Madueke
By Ephraim Ejete
Futbol Connect has unveiled plans to revolutionise talent discovery in Nigeria. The plan is to provide a platform for the exposure of local talents to the global audience through a digital platform.
In his address at a summit themed ‘Talent and Club Growth Development Summit held at the Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos on Monday, founder of Futbol Connect, Dr Arinze Madueke said his organisation was designed to bridge the gap between young talents in Nigeria and the global scouts, adding that it will also create a digital pipeline that will connect grassroots footballers with scouts, clubs and opportunities across the globe.
Madueke, said “the initiative was born out of my passion for grassroots football and the need to uncover the numerous talented players who remain hidden across Nigeria and the African continent.”
Speaking further he said, “there are thousands of Osimhens, Lookmans still hidden somewhere in Olusosun and across the country that have not been noticed today.” .
He maintained that the summit was organised to further popularise Futbol Connect and encourage more grassroots clubs and young players to join the platform.
In an address at the summit, the Chief operating officer of Nationwide League One, Dr Olushola Ogunnowo commended the organisation for their initiative, while highlighting the benefits of the platform.
“Majority of clubs that are into the commercial business of football spend a whole lot of money to bring in scouts to the country,” Ogunnowo stated.
“A lot of times, these resources are wasted. With a digital platform, players’ statistics, match details, and video clips are easily accessible. Scouts can evaluate talent from their home countries and invite players following official FIFA scouting procedures, ensuring players are protected and proper protocols are followed.”
Dr. Arinze further disclosed that the platform, which was launched last year, already has hundreds of scouts registered, describing the growing interest from European scouts as a positive sign for its sustainability.
The initiative, he noted, is ultimately aimed at ensuring that talented footballers in remote communities are no longer overlooked simply because they lack the connections or exposure needed to attract international attention.
