Act Sports, Torino FC to launch academy in Lagos

A Nigerian sports promotion outfit, Act Sports Di Oyibo Limited, has entered into a grassroots development pact with the Italian club, Torino FC, to unearth and nurture talented youths into stars.

Part of the agreement, according to the outfit, is the establishment of an academy in Lagos, which will scout and train budding talents in line with the best global standards.

To be known as ‘Act Sports Di Oyibo Academy,’ the centre last week inducted 22 pioneer members of the academy at a ceremony, in Egbeda with former Warri Wolves manager, Efetoboho Davidson Akpobome, leading the technical crew.

Former Super Eagles defender, Julius Akpele, is also a member of the technical crew, which also has other experienced coaches, including Omotayo Alimi, Ighagbon Prince Greg, Armstrong Silas, Joseph Shobunke, Taiwo Oche Matthew, and Ebeagwu Owen Gabriel.

According to Director/Chief Executive Officer of Act Sports, Pastor Samuel Robinson Oyibo, the academy will provide jobs and help talented youths harness their skills for economic gains.

“It is not the first time that we are running an academy. We already have one in Kwale, Delta State, and several other grassroots teams have worked with us in the past to help our young footballers grow. The biggest satisfaction I always have is seeing these players rise to become stars,” he added.

Oyibo said that preparations are on for a playing tour of Italy in the summer as part of the agreement with Torino FC.

“To this end, an advanced party from the Serie A club will visit Nigeria in early March to assess our level of preparedness for the trip,” he said.

He revealed that Act Sports recently signed partnership deals with Sapele-based Ogunbor FC; All Stars International Sports Academy (ASISA), Warri;