MTN Nigeria, in a strategic partnership with FlyKite Productions, is set to make waves in the Nigerian football scene with the launch of the highly anticipated Naija Super 8 Tournament.
This exciting venture aims to promote the development of Nigerian football and reignite fans’ passion for the game.
The inaugural edition of the Naija Super 8 Tournament will showcase the talents of 12 carefully selected clubs, representing the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria.
These clubs will engage in intense zonal playoffs, battling it out for a coveted spot in the Super 8 finals. As part of the partnership’s vision, former Nigerian international football players will provide mentorship and guidance to the participating teams, ensuring a nurturing environment for the emerging talents.
The tournament’s climax will take place at the iconic Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos, where the top six teams from the zonal playoffs will compete against two wildcard entries.
From Friday, July 7 to Sunday, July 16, 2023, football enthusiasts can expect a thrilling display of skill, teamwork, and sportsmanship as the clubs vie for the ultimate title.
During the official unveiling ceremony held at the Multichoice Studios in Lagos on Friday, May 26, 2023, the 12 clubs participating in the Naija Super 8 zonal playoffs were announced, marking an exciting milestone in Nigerian football. Reigning Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) champions, Rivers United, will clash with Bendel Insurance in the south-south zonal playoff.
The South East geopolitical zone will witness a fierce battle between Enyimba FC of Aba and Heartland FC of Owerri, while Shooting Stars (3SC) will face off against Remo Stars in the South West geopolitical zone.
The North Central playoffs will feature a showdown between City FC of Abuja and Lobi Stars of Makurdi. Additionally, Kano Pillars and Katsina United will compete for the North West position, while Yobe Stars and Gombe United will strive for victory in the North East geopolitical zone.
MTN Nigeria’s involvement in this tournament signifies its commitment to advancing Nigerian football and investing in its development.
The Naija Super 8 Tournament serves as a platform for talented footballers to gain exposure both locally and internationally while fostering their growth and skills through capacity building.
Expressing excitement about the tournament, Adia Sowho, the Chief Marketing Officer of MTN Nigeria, shared, “We are thrilled to launch the Naija Super 8 tournament, as it represents our dedication to empowering talented footballers and fostering the growth of football. We believe in the power of sports to unite communities and inspire future generations. We are confident that this tournament will contribute to the advancement of developmental football across the country and abroad. We look forward to witnessing the passion, skills, and sportsmanship on display during the tournament.”
Jenkins Alumona, the Chief Executive Officer of FlyKite Productions, emphasized the partnership’s significance in rejuvenating fans’ enthusiasm for domestic football and supporting the efforts of the Nigeria Football Federation in elevating the game to new heights.
Alumona stated, “This partnership is evidence of MTN Nigeria’s desire to assist in rekindling fans’ appetite for domestic football by having fans, the lifeblood of the game, return to our stadiums as well as supporting the ongoing efforts of the Nigeria Football Federation to revive the game and take it to higher heights.”
Beyond the intense on-field action, the Naija Super 8 Tournament promises an immersive experience for fans and spectators.
The event will feature halftime entertainment and interactive fan zones, ensuring an engaging atmosphere for everyone involved.
