The 4th batch of grassroot coaches training was rounded off on Thursday with Chairman of Lagos State Football Association Hajji Gafar Liameed,former Nigerian International Taiwo Enegwae and notable journalist, Aikhoje Ojeikere, have been certified after successfully taking part in the month-long training .
The training held at the National Institute for Sports,Lagos had top rated resource persons like Director-General National Institute for Sports, Lagos, Professor Olawale Moronkola, ex-Super Eagles player and coach Fatai Amoo, ex-Eaglets coach Nduka Ugbade, veteran coach James Adesina and Jeremiah Kuhwa shared knowledge and experiences with the participants to make them better coaches.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, NIS Director-General Professor Olawale Moronkola said ” We recognize that in order to raise the standard of football in Nigeria, we must first invest in the training and development of coaches who are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to guide our aspiring footballers”
He further stated ” Grassroot football serves as the foundation of the sport.This is where passion meets opportunity, where dreams are nurtured and future stars of our cherished game begin their journey. The quality of coaching at the grassroots directly impacts the development of players and the overall standard of football in our communities.
As you guide these young talents,you are not just moulding skilled players, you are shaping future leaders, role models and ambassadors of our great nation”
In his remarks, Registrar of NIS Mr Belmond Benson said ” The knowledge you have acquired will empower you to make a meaningful impact in your communities, nurturing the next generation of football talents and instilling the core values of team work, discipline and resilience by creating a friendly environment for football to thrive in our respective communities. “
Chairman of the Lagos State Football Association Hajji Gafar Liameed assured that the training will ultimately ensure that coaches trained impact on football development.