The two-day scouting programme for the Golden Eaglets, Nigeria’s U17 national football team, concluded on Thursday, 23 January 2025, at the Awka City Stadium, reports Completesports.com.
Organised by the Anambra State Football Association (ANSFA), the event attracted no fewer than 97 clubs and football academies eager to showcase their young talents.
Manu Garba, who led Nigeria to victory at the 2013 FIFA U17 World Cup in Dubai, presided over the exercise. The 59-year-old coach, who has held the role more times than any other Nigerian coach, outlined his mission during the programme’s opening day.
“I am here to scout for the best football talents in Anambra State who have what it takes to play for the national U17 team,” said the former player for El-Kanemi Warriors, Kano Pillars, BCC Lions, and Gombe United.
“We are particularly looking for players with technical ability who can be groomed to excel in their age category and contribute to winning both African and international U17 tournaments for Nigeria.”
However, Garba emphasised that performing well in the exercise does not guarantee a spot on the team. He clarified that selected players would still undergo the mandatory Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) test before being invited to the national camp.
Nigeria remains the most successful nation in the FIFA U17 World Cup’s history, with five titles since the tournament’s inception in 1985. Victories include those under coaches Sebastine Brodricks-Imasuen (China 1985), Fanny Amun (Japan 1993), Yemi Tella (South Korea 2007), Manu Garba (UAE 2013), and Emmanuel Amuneke (Chile 2015).
After failing to qualify for the 2025 CAF U17 Nations Cup in Morocco, Garba has turned his focus to early preparations for the 2027 edition, with qualifiers set to begin later this year.
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Garba praised ANSFA Chairman Chikelue ‘General’ Iloenyosi for his commitment to grassroots football development.
“His dedication and vision are commendable. Initiatives like this will help nurture talents and elevate football in Anambra State,” Garba said.
Iloenyosi, a former Super Eagles defender, reaffirmed his administration’s focus on grassroots development.
“This programme is a launch pad for more initiatives. We plan to invite the Flying Eagles coach for a similar exercise in the future,” Iloenyosi revealed.
He encouraged young players to remain disciplined and give their best.
Sir Victor Nwangwu, an ex-Rangers player and former ANSFA Secretary, described the programme as unprecedented in the state’s football history.
“This initiative offers teenagers a unique platform to pursue professional football careers. Kudos to Chief Iloenyosi for his vision and dedication,” Nwangwu stated.
Manu Garba is set to conduct a similar scouting exercise in Asaba, Delta State, from Friday, 24 January, to Saturday, 25 January 2025.
By Sab Osuji
