As part of the FIFA Talent Development Scheme TDS, the Nigeria Football Federation has completed a two week training program in Abuja for the National U15 Boys team, also known as the Future Eagles. The initiative aims to create a sustainable system for long term talent development in the country.
Jibril emphasized the need for such a program, especially with the U17 Africa Cup of Nations set to become an annual competition in 2025, stressing that without initiatives like TDS, countries may struggle to assemble competitive teams.
Patrick Bassey, head coach of Nigeria’s U15 team, affirmed that the recruitment process has been transparent, with selections based purely on talent and merit. A total of 120 young players, divided into two groups, participated in the program, and 40 players will be selected for a follow up schedule before the end of the year.
Editorial
The FIFA Talent Development Scheme in Nigeria is a promising step towards building a strong foundation for the nation’s future football success. By focusing on young talents and providing them with the opportunity to be trained in a competitive environment, Nigeria is laying the groundwork for future national teams to thrive. This initiative is essential not just for the development of individual players, but also for the long-term sustainability of the sport in the country.
Head of the TDS delegation in Nigeria, Nasiru Jibril, praised the program as an important pathway for young talents, aged 12 to 15, to showcase their abilities. He expressed confidence that the scheme will eventually supply top talents to Nigeria’s senior national teams. The program aligns with FIFA’s global effort to raise the standards of national team football by focusing on youth development.
We believe that the success of this program will rely on its ability to maintain transparency and merit-based selection, as Coach Patrick Bassey has assured. If executed well, this could ensure that the most talented players are nurtured and given the best chance to reach their full potential. As football continues to grow and evolve globally, Nigeria must continue to invest in its youth programs to stay competitive on the world stage.
Did You Know?
- FIFA’s Talent Development Scheme was launched to improve the standard of national teams worldwide by focusing on youth development.
- Nigeria’s U15 team, the Future Eagles, has been a key part of the country’s efforts to develop young footballers.
- The Africa U17 Cup of Nations, set to become an annual competition in 2025, is expected to enhance the development of young African players.
- Over 120 young players took part in the initial phase of the TDS program, with further selections planned before the end of the year.
- Former Nigeria international Nasiru Jibril heads the FIFA Talent Development Scheme in Nigeria, contributing his experience to the development of the nation’s future football stars.
