The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), has approved the Samuel Okwaraji Secondary Schools Soccer Championship across Nigeria, in honour of Green Eagles legend Samuel Okwaraji.
The NFF’s approval is sequel to the endorsement of the Senate Committee on Sports Developments led by Senator Abdul Ningi.
This initiative which is billed to be an annual event is an initiative of the Samuel Okwaraji Foundation to immortalise the late Nigerian international. Okwaraji slumped and died at the National Stadium in Surulere, Lagos on 12th August, 1989, during a crucial Italia 1990 FIFA World Cup qualifying match against Angola.
The NFF in a letter signed by Ruth David, Acting Director of Competitions, read that the endorsement was in recognition of the objectives and goals of the championship, which would not only impart positively on the youths who are the participants, but also the development of football in the country.
NFF also appreciated the foundation for its vision to contribute to the growth and development of grassroots football in Nigeria.
The federation appealed to the organisers to adhere to the extant rules of football as approved by the Federation of International Football Associations (FIFA), during the nationwide competition set to kick off later this year.
Educated at an Italian University in Rome, the late Okwaraji’s commitment to the Nigeria national team symbolised a true spirit of patriotism on the part of a Nigerian youth who prioritised service to his country above personal gains.
His exemplary conduct and service to the Super Eagles (then known as the Green Eagles), will continue to remain a model for the Nigerian youth even in more decades to come.