A notable Philanthropist and Coordinator of Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) U-17 Youth League, North-Central, Barr. Paul Edeh, has posited that the ongoing tournament will present open opportunities geared towards discovering grassroots talents that will offer seamless transition for ageing players.
Barr. Edeh who spoke in Lafia when he led a delegation to visit Nasarawa state Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Jafaru Ango, shortly before the kick-off of the youth league on Thursday February 1, 2024, said the task of football development in Nigeria is a collective responsibility.
He said the choice of Lafia, one of the five centres for the competition was necessitated by its distinct proximity to the affected NPFL clubs.
Lobi Stars FC of Makurdi Benue State, Plateau United FC of Jos, Kwara United FC of Ilorin, and Niger Tornadoes of Minna are taking part in the zonal football feast.
While sending appreciation of the Board of the NPFL under the leadership of Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye, Barr. Edeh who is also the Chairman of Benue State Football Association and President of Ratels Sports Development Foundation, thanked Nasarawa State Government for making its venue available with other supporting resources.
He said, “The idea behind the Youth Tournament is to facilitate a hub of talents that can transit from one point to another in line with the requirements of the NFF and world football governing body, FIFA, to build a succession programme for clubs and countries.
“So, it’s my sincere desire to continuously give it my best shot whenever there’s an opportunity to contribute my own quota in the development of the round-leather game.”
Both the Nasarawa State Youth and Sports Commissioner Hon. Ango and Permanent Secretary of the State Minaitry of Youth and Sports development, Barr. Isaac Danladi, expressed optimism that the Youth League will produce the desired result, just they echoed the state government’s readiness to give necessary support.
The 2023 NPFL U17 Youth League Cordinator later presented souvenir kits to the Commissioner and Permanent Secretary.
The competition which is already producing results will climax on Saturday February 3, 2024.
Opening day hostilities saw Lobi Stars coming up tops over Kwara United 3-2, while Plateau United pummeled Niger Tornadoes 4-0.
