Abuja – Gov. Samuel Ortom of Benue says the state has instituted a programme aimed at training talented young people at early stage for podium performance in international competitions.
He stated this while applauding Nigeria’s Dream VI’s gallantry at the ongoing Olympics particularly during their semi-final encounter with the German Under-23 team.
Ortom told the State House correspondents in Abuja on Thursday that his administration would ensure well groomed players for the state and Nigeria by promoting grass-root football throughout the state.
“It is unfortunate that we lost that match. But I can say that for Benue state, we are doing a programme to catch them young.
“All the local governments are going to be mobilised to ensure that we bring out the youths; from their youthful age we will groom them up to where they can be of benefit to Benue state and Nigeria.
“I believe that we have the talents. We saw how they played yesterday (Wednesday).
“With additional technical skills, I think they will do better.
“I think, we are on track and for coming to semi-final, it was a thing of joy to some of us and I think we will do better next time.’’
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Nigeria lost the chance to advance to the final by losing 0-2 to the German side.
The Dream Team will meet Honduras, who lost to Brazil by six goals to nothing, for the third place match on Saturday.
According to the governor, the Nigeria team will need additional technical skills to perform better next time. (NAN)