In Nigeria, football is more than just a sport; it’s a unifying force that brings communities together. Recognizing this, the Zalen Foundation has harnessed the power of football to empower youth and foster talent across the nation. Our recent tournament not only showcased emerging football stars but also reinforced our commitment to community development and youth empowerment.
Zalen Foundation remains steadfast in its mission to uplift Nigeria’s vulnerable populations, with a particular focus on women, youth, children, and persons with disabilities. A cornerstone of our five-year strategic plan is the empowerment of youth through sports, recognizing its transformative power in fostering discipline, teamwork, and personal growth. Our recent football tournament stands as a testament to this commitment, offering young talents a platform to showcase their abilities and pursue their aspirations.
Tournament Highlights
The tournament was a resounding success, marked by several key developments:
- Enhanced Equipment: The Foundation invested in 10 new footballs, three of which are FIFA-approved, ensuring that participants had access to top-quality equipment.
- Branded Jerseys: We unveiled 20 branded jerseys, each featuring images of the Benue State Governor, his Deputy, football ambassador John Fashanu, and FIFA President Gianni Infantino. These jerseys symbolize the support and recognition of esteemed figures in the football community.
- Venue and Facilities: All players were accommodated at the Aper Aku Stadium quarters in Makurdi, Benue State. The stadium, initiated by the Second Republic Governor Aper Aku, serves as a hub for football activities in the region.
- Match Arrangements: The selection process was rigorous, with sessions held both in the morning and evening. Multiple clubs participated, challenging our players and elevating the competition’s standard. To ensure comfort and safety, we provided canopies, chairs, necessary football kits, ample water, and medical support, including an on-site nurse.
Distinguished Attendees
The tournament was graced by notable personalities:
- John Fashanu: A former professional footballer renowned for his tenure with Wimbledon, where he scored over 100 goals and secured the FA Cup in 1988. Post-retirement, Fashanu transitioned into television presenting, co-hosting the British show “Gladiators” in the 1990s.
- Tournament Officials: The event was coordinated by dedicated officials, including coaches and representatives from both Ontrade and Zalen FC, ensuring its smooth execution.
Talent Discovery at IDP Camps
In collaboration with the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), we visited Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps at Daudu and the mega camp along Gbajimba road. SEMA provided a 14-seater bus and staff to facilitate this initiative.
- Daudu Camps 1 and 2: Youth showcased their football talents, leading to the selection of a promising 15-year-old by John Fashanu.
- Mega Camp: While both boys and girls participated enthusiastically, no selections were made during this visit.
Upcoming Events
The grand finale, initially scheduled for Friday, January 15, 2025, has been postponed. A new date will be announced soon, and we encourage all stakeholders to stay tuned for updates.
Conclusion
Zalen Foundation extends heartfelt gratitude to all participants, officials, and supporters who contributed to the success of this tournament. Together, we are not only nurturing football talent but also fostering hope and opportunities for Nigeria’s youth.