Coach Yusuff Kazeem Adesina, popularly known as “Coach Fufana,” and president of the Grassroots Football Talents Developer Association of Nigeria (GRAFTADEAN), has underscored the critical role of grassroots football in developing future stars. Speaking on Adamimogo 105.1 FM in Ibadan, Coach Fufana emphasized that grassroots football is essential for discovering and nurturing talent that can propel a country to football prominence.
“Grassroots football is crucial because it provides exposure to talented players who have not yet made it to the limelight. For any country aspiring to become a football powerhouse, investing in grassroots football is vital. Unfortunately, grassroots football in Nigeria has not received the support it deserves,” Coach Fufana noted.
He highlighted that GRAFTADEAN, established over seven years ago, has made significant strides in identifying and developing football talent. The association has successfully nurtured players who have progressed to European leagues, including Abubakar Mohammed, John Kolawole, and Taoreed Adeola.
“Our mission at GRAFTADEAN is to uncover and develop these talents, offering them opportunities to advance in their football careers. We have been instrumental in transitioning players from grassroots to prominent leagues, showcasing the potential within our local talent pool,” Coach Fufana explained.
Coach Fufana also praised the qualifications and experience of GRAFTADEAN’s coaches, emphasizing their certifications and expertise in grassroots and amateur football coaching. He urged parents and guardians to support their children’s dual focus on education and football.
He commended the association’s board of trustees, led by Chairman Prince Wasiu Oloyede Asanike and Vice Chairman Engr Waheed Afolabi Emmanuel, for their ongoing support. This support includes scholarships and other forms of empowerment for talented players, reflecting GRAFTADEAN’s commitment to fostering football talent in Nigeria.
