As we follow up on our article about corruption at
the grassroots, we publish mails from young Nigerians who have
experienced nepotism because they didn't have godfathers to see...
Since we published the article about corruption at the grassroots on Saturday, we have received a couple of emails from young Nigerians who have been affected by the malaise.It is important that we bring to the attention of Goal readers the voices of these young men who have been frustrated by the system.
Our plan is to continue publishing these articles as they come so that we might in our little way prick the consciences of these coaches and sporting directors who deny young people of reaching their dreams in the football space by shutting them out at football academies.
Even though we have left the entries as much as possible in their original state, they have been edited for clarity.
“My name is Bamidele. I am a young footballer. I am a Nigerian. I played at several football academies and grassroots football clubs but due to my family background, my dad is late, but my mum is the one struggling for me to be a footballer. She has tried her best for me to achieve my goal but due to [the fact that] she is a woman and she did know any coach, scout or agent to help me, I just go to many football trials and screening without being noticed. Sometimes they don't even allow me into the trials stadium or premises. It has saddened my heart all these years.
I TRAINED EVERYDAY OF MY LIFE TO BE A SUPERSTAR, SO ONE DAY I WILL HELP MY COUNTRY. I have gone to Nigeria U17 trials but due to [the fact] I did not know anybody who will stand for me... But I have one thing some don't have, which is GOD ALMIGHTY....AND I KNOW I WILL SURELY ACHIEVE MY GOAL AND DREAM...BECAUSE I WILL NEVER QUIT.”
By Dele Anibaba
“Many times at Youth level, after screening session what you will start to hear is the slang "who carry you come" [who is your godfather] not minding your performance. Those ones who one Alhaji or the other Alhaji sent will be picked and the sons of nobody will be dropped. You will start to think, "Am I not a Nigerian"? It is painful but it has happened to many of my friends.”
By Eze Paschal
“Good day. I am Chimeziri Emmanuel. I was so happy when I read your write up about Joseph’s story on Goal.com. I am very happy because that is what is happening in our country Nigeria. In Nigeria everything is politics and connection. I am 16 years Old. I play with an academy in Anambra and the name of my academy is Harkdoves Football Club. I am a right winger. I have tried all my best to play in professional leagues and to be a professional footballer but because I don't have the connection my dream and destiny is dying small small. And that is what is happening to many young talented footballers now. Like me if I can get a sponsor I will be very happy. Thank you all once again. Keep it Up.”
By Chimeziri Emmanuel
“I have been playing football since only God knows how long, I was so good that when most of my mates see me they ask me why have I not been in Europe. In 2012 there was a screening in conjunction with [a telecoms company and a Premier League club], the registration cost 3000 Naira. In each of the centres 5 players were chosen. On the day of the screening there was well over 1000 participants. After the whole screening for 3 days I made the final 22 man list. We played 11 vs 11 at Old Parade Ground Abuja. After everything, one of the coaches pulled me to one side and said I'll have to provide 50 thousand Naira if I am to make the final list. I couldn't even afford my transport to the screening centre not to talk of providing such huge amount of money. That was how I lost that opportunity of going to [England] for a trial which with my ability I knew I'll definitely pass. Since then I gave up football and now work in a factory where I get paid 15000 Naira every month.”
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