Rivers State awards 50 million naira to Real Madrid Academy

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara granted 50 million naira to the Real Madrid Football Academy in Port Harcourt following an international youth tour across the United Kingdom. The state executive announced the grant during a reception at Government House for the travelling contingent of 61 student-athletes and 12 officials after their matches in Southampton.

The allocation follows the academy squad securing a silver trophy during the UK fixtures, according to Academy Principal Prudence Isaac-Harry. Fubara stated that the state-sponsored initiative aims to expose grassroots players to elite youth structures and help student-athletes build professional careers in football.

"You have made us very proud," Fubara said in a statement released by his chief press secretary, Onwuka Nzeshi. "On our own part, we will ensure that we give you every support needed for you to excel."

Isaac-Harry stated that several overseas clubs registered interest in scouting academy players following the matches in England. Fubara added that the administration plans to renovate campus facilities and expand accommodation in Port Harcourt to sustain the development program.