Over 300 kids for Nathaniel Idowu Summer Camp

More than 300 children have begun participating in the first-ever Nathaniel Idowu Summer Camp, held at the New Maracana Stadium in Tolu, Lagos. The camp welcomed 321 registered participants after an initial turnout of over 1,000 children on the opening day.

Each camper received an official jersey, with some also getting full training kits, including boots, gloves, shin guards, jerseys, and balls, donated by the US-based organization Gear ’em Up. The camp coordinator, McAnthony Anaelechukwu, explained that the initiative aims to identify and nurture young talent while fostering discipline and character development.

"This is about catching them young, building their talent, and building their character. We want to give Lagos children a safe space to dream, learn discipline, and discover what they’re capable of," Anaelechukwu said.

The four-week program features football and basketball activities. Certified coaches, a medical crew, and kitchen staff are overseeing the participants. The children engage in warm-ups, drills, and training sessions, with some receiving specialized equipment like football boots and goalkeeper gloves.

Parents have expressed satisfaction with the camp, particularly its free access and the opportunity it provides for children to stay active and engaged during the holidays. The organizers noted that the high turnout on the opening day highlights the demand for structured sporting opportunities for young people in Lagos.

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This is about catching them young, building their talent, and building their character. We want to give Lagos children a safe space to dream, learn discipline, and discover what they’re capable of.