By: Gracious Akujobi Former National U-20 Assistant Coach Samuel Abimbola, has predicted a brighter future for Nigeria Football if the relevant bodies would join hands with government to develop the game from the grassroots.
The immediate past Technical Adviser of Sunshine stars of Akure spoke in Gwagwalada, Abuja at the weekend where he was the Chief Resource Person at the FCT Coaches U-15 Holiday’s Football Clinic. He said that Nigeria has great potentials in game, but the fears have been how to harness the talents to stardom.
He said that if corporate individuals and companies would join hands with relevant government agencies in providing a very conducive environment for the youths to exhibit their skill, Nigeria would be better for it.
According to him, “That is what countries like Brazil are thriving on, so we can also do the same”. He however called for absolute transparency from those who would be vested with the responsibility of harnessing these talents.
Speaking, the initiator of the Program, Godwin Bamigboye who is the Chairman of Nigeria Football Coaches Association, FCT Chapter expressed satisfaction with the enthusiasm displayed by the youths, saying that the aim of the holiday program has been achieved.
“The program started in Bwari Area Council three weeks ago, and then it was U-17, now it is Gwagwalada with U-15, and we would move to Kuje Area Council for the U-13. Talents spotted would be given further opportunities at various the national teams,” he said.
In the opening match, City Stars Academy played a goalless draw with Sensational Stars Academy. The Technical Director of City Stars Academy Patrick Ngwaogu expressed satisfactions on the performance of boys, promising a better result in their subsequent matches. 17 teams from Gwagwalada Area Council are taking part in the competition which finals will be played on 14thSeptember.
