Abuja: Francis Okooboh, Head Consultant of Abzchain Resources Football Club of Abuja, has reaffirmed commitment to developing grassroots football talents in Nigeria, leveraging new partnerships with top European football clubs. Okooboh stated this at a news conference in Abuja on Monday, when scouts from Tottenham Hotspur FC and Cambridge United FC visited. He described the occasion as ‘a rare opportunity’ for young Nigerian footballers to be assessed directly by professional club scouts from Europe.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Okooboh expressed enthusiasm about the presence of scouts from Tottenham Hotspur, a Premier League team, and Cambridge United Football Club, a League Two side in England. He emphasized the significance of this visit for young talents in Nigeria, noting that such high-level scouting opportunities are not common in the country. Okooboh highlighted Abzchain Resources FC’s focus on comprehensive player development through technical, tactical, and physical training, while also guiding parents on realistic career paths for their children.
Okooboh pointed out the importance of honesty and merit-based selection in Nigeria’s football system. He lamented the current situation where opportunities are often granted based on connections rather than talent, advocating for a system that prioritizes ability over background or wealth. Okooboh reiterated Abzchain’s vision of nurturing young Nigerian footballers to compete globally while collaborating with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to strengthen local football.
Ryan Hervel, a coach with Tottenham Hotspur FC, expressed excitement about discovering Nigerian talents, referencing the country’s natural creativity and flair. Similarly, Emmanuel N’daw, a coach and scout at Cambridge United FC, shared his enthusiasm for partnering with Abzchain Resources. Both scouts emphasized their commitment to providing Nigerian players with opportunities based on potential rather than age.
The event also marked the kickoff of a football scouting tournament featuring 14 teams, including Abzchain Resource FA, Blinks FA, and others. The opening match saw Abzchain Resource FA face Blinks FA as the tournament commenced immediately after the press event. The five-day scouting program, which started today, will conclude on Friday.