Samuel Chukwueze, Adamu Inspire Youth at Grassroots Tournament in Uyo

Samuel Chukwueze, Adamu Inspire Youth at Grassroots Tournament in Uyo

By Niyi Busari 

The Junior Adamu Scouting Tournament concluded in grand style on Friday, June 20, in Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom State, leaving behind a trail of excitement, talent discovery, and hope for aspiring footballers across Nigeria, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The two-day event, which kicked off on Thursday, June 19, was sponsored by Nigerian-born Austrian international Junior Adamu in partnership with Transformer Sports and the Akwa Ibom State Football Association (AKSFA). The tournament attracted teams from across the country and served as a vibrant platform for young talents to showcase their footballing skills in front of scouts and football stakeholders.

Canaan City FC Clinch Trophy in Dramatic Finale

In a tightly contested final match, Canaan City FC of Cross River State emerged champions after defeating Superstars Academy in a dramatic penalty shootout. Ninchin FC secured third place in the tournament.

The grand finale was graced by prominent football figures, including Super Eagles and AC Milan winger Samuel Chukwueze, CEO of Superstars Academy Hon. Victor Apugo, and AKSFA Chairman Mr. Samuel Umoh, along with other members of the association’s board.

Junior Adamu, who attended the tournament alongside his parents and siblings, was actively involved throughout, offering encouragement to the players and engaging closely with the teams. In a moment that thrilled the young athletes, Adamu revealed that some standout performers would be invited for trials in Europe, marking a potential life-changing opportunity for the most talented prospects.

Individual Awards and Future Opportunities

In addition to the trophies and cash prizes awarded to the top three teams, several individual honors were presented to players who excelled during the tournament. The event also provided valuable exposure and learning experiences for all participating teams.

AKSFA Chairman Mr. Samuel Umoh expressed gratitude to Adamu, his family, Hon. Victor Apugo, and Chukwueze for their contributions. He also used the opportunity to announce upcoming football development programmes in the state, including a Secondary Schools Championship and a Coaching Clinic, calling for more private-sector involvement in sports development.

As a token of appreciation, the Akwa Ibom FA presented souvenirs to Junior Adamu, his family, and Samuel Chukwueze, encouraging their continued support and involvement in grassroots football in the state.

In his closing remarks, Adamu’s father commended all the teams for their spirited performances and confirmed that arrangements were underway for selected players to attend football trials in Europe.

The tournament was widely hailed as a resounding success, rekindling optimism and ambition among young footballers and further solidifying Uyo’s growing reputation as a hub for football development in Nigeria.