The Project Manager of the Rising Stars Football League (RSFL), Ifeanyi Khana, has shed light on the mission and structure of the competition, which is to be held in Abuja.
The RSFL, a unique football league comprising teams from the six area councils of Abuja, is designed to provide opportunities for young, grassroots talent to develop and showcase their skills on a larger platform.
According to Ifeanyi, the qualifying process for the RSFL was conducted within the area councils, where teams emerged successfully. Each qualifying team received 25,000 Naira, along with footballs and sets of jerseys, to encourage participation and ensure they are well-equipped for the competition.
“The Rising Stars Football League is more than just a football tournament,” said Ifeanyi. “It’s a community-driven initiative aimed at empowering the youth by providing them with a platform to excel. We want to encourage grassroots teams and give them the exposure they need to develop and showcase their talents.”
The league not only provides exposure but also offers financial incentives to the participating teams and players. Players from the 12 teams receive match bonuses and appearance fees, with a winning bonus of 50,000 Naira and a match appearance fee of 20,000 Naira.
The prize for the top teams is one million Naira, which qualifies them for the “Super 4” competition. A total of 11 million Naira is up for grabs in the Super 4, with 5 million Naira allocated for community development. This fund will support community engagement activities, including visits to orphanages, hospitals, schools, and other places in need.
Ifeanyi emphasized the dual focus of the league, which aims to foster both sports development and community growth. “We believe that sports can play a critical role in community development,” he stated. “By investing in grassroots football, we are not only nurturing future sports stars but also promoting a sense of unity and responsibility among the youth. They learn the value of teamwork, discipline, and giving back to their communities.”
He continued, “Our goal is to create a sustainable model where sports serve as a catalyst for positive change. When young players see that their success on the field can translate into meaningful contributions to their communities, it motivates them to work harder and stay committed. This, in turn, drives the overall development of sports in the country.”
Ifeanyi also highlighted the broader impact of the RSFL on sports development in Nigeria. “Initiatives like the RSFL are essential for the growth of sports in our country. By focusing on grassroots talent, we are building a strong foundation for the future of Nigerian sports. These young players represent the next generation of athletes who will make Nigeria proud on the global stage.”
“We are committed to promoting community development alongside developing football talents,” Khana added. “Our goal is to provide a platform where young players can be scouted while also giving back to their communities. We believe in holistic growth, where sports serve as a bridge to community development.”
He also emphasized the importance of partnerships in achieving the league’s goals. “We are open to collaborations with ex-internationals, media, corporations, and other well-wishers who share our vision. We’ve already provided school fees and other resources to aid communities, and we look forward to expanding these efforts.”
