The New Experience Newspapers Online News Indepth, Analysis and More
Nurturing Talent: First Bank’s Commitment to Youth Development
By prince Benson Davies
FirstBank has announced its sponsorship of the maiden edition of the Samuel Okwaraji Under 16 Football Championship, a nationwide youth football tournament honouring the late Nigerian football legend, Samuel Okwaraji. The tournament will feature secondary schools from all 36 states and the FCT, with zonal eliminations and a national final in Abuja. The event will also include cultural displays, memorial lectures, and talent scouting opportunities by national team coaches, ensuring a blend of sporting excellence and social impact.
Managing Director and CEO, Olusegun Alebiosu, stated that FirstBank is committed to promoting grassroots football development, creating opportunities for young talents to thrive. “Football is the strongest unifier of Nigerians. It brings communities together, inspires discipline, and nurtures talents across the country,” he said.
Senator Osita Izunaso, Chairman of the Championship Organising Committee, praised FirstBank for its legacy and commitment to nation-building. “FirstBank’s legacy predates modern Nigerian football. The bank has once again shown that true corporate leadership lies in nation building,” he said.
The sponsorship aligns with FirstBank’s First@Sports initiative, which has consistently promoted football and sports development in Nigeria. The Bank has supported various youth-oriented initiatives and sporting events, including the National Sports Festival, South-West Youth Games, the Dala Hard Court Tennis Championship for 35 years, Lagos Amateur Golf Open Championship for 65 years, and the Georgian Polo Cup for 105 years.
FirstBank’s sponsorship of the Samuel Okwaraji U-16 Tournament underscores its commitment to national unity, empowering communities, and fostering youth development.
