Dan Anyiam U-15 tournament promotes youth development in Imo State

The first Late Dan Anyiam U-15 Memorial Football Tournament is being used to support youth development and identify emerging talent in Imo State. Imo State commissioner for sports Obinna Onyeocha said the competition offers young players an opportunity to develop through football.

Onyeocha made the remarks while opening the tournament at Old Township Stadium on Tetlow Road in Owerri. The event is sponsored by Anderson Anyiam, the chief executive officer of WorldBest Pharmaceuticals, and is being held in memory of the late Dan Anyiam.

Anyiam was a former national team player and coach, and is recognised as Nigeria’s first indigenous coach of the national team. The memorial tournament is intended to preserve his contribution to Nigerian football while creating a platform for young players from different communities and beyond.

The commissioner said the competition could help players gain visibility, improve their abilities and move towards better opportunities. He also described the playing environment as suitable for the participants to display their skills during the tournament.

Onyeocha praised the sponsor for directing investment towards youth development through football. He linked the initiative to the Imo State government’s wider focus on developing young people and promoting sport under Governor Hope Uzodimma.

He also called on the participating players and teams to show discipline and maintain proper conduct throughout the competition. In his view, the tournament can serve as an early pathway for players who may later establish themselves as prominent footballers.

The commissioner added that the opening matches had strengthened his belief that the first Dan Anyiam Memorial Cup would leave a lasting impression. The ongoing tournament therefore combines a tribute to a notable figure in Nigerian football with an effort to nurture the next generation of players.