BY JOSEPH ISOKPEHI
Norrod Abbott Global Football Academy, poised to become a beacon of hope for young footballers in Edo State, and fostering a new generation of football talents ready to excel in both local and international stages, was officially launched on Saturday, January 18, in Benin City, the Edo State capital.
TThe first half of the game ended goalless with both teams displaying their exceptional skills. However, Valentine Nnachi of Namo Sports found the net 5mins into te second half, while Abbey Olowojoba first increased the scoreline to 2, and closed it at 3, as the Coach Austin Ogieriakhi’s side triumphed victoriously.he birthing of the academy was marked with a nolvelty match between Norrod Abbott Global Football Academy and Namo Sports Football Academy, with Namo Sports thrashing Narrod Abbott 3-0.
The event, filled with generous donations, and promises of excellence, marked a significant step in nurturing young talents and promoting football development in the state.
In his welcome address, Onoriode Onyen, the Founder and CEO Norrod Abbott Global Football Academy, shared his motivation for establishing the initiative. Onyen, a former footballer who struggled with limited opportunities, expressed his desire to identify and nurture talents from the grassroots level, providing them with the support and exposure needed to succeed internationally. He revealed that the academy will primarily cater to players aged 7 to 16, with plans for tournaments to accommodate older age groups in the future.
“Football is big business today, and I hope these boys understand the opportunities it presents. With focus and discipline, they can achieve great heights,” Onyen said.
He also highlighted the academy’s partnerships with foreign collaborators and investors, which will play a critical role in its mission.
Earlier, in his opening remark, the Chairman of the Nigerian Football Coaching Association, Edo State chapter, Felix Evbodi, praised the academy’s vision, urging it to abide by football regulations, and contribute to sports development in Edo State. He expressed optimism about the academy’s potential to produce outstanding talents and enhance the state’s reputation in football.
Generosity was the highlight of the event, as several football enthusiasts and dignitaries announced their financial donations to the academy. The donors include Morrison Peters, Babayi Toronto, Omo Wisdom, and Okpame. Others include Sir Pedro Oil and Gas, Sonny Ejaria fondly known as “Pa Atugboko”, Olu Toronto and Victor Ime Ojiekere.
These contributions underscored individual and group’s commitment to the success of Norrod Abbott Global Football Academy.
In his closing remark, Mr. Richmond, also known as “Teacher” emphasised the historical significance of Edo State in producing football talents and urged the academy to uphold the legacy.
“I see a lot of potentials in these boys. With the right nurturing, they will rise to great heights,” he stated, while encouraging the players to take football seriously as a career path.
