Sports

Why I Am Sponsoring the Judo Grassroot Championship – FCT FA Chairman

Published

7 months ago

April 12, 2025

Joel Ajayi

The Chairman of the Federal Capital Territory Football Association (FCT FA), Alhaji Mohammed Adam Mouktar, has emphasized that his commitment to discovering and nurturing untapped talent is the driving force behind his sponsorship of the FCT Grassroots Junior Judo Championship.

Speaking on Saturday in Abuja during the championship organized by the FCT Judo Association—affiliated with the Nigeria Judo Federation—in collaboration with the Sports Department of the Youth and Sports Secretariat, FCT, and the Tichard Agbonifo Hand2Hand Foundation, Mouktar highlighted the importance of grassroots sports development.

The event featured young athletes from six states in the North-Central zone: the FCT, Plateau, Niger, Kogi, Kwara, and Nasarawa.

Addressing participants and guests, Mouktar said:”We are gathered here today for the FCT Grassroots Junior Judo Championship, which brings together states from the central zone—FCT, Kwara, Kogi, Plateau, Nasarawa, and Niger. I warmly welcome you all.

“It gives me great pride and joy to stand before you today, not only as a patron of FCT Judo but also as a proud sponsor of this championship. This event is more than just a competition; it is a celebration of discipline, respect, courage, and the limitless potential of our youth.

“Judo is a sport that instills discipline and builds character. It promotes unity and empowers young people to believe in themselves and work hard to achieve their dreams.

“Our investment in grassroots sports like Judo is an investment in the future of Nigeria. I firmly believe that talent is everywhere—but it needs the right opportunities to shine. That’s why I am committed to supporting and sponsoring initiatives that give our young athletes the chance to grow, compete, and become champions—both on and off the mat.

“To the young Judokas: this is your day. Show your skills, your heart, and your determination. Remember, every great champion started right where you are now.

“To the coaches, organizers, and parents: thank you for your dedication and hard work. You are shaping the next generation of strong, disciplined, and focused Nigerians.

“Let us continue to build a brighter future for Nigerian sports—starting at the grassroots.”

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Sports

From Streets to Stardom: Unique Futbol Academy Scouting Program Inspires Ibadan’s Young Footballers

Published

12 hours ago

November 4, 2025

The Gleamer

Ibadan is buzzing with excitement as the Unique Football Academy Scouting Program kicks off, bringing together top European football clubs and talented young Nigerian players.

The four-day program, which commenced on Monday, features a delegation of four directors from prominent European teams, including two from Kosovo and one from India, led by renowned football agent Diego Martins from Portugal.

The scouting program aims to identify and select outstanding players who will be given opportunities to showcase their skills in Europe.

Successful players will be offered the chance to take their careers to the next level, with the organizers assuring them of opportunities abroad.

According to the Director of the program and founder of Unique Football Academy, Mr. Jelil Oladimeji, this is not the first time the academy has organized such an event.

“This is the 4th edition, and we are proud of the progress and impact we have made so far in terms of exposing our raw talent to the European market,” he said.

The program has already proven successful, with several players from previous editions going on to excel in European leagues. Some notable examples include Haruna Saleh with PAOK in Greece and Praisegod Emersons in Slovakia.

As the program continues, clubs are gearing up to exhibit their talents, and the future looks bright for Nigeria’s young football stars.

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