By Ebube Dike

The Honourable Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, Senator Dr. George Akume has lauded the Gulf United Football Club Talent Hunt Programme in Nigeria.

The programme which is targeted at giving opportunities to 120 youths interested in professional football while also pursuing a career of their choice in world class universities in Dubai, UAE, Canada and USA; was concluded on 9 August, 2021 in Abuja while Lagos edition will commence from 13 to 16 August, 2021

The minister who was happy over the programme said it offers the youth opportunity to train as athletes and be engaged.

“This Programme is nouvelle and a wonderful opportunity for youths to be trained as Athletes and at the same time apply their knowledge outside the framework of sports,” he said

Dr Akume while appreciating the Gulf United FC team, noted that football is a universal game that unites the world.

The former Benue State Governor then seized the opportunity to wish the selected ones a successful outing.

The Director Gulf United Football Club Dubai and UK, Mr. Jordi Shiels said the Gulf United Showcase Nigeria 2021 involved a rigorous exercise of selecting the 120 youths, checking their playing techniques, academic credentials and fitness level.

Mr. Shield noted that Gulf United Football Club as a leading scholarship specialist has selected Nigeria for their first ever talent hunt in Africa.

The club intends to fish out players within the ages of 16-20. Already, 60 players were selected from Lagos and another 60 from Abuja based on the right levels of footballing talents and attitude.

The Gulf United Football Club is led by a British team of coaches and scouts has achieved success in the Middle East and Europe giving scholarships to young players.