The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has officially approved the establishment of the Sam Okwaraji Secondary Schools Soccer Championship, honouring the late national team midfielder 36 years after his death.
Okwaraji, remembered for collapsing during a 1990 World Cup qualifier against Angola at Lagos’ National Stadium on 12 August 1989, passed away at age 25 due to heart complications . A vibrant midfielder who had plied his trade in Europe, including stints at Dinamo Zagreb, Stuttgart, and SSV Ulm, he also held a master’s degree in international law .
The memorial championship, aimed at Nigerian secondary schools, received final endorsement following a nod from the Senate Committee on Sports Development, which backed the initiative to immortalise Okwaraji’s legacy through youth football . Sports advocacy groups view the tournament as a fitting tribute to a player whose career was tragically cut short and who remains an enduring symbol of passion and patriotism on the pitch.
Stars of tomorrow will now have the opportunity to showcase talent in a competition that carries the name of one of Nigeria’s most beloved footballing figures. Observers hope that this championship will also boost grassroots development, serving as both a scouting platform for young talents and a lasting homage to Okwaraji’s contributions to Nigerian football.
With planning now underway, stakeholders are expected to soon unveil tournament structures, schedules, and host venues, marking the beginning of a new chapter in honouring Nigerian football heritage.
