Abuja: The Federal Government has expressed its support for the recently launched Onyeka Ikenga Football Academy, emphasizing that the initiative will serve as a vital platform for identifying and nurturing Nigeria’s future football talents. This endorsement was highlighted by the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, during the unveiling ceremony of the academy’s Under-17 team in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Olawande, represented by Special Adviser on Public Engagement Omoleye Adedoyin, underscored the importance of the initiative as a demonstration of commitment from individuals and stakeholders towards football development and youth empowerment. Olawande remarked, “Being here today is an opportunity for me. Being right here shows that there are people who are committed to football and sports, and we want our young children to grow and be proud of us.”
He further stated that the academy would provide young footballers with opportunities to showcase their talents, hone their skills, and pursue professional careers. “This is a platform where talents can be identified. There are also many young people who are willing to do more. From here, it is a stepping stone for them to go higher and put into practice whatever they have learned,” he added.
The unveiling ceremony was officiated by Olawande, who commended the Ikenga family for transforming Onyeka’s passion for football into a youth development initiative. The event’s Chairman, Moses Ebute, SAN, expressed optimism that the academy would produce future Super Eagles players and internationally recognized football stars. He challenged the young players to help Nigeria return to the FIFA World Cup and ultimately win the competition, urging them to maintain discipline and sportsmanship.
Ngozi Ikenga, the mother of the late Onyeka and Chairperson of the football club, explained that the academy was established in July 2023 to fulfill her daughter’s dream of empowering young people through football. She disclosed that the official launch and unveiling of the Under-17 Team were deliberately held on Onyeka’s posthumous birthday to honor her memory and sustain her legacy. Ngozi assured that the project would remain an annual initiative, emphasizing Onyeka’s passion for building young people and creating opportunities for their success.
The Director of Sports of the Onyeka Ikenga Football Club, Lawrence Ikenga, highlighted the academy’s commitment to youth development through football. He mentioned that professional and FIFA-certified coaches, along with scouts, were involved in identifying outstanding talents during the competition.
The event featured a novelty match between a selected Under-17 Team and the Onyeka Ikenga Football Academy, with the academy securing a 5-0 victory. Additionally, the Under-13 tournament involved 10 teams, with Onyeka Ikenga Football Academy winning the championship after defeating Karu Football Academy (KFA) 2-0 in the final.
The winners received a trophy and N200,000, while KFA was awarded N100,000 and a trophy, and De Baggio received N50,000. Effiong Nfonso of KFA emerged as the highest goal scorer, while Ijere Ijere of Onyeka Ikenga Football Academy was named Best Goalkeeper. William Ikenga of Ikenga FC won the Most Valuable Player award.
NAN reports that the academy was established as a lasting tribute to Onyeka Ikenga, who passed away following a brief illness on January 11, 2024. Her family stated that the academy was created to preserve her passion for football while nurturing young talents and promoting discipline, teamwork, integrity, resilience, and excellence.