Super Eagles midfielder, Wilfred Ndidi, has said that he decided to host the “Maracana Children’s Fest” with some of his colleagues in the national team to show the youths that with hard work they can surmount every challenge to realise their dreams.

  Ndidi, on Saturday, hosted the Maracana Children’s Fest at the new Maracana Sports Centre, Ajegunle, with six members of the Super Eagles, including Victor Osimhen, Victor Boniface, Raphael Onyedika, William Troost-Ekong, Tolu Arokodare, and Frank Onyeka.

  Speaking at the event, which over 3,000 children to the Maracana Stadium, Ndidi said: “I am amazed and happy. This competition has improved over the past two years. We usually hold it in June or December.

  “The presence of Super Eagles players shows their support for the project. No one was forced — they came willingly.The smiles on the kids’ faces are heartwarming. It is something they truly look forward to every year. As a child, I loved watching football on TV, but seeing players in real life was always more exciting for me.

  “That’s why we invited the Super Eagles players to create that magical moment for the children. The children are clearly excited to see the Super Eagles. It gives them hope and inspiration for the future.”

  He said that the event is focused on the children’s future, adding that seeing someone like Osimhen means a lot to the kids.

  Before the Super Eagles stars joined in a celebrity kick-about with the children, the youngsters showcased their football skills across 19 five-a-side pitches at the stadium.

The crowd went wild when Osimhen, former African Footballer of the Year and Turkish League top scorer, made his entrance.

  Harping on the need to keep talented youths in school, Ndidi said: “We’ve identified talented kids already. But it’s important to remind them to stay in school.
“They mustn’t abandon education for football. School is essential, no matter how talented they are,” he added.

  Also speaking at the event, Yemi Idowu, whose outfit, Nathaniel Idowu Foundation, coordinated the activities, commended the players for coming to identify with the Ajegune children.

  He said such programmes were designed to guide the youths through the right path to stardom, adding that seeing so many iconic players in their community would light the fire they need to work hard for success.

He said: “I’m excited, but I must confess that it was hard aligning with everyone’s timetable. They came because it’s a worthy cause. Taking time out shows their genuine commitment to giving back to the society.

  “This is the first time seven Super Eagles players are attending together. More could have come if not for the weather.”

  Idowu said that the event achieved two major milestones, including showcasing a multi-pitch facility and players giving back to society.

  “We’ve shown that multi-pitch facilities are possible. All 19 pitches hosted over 3,000 kids simultaneously.
The games went smoothly across the pitches without congestion or issues.

“National players can contribute to society by engaging directly with children like they’ve done today.

  “They brought their own kids too. Osimhen, Troost-Ekong, and Wilfred were all outstanding. This is a space where players can come freely, without fear of harassment or pressure.”