The 2026 Unity Preseason Tournament has drawn to a successful close in Gwagwalada, with Sensational Stars Academy crowned champions. Participating teams and officials have lauded the competition for its crucial role in fostering grassroots football development ahead of the forthcoming Nationwide League One (NLO) season.
The NLO secretariat extended its appreciation to all stakeholders for their contributions, congratulating Sensational Stars Academy on their victory and commending all teams for their discipline. The tournament featured Likeminds FC, Daniel FC, NSCDC FC, Neurospark FC, Paul E FC, De Royal Galaxy, Daniel Academy, and the eventual winners, Sensational Stars Academy.
The NLO also thanked fans and the Gwagwalada community for their strong support, highlighting the event as a testament to the bright future of Nigerian football. Clubs were wished a successful NLO season, which is set to kick off on 10th April.
Barrister Babatunde Akintade, an NLO Board member and proprietor of Likeminds FC, praised the organisers and the NLO crew, stating: “We show much appreciation to the organisers and the wonderful NLO crew, most especially the Chief Operating Officer, for giving us this epoch-achieving opportunity. The Gwagwalada FA is saying thank you.”
Thompson Ojukwu, JP, proprietor of Sensational Stars Academy, expressed gratitude for his amateur team’s inclusion: “We remain grateful to the organisers of the NLO 1 preseason for the efficient manner in which they gave Sensational Stars Academy the opportunity to participate in the competition that produced us as worthy champions.”
Further commendations came from De Royal Galaxy FC and Neurospark FC, both acknowledging the platform provided for player development and community engagement. The tournament served as a vital preparatory event, strengthening grassroots football within the region.
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