Amokachi urges African pros to nurture talent

Former Nigeria international footballer Daniel Amokachi (right) shares a light moment with Kilifi County sports official Salma Hamis (left) and other local footballers during the launch of floodlights at Paziani Primary School’s football pitch at the weekend. PHOTO | SAMUEL KAZUNGU |

What you need to know:

  • Amokachi, who won the Africa Cup of Nations title with the Super Eagles in 1994 as a player and 2013 as an assistant coach, isn’t a happy man.
  • Amokachi said that 99 per cent of African countries have totally neglected grassroots football.

Legendary African footballer Daniel Amokachi is a man of few words. But when ‘The Bull’ speaks, the continent listens.

Amokachi, who won the Africa Cup of Nations title with the Super Eagles in 1994 as a player and 2013 as an assistant coach, isn’t a happy man.

He’s worried about the talent that goes to waste across Africa due to mismanagement and graft.

Speaking to Daily Nation Sport in Kilifi at the weekend, Amokachi warned that Africa won’t catch up with the world football powers if the young are not well managed.

“Africa is rich in talent. We have some of the finest players in the world. We must nurture our boys and girls so they can realise their dreams. How many African federations do that? Very few. We can do better,” he said. Amokachi was in the region to officially launch floodlights at Paziani Primary School’s pitch, a project funded by Dutch electronics company Philips. He is also an ambassador with the Netherlands Football Federation.

Amokachi said that 99 per cent of African countries have totally neglected grassroots football.

“If I say we have many young and promising players, that is true of Africa but again, how many of these good players get the opportunity to showcase their talents? African federations should fight corruption and look for opportunities to promote youngsters,” he said.

LAUDED PROJECTS

“Basically, all the world’s finest football players have an African background, which shows the continent can win almost everything in sport but with only serious leaders who are ready for the same.” Amokachi lauded football projects initiated by former African players.

“Lately, you’ve seen former African professionals returning home to to give back to society. They are building youth centres and talent academies. We don’t have to wait for our governments to do it for us,” he said. “I have an NGO that offers kids football scholarships. Don’t have to wait for the government to act. Take responsibility and nurture talent.”