Top government officials and sports administrators are expected in Auchi, Edo State, on March 28 for the official launch of the Kadiri Ikhana Football Academy.
Among those expected at the event are Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo; Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko; the Commission’s Director-General, Bukola Olopade; and President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Ibrahim Gusau.
In a statement signed by former Super Eagles coach, Kadiri Ikhana, the academy, which began skeletal operations late last year, is expected to become fully operational following the official launch.
Ikhana, who was named Africa’s Coach of the Year after guiding Enyimba International FC to Nigeria’s first-ever CAF Champions League title in 2003, said several prominent figures from government and the football community would also attend the ceremony.
The Edo State Deputy Governor, Dennis Idahosa, as well as the Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Amadin Desmond Enabulele, and members of the commission’s board are also expected to grace the event.
Also billed to attend are Chairman of the Nigeria Premier Football League, Gbenga Elegbeleye, alongside chairmen of the league’s 20 clubs, and officials of the Nigeria National League led by its chairman, George Aluo.
Security expert and philanthropist, Peter Dunia, is also expected at the event, while members of Nigeria’s 1980 Africa Cup of Nations-winning Green Eagles team have confirmed their attendance. They include Segun Odegbami, Adokiye Amiesimaka and Felix Owolabi.
Explaining the vision behind the project, Ikhana, himself a member of the historic 1980 AFCON-winning squad, said the academy was established to contribute to grassroots football development and support Nigeria’s age-grade national teams.
“I’ve garnered lots of experience, both as a player and coach over the years and I feel it’s time I contribute to the development of the age grade national teams.
“The academy is for children from age 9 to 16 years and we want it to serve as nursery for the junior national teams and club-sides. We are admitting both boys and girls and I’ve experienced technical staff to guide the players through their career paths,” Ikhana said.
The academy is expected to serve as a talent development hub, nurturing young footballers and preparing them for future opportunities in national teams and professional clubs.
