Katsina State YSFON Under-18 team retained their Moses Andishu North-West YSFON U-18 Championship title after a convincing 4–1 victory over Sokoto State in the final at the Murtala Muhammed Square, Kaduna.
The defending champions struck twice in the first half to take control of the contest before adding another two goals after the break to put the title beyond Sokoto's reach.
Sokoto, who had fought their way into the final, managed a consolation goal but could not prevent Katsina from completing a successful title defence.
Katsina booked their place in the final after defeating host Kaduna State in the semi-finals, while Sokoto earned their place in the title decider with a 2–0 victory over Kebbi State.
 |
| Joseph Andishu fielding questions after the finals |
 |
| Katsina State YSFON U18 Team Winners in celebration mode |
Speaking at the close of the championship on behalf of the sponsor, Moses Andishu, Joseph Andishu said the competition was established to provide young footballers with a platform to discover their potential, showcase their talents and pursue opportunities to develop into professional players.
He said the initiative was founded on the belief that the North-West is blessed with enormous football talent, but many young players require exposure, mentorship and opportunities to progress in the game.
According to him, the Moses Andishu North-West YSFON Under-18 Championship is more than a football competition, as it is designed to serve as a pathway for identifying, developing and nurturing promising young talents.
“Our objective is to give these young players the opportunity to explore their talents, grow in confidence and develop into professional footballers,” he said.
“There are many gifted young players across the North-West, and initiatives like this can provide the platform and exposure they need to realise their full potential and pursue their dreams.”
Joseph Andishu called on state governments across the North-West to partner with the Moses Andishu North-West Initiative in expanding opportunities for young people, particularly in sports and talent development.
He noted that strategic investment in youth and sports development could contribute significantly to economic growth through employment creation, the expansion of the sports industry and the opening of new opportunities for young people.
He said stronger collaboration between state governments, the private sector and youth development organisations would help unlock the enormous human and sporting potential available across the region.
According to him, sustained partnerships could transform grassroots sports competitions into wider platforms for talent discovery, economic empowerment and job creation, while providing young people with productive opportunities to contribute to the development of their communities.
The final brought the curtains down on the second edition of the championship, which featured some of the most promising young footballers from across the North-West and provided an important platform for grassroots talent discovery and development.
As the final whistle sounded at the Murtala Muhammed Square, Katsina's young players celebrated another championship triumph, while Sokoto were left to reflect on a spirited campaign that took them all the way to the final.