President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has assured that modalities have been put in place to improve the Senate President’s U-18 Unity Cup annual tournament, and for nurturing of grassroots football talents across Nigeria.

Akpabio disclosed this on Sunday at the flag-off of the second edition of the championship, held at the Old Parade Grounds, Garki, Abuja.

A statement issued by the Public Relations Officer of the Grassroots Sports Federation (GRASOF), Mr. Patrick Ndubuisi said, a total of 21 teams comprising 16 male and 5 female teams drawn from across the country arrived in the nation’s capital on Saturday for the week-long competition, which officially kicked off amid excitement and youthful energy on Sunday.

Represented by the Chairman, Senate Committee on Sports Development, Senator Abdul Ahmed Ningi, Akpabio said the impressive turnout of young players underscores the importance of investing in grassroots sports to secure the future of Nigerian football.

“With these young men showcasing their talents, this is the future of Nigeria. There is no way sports can grow if we don’t go to the grassroots,” Akpabio stated.

“Gone are the days of the late Keshis, the Okochas, the Kanus, the Amokachis, the Ikpebas, and the Babangidas who honed their skills through grassroots tournaments. We must revive that spirit.”

The Senate President lauded the Grassroots Sports Federation (GRASOF) for its commitment to youth development through the tournament, describing it as a vital platform for discovering and grooming future football stars.

He further emphasized that sports development requires both passion and technical investment, urging administrators to leverage President Bola Tinubu’s support for sports as a national unifier.

“Sports development is not about sitting in your offices; it’s about passion and dedication. We must encourage these young boys and girls and ensure that sports remain a priority on the national agenda,” he added.

In his remarks, Tournament Coordinator, Hon. John Bassey Ekpenyong, expressed gratitude to Senator Akpabio for sustaining the initiative, noting that the Unity Cup will serve as a platform for teenage athletes to nurture their careers while promoting national unity and sportsmanship.

“This tournament will ensure that future generations of Nigerian youth continue to benefit from a platform that promotes unity and development. Under your leadership, we hope this becomes a flagship annual event,” Ekpenyong said.

Also speaking, Director of Amahus Football Club of Yobe, representing the Chairman, Local Organising Committee, Senator Musa Mustafa, commended Akpabio’s vision for youth empowerment and national unity through sports.

“To our young athletes, you are the champions of tomorrow. May this tournament be your platform to shine and create lasting memories,” he encouraged.

The opening ceremony featured two matches, with the first ending in a goalless draw, while Jaguar FC of Abia edged Amahus FC of Yobe by a lone goal in the second encounter.

Senator Ningi performed the official kick-off, to the admiration of players, officials, and spectators. The competition continues Monday at the Old Parade Ground, Garki.