The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has officially launched the organizing committee for the inaugural U-19 Independence Challenge Cup in the country.
NFF President, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, represented by the Federation’s General Secretary, Dr. Muhammed Sanusi, stated that the youth tournament was designed to commemorate Nigeria’s independence anniversary while also providing a platform to identify and showcase emerging football talents.
The tournament is scheduled to take place from September 25 to October 1, 2025. Gusau reiterated the NFF’s dedication to initiatives that foster grassroots football, talent development, and national unity.
“There is no doubt that this tournament will reveal a wealth of talent,” he remarked. “We are prepared to support any initiative that encourages talent discovery and promotes unity among Nigerians.”
The chairman of the organizing committee, Ambassador Naseeb Sadiq Danpullo, characterized the competition as more than just a sporting event, referring to it as a beacon of hope and youth development in alignment with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
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He noted that although the initial plan was to include teams from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, this year’s edition will start with eight teams due to delays in endorsements.
“Independence Day is a momentous occasion for our nation, and many of our youth celebrate it with great enthusiasm,” Danpullo stated.
“Football serves as a unifying force, and the Independence Challenge Cup will act as a platform for talent scouting and national unity. This is a groundbreaking event for Nigeria.”
The committee members consist of Ambassador Naseeb Sadiq Danpullo (Chairman), Andrew Tyonongo (Secretary), Engineer Igwemma-Zion (Head, Protocol and Mobilization), Coach Handerson Peter (Head, Technical), Franklyn Imonah (Head, Media and Publicity), and Comrade Kator Agera (Head, Transport and Logistics).
Additionally, there are Olu Olorunlogbon Daniel (Head, Finance, Evaluation and Budgeting), Oforah Emmanuel Ekenedilichukwu, and Ms. Philips Patience Ojochenemi (Members).
