Ex-footballers plan training and vocational center for Keshi

AGENE GODWIN, Benin
As part of efforts to immortalise late Super Eagles Captain and Coach ,Stephen Keshi, the National Association of Nigeria Professional Footballers (NANPF) said it would build Stephen Keshi Training and Vocational Center in Benin, Edo state..
The association made this disclosure when it met with the Enogie (Duke) of Obazuwa, Prince Edun Akenzua who has donated land to the NANPF for the center.
The Vice President of the association, Edema Fuludu, who briefed Akenzua on the proposed center, said it would not only cater for the needs of footballers, but youths of the community as well.
He said the center would involve a standard sports academy as well as vocational trade such as carpentry, tailoring, plumbering and several others.
Fuludu said the center which is the first of its kind in the country and meant to immortalize late Keshi, would be built in the six geo-political zones of the country.
He also said the essence of the center for ex-footballers after their retirement from the game, is to have something to fall back on.
According to him, “The need for the land space for this center became important to immortalize the late Keshi.
“The center when completed, will place Obazuwa in the map of the world and also create employment opportunities for the people.
“This center is not just a place for players to train but will include vocational center to learn all sorts of trade, especially after retirement from football.
“It became expedient because of the hardship being faced by some ex-footballers, especially those who retired early in the game, to have something to fall back on after retirement.
Austin Popo, NANPF Secretary General said the association is already into partnership with a South African based firm to develop the facility.
In his response, the Enogie of Obazuwa, said he would be willing to assist for the project to be realised.