Ahmed Musa, MILO Reach 2,500 Young Footballers With Grassroots Development Programme in Kano

More than 2,500 young footballers in Kano have benefited from professional coaching, mentorship and competitive opportunities through a grassroots football development initiative organised by MILO Nigeria in partnership with former Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa.

The two-week MILO × Ahmed Musa Sports Clinic and Tournament featured 10 coaching sessions, bringing together aspiring footballers who received practical training and guidance from Musa and experienced coaches.

Beyond technical football skills, the programme focused on instilling teamwork, discipline, resilience and confidence among participants, equipping them with values to support their personal development and sporting ambitions.

The initiative concluded with a tournament at the Ahmed Musa Sports Complex in Kano, where Khamis Football Academy emerged as champions of the inaugural competition.

Participants also received cash prizes, certificates and football equipment as part of the programme’s activities.

Speaking on the initiative, Gilbert Tweneboah-Koduah, Category Lead, MILO, said the partnership reflected the brand’s commitment to helping young people discover their potential and develop through sports.

He said Musa’s journey from grassroots football to the highest levels of the game provided an inspiring example for young players seeking to build careers in football.

According to him, combining Musa’s experience with structured coaching and competitive matches gave participants an opportunity to improve their abilities and understand the dedication required to succeed in the sport.

Musa, commenting on the programme, said Nigeria had abundant football talent but stressed that young players needed access to quality coaching, regular competition and mentorship to fulfil their potential.

“Nigeria has incredible football talent, but talent alone is not enough. Young players need good coaching, regular competition and people who will guide them,” he said.

He encouraged the participants to remain committed to training, listen to their coaches and work consistently towards improving their performance.

The former Super Eagles captain also called for greater investment in grassroots football, emphasising the importance of structured development programmes and accessible sporting opportunities for young Nigerians.

The initiative forms part of MILO’s broader commitment to youth development through sports, building on its school-based and grassroots programmes designed to encourage participation, nurture talent and promote positive values among children and young people.

Through the partnership, MILO and Musa aim to provide aspiring footballers with opportunities to develop their skills, gain competitive experience and learn lessons that can benefit them both on and off the pitch.