Imo State Crowned Champions of Maiden Under-19 Nigeria Independence Cup

By Arinzechi Chukwunonso

The curtain fell on the maiden edition of the Under-19 Nigeria Independence Cup on Wednesday, with Imo State emerging champions after a thrilling 2-1 comeback victory over Kebbi State at the Training Pitch 2 of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.

The highly-anticipated final, which coincided with Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary, saw fireworks of football artistry and youthful resilience.
Against the run of play, Kebbi State took the lead in the 27th minute when in-form striker Tasleem Bala, who has been a revelation throughout the competition, coolly slotted home his fourth goal of the tournament.

Having defeated Imo State 2-1 earlier in the group stage, Kebbi looked set to repeat the feat.But the Owerri boys had other plans. Striker Udeh Excellent restored parity in the 38th minute, sending their fans into wild jubilation before the half-time whistle.
The second half was a tense affair, with both sides pressing for a winner, but the decisive moment came in the 71st minute when Wisdom Omorodion finished off a quick one-two with Josiah Igwe, lifting the ball delightfully over the goalkeeper to hand Imo State a sweet revenge and the historic trophy.

The final whistle sparked scenes of joy and emotion, as Imo players and fans flooded the pitch in celebration while Kebbi’s players wept uncontrollably, consoled by their coaching staff.

Speaking after lifting the trophy, Imo’s captain, Obudu Chukwemeka, dedicated the victory to God and the resilience of his teammates:

“First of all, I thank God for the victory. I believed in my boys, and at last we have carried the trophy. Glory be to God. We started this competition lagging behind, but with determination, we reached the semi-final, the final, and now we are champions.”

Head coach of the winning side, Muhammad Abdullah, attributed the triumph to preparation and discipline:

“From the first day I received the call for this tournament, I began assembling my boys, even those outside Abuja. We trained hard, modernized our play, and I told the boys to fight till the end—and so they did. That was what gave us this victory.”

While praising the organizers, Abdullah also called for improvements in future editions.

“The officiating was fair enough, but I was surprised that the final—the biggest game—was played without linemen. Also, since it’s an U-19 competition, I’d like the organizers to checkmate the age category properly, because I noticed some players looked above 19.”

Unfortunately, the third-place match between Plateau State and Lagos State was not played, as both teams mutually agreed to withdraw in a show of sportsmanship due to organizational constraints.

Chairman of the Organizing Committee, Ambassador Sadiq Nasib Dampullog, described the tournament as a success despite its challenges, noting its significance in celebrating Nigeria’s 65th anniversary.

“This is the first edition of the Nigeria Independence Anniversary Cup, and it has been seven days of football to commemorate our nation’s independence. Nobody sponsored this maiden edition, but I can assure you that by next year, both government and private organizations are ready to come on board. It will be massive.”

He also highlighted the tournament’s impact on youth development and national unity:

“We engaged millions of Nigerian youths as participants, fans, and viewers. Beyond football, the aim is to keep young people engaged, steer them away from drugs and unemployment, and instill patriotism. Talent scouts have been present, and we are confident that some of these boys will get opportunities abroad.”

Representing the Grand Patron of the tournament, the Emir of Kano Ado Bayero, Alhaji Salim Abubakar Bayero Obangarin Kano, underscored football’s role in fostering unity.

“This program is very important because football unites people across religion, tribe, and race. My message to the youth is simple: embrace peace, unity, and love for your country. Shun violence and criminality, and work hard for Nigeria to progress.”

With Imo State crowned as the first-ever champions of the Nigeria U-19 Independence Cup, and with plans already underway for subsequent editions, the tournament has set a strong foundation for grassroots football development and a renewed spirit of unity on the nation’s 65th independence anniversary.