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The President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, has officially endorsed the inaugural Obong Isong Isang Memorial Academies Championship, organized by the Akwa Ibom State Football Association (FA).
The tournament, which will run from November 2 to 9, 2024, will feature 19 academies in a knockout format at the Uyo Township Stadium, Uyo.
During the draw ceremony, the Chairman of Akwa Ibom State FA, Mr. Samuel Umoh, expressed the association’s vision for the competition. In his speech, Umoh highlighted the importance of the tournament as a platform for nurturing young football talent and fostering discipline.
Akwa Ibom State FA Chairman Mr. Samuel Umoh at the Obong Isong Isang Memorial Academies Championship draw ceremonyHe said: “The 2024 Obong Isong Isang Memorial Academies Championship is a test for the FA and a test for you. We are trying to build something unique. I pray your full support for the maiden edition of this competition to succeed.”
“With 19 registered teams, this turnout is unprecedented. We will have 18 games in total—18 finals. But it’s not just about winning; it’s about creating a platform for your players to develop.”
“We will not tolerate any act of indiscipline. Pre-match and post-match interviews are compulsory. Whether you win or lose, ensure you participate in the post-match interview.”
All matches will be held at the Uyo Township Stadium, with the opening ceremony scheduled for Saturday, November 2, 2024, at 4 PM. Immortality Football Academy will kick off the tournament against NNS Academy, setting the tone for what promises to be an exciting week of youth football action.
SportsRation correspondent Nsikakabasi Akpan, who attended the draw ceremony on Monday, October 28, 2024, noted the excitement among the participating teams. “You could see the joy and anticipation on the faces of the team representatives— a sign the young lads are ready to showcase their talent on a big stage,” Akpan observed.
Akpan also described the endorsement by NFF President Ibrahim Gusau as a significant boost for the competition. “This endorsement from the NFF President elevates the importance of the tournament. It’s not just the on-field action that will capture attention; the innovations introduced by the Samuel Umoh-led Akwa Ibom FA will bring a refreshing touch to the tournament.”
With mandatory pre-match and post-match interviews as part of the new initiatives, the tournament aims to promote professionalism and media engagement at the grassroots level.
The Obong Isong Isang Memorial Academies Championship promises to be a landmark event, combining competitive football with a developmental focus, setting a high standard for future grassroots competitions.
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