Sports
Grassroots football Guru: Celebrating Nureni Makanjuola’s Contributions to Nigerian Football
In the realm of Nigerian football, few individuals have made as profound an impact on grassroots development as Nureni Makanjuola, popularly known as MK. As the proprietor of Water FC of Abuja, MK has been instrumental in shaping the future of Nigerian football, one young player at a time.
MK’s love affair with football began at a young age, and his passion for the beautiful game only grew stronger with time. However, it was his realization of the vast, untapped potential in Nigerian grassroots football that spurred him to take action. Determined to make a difference, MK established Water FC, a platform dedicated to discovering, nurturing, and developing young football talents.
Water FC, under MK’s guidance, has become a beacon of hope for young Nigerian footballers. The club’s academy provides a conducive environment for youngsters to hone their skills, with top-notch coaching, training facilities, and equipment. MK’s commitment to grassroots development is evident in the club’s scouting network, which identifies and recruits talented players from all over the country.
The success stories emerging from Water FC are a testament to MK’s vision and dedication. Several players who have passed through the club’s ranks have gone on to represent Nigeria at various international levels, including the U-17 and U-20 World Cups- a case in point is Babatunde Micheal. Others have secured professional contracts with top Nigerian and European clubs, a clear indication that Water FC is producing talents capable of competing on the biggest stages.
MK’s impact extends beyond the football pitch. Through Water FC, he has empowered communities by providing opportunities for young people to engage in sports, thereby promoting social development and cohesion. The club’s presence has also stimulated local economic growth, with businesses and services springing up to cater to the needs of players, coaches, and visiting teams.
As a role model for philanthropy, MK’s selfless contributions to grassroots football development have earned him recognition as a role model for philanthropy in sports. His commitment to giving back to the community, without expecting anything in return, is a shining example for others to follow. By investing in the future of Nigerian football, MK is inspiring a new generation of leaders, entrepreneurs, and change-makers.
We conclude this price by stating explicitly that Nureni Makanjuola (MK) is a true champion of grassroots football development in Nigeria. Through Water FC, he has created a platform that not only discovers and develops young talents but also empowers communities and promotes social growth. As a nation, we owe a debt of gratitude to MK for his tireless efforts in shaping the future of Nigerian football. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come, and his impact on the beautiful game will never be forgotten.
Sports
PremiumTrust Bank Abuja City International Half Marathon Earns World Athletics Label
Nigeria’s foremost Sports Company, Nilayo Sports Management Limited (NSML) has announced the second edition of the PremiumTrust Bank Abuja City International Half Marathon, set to light up Nigeria’s capital city on Saturday, December 6, 2025.
With the theme “Steady Strides,” this year’s race captures the measured rhythm and determined pace that define world-class long-distance running, a reflection of the steady progress and ambitious vision shaping the marathon’s evolution into a global platinum-labelled event.
In a historic milestone for Nigerian sports, the PremiumTrust Bank Abuja City International Half Marathon has been officially awarded the prestigious World Athletics Label for its second edition, a distinction achieved in record time. This remarkable feat makes it the first marathon globally to earn the label so swiftly, underscoring both the organizational excellence of NSML and the dynamic rise of PremiumTrust Bank, currently celebrated as Nigeria’s fastest-growing commercial bank.
The 2025 edition is expected to attract elite international athletes, top local runners, and marathon enthusiasts from around the world, alongside officials from World Athletics who will oversee the competition.
Speaking on the announcement, Managing Director of Nilayo Sports Management Limited, Yetunde Olopade, expressed excitement about the unique partnership with PremiumTrust Bank.
“This second edition is fundamentally unique because it represents the first-ever true super-partnership on such a dynamic sports property in our nation and arguably, globally. PremiumTrust Bank is not just a sponsor but the sole partner anchoring the establishment, organization, and consolidation of a global marathon in Nigeria’s capital city.
” We are proud and grateful for the bank’s visionary leadership, which not only recognized the immense potential of the first edition but is now single-handedly driving the race toward international acclaim.”
Managing Director of PremiumTrust Bank, Dr. Emmanuel Efe Emefienim (CON) emphasized the shared values underpinning the partnership.
“PremiumTrust Bank is built on the philosophy of rapid, impactful, and sustainable growth, and the theme of this year’s marathon perfectly reflects our operational ethos.”
“Attaining World Athletics Label status in just the second year validates that our investment is yielding world-class outcomes. We are deeply proud to be the sole partner building this monumental legacy, reinforcing our commitment to sports development, community wellbeing, excellence, and platforms where champions are made.”
The PremiumTrust Bank Abuja City International Half Marathon 2025 promises to be a spectacular celebration of endurance, athleticism, and community spirit, further strengthening Abuja’s status on the global racing calendar.
Registration for participants is currently open as it promises to be another marathon spectacle on the 6th of December 2025.
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