The maiden edition of Nathaniel Idowu Summer Camp began making a significant positive impact on parents and children from its very first day at Maracana Stadium in the Olodi Apapa (Ajegunle) area of Lagos, where 321 kids began a month-long sports and leadership training programme on Monday.
Sports247 gathered that the free youth development programme, which is sponsored by Nathaniel Idowu Foundation, attracted more than 1,000 children at the venue, but the organisers had to restrict participation to only pre-registered kids in order to ensure effective coordination, smooth organisation, adequate safety and quality instructions.
The venue came alive from 6:30 am, as parents and children trooped into the complex, where officials were already on the ground to welcome the participants and each registered kid received an official jersey, after which the camp’s rules were explained by the coordinator, McAnthony Anaelechukwu.
In addition to the camp jerseys, participants received complete sports kits, footballs, jerseys, boots, shin guards, socks, and goalkeeper’s gloves donated by Gear ’em Up, a United States-based organisation, which is known for ensuring that young athletes have access to quality sporting equipment.
Anaelechukwu, who is also the director-general of Peakline Sports World Limited, official organisers of the venture, also introduced participants to the camp’s support team, comprising 20 certified coaches, medical personnel and kitchen staff, who will oversee training, welfare and nutrition needs respectively.
Sporting activities then began, as football participants engaged in warm-up exercises, fitness drills and introductory training sessions on the pitch; while basketball campers commenced skill development sessions on the courts, under the guidance of experienced coaches.
The first day’s activities were filled with excitement among the participants all through and eventually concluded at 12 noon, after which the children were served nutritious meals before departing, proudly wearing their new jerseys and eagerly anticipating the next day’s activities.
At the end of Day 1, a 12-year-old footballer, Solomon James, expressed his delight at taking part in the programme, saying: “I woke up at 5 am, because I didn’t want to be late. This is my first time wearing proper football boots and a quality jersey. I can’t wait to improve and score many goals this month.”
A 10-year-old female basketball participant, Blessing Sanusi, declared that the fun and experience she got all exceeded her expectations, as she added: “The coaches were very friendly. We played games, learnt new things, and I made new friends. I’m excited to come back tomorrow.”
A 15-year-old goalkeeper, Divine, was equally impressed and retorted: “The training was challenging, but I enjoyed every moment. They taught us the correct techniques for goalkeeping and even gave us gloves. I hope to become a Super Eagles goalkeeper someday.”
Parents who accompanied their children praised Nathaniel Idowu Foundation for providing a free and well-organised programme that will keep their kids busy during the long holiday, with one of them, Mrs. Funmi Adeyemi, describing it as a wonderful innovation.
Mrs Adeyemi, who also rated the camp as a rare opportunity for children, added: “I’m grateful to the Nathaniel Idowu Foundation. Opportunities like this don’t come often. My son has been excited about football all week, and now he has qualified coaches, proper facilities and even meals provided.”
Mr. Emeka Nwosu, who commended the level of organisation, recalled: “By the time we arrived at about 7:15 am, the venue was already packed. It shows how much parents want opportunities like this for their children, and it’s completely free. God bless everyone behind this initiative.”
Mrs. Yetunde Bello said the camp offers children a positive and productive way to spend their holidays, as she projected: “My daughter couldn’t stop talking about playing basketball. This programme will keep our children engaged, healthy and away from negative influences during the holiday.”
Sports247 noted further that the impressive turnout of more than 1,000 children further demonstrates the growing demand for structured grassroots sports development initiatives across Lagos State and reflects the confidence families have in the vision of the Nathaniel Idowu Foundation.
