The Youth Sports Federation of Nigeria (YSFON) has unveiled a series of activities to celebrate its 60th anniversary, marking six decades of dedication to youth development through sports.
YSFON President, Dr. Nasiru Gawuna, in a statement issued by the National Secretary of the federation, Patrick Okpavuerhe, described the milestone as a testament to the federation’s enduring commitment to nurturing young talents across Nigeria.
Founded in April 1965 by the late journalist Tony Eke, YSFON has expanded its reach with branches in all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), pioneering initiatives that have significantly shaped Nigerian youth sports.
“YSFON has been at the forefront of organizing age-grade competitions, a ground-breaking approach that predates FIFA’s adoption of similar tournaments in 1977,” Gawuna said. “We take pride in having produced many of the brilliant players who led Nigeria to victory at the inaugural FIFA U-16 World Cup in China.”
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YSFON’s key initiatives include the Soccer Academy in Calabar, established in collaboration with the Nigerian Navy and Cross River State Government, as well as prestigious tournaments like the Ramat Cup, the Oba of Benin U-13 Boys and U-18 Girls Soccer Tournament, and the Chief of Naval Staff U-14 Boys Soccer Tournament. The federation also organizes the YSFON President’s One Day Athletics Championship, providing a platform for young athletes to showcase their talents.
To oversee the anniversary celebrations, YSFON has constituted a 60th Anniversary Committee, chaired by Johnson Akinsehinwa, Vice President (North Central) and FCT Chairperson. The committee will lead the anniversary activities and future initiatives aimed at further strengthening youth sports development in Nigeria.
Gawuna paid tribute to YSFON’s founding fathers and key supporters, including the late Israel Adebajo, Dr. Garba Hamza, MKO Abiola, General Murtala Mohammed, Bolaji Oni, Mrs. Bolaji Kuforiji, Major General Joe Garba, Ibikunle Armstrong, and past YSFON Presidents Dokun Abidoye and Alhaji Tunde Ojulani.
“As we celebrate this remarkable journey, we invite all stakeholders, sponsors, and supporters to join us in our mission to inspire and develop the next generation of athletes,” Gawuna said. “Together, let us build a brighter future for youth sports in Nigeria.”