The 20th edition of the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) and 12th edition of Naval Officers Wives Association (NOWA) Soccer Tournaments culminated in a grand finale, marking the conclusion of a week-long celebration of youth football talent. Held at the prestigious Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in Enugu State, the tournaments witnessed fervent competition among youth soccer teams from across Nigeria, from 7- 12 April 2024.
The combined opening ceremony on April 7, 2024, set the stage for an exhilarating display of skill and sportsmanship. Rear Admiral NC Ekwom, representing the CNS, inaugurated the event, highlighting the tournaments’ significant contribution to youth development nationwide. Hosted annually in different Nigerian cities, the tournaments attract youth soccer teams from across the country, fostering camaraderie and talent development.
Nineteen youth soccer teams from various states, including Abia, Abuja, Anambra, Ebonyi, Benue, Enugu, Bayelsa, Cross Rivers, Delta, Edo, Ondo, Osun, Imo, Nasarawa, Rivers, and Kaduna, participated in this year’s edition, promising an exciting and competitive tournament.
The closing ceremony on April 12 was a vibrant affair, attended by dignitaries from diverse backgrounds. Rear Admiral Patrick Nwatu represented Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, while Air Vice Marshal UK Abdullahi and Commissioner for Youths and Sports Barrister Lloyd Ekweremadu also graced the occasion, representing the Chief of Air Staff and the Enugu State Governor, respectively.
The final matches were a testament to the teams’ determination and skill, as they battled for victory in front of an enthusiastic audience. In the U-14 boys category, the Kogi boys secured third place by defeating their Rivers State counterparts 1-0. Meanwhile, the NOWA U-17 girls final saw the Imo state team clinch victory with a resounding 4-0 win over Ebonyi, claiming the trophy for the first time.
The highlight of the day was the intense showdown between the host Enugu boys, known as the Adoration Boys, and their Abia opponents. Backed by the spiritual support of Reverend Father Mbaka, the Adoration Boys delivered a stellar performance, triumphing over Abia with a commanding 5-0 victory. Enugu’s Nwodo Nicholas received the best male goalkeeper award, while Wisdom Boniface emerged as the highest goal scorer and the most valuable player of the tournament.
The closing ceremony was adorned with numerous awards recognizing outstanding performances, adding to the festive atmosphere of the event. The Youth Sports Federation Of Nigeria (YSFON) commended the players and officials for their contribution to the success of the tournaments, while the Nigerian Navy lauded the youths for their discipline and urged them to remain focused and hardworking for a brighter future.