HEAD coach of the Flying Eagles of Nigeria, Aliyu Zubair, has cited poor nurturing and inadequate data documentation as major obstacles to African football development.
Speaking at the end of a week-long U-13 Kiddies Football Competition, Zubair highlighted the challenges young players face in transitioning to stardom due to these shortcomings.
He noted that Africa is rich in raw talent, but the structures for proper player development and documentation remain inadequate compared to Europe.
Zubair was impressed with the level of skill displayed by the young players during the final match between Dickalo FC and Barca FC, identifying at least six players with the potential to join the U-15 National Team.
However, these talents could only reach their full potential with proper nurturing and systematic data collection.
Zubair called on the Youth Sports Federation of Nigeria (YSFON), state football associations, and the national federation to play more effective roles in identifying, documenting, and nurturing young talents.
The competition was successful, with Barca FC winning the maiden edition, and cash prizes and trophies were awarded to the top three teams.
Eighteen-Eleven Media