As the 2025 Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) Football Coaches Unity Cup reaches the semifinal stage in Abuja, organisers are calling for increased support from stakeholders.
Chairman of the tournament, Kenny Owojori, in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday, expressed optimism over the teams` performances in the tournament, stressing funding as a major challenge.
“As a grassroots tournament, we rely on registration fees to fund the event.
“ We are reaching out to individuals, non-governmental organisations, Civil Society Organisations and multinational companies for support, recognising the importance of nurturing young talents.
“We also call on the National Sports Commission (NSC) and private organisations to sustain and accelerate the tournament.
“ By partnering with sponsors, we can provide better resources for the teams, offer more opportunities for young players and grow the tournament’s reach and impact.
“ We are hopeful that with increased support, future editions can attract bigger sponsors and make a greater difference in the lives of these talented young athletes,” he said.
He said the organisers are open to exploring opportunities for support and better expertise to harness young potential and ambitions.
“ CSOs can potentially provide support, resources or advocacy for the tournament and its participants.
“Individual support can make a significant difference in promoting the tournament and nurturing this young talent.
“Philanthropists can help provide financial support, resources or mentorship to help young athletes and promote the tournament,” he said.
He said that the NSC will explore potential areas of collaboration or support, which may include coaching and training programmes, and sports infrastructural development.
“ They can also help with funding and sponsorship, promoting grassroots sports teams.
“ The NSC’s involvement can help amplify the impact and reach of the events,” he said.
He said the tournament was also counting on support from the NSC to collaborate on the grassroots initiative, which aligns with their objectives.
“We have reached out to the commission’s chairman, Shehu Dikko, and are hopeful for a potential visit to witness our efforts firsthand.
” This partnership could bring valuable resources and recognition to our tournament.
He noted that in spite of the challenges, the tournament has showcased talented young players, and they hoped for increased support to sustain and grow the event.
“ The tournament has reached the semifinals, but funding constraints persist,” he added.
NAN reports that the News Boys Football Club of Abuja on Monday defeated hard-fighting G-Medix Football Academy (FA) 3-1, to claim one of the final tickets at the ongoing Unity Cup 2025 in Abuja.
Gwarinpa United FC will lock horns with One Touch FC on Thursday at 3p.m in the second semi final match of the competition.
Twenty-three teams are participating in the sixth Unity Cup, which began on June 3 to 28 in Abuja. (NAN)
