Abuja: Atlantic Integral Football Academy (AIFA), based in Suleja, Niger, has unveiled a new sports centre as part of their initiative to foster sports development from the grassroots level. The opening event, which took place on Saturday, marked a significant step for the academy in promoting community engagement and reducing unemployment among the youth.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the sports centre was officially commissioned by the Emir of Suleja, Alhaji Awwal Ibrahim CON, who was represented by Alhaji Shaibu Gani, a district head in Suleja. The newly established facility features a 5-aside pitch, a dressing room, a gymnasium, and a football viewing hall. The event witnessed attendance from key stakeholders, including representatives from the Suleja Local Government Chairman’s office, the Emir of Suleja, an official from the Nigerian Football Federation, and various football stakeholders.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Isiyaka Achimugu, Director of AIFA, emphasized that the inspiration behind the sports centre extends beyond football development. He highlighted the academy’s commitment to reducing unemployment by engaging the youth. “This sports centre is not just for our football academy. It is also for community development. We want to reduce unemployment in our own little way,” he stated.
Emmanuel Steven, the coach of AIFA academy, expressed his gratitude towards Mr. Achimugu for his dedication to sports and youth development. He recalled the humble beginnings of the academy and celebrated the progress they have made. “When we started, we had no pitch. We would wake up very early to train at GSS Suleja before students arrive, now we have a mini stadium. We are so happy,” he said.
Speaking to NAN, Obinna, a player from AIFA, shared his positive experience at the academy, expressing optimism about future opportunities. “AIFA is a good team. Here they treat us like we are their children. With how passionate our director is, I believe we will be signing for European clubs soon,” he remarked.
Tajaddeen Tiamiyu, senior officer of the NFF store department, represented by Abubakar Moshood, the chairman of the Suleja coaches association, praised the sports centre as a pioneering effort in Suleja. “We are grateful to the director of AIFA. The players will benefit from this innovation. We really appreciate him,” he commented.
The community head, Alhaji Hassan Sa’idu, acknowledged the positive impact the sports centre has had on the community. “We are very happy. My community was silent before now, but this centre has brought people here and I believe it will continue to affect us positively,” he said.
To further support talent development, the management of AIFA announced plans to organize an annual Super League 5-aside competition, aimed at enhancing their football talent-hunt program.