Top Sports Leaders Set for Ikhana Academy Launch in Auchi

Top sports dignitaries are set to converge on Auchi, Edo State, for the official launch of the Kadiri Ikhana Football Academy on March 28.

Among those expected are Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, National Sports Commission chairman Malam Shehu Dikko and Director General Bukola Olopade, Nigeria Football Federation president Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, and several other high-profile figures in Nigerian football.

According to a statement signed by coach Kadiri Ikhana (MON), the academy, which began skeletal operations late last year, will commence full activities after the launch.

Ikhana, a former Africa Coach of the Year who famously guided Enyimba International to Nigeria’s first CAF Champions League triumph in 2003, confirmed that Edo State Deputy Governor, the Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission Honourable Amadin Desmond Enabulele, and his board members will also be present.

The chairman of the Nigeria Premier Football League, Honourable Gbenga Elegbeleye, along with all 20 NPFL club chairmen, are billed to attend, as well as Nigeria National League executives led by chairman George Aluo.

Renowned security expert and philanthropist Chief Peter Dunia will also grace the occasion. In addition, members of Nigeria’s historic 1980 Africa Cup of Nations-winning Green Eagles squad, including Segun Odegbami, Adokyie Amasiemeka, and Felix Owolabi, have been confirmed for the event.

Ikhana, himself a member of that victorious 1980 team, explained that his decision to establish the academy stems from a desire to contribute to grassroots football development.

‘I’ve garnered lots of experience, both as a player and coach over the years and I feel it’s time I contribute to the development of the age grade national teams,’ he said.

‘The academy is for children from age 9 to 16 and we want it to serve as nursery for the junior national teams and the clubs. We are admitting both boys and girls and I’ve experienced technical staff to guide the players through their career paths.’