Wike to Bring Real Madrid Academy to Rivers

By Dipo Olowookere

Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State has disclosed that his administration will work closely with Real Madrid Football Club of Spain to establish its academy in the state.

Mr Wike made this disclosure via a statement issued on Wednesday by his Special Assistant on Electronic Media, Mr Simeon Nwakaudu.

The Governor said the soccer academy will groom international talents. He said football, apart from being a source of entertainment globally, has proven to be a veritable empowerment tool.

“We will work with the management of Real Madrid Football Club to ensure that a football academy is sited here in Rivers State. As you know, Rivers State is the headquarters of Real Madrid supporters in Nigeria,” Mr Wike said when he hosted a victory party for Real Madrid fans at the Government House in Port Harcourt on Tuesday night to celebrate the club’s Champions League trophy last Saturday.

According the Governor, he has opened discussions with the club management to actualize this goal.

In his remarks, the Head of Service of Rivers State, Mr Rufus Godwins, said football promotes team spirit and friendship.

“It is only in football that one man cannot play all the wings and score. You need midfielders, defenders and strikers to win a game. I am happy that the Governor created time to celebrate with the people,” Mr Godwins said.

The Head of Service said that the lesson of football is the promotion of team spirit, which encourages unity of purpose for the development of Rivers State.