The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has inaugurated the organising committee for the country’s first-ever U-19 Independence Challenge Cup.
NFF President, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, who was represented by the Federation’s General Secretary, Dr. Muhammed Sanusi, said the youth tournament was conceived to celebrate Nigeria’s independence anniversary while providing a platform to discover and showcase emerging football talents.
The competition will be held from September 25 to October 1, 2025.
Gusau reaffirmed the NFF’s commitment to initiatives that promote grassroots football, talent development, and national unity.
“There is no doubt that this tournament will uncover a multitude of talents,” he said. “We stand ready to support any initiative that promotes talent discovery and fosters unity among Nigerians.”
Chairman of the organising committee, Ambassador Naseeb Sadiq Danpullo, described the competition as more than just a sporting event, calling it a symbol of hope and youth development in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
He explained that while the original plan was to feature teams from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, this year’s edition will commence with eight teams due to delayed endorsements.
“Independence Day is a significant occasion for our nation, and many of our youth celebrate it with enthusiasm,” Danpullo said.
“Football is a unifying force, and the Independence Challenge Cup will serve as a platform for talent scouting and national unity. This is a first-of-its-kind event for Nigeria.”
The committee members include Ambassador Naseeb Sadiq Danpullo (Chairman), Andrew Tyonongo (Secretary), Engineer Igwemma-Zion (Head, Protocol and Mobilisation), Coach Handerson Peter (Head, Technical), Franklyn Imonah (Head, Media and Publicity), and Comrade Kator Agera (Head, Transport and Logistics).
Others are Olu Olorunlogbon Daniel (Head, Finance, Evaluation and Budgeting), Oforah Emmanuel Ekenedilichukwu, and Ms. Philips Patience Ojochenemi (Members).
