Recall that the MD/CEO of Awka Capital Territory Development Authority, Ossy Onuko, had earlier in the year indicated that plans were underway for some football professionals and coaches from FC Barcelona in Spain to come scouting for players in Awka that will be given an opportunity to join the Spanish club in their lower divisions.
On Sunday 21st July, 2024, the three-man team, namely – Daniel Busquets Ayllón, Albert Atmeller Lurbe and Ejike Paschal, arrived in Awka, and was given a warm reception by the MD and the Chairman Anambra State Sports Commission, Patrick Estate.
Speaking to newsmen, Ossy Onuko, highlighted that the Governor, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, has provided the platform for the growth/development of sports in the State, hence the willingness of sports giants like FC Barcelona to approve the coming of their officials to Anambra State out of the whole states in Nigeria.
Also speaking, the Chairman of Anambra Sports Commission applauded the initiative and appreciated the MD of ACTDA and his team for championing such an idea. He indicated that gestures like this if sustained, will revolutionise the sports industry in Anambra State and Nigeria in general. He expressed the readiness of the commission to partner with the team in ensuring the latest objectives of their coming are met and that our young footballers maximise the opportunity.
He further stated that sports development is a huge agenda in the Governor’s manifesto, for which reason he has dedicated a substantial part of the state budget to sports, leisure and entertainment. He further stated the need for strategic partnership with the State football team, Solution Football Club in building a formidable football academy that will serve as a breeding ground for global football stars.