…as the former Super Eagles Captain partners MILO Nigeria to groom young football talents.
By Chris Onuoha
Over 2,500 young footballers in Nigeria are honing their dream career with professional coaching, mentorship and competitive football experience as MILO Nigeria in partnership with former Nigerian national team captain, Ahmed Musa, engages the youth in the inaugural MILO and Ahmed Musa Sports Clinic and Tournament in Kano.
Musa, who is MILO Nigeria brand ambassador take on the selected young talents to a two-week active training that culminated into 10 coaching sessions where the lads competed in matches under the guidance of Musa and experienced coaches.
The programme combined practical football training with lessons in teamwork, discipline, resilience and confidence, equipping participants with skills and values that extend beyond the pitch.
The engagement preceded a tournament at the Ahmed Musa Sports Complex in Kano, where Khamis Football Academy emerged as champions of the inaugural edition. Participants also received cash prizes, certificates and football equipment.
Speaking on the initiative, Gilbert Tweneboah-Koduah, Category Lead, MILO, said: “At MILO, we believe sport is a powerful platform for young people to discover their abilities, build confidence and develop values that extend beyond the field of play. Our partnership with Ahmed Musa brings together MILO’s longstanding commitment to sports development and the experience of an athlete whose journey from grassroots football to the highest level of the game can inspire the next generation.
“By combining his experience with structured coaching and competition, this programme has given young footballers in Kano an opportunity to develop their skills, learn from experienced professionals and better understand the commitment required to pursue their aspirations,” he added.
For the participants, the clinic offered an opportunity to learn from an athlete whose football journey began in northern Nigeria and progressed to the highest levels of the sport, making his experience a source of inspiration for aspiring players.
Commenting on the partnership, Ahmed Musa said: “Nigeria has incredible football talent, but talent alone is not enough. Young players need good coaching, regular competition and people who will guide them. I am proud to partner with MILO and share some of what football has taught me. My message to these players is simple: keep training, listen to your coaches and work hard every day to improve.”
Musa also called for greater investment in grassroots football, emphasizing the importance of giving young players access to quality coaching, structured development and regular competitive opportunities.
However, this partnership with Ahmed Musa is one of MILO’s longstanding commitment to youth development through sports in Nigeria. Through its school-based and grassroots sporting initiatives, MILO continues to create opportunities for young people to participate in sports, develop their abilities and embrace values that can support them both on and off the pitch.
