NFF approves Sam Okwaraji memorial championship

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

With the initiative aimed at honouring the memory of the football legend, the championship, spearheaded by Samuel Okwaraji Foundation, received backing from the Senate Committee on Sports Development and will be held annually across secondary schools in Nigeria

Acting Director of Competitions for the NFF, Ruth David, in a letter 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.

He made his Super Eagles debut on January 30, 1988, against Algeria at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in Enugu. This was in the second leg of a qualifying match for the 1988 Seoul Olympic Games. Nigeria won the match 2-0, qualifying 2-1 on aggregate.

The Memorial Championship comes 36 years after his death.