Next Football Stars: FCT FA Encourages Area Councils

Next Football Stars: FCT FA Encourages Area Councils

By Admin

The Federal Capital Territory Football Association (FCT FA) has called on the six Area Council Football Associations to organize regular grassroots tournaments to harness the abundant football talent among the youth in the FCT, reports BSNSports.com.ng.

During the grand finale of the 2025 Nara-Para Cup, held at the Kuje Area Council Stadium in Abuja, FCT FA Chairman Adams Mouktar Mohammed made this appeal through First Vice Chairman Salihu Kolo Momoh.

Momoh highlighted that this initiative aligns with the Nigeria Football Federation’s (NFF) mission to promote grassroots football development.

“During his re-election campaign, our chairman promised to revitalize grassroots football. Many talented players have not had the opportunity to showcase their skills, and it is at this level that we can identify and nurture real potential,” Momoh stated.

Adegoke Tunde, the tournament sponsor and Team Manager of Crown Tee FC, echoed this sentiment, urging individuals and corporate entities to support similar competitions.

“Football development in Kuje has been slow, despite the wealth of talent available. Many players who remain at the grassroots level deserve to be playing professionally by now,” Adegoke remarked.

“This edition of the tournament stood out by including teams from outside Kuje, which increased the level of competitiveness. We look forward to an even bigger fourth edition.”

Mansur Abdullahi, coach of Nigeria's U-20 women’s national team, the Falconets, praised the tournament's success and noted that several promising players had been identified for further trials.

“I've seen players here who deserve a chance at higher levels, including the goalkeeper from Kwali United. We've also spotted talent from Crown Tee FC, and they will be invited to train with clubs like Galadima FC,” Mansur said.

In the final match, the Flying Parrots of Bamishi in Kuje secured the title by defeating Kwali United 5–4 on penalties after finishing regulation time in a 1–1 draw.

The champions received a cash prize of ₦600,000, while the runners-up, Kwali United, earned ₦400,000. Babayaro FC of Gwagwalada claimed third place, earning ₦200,000 and a set of jerseys.

Individual awards were given to Ishaku Rabiu of Kwali United (Best Player), Mathias Malleh of Flying Parrots (Best Goalkeeper), Danladi Isah of Flying Parrots (Top Scorer), and their coach, Markus Bulus (Best Coach).

The event attracted notable attendees, including FCT FA board member and Future Eagles U-15 coach Patrick Bassey, along with Coach Gidado Idris.