The President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, has officially established the organising committee for Nigeria’s inaugural U-19 Independence Challenge Cup, a tournament designed to celebrate the nation’s independence anniversary and showcase young football talent.
He inaugurated the committee yesterday at the Sunday Dankaro House, in Package B of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.
Gusau, who was represented by NFF General Secretary Dr. Muhammed Sanusi, assured the federation’s commitment to the event, stating that it would play a pivotal role in discovering youthful talent.
“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,” Sanusi declared while formally inaugurating the organising committee for the U-19 Independence Challenge Cup.
Chairing the committee is Naseeb Sadiq Danpulo, who noted the eagerness of Nigerian youths for the historic competition, set to take place from 25 September to 1 October 2025.
“Independence Day is a significant occasion in our nation, and many of our youths celebrate this anniversary. This inspired us to create this idea, as sports, particularly football, 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 for our country,” Danpulo stated.
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. However, Danpulo expressed optimism for broader participation in future editions.
Meanwhile, committee secretary Mr. Andrew Tyonongo highlighted the collaboration between the Inter Sports Promoters Association and multiple national bodies, including the federal government, the National Sports Commission (NSC), and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), which proudly endorsed the tournament as an official activity commemorating Nigeria’s independence.
“This tournament will not only showcase the best of our youth talents but will also promote unity, peace, patriotism, discipline, and national pride, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ‘Renew Hope Agenda’ for youth empowerment and development,” Tyonongo explained.
He reiterated the organising committee’s commitment to delivering a transparent, peaceful, and memorable tournament. Additionally, Tyonongo called on the public and partners to join the Inter Sports Promoters Association in making history, expressing gratitude to the federal government, NSC, and NFF for their unwavering support in bringing Nigeria’s first Independence Challenge Cup to fruition.
