Super Eagles striker, Taiwo Awoniyi has called for official recognition of the Kwara Kiddies League by the Kwara State Football Association, describing the initiative as a vital platform for discovering and nurturing young football talents in the state.

Awoniyi made the appeal during a visit to the Kwara Football Association (KWSFA) in Ilorin, where he met with the Chairman, Alhaji Idris Abdullahi Musa Thuraya, football stakeholders and youth development advocates.

The Nottingham Forest forward stressed the importance of structured grassroots competitions in producing future stars for both club and country.

The Super Eagles striker noted that the Kwara Kiddies League has continued to provide opportunities for young players to showcase their talents and develop their skills in an organized environment.

He expressed optimism that official recognition by Kwara FA would enhance the credibility of the competition and attract greater support from stakeholders.

Awoniyi also reiterated his commitment to youth football development, emphasizing that investment in grassroots programmes remains the surest pathway to sustaining Nigeria’s football success.

He encouraged corporate organizations, government agencies, and football administrators to support initiatives aimed at discovering and nurturing young talents.

While welcoming Awoniyi to his office, Thuraya commended Awoniyi for giving back to the game and contributing to football development in his home state, and for supporting humanity.

He described the striker as a role model whose achievements continue to inspire aspiring footballers across Kwara and beyond.

He pledged the association’s support to the grassroots football development, towards the discovery of more Awoniyi’s in the state.

Football enthusiasts and stakeholders present at the gathering lauded Awoniyi’s efforts, expressing confidence that his advocacy would further boost grassroots football development and create more opportunities for young players in the state.

Hajia Segilola Alaya, who was also present at the ocassion prayed for Awoniyi, and also pleaded for women/girls involvement in his programme.

The visit formed part of ongoing efforts to strengthen youth football structures in Kwara State and ensure that emerging talents receive the support needed to progress to higher levels of the game.