FC Barcelona Establishes Football Academy in Bayelsa

FC Barcelona has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a football academy in Bayelsa State, Nigeria. The agreement was signed by Dr.

Daniel Igali, representing the Bayelsa State Government, and Mr. Bernat Villa Garri on behalf of FC Barcelona during the grand final of the Prosper Cup 2026 at the Samson Siasia Sports Complex in Yenagoa.

Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, expressed optimism that the partnership with Europe's biggest football club would enhance youth engagement in sports and help steer them away from negative practices. The tournament featured a male final where Okoroma unit from Nemb Local Government Area won with a 1-0 victory, earning a prize of N40 million, while the female category saw Agudama defeat the defending champions.

Governor Diri emphasized the importance of investing in sports and announced plans for a 30,000-seater stadium by 2027. The event also highlighted contributions from various sponsors and organizations towards youth sports development in the state.