Nestlé Ghana Ltd has held a special celebration marking 20 years since former Ghana international Stephen Appiah led Ghana to its first FIFA World Cup appearance in 2006.

The company also honoured Appiah for his remarkable dedication to and impact on its flagship initiative, the MILO U-13 Champions League.

The event, held in Accra last Friday, formed part of activities to officially launch the 2026 edition of the MILO Champions League, with the national finals scheduled for April 21 to 25 at the Essipon Stadium.

The company played a short documentary highlighting the career of Stephen Appiah before presenting him with a customised jersey, signed by members of management and mounted in a large plaque. The presentation, conducted by Asamoah Gyan, drew loud cheers and applause from the audience.

Nestlé Ghana’s Category Manager for Beverages and Dairy, Myron Otoo, who led the celebration for Appiah, mentioned that since the inception of the competition, the brand ambassador has consistently gone the extra mile — travelling across regions to inspire young football talents wherever the tournament is held.

He said Appiah’s dedication to the MILO brand is admirable and worthy of emulation.

“This is to say thank you to Stephen Appiah for your consistency and dedication to the brand,” Mr Otoo said.

Youth development 

Receiving the plaque, Appiah expressed deep appreciation for his long-standing association with the MILO Champions League, describing it as a vital platform for youth development and football talent identification in the country.

He said he was proud to have been part of the project for many years, noting that the competition continues to provide opportunities for young players to showcase their talent and build their future careers.

He highlighted the competition’s impact in producing global football stars, mentioning players such as Michael Essien, John Mensah and Sulley Muntari as examples of talents who have emerged from the system. 

He noted that although he did not personally take part in the MILO tournament during his youth, he benefited from similar grassroots support through colts football competitions that were also sponsored by MILO at the time.

He praised Nestlé Ghana for its continued commitment to youth football development, stating that the company’s long-term investment in grassroots football deserves recognition and applause.

"Thanks so much. I wasn't expecting this from Nestle Ghana. It is an honour to receive this. I believe in this project and I will always continue to support it. Thank you all once again," he said," he said.

The Milo U13 Champions League in Ghana, designed for school children to promote grassroots football, officially began in 2010. 

The tournament was held biennially until 2014, before continuing as a national event from 2015 to 2019, and later returning after a five-year, pandemic-related break in 2025.

It was introduced by Nestlé Ghana as a grassroots football development initiative to identify and nurture young talent in basic schools across the country, while promoting education, discipline, and healthy living.

Over the years, it has become one of Ghana’s most established school football competitions, producing several players who later progressed into professional and national team football.