Nigeria is a country with a deep passion for football, and its football academies have become a breeding ground for future stars. These academies not only nurture raw talent but also provide opportunities for young players to shine on the global stage. Whether you’re a parent looking for the best training for your child or a young player dreaming of a professional career, here are the 10 best football academies in Nigeria that you should know about.
1. Pepsi Football Academy
Location: Agege, Lagos (with 14 training centers across Nigeria)
Founded: 1992
Notable Alumni: John Mikel Obi, Osaze Odemwingie, Elderson Echiejile
Pepsi Football Academy is one of the most prestigious football academies in Nigeria. It has produced some of the country’s biggest football stars and offers training for players aged 6 to 18. The academy focuses on skill development, discipline, and exposure to scouts from top clubs.
How to Join:
- Visit any of their 14 training centers across Nigeria.
- Pay a registration fee of ₦6,000 for ages 5-14 or ₦12,000 for ages 15 and above.
- Submit required documents, including a birth certificate, medical report, and passport photos.
Interesting Fact: The academy organizes an annual tournament called the “Pepsi Football Academy Championship,” which attracts scouts from top clubs in Europe and Africa.
Social media: Instagram
2. Barcelona Football Academy (FCBEscola)
Location: Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere, Lagos
Founded: 2017
Notable Alumni: Several players have gone on to play in European leagues
This is the official FC Barcelona football club academy in Nigeria. This academy follows the FC Barcelona model, teaching young players the famous “tiki-taka” style of play. It’s open to children aged 5 to 18 and focuses on technical and tactical development.
How to Join:
- Pay a registration fee of ₦13,500.
- Submit documents, including a birth certificate and medical report.
- Attend trials at the Teslim Balogun Stadium.
Interesting Fact: The academy’s coaches are trained by FC Barcelona, ensuring that players receive world-class training.
Website: Barca Academy Lagos
3. Kwara Football Academy
Location: Ilorin, Kwara State
Founded: 2005
Notable Alumni: Several players have represented Nigeria at youth levels
Kwara Football Academy combines football training with formal education. It’s a state-owned academy that offers free education to talented players and has produced many graduates who have gone on to play professionally.
How to Join:
- Purchase a registration form for ₦7,500.
- Submit required documents, including school results and a medical report.
- Attend trials at the Kwara State Stadium Complex.
Interesting Fact: The academy has partnerships with clubs in Europe, providing opportunities for players to go on trials abroad.
Website: Kwara Football Academy (KFA)
4. Papilo Football Academy
Location: Owerri, Imo State
Founded: 2001
Notable Alumni: Kelechi Iheanacho, Joel Obi
Founded by Nigerian football legend Nwankwo Kanu, this academy focuses on developing young talents and has partnerships with clubs like Leeds United in England.
How to Join:
- Pay a registration fee of ₦12,500.
- Submit documents, including a birth certificate and medical report.
- Attend trials at Kanu’s private estate in Owerri.
Interesting Fact: The academy provides scholarships to talented players who cannot afford the registration fees.
Website: Papilo FC Academy
5. Abuja Football College
Location: National Stadium, Abuja
Founded: 2012
Notable Alumni: Sadiq Umar, Nura Abdullahi
Abuja Football College is known for its state-of-the-art facilities and partnerships with international clubs. It offers a blend of football training and academic education.
How to Join:
- Pay a registration fee of ₦20,000.
- Submit required documents, including a birth certificate and medical report.
- Attend trials at the National Stadium.
Interesting Fact: The academy has a partnership with the Spanish Football Federation, allowing players to participate in tournaments in Spain.
Social Media: Facebook
6. Midas Football Academy
Location: Ipaja, Lagos
Founded: 2006
Notable Alumni: Several players have gone on to play in the USA and Europe
Midas Football Academy is registered with the Nigeria Football Federation and focuses on producing world-class players. It has a global network of scouts and agents.
How to Join:
- Pay a registration fee of ₦77,000 (covers coaching, medical, and training jersey fees).
- Submit required documents, including a birth certificate and medical report.
- Attend trials at the Gospel Camp Ground in Ipaja.
Interesting Fact: The academy organizes international tours, giving players the opportunity to showcase their talents abroad.
Website: Midas Football Academy
7. Juventus Academy Nigeria
Location: Lagos (multiple centers)
Founded: 2018
Notable Alumni: Several young talents are currently being developed.
This is the official Juventus academy in Nigeria, offering world-class training and development programs. The academy has operated in Nigeria since 2018 and given exposure to many talented youths.
How to Join:
- Visit the official website to register for try-outs: Juventus Academy Nigeria Try-outs.
- Submit required documents, including a birth certificate and medical report.
- Tryouts cost ₦15,000
- Attend trials at designated centers.
Interesting Fact: The academy follows the Juventus FC curriculum, offering world-class training and development programs.
Website: Juventus Academy Nigeria
8. Buruj Sports Academy
Location: Ikorodu, Lagos
Founded: 2008
Notable Alumni: Several players have participated in international tournaments
Buruj Sports Academy is known for its focus on grassroots development and has sent players to trials in Europe.
How to Join:
- Pay a registration fee ranging from ₦600,000 to ₦2,000,000, depending on the duration of training.
- Submit required documents, including a birth certificate and medical report.
- Attend trials at their facility in Ikorodu.
Interesting Fact: The academy has a partnership with clubs in Spain, providing players with opportunities to play in Europe.
Website: Buruj Sports Academy
9. Lagos Tigers FC
Location: Lekki, Lagos
Founded: 2012
Notable Alumni: Several young players have gone on to play professionally
Lagos Tigers FC focuses on training young players aged 3 to 15. It emphasizes discipline, teamwork, and technical skills.
How to Join:
- Pay a registration fee ranging from ₦50,000 to ₦85,000, depending on the training frequency.
- Submit required documents, including a birth certificate and medical report.
- Attend trials at their facility in Lekki.
Interesting Fact: The academy organizes regular friendly matches with other academies, giving players the opportunity to gain match experience.
Website: Lagos Tigers FC
10. Real Madrid Academy, Port Harcourt
Location: Port Harcourt, Rivers State
Founded: 2019
Notable Alumni: Several young talents are currently being developed
This academy, modeled after Real Madrid’s La Masia, offers world-class facilities and training. It’s free for Rivers State indigenes but requires tuition for others.
How to Join:
- Contact the academy for registration details.
- Submit required documents, including a birth certificate and medical report.
- Attend trials at the academy in Port Harcourt.
Interesting Fact: The academy’s curriculum is designed by Real Madrid’s coaching staff, ensuring that players receive the same training as their counterparts in Spain.
Why Choose a Football Academy in Nigeria?
Football academies in Nigeria offer more than just training; they provide a pathway to a professional career. Here are some reasons why you should consider enrolling in one:
- Professional Coaching: Academies employ experienced coaches who have played or coached at high levels.
- Exposure to Scouts: Many academies have partnerships with clubs and scouts, increasing the chances of being discovered.
- Academic Education: Some academies combine football training with formal education, ensuring that players have a backup plan.
- International Opportunities: Academies often organize tours and trials abroad, giving players the chance to showcase their talents on a global stage.
Conclusion
Nigeria’s football academies are a testament to the country’s love for the sport. They provide young players with the skills, discipline, and opportunities needed to succeed on the global stage. Whether you’re looking for top-notch training or a pathway to professional football, these academies are the perfect place to start.
For more details, you can visit the official websites or contact the academies directly. The journey to becoming a football star begins here!
