The launch of SAMDA Nigeria has been shifted to April 15 due mainly to funding constraints.
The decision followed a meeting between the association’s executive committee and officials of the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (LASUBEB) at the board’s Maryland office on Tuesday, April 7, 2026.
While LASUBEB indicated readiness for the earlier date of Thursday, April 9, SAMDA’s delegation, led by Chairman Tajudeen Disu, alongside Vice-Chairman Patrick Okpavuerhe, Procurement Officer Akeem Ishola, and Head of Media and Publicity Godwin Aikigbe, said it could not proceed as planned because of insufficient funds to complete preparations, particularly for the football tournament.
Speaking at the meeting, Disu appreciated LASUBEB’s support and guidance, stressing the need for a well-executed launch that would position SAMDA strongly from the outset in Nigeria.
The former Nigeria international noted that with many similar non-profit organisations in the country, it was important for SAMDA to distinguish itself through a high-quality launch.
“We regret the postponement, but it became necessary due to inadequate funds for critical aspects of the event, especially the football tournament,” he said.
He explained that the initial funds provided by the organisation’s headquarters in North Carolina, USA, had been prudently utilised on essential groundwork required to establish SAMDA and ensure competitiveness.
According to him, additional resources are needed to cover logistics such as feeding players and officials, preparing the camp, subsidising team transport, securing the playing pitch, and other operational costs.
He expressed optimism that the headquarters would respond positively to requests for further funding ahead of the new date.
As a result, the tournament earlier slated to begin on April 12 will now kick off on Thursday, April 16, 2026, with teams arriving at camp for registration, while matches are set to commence on Friday, April 17.
