TDS Under-15: Patrick Bassey Commends NFF Talent Development Scheme

By Arinzechi Chukwunonso

The head coach of the Talent Development Scheme (TDS) Under-15 team Patrick Bassey has expressed deep appreciation to the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) following the successful conclusion of the first batch of the Talent Development Scheme (TDS), a grassroots football initiative jointly organized by FIFA and the NFF.

Speaking after the close of the first phase of the program, which ended on Saturday the 5th of July 2025, the coach thanked the NFF President, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, The Technical Director of the Program Nasiru Jibril and the Technical Department of the Federation for their commitment to youth development and the future of Nigerian football.

“I sincerely want to use this medium to appreciate the Nigerian Football Federation headed by the President Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau and the Technical Department for their efforts. I thank God that the first batch of the TDS U15 program ended successfully, with players returning to their destinations on Sunday,” he said.

Describing the program as a resounding success, the coach highlighted the quality and attitude of the players who participated.

“We saw potential. We saw players that are committed, disciplined, and ready to give their all to represent Nigeria. These are young talents who want to take football as a career and contribute to the nation’s football future.”

He further emphasized the importance of such grassroots initiatives in strengthening the country’s football structure from the base, noting that the exposure and guidance given to these players will be vital in their development.

“The impact of going to the grassroots cannot be overemphasized. It is helping tremendously in shaping the future of Nigerian football,” he added.

With Batch A now concluded, attention shifts to the second batch of players, as Batch B of the TDS U15 program is set to commence Tuesday, July 8th 2025.

The Talent Development Scheme continues to serve as a pipeline for identifying and nurturing the next generation of Nigerian football stars.