Super Eagles midfielder, Wilfred Ndidi, in partnership with the Nathaniel Idowu Foundation, played host to 3,000 young football talents at the New Maracana Stadium, Ajegunle, Lagos on Saturday, as they continue their holidays at home, Sunday PUNCH reports.

Tagged ‘2025 Maracana Children’s Fest with Ndidi and Friends’, the Leicester City player was joined by some of his Super Eagles teammates, including captain William Troost-Ekong, Victor Osimhen, and Victor Boniface.

Others were Frank Onyeka, Raphael Onyedika, Tolu Arokodare as well as Falconets defender, Asiata Isiaka.

The 19-pitch facility was in use simultaneously during the event, hosting about 156 matches at intervals.

Ndidi, his Super Eagles teammates and other dignitaries like the Lagos State Head of Service, Bode Agoro, also joined the young players for two exhibition matches.

“It was a good cause and all of them took time out of their busy schedule to come. I think this is the first time we have been able to get seven Super Eagles players in one place,” Chairman, Nathaniel Idowu Foundation, Yemi Idowu said.

“There are many ways the football players can give back especially with these kinds of social events. You see them mixing with the children, and you can imagine the number of children that are inspired by them.”

Ndidi reflected on his humble beginning, as the motivation to keep inspiring the next generation.

“I’m excited about this project and the smiles on the faces of the children amazes me. This is something that they are looking forward to.

“For me, as a child, when you see the stars you watch on TV, it’s a different feeling and that’s why we invited some of our colleagues to come see the project.”

Super Eagles captain, Troost-Ekong, also stressed the importance of collaboration among the players in giving back to the society.

“It’s my first time here in Ajegunle and it’s amazing the work that has been done here. I’ve come with my kids to come see this part of Lagos as well. It’s encouraging for us to come here and continue the work,” Troost-Ekong said.