The Scalepea-Mah Development Association (SAMDA) Nigeria will stage its maiden U-13 football tournament in Lagos from April 19 to 20, marking a significant step in grassroots football development in the country.
The youth competition, organised by Scalepea-Mah Development Association, is part of a broader initiative to promote education, leadership, and livelihoods through digital literacy, vocational training, and sports.
Speaking at the official launch, Tajudeen Disu, Chairman of SAMDA Nigeria and Head of Sports for Africa, highlighted the importance of sustained investment in grassroots football.
“The upcoming U-13 football tournament is only the starting point. It reflects a broader commitment to grassroots development and a vision to scale impact across the country,” Disu said.
He added that SAMDA aims to provide structured training, mentorship, and partnerships with schools and institutions to create long-term opportunities for young Nigerians.
According to the CEO, Tony Kona Fele, the tournament will serve as a talent identification platform not only for football but also for other sports such as basketball.
“We will help identify talented individuals who can pursue higher education opportunities in countries like the USA and Canada, provided their academic performance supports this pathway,” Fele said.
Chief Operating Officer Monica Brown emphasised the transformative role of youth engagement through sports.
“By leveraging Nigeria’s passion for football, SAMDA aims to promote physical well-being, leadership, and teamwork. These initiatives go beyond recreation, serving as tools for personal development and social cohesion,” she said.
Ex-Internationals Back Initiative
Former Nigerian youth international Michael Dominic credited early exposure through school competitions for his football career, recalling his experience with the Nigeria national under-20 football team at the 1985 FIFA World Youth Championship.
“We were exposed to competitive football at a young age, and that helped prepare us for top-level competition,” he said.
Ex-Nigeria national football team defender Waheed Akanni also praised the initiative, describing it as a vital platform for young players to gain exposure.
“Exposure is key in football. This tournament gives young players the chance to showcase their talent and be seen,” Akanni noted.
Meanwhile, Hakeem Babatunde Shittu of the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board commended the organisers, stressing the importance of early talent discovery in shaping the future of Nigerian sports.