AWC Sports Desk
The build-up to the World Soccer Legends – War Against Cancer International Charity Football Match, Nigeria 2026, received a major institutional boost on Tuesday, January 7, 2026, as the National Coordinator of the initiative, Mr. Jacob Onu, paid a working visit to the Director-General of the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT), Professor Usman Aliyu Malami, in Abuja.
The strategic engagement, held at the new NICRAT Corporate Headquarters, focused on strengthening collaboration between the charity football initiative and Nigeria’s foremost cancer research and treatment institution, in line with global best practices for cancer prevention, awareness and control.
During the visit, Mr. Onu formally briefed the NICRAT leadership on the objectives of the World Soccer Legends – War Against Cancer Charity Match Nigeria 2026, highlighting the growing international partnership with the China–Africa Economic and Trade Promotion Council (CAEPT), which is supporting the programme as part of broader health and sports diplomacy efforts.
A key highlight of the visit was the presentation of the official match ball and jerseys to the NICRAT Director-General. The kits were produced and donated by INA Sports, a reputable Chinese sports kitting brand based in Hunan Province, China, underscoring the global nature of the campaign and the expanding international support for Nigeria’s cancer fight.
Professor Malami welcomed the delegation and commended the initiative for creatively leveraging sports to advance cancer awareness, prevention and advocacy. He reiterated NICRAT’s commitment to partnerships that mobilise public attention, resources and policy support towards reducing Nigeria’s cancer burden.
Also present at the meeting and presentation were Engr. Anthony Oladejo Adeola, a member of the Main Organising Committee (MOC), and Dr. Waziri Usman Mohamed, Director of Cancer Prevention and Control at NICRAT, who emphasised the importance of sustained public engagement and innovative platforms in driving behavioural change and early cancer detection.
The World Soccer Legends – War Against Cancer International Charity Football Match, Nigeria 2026, is expected to convene legendary football stars, health professionals, policymakers and development partners from across the world in Abuja, using the universal language of football to champion cancer prevention, treatment and support for affected Nigerians.
With institutional partnerships deepening and international backing growing, organisers say the 2026 event is shaping up to be a landmark convergence of sports, health advocacy and global cooperation in Nigeria’s fight against cancer.
