Super Eagles Stars Inspire Thousands at Ndidi’s Maracana Children’s Fest in Lagos

Several Super Eagles players lit up the refurbished Maracana Stadium in Ajegunle, Lagos on Saturday, attending the 2025 edition of the Maracana Children’s Fest organised in honour of midfielder Wilfred Ndidi.

The youth-focused football event, sponsored annually by Ndidi, brought together over 3,000 children who thrilled spectators with their skills across 19 mini five-a-side pitches.

Among the standout guests were Super Eagles vice-captain William Troost-Ekong and Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen, whose arrival drew loud cheers from the crowd. The stadium erupted as fans — especially children — caught a glimpse of Osimhen, widely regarded as one of Africa’s finest players.

Also in attendance were FC Augsburg’s Frank Onyeka, Bayer Leverkusen forward Victor Boniface, Club Brugge’s Raphael Onyedika, and former Nigerian international Jonathan Akpoborie.

Speaking at the event, Ndidi expressed deep satisfaction at the opportunity to give back to the community where his football dreams first took shape.

“It feels amazing to be back here. Seeing the excitement on these kids’ faces makes it all worth it,” said the Leicester City midfielder. “As a child, watching footballers on TV was exciting, but meeting them in person was even more magical. That’s why we brought the Super Eagles — to give these children something unforgettable.”

Ndidi noted the event has grown stronger with each edition and reiterated the importance of sustaining the football legacy of Ajegunle.

“Ajegunle is a breeding ground for talent. Legends like Odion Ighalo came from here. Maracana Stadium has always been iconic, and though I didn’t play here as a kid, I understood its significance,” he said. “This initiative is about preserving that legacy and inspiring a new generation.”

The midfielder thanked his national teammates for their support, highlighting their voluntary presence.

“None of them were forced to come. They showed up willingly, and it means so much to the children,” Ndidi added. “Some promising talents have already been identified here today, but our message is clear — football should go hand-in-hand with education.”

Programme coordinator Yemi Idowu commended the players for prioritising the event despite tight schedules.

“Bringing together seven Super Eagles players is no small feat. They came because they believe in the cause,” said Idowu. “Today, we demonstrated that multi-pitch youth tournaments are possible. Over 3,000 children played on 19 pitches simultaneously without any hitches.”

Idowu described the players’ time and presence as the event’s most valuable contribution.

“They brought their own kids too. There was no red tape, no pressure — just a genuine connection with the community. It’s something we’ve nurtured for over 40 years, and we’ll return again at Christmas,” he said.

Lagos State Football Association Vice Chairman, Oladotun Coker, praised the festival’s impact on grassroots football.

“This is a model initiative,” Coker said. “It gave children the rare opportunity to meet their footballing heroes up close — a memory that could shape their future.”

The event was also attended by community leaders, including Ajegunle Development Council Chairman Fatai Ayoola, traditional rulers, and local football enthusiasts.