The Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) has reaffirmed its commitment to the holistic development of players by promoting a balance between sports and education.
NPFL Chairman, Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye, has been actively working to create opportunities that ensure footballers have a future beyond their playing careers.
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Following a meeting in Abuja with representatives from the Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, led by Dr. Zoltán Lakner, Elegbeleye emphasized the importance of education for young footballers.
“We are targeting our youths, particularly the younger generation of premier league players, to encourage them to mix education with football,” he stated. “Football careers can be short, with many retiring by 30 or even earlier. What happens after that? We want to equip them with skills and knowledge that will sustain them long after their playing days are over.”
The collaboration with Hungarian universities offers scholarships and training in modern courses such as AI, robotics engineering, and other career-building fields. Players with senior secondary school certificates or GCE qualifications are encouraged to seize these opportunities.
Dr. Zoltán Lakner praised Nigeria’s rich sporting talent and highlighted the potential of merging education with football. “Nigeria’s athletic excellence is undeniable. By combining education with football, these young players can make immense contributions to society, both during and after their careers,” he said.
This partnership marks a significant step toward securing the future of Nigerian footballers, ensuring they thrive both on and off the pitch.
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