By JKNewsMedia
YOUNG FOOTBALLERS found inspiration and opportunity on the pitch during a five-day training camp hosted by Greensprings Football Academy, backed by Union Bank of Nigeria’s (UBN) Edu360 initiative.
Held from 13 to 17 April 2025 at the academy’s Lekki campus in Lagos, the 11th edition brought together children aged 5 to 17 for an intensive football development experience that blended world-class coaching with life-building skills.
Participants trained under the expert guidance of coaches affiliated with West Bromwich Albion Football Club, the Dutch Football Association, and the English Football League (EFL).
Nigerian coaching expertise also played a key role, with support from the Lagos State Football Association and renowned former Super Eagles striker Victor Ikpeba, popularly known as “The Prince of Monaco.”
The camp culminated in a vibrant closing ceremony on 17 April, attended by distinguished figures in Nigeria’s football and education sectors.
Among the guests were Lagos State FA Chairman Laimeed Gafar, as well as visiting West Bromwich Albion coaches Samuel Jake Whitmore, Jordan Hall, and Owen Jones.
The bank says its commitment to the academy forms part of its Edu360 programme, which supports diverse models of quality education—including sports-based learning—across Nigeria.
At the ceremony, Bukola Ayeni, Lead External Communications at Union Bank, highlighted the broader impact of the initiative.
“Union Bank is a sponsor in the Greensprings Football Academy under our Edu360 initiative, which aligns with one of our core values of being community-focused,” she said.
“Edu360 is the Bank’s initiative to promote quality education, whether formal or informal, which includes sports and supports SDG 4 on Quality Education.”
With a legacy spanning more than a century, the UBN reiterated its role as a committed supporter of Nigeria’s next generation of leaders and athletes.
Mrs Lai Koiki, Founder and CEO of Greensprings School, emphasised the institution’s focus on holistic youth development. “We are being future-ready; we are preparing the youth for the future—for football and leadership,” she said.
Victor Ikpeba praised the academy’s mission and its emphasis on inclusivity and excellence.
“This is a school that empowers boys and girls in education, especially football,” he said, acknowledging the consistent results Greensprings has delivered over the years.
Several past graduates of the academy have gone on to represent Nigeria at the Under-17 level, a testament to its role in shaping young athletes into professionals.
This year’s standout performers, Alabi Aliami and Ayodeji Boluwatife, received special recognition with additional virtual training opportunities guided by international coaches.
