More than 1,000 children turned up at New Maracana Stadium in Tolu on Monday for the Nathaniel Idowu Foundation’s inaugural Summer Camp. The month-long programme admitted 321 registered boys and girls between the ages of eight and 16.
Quick facts
- Venue: New Maracana Stadium, Tolu
- Registered campers: 321
- Age range: 8 to 16
- Programme length: Four weeks
- Support team: 20 certified coaches, medical personnel and kitchen staff
Families started arriving shortly after 6:30 a.m. Music, banners and registration desks greeted them at the venue. Every camper was given a camp jersey, while coordinator McAnthony Anaelechukwu, also the director-general of Peakline Sports World Ltd, explained the rules before the programme got under way.
Gear ’em Up, the United States-based group headed by Khadija and Marvelous, supplied selected participants with complete sports equipment. The packages included football boots, gloves, shin guards and balls.
Following registration and team photographs, the opening-day programme moved into action. Football players trained on the pitch as basketball participants worked on the courts, with the morning session ending at noon. Food was then provided before the children left with their parents.
Anaelechukwu said the initiative seeks to shape more than sporting ability. He said the foundation wanted to identify young talent early, strengthen character, promote discipline and provide children in Lagos with a secure environment in which to pursue their ambitions and understand their potential.
The launch drew positive reactions from both campers and their families. Twelve-year-old Solomon James said he got up at 5 a.m. so he would not arrive late, while 10-year-old Blessing Sanusi highlighted the quality of the coaching and the friendships she had begun to form.
Fifteen-year-old goalkeeper Divine said he relished the demanding sessions and hoped to follow in the footsteps of goalkeepers who represent the Super Eagles. Parents Funmi Adeyemi, Emeka Nwosu and Yetunde Bello also commended the organisation of the camp and its free admission.
The four-week schedule will continue over the next few weeks. Organisers said the large opening turnout underlined the appetite among young people in Lagos for organised platforms that support structured development.
