen. Osita Izunaso, the representative for Imo West (Orlu) constituency and the driving force behind the project, has officially launched the FirstBank Sam Okwaraji U-16 Secondary School Football Championship.
The launch was held at the VIP Hall of the MKO Abiola National Stadium, Abuja on Monday.
Persecondnews reports that the competition immortalizes the memory of Samuel Okwaraji, the Super Eagles star who famously lost his life after collapsing on the pitch at the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos, in 1989.
In a poignant moment before the kickoff, participants and officials stood in silence to pay their respects to the fallen football icon.
“Sam is still alive because today we remember him not as a myth, but as a model of discipline, preparation, and commitment,” Izunaso said.
The lawmaker described the event as going far beyond sports, adding that “the classroom builds the mind, and the pitch builds character.”
The tournament enjoys the backing of the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), Nigerian School Sports Federation, National Sports Commission (NSC), National Institute for Sports (NIS), as well as the Senate and the House of Representatives Sports Committees.
Persecondnews correspondent who covered the event, reports that it will begin with preliminary rounds in various geopolitical zones across the country before the top 12 school teams converge for the grand finale in Abuja.
Awards will celebrate outstanding athletic performances, including best player, top scorer and best goalkeeper, while also recognising teams and individuals who display integrity, discipline and fair play both during matches and away from the pitch.
The First Bank of Nigeria is the major sponsor of the event.
Speaking at the launch, Mr. Olayinka Ejabi, who represented the financial institution, said the involvement “is not a marketing effort but an investment in the development and future of Nigerian youth.”
“The bank is fully committed to providing complete logistical support, including kits, accommodation, medical services, professional officiating standards, and certificates for every participant,” Ejabi assured.
Sen. Izunaso reiterated the importance of these values, noting that “if integrity fails, the tournament has failed. But if integrity starts, we create a legacy.”
Philip Shaibu, Director General of the National Institute for Sports, called on young Nigerians to lead disciplined and meaningful lives that help advance the country.
“Okwaraji stands as a shining example, a young man who combined academics and athletics,” Shaibu said, while also announcing a new NIS curriculum aimed at giving athletes – particularly those without strong formal education – practical skills and certifications.
The programme has NBTE approval and is awaiting NUC clearance. It will feature oral learning, examinations and mentorship.
Organisers highlighted how the championship promotes integrity, national unity and opportunities for the youth.
They pointed out that previous youth sports programmes have created jobs, boosted local businesses and enhanced community involvement.
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