Officials of the club joined by Confederation of African Football (CAF) layed the foundation for the academy which was part of the initiatives of Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike.
The foundation laying ceremony which was held on Monday at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium in Port Harcourt had in attendance President of Nigerian Football Federation, NFF, Mr Amaju Pinnick; President of International Sports Press Association, Gianni Merlo.
According to Gianni Merlo, Real Madrid as the best club in the world will develop a new set of stars from the Academy in Rivers State.
"The Academy is to develop football talents not only in Nigeria but across the continent. Real Madrid is commited to talent development and support of next generation of football stars", he said.
President of Nigeria Football Federation, Amaju Pinick said that with the Real Madrid Football Academy, Nigeria will ensure the emergence of another generation that will keep the nation’s flag flying in the international football circle.
Other officials of Real Madrid who graced the occasion include: Inigo Arenillas, Manager, Real Madrid Foundation, Africa/Middle East and Oscar Diaz, Real Madrid Fund-Raising Officer.
The Academy, according to Governor Wike is to help boost the state’s football activities which will in turn pave way for young talents as well as improve the tourism sector of the state.
Few months ago, Governor Wike had visited the Spanish giants, which he received critics back home, but the Mr. Project as he’s fondly called has a better plan for Rivers State and Nigeria.
Following their flare of play, the Los Blancos has won the prestigious UEFA Champions League three times in a row after edging Liverpool 3-1 on Saturday in Kiev. Many would say the club remains the best in the world as it harbours great players including 5 times Balon D’Or winner, Cristiano Ronaldo, Sergio Ramos, Luka Modric, Toni Kroos and several others.
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