Nigeria will be proudly represented by not one but two school teams in the upcoming second edition of the World Secondary Schools Soccer Tournament set to take place in China next year.
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This development follows the remarkable success of FOSLA Academy, the pet school of former NFF President, Alhaji Sani Abdullahi Lulu, in the inaugural edition held in Rabat, Morocco, from July 22 to 31.
FOSLA Academy’s impressive performance in the tournament saw them reach the Round of 16, an accomplishment that secured them a well-deserved slot in the 2024 showpiece in China. The talented Nigerian youngsters returned to a warm welcome at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on Tuesday, August 1.
Acknowledging the significance of FOSLA Academy’s achievement, the Proprietor of the School and former FCT Director of Sports, Sani Lulu, led a delegation of student players to the Palace of the Royal Father Sarkin Karshi, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Mohammed Ismaila, MFR.
The Royal Father praised FOSLA Academy’s performance in Morocco, emphasizing that it showcased the abundant talents that Nigeria possesses. He passionately urged both Federal and State governments, as well as public and private organizations, to exhibit strong commitment in providing necessary sports infrastructure for the development of sports in Nigeria. He expressed particular delight that a school from his community represented Nigeria on the global stage.
“The performance of FOSLA Academy boys at the global event is an attestation to the fact that talents abound in Nigeria,” stated the Royal Father. “Therefore, it becomes necessary for the relevant bodies in the country to ensure that an adequate enabling environment in the form of infrastructure is provided to encourage the teeming youths in all the nooks and crannies of the country to identify and hone their talents to optimum potentiality.”
Alhaji Mohammed Ismaila commended the visionary foresight of FOSLA Academy’s Proprietor, Alhaji Sani Lulu Abdullahi, for establishing the academy in Karshi. He expressed the community’s appreciation for the initiative and pledged their continued support.
Expressing his gratitude to Almighty God for divine guidance, Alhaji Sani Lulu Abdullahi thanked all who contributed to the success of FOSLA Academy, especially Sarkin Karshi, the current Chairman of the Board of FOSLA Academy, for his unwavering commitment to the project.
The call for support and conducive environments for sports development did not end there, as Alhaji Sani Lulu Abdullahi urged the government, spirited individuals, corporate bodies, and organizations to provide the necessary backing through legislation and adequate funding to ensure rapid and sustainable sports growth in Nigeria.
The players received a hero’s welcome as they were introduced to the Sarkin Karshi and presented to an enthusiastic crowd. The management of FOSLA Academy later hosted a reception and luncheon in the School’s premises to honor the players and officials for their remarkable achievements on the global stage. With double representation in the next edition, Nigeria’s prowess in youth soccer is set to shine even brighter on the world stage.
