…Defeats Access FC 4–1 on penalties to lift Adamu Abubakar Mohammed Trophy

By: Goodluck E. Adubazi, Abuja.

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) football team has emerged champions of the 2026 Nationwide League One (NLO) pre-season tournament after defeating 19 other teams to claim the prestigious title in Abuja.

The NYSC side defeated Access FC 4–1 in a penalty shootout in the final to lift the Alhaji Adamu Abubakar Mohammed Trophy, following an impressive campaign in the competition organised for Division One teams in the Federal Capital Territory.

The annual tournament featured 20 teams competing for honours as part of their preparations for the new football season.

Speaking while receiving the victorious players in his office, the Director-General of NYSC, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, congratulated the team for their outstanding performance, describing the victory as a source of pride for the Scheme.

Nafiu commended the players for their hard work, commitment and determination, urging them to build on the achievement through improved skills, discipline, focus and dedication.

He assured the team of the Scheme’s continued support towards developing their footballing abilities, stressing that football was a viable profession.

“We will help develop your skills better. Football is a profession, and NYSC is proud of you,” the Director-General said.

Earlier, the Chairman of the NYSC National Football Team, Mr Usman Yahaya, expressed appreciation to the Director-General for his consistent support and encouragement, which he said had contributed significantly to the team’s progress.

The victory further reinforces the NYSC’s commitment to promoting sporting excellence, discovering and nurturing young talents, and creating opportunities for Nigerian youths to develop their potential through football.