The Future Pro League International (FPLI) has commenced its highly anticipated four-day screening and scouting exercise in Abuja, aimed at identifying and nurturing emerging football talents across Nigeria.
The event runs from Wednesday, October 8 to Saturday, October 11, with over 150 young players showcasing their abilities in front of local and international scouts.
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The opening day, held at the natural grass training complex in Abuja, featured eight teams and more than 50 individual players, delivering an impressive display of energy, skill, and determination.
Speaking after the first day, the Founder and Convener of FPLI, Clifford Ikwang, expressed satisfaction with the quality of football and the level of organization.
“It looks good. I’m excited for what’s to come,” he said. “We’ve had about three matches already, and I’ve personally seen players with great potential. The coaches are doing an excellent job, and Day Two will be even bigger and better.”
Ikwang emphasized that the FPLI scouting program was founded on transparency, fairness, and inclusivity.
“We’ve made the process clear — no favoritism. The metrics we’re using are open, and both club and unaffiliated players have equal chances. We’re giving everyone an opportunity to be seen,” he added.
Among the participants was David Alhassan Ufedodjo, attending his second FPLI trial, who praised the environment and organization.
“The first time I came, I was nervous, but now it feels like family — very conducive,” he said. “Whether you get picked or not, you still enjoy the experience. The natural grass helps us play freely. I want to be one of the best players in Africa someday.”
Another participant, defender Joseph Onyewuchukwu, described the program as a vital opportunity for young footballers in Abuja.
“It’s been great — a good platform for us to show what we can do,” he said. “The coaches’ selections have been fair, and by God’s grace, I believe I’ll be among those picked.”
Coach Ayajov Joseph, who led the technical team alongside Coach Finbar Yemelu, commended the standard of play and outlined the focus areas for selection.
“Some Abuja clubs are yet to join in, but the academies and players present have shown real potential,” he said. “We’ll give most of them another chance tomorrow to ensure we identify the best among the best.”
He explained that scouts would focus on players with strong fundamentals.
“We’re looking for good ball control, awareness, intelligent movement on and off the ball, accurate passing, and physical strength. These are what define a quality footballer,” he noted.
Highlighting the international reach of the program, organizers confirmed that scouts from Turkish top-flight club Samsunspor will arrive in Abuja on Saturday, October 11, to watch the final matches and select outstanding players for possible trials abroad.
Coach Joseph described their arrival as a major boost for participants and a testament to FPLI’s growing credibility.
“The presence of Samsunspor scouts will motivate the players even more,” he said. “It shows that what we’re doing here is gaining real attention internationally.”
The four-day program continues through Saturday and forms part of FPLI’s long-term mission to promote transparency, merit, and opportunity in grassroots football development across Nigeria.
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