By VICTOR OKOYE

No fewer than 50 young footballers are set to participate in the ABT Football Academy Scouting Programme in Kwoi, Jaba Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the week-long programme is scheduled to take place at ABT Football Academy, Sabon Gari Road, Kwoi, from Aug. 17 to Aug. 23.

President of ABT Football Academy, Alhamdu Bala, told NAN in Abuja on Friday, that the programme was designed to discover talented grassroots players.

Bala said the academy would provide promising youngsters with opportunities to pursue professional careers and compete in top football leagues worldwide.

He said the programme was strictly for players aged 16 to 20, describing the age bracket as crucial for identifying talents early.

According to him, the programme will provide the young players professional assessment, guidance and possible pathways into clubs abroad.

“Age 16 to 20 is a critical period in football development, and we want to identify players early enough to support their growth,” Bala said.

He said players would be assessed by Marcelo Houseman, a renowned Argentine international scout, alongside Alhamdu Fumom, Manager of ABT Football Academy.

“Marcelo brings extensive international scouting experience, and his presence will give our young players an opportunity to be assessed against global standards,” he said.

The president described Houseman as a “FIFA-licensed football scout” credited with discovering players, including Super Eagles striker Odion Ighalo, Obinna Nsofor, Solomon Okoronkwo and Christian Ebere, as well as several other African talents.

“Houseman also played roles in the careers of great South African footballers, including Lucas Radebe, Doctor Khumalo, John Moshoeu, and Philemon Masinga.

“He recently secured the signature of Ghana’s highly rated 18-year-old prospect, Kelvin Nhrumah,” he said.

He said the scout would assess players based on technical ability, tactical awareness, athleticism, discipline, character, and their overall potential.

“Football is not only about skills. We are looking for players with discipline, intelligence, determination, and the character required to succeed professionally,” Bala said.

He explained that the players selected would be presented with opportunities to play for some LaLiga clubs in Spain.

“All positions, all talents, and equal opportunities are our priorities. We want real futures for these young players,” Bala said.

He urged interested players to seize the opportunity, describing the programme as a “platform for youngsters” who dream of becoming professional footballers.

“Be scouted, be discovered and be the next star. This is an opportunity for young talents to take the first major step.

“For more information, interested players should call 08064337468 or 09023160102, or contact ABT Football Academy through its Facebook platform,” he said. (NAN)