Published on March 31, 2026
The Director General of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Comrade Philip Shaibu, has called on Nigerian youths to live disciplined and purposeful lives that will positively impact national development. Shaibu made this appeal during the unveiling of the maiden edition of the FirstBank Sam Okwaraji U-16 Secondary School Football Championship in Abuja yesterday.
During his address, Shaibu emphasized the critical role sports play in the personal development of young individuals. He highlighted that discipline in sports can translate to discipline in other aspects of life, urging the youth to harness their energies towards constructive activities that promote both individual and national growth.
The championship, named after the late Nigerian football legend Sam Okwaraji, aims to discover and nurture young talents across the country. Shaibu praised FirstBank for sponsoring the event, noting that private sector involvement is essential for the advancement of sports in Nigeria. He insisted that such collaborations would provide the necessary support to unearth talents that could represent Nigeria on the global stage.
As part of his message, Shaibu reiterated the importance of education alongside sports. He encouraged student-athletes to prioritize their academic pursuits, stating that a well-rounded education is just as crucial as excelling in sports. “Education is the backbone of any society. While we encourage you to excel on the field, we also want you to be champions in the classroom,” he said.
The FirstBank Sam Okwaraji U-16 Championship is expected to feature teams from various secondary schools, offering a platform for young footballers to showcase their skills. Shaibu urged participating schools to instill values of teamwork, respect, and perseverance in the young athletes, stating that these qualities are fundamental to success both in sports and life.
The event’s unveiling was attended in the sports sector, who echoed Shaibu’s sentiments on the importance of nurturing discipline and commitment among Nigerian youths. The championship is poised to kick off soon, with exciting prospects for budding talent to emerge.
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