Bayelsa State Secretary to the Government, Prof. Nimibofa Ayawei, has encouraged grassroots football coaches to see the sport as a viable business and explore its revenue-generating opportunities.
Ayawei made the remarks in Yenagoa while declaring open the FC Barcelona/Prosperity Cup International Coaching Clinic, a programme aimed at improving coaching standards in the state.
He said football is one of the world’s most lucrative industries and urged local coaches and managers to develop their technical knowledge while understanding the commercial side of the game. He added that lessons from the clinic would help participants improve their teams when competitions resume.
The training programme, facilitated by Whiz-kid Ventures (Netherlands), introduces grassroots coaches to the methodology and playing philosophy associated with FC Barcelona.
Premium Trust Bank’s Regional Head in Yenagoa, Danjuma Omeje, said the bank would continue supporting sports development in the state, noting its partnership with the Prosperity Cup tournament.
Director-General of the competition, Ono Akpoe, said coach-training initiatives were already contributing to the growth of football in Bayelsa and commended the state government and sponsors for their support.
Activities at the clinic included training sessions and scouting matches held at the Samson Siasia Stadium in Yenagoa.