The excitement in Yenagoa has reached fever pitch as the Bayelsa Governor’s Football Tournament scouting and screening programme kicks off, drawing over 200 aspiring footballers eager to showcase their talents and secure their future in the sport.
Designed to identify and nurture the next generation of football superstars, the programme focuses on players aged 16 to 21 years, providing a pathway to local and international scouting opportunities beyond the prestigious Prosperity Cup. This initiative stands as a beacon of hope for Bayelsa’s gifted young athletes, offering them the chance to step onto a bigger stage.
High Expectations & Early Impressions
Following day two of the scouting sessions, Rev. Vincent Dowell, Head of Community Relations and Governmental Affairs for the Prosperity Cup, expressed deep admiration for the talent on display. With conviction, he noted that the exceptional skill level exhibited suggests that more stars like Precious Benjamin will emerge from the exercise.
Adding his technical expertise to the programme, former Bayelsa United Technical Adviser, Diepreye Teibowei, emphasized that the scouting initiative was taking shape as planned. He revealed that friendly matches have been scheduled for Friday, June 6, 2025, allowing scouts to gauge progress and refine their selections.
Spotting Future Champions
With a keen eye for talent, Teibowei, a former Julius Berger FC standout, highlighted the meticulous selection process, ensuring only the best of the best will advance. He confidently noted that several players have already shown the potential to don the colors of Bayelsa United and other league clubs nationwide.
Ada Gwegwe, another seasoned coach involved in the screening, reinforced the belief that the process will yield its desired results. He encouraged players to see Benjamin Precious, currently playing in Germany, as an inspiration, reminding them that the road to professional football begins with dedication and perseverance.
Gratitude & Anticipation
Among those vying for selection, Onuoha Emmanuel (Federal University Otuoke) and Uduak Joel (Bayelsa United Feeders) expressed heartfelt gratitude to the organizers for providing such an invaluable platform to shine.
As the scouting programme continues, the countdown to Saturday, June 7, 2025, marks the final chance for Bayelsa’s finest talents to stake their claim for football greatness.
Bayelsa is on the brink of discovering its next football icons—the stage is set, the opportunity is real, and the future is theirs to seize!
