By Loureta Samuel, Yenagoa
The Secretary to the Bayelsa State Government (SSG), Prof. Nimibofa Ayawei, has urged grassroots football coaches to approach the game beyond passion and see it as a thriving economic enterprise capable of transforming lives and communities.
Speaking in Yenagoa at the official opening of the FC Barcelona/Prosperity Cup International Coaching Clinic, Ayawei emphasized that football has evolved into one of the most profitable global industries, generating billions in revenue and providing millions of jobs worldwide.
He encouraged local coaches to tap into this vast potential by developing both their technical competence and business acumen.
According to him, the state government remains committed to empowering the youth through sports development and creating platforms that link local talent with global opportunities.
He described the Prosperity Cup as one of the boldest initiatives designed to promote peace, unity, and youth empowerment through football.
Ayawei noted that the state has witnessed remarkable growth in grassroots sports, attributing the success to the deliberate policies of the Prosperity Administration under Governor Douye Diri, which prioritizes youth engagement and talent development.
He added that the government’s partnership with reputable international organizations and private investors demonstrates its belief in sports as a catalyst for sustainable development.
The FC Barcelona/Prosperity Cup Coaching Clinic, facilitated by Whiz-kid Ventures, introduces local coaches to modern coaching methods inspired by FC Barcelona’s playing philosophy.
Participants are being trained on tactical intelligence, youth psychology, player development, and innovative coaching strategies that can help their teams compete at higher levels.
In his remarks, the Regional Head of Premium Trust Bank, Yenagoa, Danjuma Omeje, said the financial institution is proud to be part of the Prosperity Cup project, stressing that the bank’s investment in grassroots football aligns with its vision of supporting youth empowerment and community growth.
He assured that Premium Trust Bank would continue to strengthen its partnership with the Bayelsa State Government in advancing sports initiatives across the Niger Delta.
Also speaking, the Director-General of the Prosperity Cup, Ono Akpe, said the coaching programme is yielding tangible results, as many participants from previous editions have already produced promising talents now playing in state and national leagues.
He applauded the dedication of the coaches and praised the Bayelsa State Government and sponsors for sustaining the programme despite economic challenges.
Akpe further noted that the clinic serves as a bridge between local passion and international professionalism, helping coaches understand football’s evolving landscape in scouting, branding, and revenue generation.
He added that with proper mentorship and exposure, Bayelsa could soon become a breeding ground for future national stars.
Activities at the week-long training included classroom sessions, practical drills, and scouting matches held at the Samson Siasia Stadium, where foreign facilitators worked closely with local coaches.
Participants expressed excitement about the opportunity to learn international best practices and pledged to replicate the knowledge in their respective communities.
As Bayelsa continues to invest in sports infrastructure and talent development, initiatives like the FC Barcelona/Prosperity Cup Coaching Clinic are expected to strengthen the state’s reputation as Nigeria’s leading hub for grassroots footbaThe programme, beyond training coaches, is also redefining how football can be leveraged as a driver for innovation, youth empowerment, and economic progress across the Niger Delta.
