72 Teams to Compete in AfriSportPro Youth League
InfoSport: The upcoming AfriSportPro Youth League will feature 72 teams aiming to transform grassroots football in Nigeria, fostering unity and opportunity for young talents.
Introduction to the League
The AfriSportPro Youth League Nigeria is set to kickoff on August 10, 2025, with 72 under-19 football teams comprising over 1,000 players competing across six states. This initiative aims not only to enhance grassroots football but also to promote national unity, youth empowerment, and international visibility.
Vision and Purpose
Chukwuebuka Ugwu, Chairman and CEO of AfriSportPro, shared the league’s mission during a press briefing in Abuja. “This league acts as a nation-building platform—a youth engagement ecosystem,” he stated. It offers a crucial gateway towards international football opportunities for young players who often lack access.
Unique Partnership and Data Analytics
The league collaborates with Wyscout, a leading scouting and data analytics platform, ensuring comprehensive match recordings and player analytics for scouts globally. “Our players aren’t just playing; they’re being seen, measured, and tracked,” Ugwu added. With participation from Osun, FCT, Kaduna, Akwa Ibom, Plateau, and Imo, the league is on track to become one of the largest youth football competitions worldwide.
A Comprehensive Approach
The league aims to inspire positive societal change through education and values, partnering with organizations like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to promote anti-corruption. Additionally, collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy seeks to showcase Nigeria’s culture and talent globally.
Competition Structure and Impact
Adopting a single round-robin format, each of the 72 teams will play 11 matches over 11 weeks, culminating in a national knockout stage. This structure minimizes travel costs while ensuring fair competition. As Ugwu highlighted, “In a country as polarized as Nigeria, football remains one of the few things that unite us.”
Conclusion
The AfriSportPro Youth League represents a monumental opportunity for Nigerian youth, aiming to reshape narratives and promote unity through football. As the league approaches, excitement builds—be sure to share your thoughts or predictions in the comments below!
