Nigerian football legend, late Samuel Sochukwuma Okwaraji was honoured alongside several esteemed personalities during the final of the maiden Soccer Fans Carnival, which hit a pulsating climax at Paulad Sports Centre, Abuja.
Sports247 reports that the event began with the under-15 boys’ final, in which Bright Future defeated Zack Football Academy to emerge champions of the competition, after an impressive performance, while Yaba Stars secured third place.
Read Also: Bright Future Football Academy Crowned Champs, As Soccer Fans Carnival Comes To Pulsating Climax | Sports247 Nigeria
Okwaraji, who died while playing for Nigeria against Angola during a FIFA World Cup qualifier at Lagos National Stadium on August 12th, 1989, was specially honored in recognition of his patriotism and sacrifice to Nigerian football.
The icon from Orlu in Imo State received post humus accolades during the presentation of awards to distinguished personalities and organizations who have contributed significantly to football growth and youth empowerment in Nigeria.
The carnival also featured exciting side attractions and musical performances from talented entertainers, including JFO, Emi-Core and other artists, who all thrilled the audience late into the night with energetic entertainment.
A memorable moment came when ex-youth international, Emmanuel Babayaro announced sponsorship of further training opportunity for a young goalkeeper named Chibuzor, of Zack Football Academy, who participated in the tournament.
The event also enjoyed extensive coverage, including international presence by RDM Media from London, alongside other local organizations present to capture the carnival activities and award presentations.
The day eventually came to an end at 11:30pm with vote of thanks delivered by the organizer, Michael Atadoga, who appreciated guests, sponsors, partners, teams, awardees, media houses and entertainers for contributing to the successful event.
He expressed optimism that future editions of Soccer Fans Carnival will be a lot bigger, with expectations that the competition continues growing in order to promote grassroots football, youth empowerment and unity through sports.
ALL THE AWARDS
*Emmanuel Babayaro — “Football Legend Award”
*FCT Football Association — “FCT Football Development and Excellence Award”
*Idi Rabiu — “Football Service and Talent Development Award”
*Olatunji Isaac — “Grassroot Coaching Excellence Award”
*Eagle’s Wing Academy — “National Youth Football Development Academy of the Year Award”
*Muhammed Ndakolo — “Coach of the Year”
*NTA Sports — Recognition Award
*Green Atlas Football Academy — “Grassroot Football Development and Excellence Award”
*Amb. Dr. Adebisi T. Moses — “Outstanding Football Development Visionary Award”
*Ibrahim Musa Gusau — “Football Leadership and National Development Award”
*Mark Acheneje — “Humanitarian and Football Impact Award”
*Dr. Mohammed Sanusi — “Distinguished Service to Football Administration Award”
*Kelechi Iheanacho — “Football Icon of Excellence Award”
*Adams Paul — “Football Patron and Infrastructure Award”
*Ann Chiejine — “Football Icon and Legacy Award”
*John Akabusi Zimako — “Grassroot Football Development Pioneer Award”
*Vincent Akinbami — “Football Media Excellence Award”
*Emmanuel Aigbose — “Outstanding Football Development Visionary Award”
*Godwin Ekpah — “Football Patron and Leadership Award”
*Abdusalam Abubakar A. Rauf — “Youth Development Excellence Award”
