The Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, is abuzz as football legends, celebrities, and Super Eagles players converge for the inaugural Attom Charity Champions Cup, set to take place at the MKO Abiola Stadium on Saturday, June 15. The Attom Foundation’s initiative aims to raise funds and awareness to help at least 10,000 Nigerians, particularly the elderly, address vision problems caused by refractive errors, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma.
Leading the star studded lineup are Arsenal legends Emmanuel Eboue, Roberto Pires, Sol Campbell, and Kanu Nwankwo, who were all part of the iconic ‘Invincibles’ squad. Other confirmed legends for the charity match include South Africa’s Mark Fish, Brazil’s Dida, and Nigeria’s Austin Jay Jay Okocha.
At a press briefing at Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, Eboue expressed his excitement about being in Nigeria and called on residents of the FCT and its environs to come out and see their favourite football stars in person. We are here to make people happy. Some people see us on TV but have never seen us in real life. We are here to tell them we are here, Eboue said. We want them to come to the stadium tomorrow and see us. It’s good to meet them. I’m here with my brothers to make people happy so please tell them to come tomorrow and they will see us.
In addition to the foreign stars, numerous past and present Super Eagles players are participating in the event, including Kenneth Omeruo, Samuel Chukwueze, Kelechi Iheanacho, Joseph Yobo, Vincent Enyeama, Wilfred Ndidi, Chidozie Awaziem, and many more.
The Attom Foundation Charity Champions Cup has garnered support from various local and international partners such as the Federal Ministry of Sports Development, Associazione Italiana Arbitri, Kaffy Kreative Agency, Transcorp Hilton, Zenith Bank, Ibom Air, Kanu Heart Foundation, Habib Medical Clinic, Red Bull, Amstel Malt Ultra, and Cossington Luxury Apartments.
At the media parley, Omeruo commended the organizers for their drive to give back to society and called on fans to come out and support the event. This is a very important day for Nigeria and also for my brother and friend. He Attom is someone that has always supported people, Omeruo said. When they mentioned this to me a long time ago, I saw it as a very important thing because I, as a person, am concerned about doing something for the blind because there are a couple of them my foundation contributes to.
He continued, When the founder, Attom Yahaya, told me the idea behind this, I was excited, and it is actually in my city as well, Abuja, so why wouldn’t I be here And it’s good to be here. I have not seen some other celebrities, Jay Jay Okocha is here, Kanu is here, and it is important to have them. I will be ready tomorrow. I don’t know if I would be on the pitch as a goalkeeper because I am still recovering.
The charity event will also feature several Nigerian celebrities, including AY Makun, Mr. Macaroni, Kaffy, Shaggy, Brain Jotter, and many more.
Editorial
The Attom Charity Champions Cup in Abuja is a laudable initiative that brings together football legends, current stars, and celebrities for a noble cause. The event aims to address significant health challenges faced by many Nigerians, particularly vision problems among the elderly. This initiative not only highlights the power of sports to bring people together but also underscores the importance of giving back to the community.
The participation of iconic football figures like Emmanuel Eboue, Roberto Pires, Sol Campbell, Kanu Nwankwo, and Jay Jay Okocha adds immense value to the event. Their presence is expected to draw large crowds, creating an opportunity for fans to see their heroes in action and support a worthy cause. The involvement of these legends also serves as an inspiration for younger players and fans, demonstrating the impact of using one’s platform for positive change.
The current Super Eagles players and local celebrities further amplify the event’s reach and significance. Their involvement reflects a collective effort to tackle pressing health issues and enhance the quality of life for many Nigerians. This spirit of solidarity and philanthropy is commendable and sets a positive example for future initiatives.
As the Attom Charity Champions Cup unfolds, it promises to be a memorable event filled with excitement, entertainment, and a strong sense of community. The anticipated success of this event will likely encourage more such endeavours in the future, fostering a culture of compassion and social responsibility within the sporting community.
The Attom Charity Champions Cup is more than just a football match; it is a celebration of humanity and the collective effort to make a difference. We look forward to seeing the positive impact this event will have and hope it paves the way for more charitable initiatives in the world of sports.
Did You Know?
- The Attom Charity Champions Cup aims to help at least 10,000 Nigerians address vision problems such as refractive errors, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma.
- The event features football legends from Arsenal’s ‘Invincibles’ squad, including Emmanuel Eboue, Roberto Pires, Sol Campbell, and Kanu Nwankwo.
- Jay Jay Okocha, one of Nigeria’s most celebrated footballers, will also participate in the charity match.
- The event has received support from various local and international partners, highlighting the collaborative effort to make a positive impact.
- Nigerian celebrities such as AY Makun, Mr. Macaroni, and Kaffy will join the football stars, adding to the entertainment and appeal of the event.
