The stage is now set for 50 young footballers to participate in the ABT Football Academy Scouting Programme in Kaduna, North West Nigeria.
A statement released by the organisers confirmed that the week-long programme is scheduled for August 17th – 23rd, at ABT Football Academy in Sabon Gari Road, Kwoi, Kaduna.
President of the academy, Alhamdu Bala Gyet, said the programme was designed to discover talented grassroots players. He said the academy would provide promising youngsters aged 16 – 20 with opportunities to pursue professional careers and compete in top football leagues worldwide.
According to him, the programme will provide young players with professional assessment, guidance, and possible pathways with 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,” he said.
Gyet 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 gives our young players an opportunity to be assessed against global standards,” he highlighted.
Gyet said Houseman was 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 South African football greats, including Lucas Radebe, Doctor Khumalo, John Moshoeu, and Philemon Masinga,” Gyet mentioned.
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.
“All positions, all talents, and equal opportunities are our priorities. We want real futures for these young players.”
He urged interested players to seize the opportunity, describing the programme as a platform for youngsters who dream of becoming professional footballers.
Bala expressed optimism that the players would “be scouted, be discovered, and be the next star. This is an opportunity for young talents to take the first major step.”
