Bayelsa State Secretary to the Government, Prof. Nimibofa Ayawei, has charged grassroots football coaches to view sport as a lucrative business venture and tap into its vast revenue-generating potential.
Prof. Ayawei made the call on Monday while declaring open the FC Barcelona/Prosperity Cup International Coaching Clinic in Yenagoa.
He emphasized that football ranks among the world’s top money-spinning industries and urged local coaches and managers to master the finer details of the game while aggressively pursuing its commercial avenues.
The Bayelsa SSG encouraged participants to approach the sessions with diligence and patience, assuring them that insights from FC Barcelona experts would significantly enhance their coaching when competitions resume.
The clinic, facilitated by Whiz-kid Ventures (Netherlands), brings FC Barcelona’s renowned methodology and playing philosophy to Bayelsa’s grassroots coaches.
Speaking at the event, Premium Trust Bank’s Regional Head in Yenagoa, Dr. Danjuma Omeje, reaffirmed the bank’s unwavering commitment to sports development in the state.
He highlighted their three-year partnership with the Prosperity Cup and last year’s donation of a new coaster bus to Bayelsa Queens, pledging sustained support for football growth.
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Earlier in his welcome address, Director General of the tournament, Ono Akpoe noted that ongoing coach-training initiatives are already fueling progress in Bayelsa football.
He expressed gratitude to Governor Senator Douye Diri for his substantial investments in sports infrastructure and commended sponsors for their consistent backing.
FC Barcelona delegation Team Lead, Mr. Bernat Villa Gorriz, expressed delight at the programme’s organisation and the coaches’ enthusiasm, stating his hope that participants will rise to the highest levels of their careers.
Mr. Sylvester Okonkwo of Whiz-kid Ventures explained that the initiative aims to equip grassroots coaches with FC Barcelona’s philosophy and style of play.
Bayelsa Football Coaches Association Chairman, Anthony Fouye, and Dift Seinitonkumo Edike of FC California (Odi) commended the organisers, noting that the programme’s impact is already visible in improved grassroots coaching standards.
Day one concluded with scouting matches at Samson Siasia Stadium: Citiboi Feeders vs Bayelsa United Feeders, and Bayelsa Starlets vs FC Silina.
Scouting continues Tuesday, February 24, 2026, with Excellent FC vs Krusaders F.C. at 3:00 p.m. and Kingdom Stars vs Light FC at 4:00 p.m., both at Samson Siasia Stadium following the clinic sessions.
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