NFF Approves Sam Okwaraji Memorial Championship, 36 Years After His Death

By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has officially approved the Sam Okwaraji Secondary Schools Soccer Championship, an initiative aimed at honouring the memory of late Nigerian football legend Sam Okwaraji, who died during a FIFA World Cup qualifier against Angola in August 1989.

The championship, spearheaded by the Samuel Okwaraji Foundation, received backing from the Senate Committee on Sports Development and will be held annually across secondary schools in Nigeria.

In a letter signed by Ruth David, Acting Director of Competitions, the NFF recognized the competition’s potential to positively influence youth development and promote grassroots football nationwide. The federation praised the foundation’s vision and urged organizers to strictly follow FIFA’s rules throughout the event.

Okwaraji, a lawyer trained in Rome, remains a symbol of patriotism for his dedication to the Nigerian national team. His legacy continues to inspire generations of Nigerian youth.

Oluwaseun Oyediji

Oluwaseun Babatunde Oyediji is a multi-media sports journalist with over 10 years experience in Information Communication Technology (ICT), women's football, and beach soccer reportage.The prolific writer is the Media Assistant to Nigeria Beach Soccer League and Africa Beach Soccer Union as well as contributor on Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) website.He has covered multiple national and international football tournaments including Championship of African Nations (CHAN 2020), CAF Women's Champions League (2023), and Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2023).Since 2021, Oyediji has covered the NWFL Premiership especially the season ending Super Six Playoffs.A member of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Ogun state chapter is also the image maker of the Remo Sports Development Council under the leadership of Chief Falilat Ogunkoya and David Osuolale.

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