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It was an exciting moment at the remodeled Maracana Stadium Children’s Christmas Party organised by the Nathaniel Idowu Foundation in Ajegunle, Lagos, when Borussia Dortmund’s striker Karim Adeyemi inspired youngsters at the event on Friday.
Adeyemi, who was a special guest at the facility, charged the children not to relent in their efforts to have fun alongside playing football. He described the Maracana Stadium as an example of a community-based facility that could mould every young person to become a world beater.
“I feel very proud to see that something like this is happening here and also, I am very happy to have contributed to the hostels in the facility, as well as seeing beautiful pitches for the kids to play. It is great seeing children having fun, knowing each other and playing football together,” he said.
Adeyemi promised, through his foundation, that he would continue to support Nigerian kids in their quest to play football at the highest level. Head of BVB Football Academy, Christian Diercks, said the Maracana Stadium would help the kids to hone their skills alongside their live lessons through sports.
“We (Dortmund) especially feel proud that Adeyemi’s foundation is willing to be responsible for Africa and to do good things and charitable work. This is something we will like to see as a club,” he said.
“We are here firstly for charitable work through football development and secondly for making players technically better with the proper education by adding value and understanding.”
Chairman, Nathaniel Idowu Foundation, Yemi Idowu, stated that the presence of Adeyemi would inspire youngsters in the area.
“Today (Friday) is the children’s Christmas party, so we took the opportunity to welcome Adeyemi. Karim Adeyemi Foundation supported the construction of one of the hostels.”
Chairman, Ajeromi-Ifelodun LGA, Fatai Ayoola, added, “I am highly elated, happy and honoured to have this kind of personality identifying with the poorest of the poor in the community. Ajegunle is one of the suburbs in Lagos but with abundant talents.”