By Aderonke Ojo
The stage is set for the inaugural Independence U-19 Football tournament, a premier youth football competition endorsed by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), National Sports Commission (NSC), and Federal Government of Nigeria.
This tournament forms part of the activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary Celebration and organized by the Inter-Sports Promoters Association (ISPA) is proud to present the Independence U-19 Football tournament.
A premier youth football competition that aims to inspire hope, promotes unity and create opportunities for young footballers across the country.
As Nigeria prepares to mark its anniversary on October 1st ,the celebration is set to take a new and exciting turn with the launch of the maiden U-19 Nigeria Independence Football Cup 2025 set to kick off on Thursday, September 25th to October 1st, 2025 at the Popular Football Pitch, Nyanya, Mopol Junction, Abuja.
Representing the President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, on Monday in Abuja,NFF Secretary General Dr. Sanusi Mohammed commended the initiative, noting that it would play a vital role in fostering national unity, particularly among Nigerian youth.
In his welcome address, ISPA Secretary organizing committee said this is Nigeria’s 1st Independence U-19 Football Cup 2025,Hon. Andrew Tyonongo expressed appreciation to stakeholders and emphasized the importance of the tournament.
“ This tournament, as endorsed by the NFF, NSC, and the Federal Government, is proudly a national Sporting program and part of the official activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary.
“ It will not only showcase the best of our youth sporting talents but also promote unity, peace, patriotism, discipline, and national pride as it’s aligns with president Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s RENEWED HOPE AGENDA for youth empowerment and development.
“ Our mandate is clear— to organize a transparent, successful, and memorable tournament that inspires hope and creates real opportunities for young Nigerian footballers.
“ The U-19 Cup is envisioned as a platform for grassroots development. Talented players will be discovered from across the 36 states and the FCT, and groomed to become national and international football stars in the near future,” Hon. Tynongo added.
“ Towards this end, I sincerely welcome all of you and enjoined you to partner with us to be a part of this historic making event,” he said.
Also speaking at the event, President of ISPA, Amb. Nasril Dankolo, extended gratitude to the Federal Government, sporting bodies, and other key partners for their support. He reaffirmed ISPA’s commitment to youth empowerment through sports.
The 1st Nigeria Independence U19 Football Cup is more than a sporting event—it is a symbol of hope, unity, and a renewed focus on youth development under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Eight teams are expected to participate and Matches will be held in Abuja, with the grand finale taking place at the Main Bowl of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, coinciding with Nigeria’s Independence Day
The Independence U-19 Football Cup 2025 aims to build a legacy of talent development, discipline, and unity through football, celebrating Nigeria’s youth and renewed hope for the nation.