Football Association Hails AFA Football Academy Initiative

AFA Football Academy Lafiagi was officially unveiled on Friday at the Lafiagi Township Stadium, Edu Local Government Area, Kwara State, with a novelty match between AFA Football Academy and Dolly P from Ilorin. The match ended in a 2-0 victory for AFA Football Academy.

Speaking at the event, the Founder and CEO of AFA Football Academy, Amb. Aliyu Issa Edu, shared his vision for the academy, stating that his experience as a former Nigerian local player inspired him to create opportunities for young talents.

"I used to be a local player in Nigeria, and I had dreams of playing at higher levels, but we couldn’t go far. When I got the opportunity to travel abroad, I saw how private citizens invested in sports development. Now that I am back, I want to bring that knowledge home, nurture young talents, and hopefully see them play in Europe, America, and other top footballing nations. Our agenda is to grow local football and help minimize crime in our communities," Edu said.

He emphasized that football is more than just a sport—it is a tool for youth engagement and community development. He called on the government to support the initiative by improving sports facilities, particularly the Lafiagi Township Stadium.

"Football is a global language that unites generations. We hope the government will support this idea. The current stadium facilities are not in the best condition, but we are managing what is available while hoping for improvements."

Edu further stated that AFA Football Academy has been registered with FIFA, TMS, and other football governing bodies, ensuring compliance with international standards.

"We are just starting, and we have many programs lined up. Our players have been training together for seven months, and today’s unveiling with a novelty match is to let the world know that we exist. This is not the Lafiagi of yesterday; this is the Lafiagi of tomorrow, driven by ambitious youths."

He urged young people to embrace hard work and patience, stressing that success is a process.

"Crime is not the way to growth. There is no shortcut to making money; it is a journey that requires dedication, and if you follow the process, you will succeed in life."

The Chairman of the Edu Local Government Football Association (FA), Mr. Malik Manzuma, praised the establishment of AFA Football Academy, describing it as a significant step toward youth and community development. He also appreciated the Executive Chairman of Edu Local Government for his passion for football.

Additionally, Mr. Manzuma thanked Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for approving the renovation and upgrade of Lafiagi Township Stadium.

"Once completed, this project will not only motivate young players but also serve as a source of internal revenue generation for the local government," he stated.

The Director of AFA Football Academy, Dr. Manzuma, revealed that the idea for the academy began four years ago, and its official unveiling on February 27, 2025, marks a new chapter in its journey.

"At the start, we played for fun and small prizes, but now our goal is much bigger. We are determined to take this academy to the next level—to see our boys play for the national team and international clubs. If we can achieve even one of these goals, we will consider our mission a success," he concluded.

The unveiling of AFA Football Academy is expected to create a lasting impact on football development in Kwara State, providing young players with opportunities to pursue professional careers in the sport.

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