NBC backs Youth League as catalyst for football growth
NBC Bank’s Head of Finance and Business and Chairman of the NBC Premier League Internal Committee, Joseph Lyuba, hands over the trophy to Azam FC U-20 captain Ismaily Ally shortly after their victory in the competition held at Azam Complex. Also present at the ceremony was Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) President, Wallace Karia (wearing a cap). PHOTO | COURTESY
What you need to know:
- With a focus on fostering the next generation of football talents in the country, NBC has reaffirmed its dedication to this crucial platform for youth development.
Dar es Salaam. The main sponsor of the NBC Under-20 youth league, NBC Bank has commended the league's rising standards, citing its growing competitiveness and the emergence of promising young talent as clear signs of progress in Tanzanian football.
Speaking during the trophy presentation ceremony for Azam FC’s U-20 crowned champions of the 2024/2025 season NBC’s Head of Finance and Business, Joseph Lyuba, underscored the league’s role as a key pillar in the bank’s strategy to nurture future stars and elevate the domestic game.
“For clubs competing in both the NBC Championship and NBC Premier League to sustain top performance, there must be a reliable pipeline of fresh talent.
This Under-20 league is central to that ambition,” said Lyuba, who also serves as Chairperson of the NBC Premier League Internal Committee.
He said NBC’s sponsorship is rooted in a vision for a Premier League built on homegrown talent, with the youth league serving as a critical development ground.
“We are proud to witness the intensity and quality of this league. A strong foundation at youth level is vital to building a competitive and entertaining top-tier league. The progress we are seeing will soon be felt not only in the Championship and Premier League, but also within the national team,” Lyuba added.
The comments came after Azam FC (U20) edged Fountain Gate FC (U20) 1-0 in a closely fought final at the Azam Complex in Chamazi.
Striker Carlos Chasambi scored the decisive goal in the 11th minute, sparking celebrations among fans and club officials.
The final drew an enthusiastic crowd, including top football administrators such as Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) President Wallace Karia, Secretary General Wilfred Kidao, and Dar es Salaam Regional Football Association (DRFA) Chairman Lameck Nyambaya.
Lyuba congratulated both finalists, their technical benches, and the TFF for successfully delivering a competitive and inspiring league season.
“NBC is committed to deepening our support across all three leagues we sponsor. We want to enhance competition, create jobs, and improve the livelihoods of everyone involved in this beautiful game—from players and coaches to match officials and support staff,” he said.
Azam FC (U20) head coach Kassim Liogope lauded his side for their determination and resilience, pointing to the fierce battles in the quarter-finals as a reflection of how far the youth league has come.
“The competition was strong this season. The quality of football has definitely improved, and that’s thanks to the structures being put in place,” said Liogope, who also thanked NBC and the TFF for their continued support of youth football.
