From Salim Umar Ibrahim, Kano
Federal Government College (FGC) Kano has been selected to face King’s College Lagos in the opening match of the 2025 edition of the Principal’s Corps Nationwide tournament, a grassroots football initiative aimed at discovering young talents in secondary schools across Nigeria.
Speaking during a training session held at FGC Kano, the Managing Director of Hidea Plus Ltd and founder of the Principal’s Corps Nationwide, Mr Tony Pemu, revealed that this year’s opening ceremony will take place October 10, 2025, at the Mobolaji Johnson Stadium, Lagos.
“This is the second edition of the tournament, and we’ve chosen Government College Kano to play against King’s College at the kickoff match. Both teams are preparing seriously, and we are excited by the momentum building around the event,” Pemu said.
He disclosed that discussions are at an advanced stage with global football body La Liga, which is expected to partner on this year’s edition. Several sponsors are also on board, with national finals scheduled between November 18 and 20.
The organisers also plan a trophy tour to traditional leaders, including the Sultan of Sokoto and the Ooni of Ife, to garner royal endorsement. “We will also unveil notable brand ambassadors to rally support and drive awareness,” Pemu added.
Kano and Katsina are being considered as potential hosts for the final, depending on certain criteria. “We are keen on having Kano host the finals if all logistics align,” he noted.
Beyond football, Pemu emphasised the tournament’s broader goal of discovering diverse talents across the sports ecosystem. “We’re not just looking for players—we’re scouting for budding commentators, sports writers, and backroom staff who can be groomed for the future of Nigerian sports,” he said.
He added that the Principal’s Corps initiative was born out of the need to rebuild a pipeline of homegrown talent and national pride.
“In the past, wearing the green jersey was about patriotism and commitment. Now, we want to rebuild that culture and ensure the country is developing its own stars from the grassroots, rather than depending on foreign-based players,” he said.
