Super Eagles midfielder, Wilfred Ndidi, has revealed that his annual football festival for children in Ajegunle, Lagos, is more than just an event but his way of giving back, inspiring hope, and helping the next generation believe in their dreams.
Ndidi, in collaboration with the Nathaniel Idowu Foundation, on Saturday, hosted about 3,000 children at the 2025 Maracana Children’s Fest with Ndidi and Friends. The event, held at the famous New Maracana Stadium in Ajegunle, saw 156 football matches played across 19 pitches.
Ndidi was joined by several Super Eagles teammates including Victor Osimhen, William Troost-Ekong, Victor Boniface, Frank Onyeka, Raphael Onyedika, Tolu Arokodare, and Falconets’ star defender Asiata Isiaka.
“I feel amazed and very happy. Every year we come here in December and June like this to do this and I see more improvements, more smiles. It’s not just about football. For me, this is about hope. When these kids see the players they admire on TV in real life, it creates a different kind of fire in them one that says, ‘I can be like him too.’ That’s why I do this.
“The joy on their faces, the energy, it’s magical. Some of them come back every year, and each time they’re more eager, more inspired. It tells me we’re doing something right.
“I want to show them that someone who once walked the same rough streets, faced the same challenges, can rise and succeed. It’s possible. That’s the message.”
Eagles star striker, Osimhen, praised the initiative and spoke on why he chose to be part of it.
“Ajegunle is a big place, this is not my first time here. It has produced some of the best footballers this country has ever seen. So when Wilfred invited me, I didn’t even think twice. I said, ‘I’m coming.’ And I’m here.”
Super Eagles captain Troost-Ekong was visibly impressed by the scale and organization of the event.
“This is my first time here, and honestly, I’m blown away. To see so many children not just playing football but being guided, mentored, and encouraged, that’s powerful.”
“I think what Wilfred is doing is amazing. He’s giving them more than football. He’s giving them dignity, visibility, and belief. These are the kind of things that build a future.”
Chairman of the Nathaniel Idowu Foundation, Mr. Yemi Idowu, expressed joy at hosting the largest gathering of Super Eagles players in Ajegunle at one time.
“This is the first time we’ve had seven Super Eagles stars at once, and they didn’t just come for photo ops, they mingled with the kids, played with them, spoke with them. You could feel the love.”
“We’ve been involved in youth development here for over 40 years, and events like this show what’s possible when passion meets structure. Ajegunle is filled with raw talent, and with the right push, they can reach global stages.”
