.DG PROSPERITY CUP SALUTES INNOVATIVE INITIATIVE OF NFF PRESIDENT
In a significant milestone for Bayelsa State’s football development, 18 talented young players from the Prosperity Cup have received an invitation to participate in the South-South Zonal U-17 National Team screening.
This innovative initiative, spearheaded by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) under the leadership of President Ibrahim Gusau, aims to identify and nurture young football talents across the country.
The invited players, all aged 17 and below, showcased their exceptional skills during the 2025 edition of the Bayelsa Governor’s Football Tournament, widely regarded as Nigeria’s largest grassroots football fiesta.
This tournament has consistently provided a platform for young players to demonstrate their abilities, and it’s heartening to see the fruits of this labour being recognized on the national stage.
The formal invitation, dated June 25, 2025, was extended to the Director General of the Prosperity Cup, Mr. Ono Akpe, by Mr. Paul Ojo Omamomo, on behalf of the National U-17 team coach, Manu Garba. The letter highlights the exceptional talents identified during the Governor’s Cup, which was attended by a team sent by Coach Manu Garba led by Mr Paul Ojo Omamomo, a FIFA graded football agent.
According to the Director General, Mr Ono K.Akpe, this initiative is a testament to the tireless efforts of Governor Douye Diri and his Deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, who have consistently demonstrated their commitment to sports development in the state. The Commissioner for Sports Development, Dr. Daniel Igali, has also played a pivotal role in promoting football in Bayelsa State, and this achievement is a direct result of their vision and investment in sports.
According to the Director General, ” the NFF President, Ibrahim Gusau, deserves special mention for his outstanding contributions to the growth of young football talents in the country. His leadership has been instrumental in shaping the future of Nigerian football, and this initiative is a shining example of his dedication to the sport.”
The screening programme, which will be conducted by a team of scouts led by Coach Manu Garba, promises to be an exciting opportunity for these young players to showcase their skills and potentially earn spots in the national U-17 team.
“We wish the invited players the very best as they prepare to represent Bayelsa State on the national stage.
This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players, coaches, and administrators involved in the Prosperity Cup. We look forward to seeing these young talents shine in the years to come” Mr Akpe added.
Recall that coach Manu Garba has over years earned the reputation as a serial winner of the U:17 world cup also distinguishing himself in discovering and nurturing budding talents to stardom.
