Thirty-six years after Nigeria lost football icon Dr. Samuel Sochukwuma Okwaraji during a World Cup qualifier against Angola, his legacy is set to inspire a new generation with the launch of the Sam Okwaraji U-16 Soccer Championship, a national grassroots tournament aimed at discovering and nurturing young talents.

The championship, themed “Patriotism, Education & Soccer”, will kick off on November 8, 2025, and is designed to uncover hidden football prospects across the country.

Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Capital Market and head of the tournament’s organising committee, Senator Osita Izunaso, described Okwaraji as “a symbol of patriotism, sacrifice, and national pride” who died on the pitch wearing the green-white-green.

Born in Orlu, Imo State, on May 19, 1964, Okwaraji combined football brilliance with academic excellence, earning a first-class law degree and a master’s with distinction from the Pontifical Lateran University in Rome. At the time of his death on August 12, 1989, he was pursuing a PhD.

Izunaso said the tournament would create a platform for young Nigerians from all backgrounds to play together, build friendships, and dream together.

“Across villages, towns, and cities, millions of gifted young athletes are waiting to be discovered. This championship will give them the chance to shine nationally, be mentored, and possibly launched into professional and international careers,” he said.

He stressed that sports should be viewed as a strategic sector capable of reducing youth unemployment, combating insecurity, promoting wellness, and enhancing Nigeria’s global image.

He called on corporate sponsors, state governments, traditional rulers, the media, and parents to support the event, pledging transparency and collaboration with the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), Ministry of Sports, and global scouts.

The former Director-General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Dr. Amos Adamu, will serve as grand patron, alongside ex-internationals Samson Siasia and Augustine Eguavoen.

Izunaso also urged President Bola Tinubu to back the project, noting the administration’s recent recognition of the Super Falcons and D’Tigress.

“By investing in grassroots football, we can secure the future of Nigerian sports. Okwaraji gave his life for Nigerian football; the least we can do is keep his dream alive,” he said.

Adamu commended the organisers for honouring Okwaraji’s memory, stressing that while older Nigerians vividly recall his sacrifice, younger generations must also learn about his patriotism and commitment to the nation’s integrity.