Sports Minister Declares National Principals' Cup Open

The much-awaited Principals' Cup finally got underway on Friday as Igbobi College and Government College Kaduna squared off at the Agege Stadium in Lagos.

According to the Minister of youth and sports development, Sunday Dare, “it’s a dream come true to be here today, to watch young stars kick off the National  Principal cup.  We are so proud of what they’ve done today.

"It is my hope that young talents will be discovered from  this principal cup to become  the likes of Daniel Amokachi, Franklin Howard, Tajudeen  Disu, Waidi Akanni, who  are here as  a source of inspiration to these young stars.”

Furthermore, Dare said “The Principal's cup brought friendship and fostered unity.

"Therefore, we want to bring back its lost glory.

"Some  products of the  Principal's cup include Segun Odegbami, Daniel Amokachi,  Henry Nwosu,  Tajudeen Disu and Ali Jeje, who all became notable internationals.”

While reiterating his vision,  Dare said “Part of my vision when I assumed office is talents discovery.

"I will be glad if talents discovered here can become world stars like The Amokachis, Ekejia, Odegbamis, Adokiyes of this world.”

READ ALSO: Igbobi College, Government College Trade tackle in Principals Cup

Dignitaries who graced the occasion include the Deputy Governor of Edo state, Comrade Phillip Shaibu; the Minister of State for Education, Chief Emeka Nwajiuba; the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Vice presidents Barr. Seyi Akinwunmi, Shehu Dikko; ex-international, Daniel Amokachi; President of Nigerian Olympic Committee, Habu Ahmed Gumel; and a host of others. 

The Minister concluded by saying “The principal cup has come to stay.

"The students must combine football with education. They should emulate ex-internationals who combined education with football like Segun Odegbami, Adokie Amiesimaka, Dr Felix Owolabi, Patrick Ekeji, Seyi Olofinjana and others".

Check out some photos from the event below: