By Victor Okoye
Abuja, April 30, 2025 (NAN) The General Manager of NTA Sports, Kayode Adeniyi, has commended the organisers of the All Stars Veterans Invitational Tournament for their commitment to keeping former football internationals active and visible through organised competition and media engagement.
Now in its fifth edition, the upcoming tournament—endorsed by the National Sports Commission (NSC)—will take place at the Mainbowl of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, under the theme: “Football, Games and Business.”
Adeniyi, while receiving members of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) led by Chairman Patrick Bassey, praised the initiative for bridging the gap between retired talent and opportunities for post-career relevance.
“I appreciate the visit and I’m very happy about this initiative which keeps the retiring talents visible and accessible to opportunities,” Adeniyi said.
“I will also appeal that the ex-internationals should socialise more and embrace the privilege of making TV appearances to share their experiences and knowledge. Those with academic prowess should also leverage such avenues to secure opportunities that sustain life after active sports.”
He reaffirmed NTA Sports’ commitment to supporting the competition, pledging daily news updates and further discussions on how best to showcase the event.
“NTA Sports will not relent in publicising and promoting the activities of the All Stars. We are open to supporting the championship with news coverage and will continue discussions to further highlight the tournament across our platforms,” he added.
Earlier, Dr. Unity Nosa Oseghe, Head of Marketing and Sponsorship for the LOC, had called for a partnership with NTA Sports, citing the network’s vast reach across Africa.
“We cannot do this without involving the biggest television in Africa. Due to its reach and global acceptability, we want NTA Sports to be our partners. We seek at least two hours of weekly broadcast during our games. We promise adequate branding and mileage for all coverage,” he stated.
This year’s edition has attracted 20 teams, each registering 30 players, with an insurance package provided for all 600 players. Matches are scheduled to hold every Saturday inside the Mainbowl.
Notably, the All Stars International body includes members like Shehu Dikko, former LMC Chairman, while Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, is expected to take the ceremonial kickoff during the opening ceremony.
