The Nathaniel Idowu Foundation has launched its maiden Summer Camp in Lagos, with more than 1,000 children turning up for the programme, although only 321 registered participants were admitted.
The foundation disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday by its Media Officer, Lekan Okusan.
According to the statement, the one-month camp, which commenced on Monday at the New Maracana Stadium, is designed for children between the ages of eight and 16.
It stated that families began arriving at the venue from about 6:30 a.m. and were received with music, banners and an organized registration process.
The statement added that each participant received an official camp jersey, while the camp rules were explained by the Camp Coordinator, McAnthony Anaelechukwu, who is also the Director-General of Peakline Sports World Ltd.
It said the foundation, in partnership with U.S.-based organization, Gear ‘Em Up, led by Khadija and Marvelous, distributed complete training kits to selected participants.
The kits included football boots, gloves, shin guards, jerseys and footballs.
According to the statement, the camp is being managed by 20 certified coaches, supported by medical personnel and kitchen staff to ensure the safety and welfare of participants.
It noted that after registration and group photographs, basketball participants proceeded to the courts, while football campers engaged in warm-up exercises, icebreakers and training drills.
The first day’s activities ended at about noon, after which meals were served before the children departed with their parents.
Speaking at the event, Anaelechukwu said the initiative was aimed at helping children develop their sporting talents and personal character.
“This is about catching them young, building their talents and building their characters. We want to give Lagos children a safe space to dream, learn discipline and discover what they are capable of,” he said.
Some of the participants expressed excitement over the programme.
Twelve-year-old Solomon James said he was delighted to wear football boots for the first time, while 10-year-old Blessing Sanusi described the coaches as friendly and said she had already made new friends.
A 15-year-old goalkeeper, Divine, said he enjoyed the training sessions and hoped to become like some Super Eagles players.
Also speaking, Funmi Adeyemi, a parent, described the camp as a rare opportunity for children, adding that her son was excited to be part of the programme.
Another parent, Emeka Nwosu, said he was impressed by the large turnout and the free access provided by the organizers.
Yetunde Bello, also a parent, said her daughter returned home happy after participating in the basketball sessions.
The organizers said the large turnout reflected the growing demand for structured youth sports development programmes in Lagos.
They added that the camp would continue to provide daily sports training, mentorship and free meals throughout the one-month programme.
One of the parents, while leaving the stadium, said: “My child is already asking what time we’re coming tomorrow.”
The organizers expressed optimism that the initiative would help nurture the next generation of athletes and leaders in the country. (NAN).
