By Tayo Joseph Lagos, Nigeria
Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has stated that a Real Madrid Football Academy will be established in the state to groom international soccer talents.
Speaking at the Government House Port Harcourt on Tuesday night during a victory party he hosted for Real Madrid Fans to celebrate the club’s Champions League Trophy, Governor Wike informed that he has opened discussions with the club management to actualize this goal. Governor Wike is a prominent fan of Real Madrid Football club.
He said football apart from being a source of entertainment globally, has proven to be a veritable empowerment tool.
“We will work with the Management of Real Madrid Football club to ensure that a football academy is sited here in Rivers State. As you know, Rivers State is the headquarters of Real Madrid supporters in Nigeria “.
On the 2017 Champions league final in Cardiff, Governor Wike said though most people did not give Real Madrid a chance to lift the trophy, the club displayed its resilience and discipline as it went ahead to create history.
The governor said that in today‘s world club football, Real Madrid Football club has a competitive edge over other clubs.
In his remarks, the Head of Service of Rivers State, Rufus Godwins said football promotes team spirit and friendship.
He said: “It is only in football that one man cannot play all the wings and score. You need midfielders, defenders and strikers to win a game. I am happy that the governor created time to celebrate with the people.”.
The Head of Service said that the lesson of football is the promotion of team spirit , which encourages unity of purpose for the development of Rivers State.
The celebration party which took place at the new Government House Port Harcourt Amphitheatre attracted commissioners, Special Advisers, Senior Government Officials and Party Leaders.
The event was laced with music provided by Popular Rivers Gospel Musician, Sensational Dele, jokes, banters and celebratory songs.
Most of the officials at the celebration wore jerseys and insignia of Real Madrid Football club .
