In a significant development for grassroots football in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), an Abuja-based sports development agency Slum2Stardom has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Federal Capital Territory Football Association (FCT FA).
The partnership aims to establish an annual awards ceremony dedicated to recognising excellence in grassroots football throughout the FCT.
The two-year agreement will facilitate collaboration between Slum2Stardom and the FCT FA to identify and honour exceptional players, coaches, referees, and team managers who have made noteworthy contributions to the advancement of grassroots football.
At the signing ceremony held in Abuja, Oladapo Oluwatope, Team Lead of Slum2Stardom, hailed the agreement as a pivotal step towards enhancing local football development. “We are inspired by the vision of FCT FA Chairman, Alhaji Adam Mouktar Mohammed, whose passion for grassroots football is evident. This collaboration will help to recognise those who work tirelessly at the grassroots level,” Oluwatope stated.
He further added, “Our aim is to engage with key stakeholders and create a platform that not only rewards excellence but also raises awareness about grassroots football in the FCT.”
During the ceremony, Alhaji Salihu Kolo, vice chairman of the FCT FA, who represented Chairman Alhaji Adam Mouktar Mohammed, praised Slum2Stardom for their commitment to FCT football. “I must applaud Slum2Stardom for this initiative. The ripple effect of this project will be immense in driving grassroots football development. We are excited and look forward to the first edition of the awards,” Kolo remarked.
The signing was also attended by notable figures, including Mr. Usman Ilerika, FCT FA Secretary, and Coach Patrick Bassey, a board member of the FCT FA and coach of Nigeria’s U15 team. From Slum2Stardom, the team included Oladapo Oluwatope, Edinamobong Okong (Operations Head), and Azubuike Jideaka (Head of Media and Publicity).
The inaugural FCT Grassroots Football Awards is anticipated to take place soon, marking a new era for recognising talent and dedication in grassroots football.
