Bayelsa State Partners with Barcelona to Launch Soccer Academy
Bayelsa State has forged a partnership with Spanish football powerhouse Barcelona to establish a soccer academy within the state. This significant agreement was reached during the grand finale of the Bayelsa Governors Football Tournament, known as the Prosperity Cup 2026, held at the Samson Siasia Sports Complex in Yenagoa. Dr. Daniel Igali, the Commissioner for Sports, represented the state government, while Mr. Bernat Villa Garis signed on behalf of Barcelona.
The memorandum signing ceremony attracted notable figures, including Amaju Pinnick, former president of the Nigeria Football Federation, and Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, the federation’s general secretary.
Okoloma United Seizes Champion Title in Men’s Final
In a thrilling men’s final, Okoloma United from the Nembe Local Government Area triumphed over Akinyima Biogbo from Yenagoa with a narrow 1-0 victory, claiming the championship of the tournament’s eighth edition. As a reward for their performance, Okoloma United received a prize of N40 million, while Akinyima Biogbo was awarded N13 million.
Active Ladies Crowned Champions in Women’s Category
In the women’s final, Agudama’s Active Ladies managed to overcome defending champions, Amarata’s Afini Ladies, by a single point, also winning N10 million in prize money. The runners-up took home N7 million, reflecting the rising competitive standards within women’s football in the region.
Governor Diri Envisions a Bright Future for Youth Development
Governor Douye Diri expressed enthusiasm over the new collaboration with Barcelona, asserting that it would provide a pathway for more youths in Bayelsa to engage constructively in sports, steering them away from negative influences. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to investing in sports and reaffirmed plans to complete a 30,000-seat stadium by 2027.
Growth of the Prosperity Cup and Its Impact
Diri noted that the Prosperity Cup has evolved significantly since his administration took office in 2020, emerging as one of Nigeria’s largest grassroots football tournaments. He commended the players for their high level of professionalism and acknowledged the impressive improvement in skill, particularly among local talents.
Call to Corporate Partners for Support in Sports Development
Highlighting football’s potential as a revenue-generating sport, Diri encouraged corporate entities to take cues from organizations already involved, including Premium Trust Bank, Linkage Assurance PLC, and others. He emphasized that the Governors Football Tournament serves as a critical platform for youth empowerment and development.
Barcelona Delegation Recognizes Local Talent
Following the memorandum signing, Garis remarked on the remarkable talent observed in Bayelsa, expressing eagerness to support player and coach development in the state. He noted that Barcelona is excited about this partnership and its potential to nurture local talents.
Pinnick, chairing the event, echoed similar sentiments, commending the Diri administration’s deliberate steps toward sports development. He argued that the quality of play demonstrated in the finals reflects the impressive talent pool in the region, quipping that Barcelona may find its next stars right here in Bayelsa.
Additionally, Dr. Emmanuel Emefienim, the Managing Director of Premium Trust Bank, spoke on behalf of his organization, emphasizing their commitment to sports development in the state. Emefienim highlighted that the bank has been instrumental in enhancing sporting initiatives not only in Bayelsa but across Nigeria.
The event also saw significant contributions from local leaders, including N10 million from the Comptroller General of Nigeria Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, intended to boost the prize pool for the men’s category, alongside added funds for the women’s category from other contributors.
