CK Gefane FC’s Youth Academy has long been recognized as the heart of the club’s football philosophy, a place where young talents are given the tools to succeed both on and off the field. In 2025, the academy reached new heights with the launch of several key initiatives aimed at elevating the standard of training and providing young players with the best possible resources to develop their football careers. The academy remains focused on nurturing talent, with a clear emphasis on holistic player development, including physical conditioning, mental strength, and technical skills.

The Philosophy of CK Gefane FC’s Youth Academy

At the core of CK Gefane FC’s youth academy is the belief that football is about more than just technique; it is about building character, leadership, and discipline. Coach Adeyemi often emphasizes the importance of instilling these values from an early age, which is why the academy focuses not only on developing players’ footballing skills but also on shaping their attitudes and work ethic. The academy’s coaches work closely with the players, providing mentorship and ensuring that each individual grows into a well-rounded athlete.

The academy structure is divided into several age groups, starting from the Under-10 level and progressing through to Under-18. Each age group is carefully coached by a team of experienced trainers who focus on creating age-appropriate training programs that align with the overall goals of CK Gefane FC.

Coach Adeyemi’s Statement:

“The youth academy is the backbone of CK Gefane FC. Our primary goal is to develop players who can eventually play at the professional level, but we also focus on their overall development as individuals. It’s about teaching them the values that will make them successful both on and off the pitch.”

Modern Facilities and Training Infrastructure

In 2025, CK Gefane FC invested heavily in the modernization of its youth academy facilities. The club upgraded its training fields to meet international standards, providing players with state-of-the-art pitches for both practice and match situations. The academy also introduced a sports science center, equipped with cutting-edge technology to monitor player performance, track fitness levels, and assess player development.

One of the key areas of focus in the academy’s infrastructure is nutrition and fitness. The club has employed a dedicated nutritionist to work with young players, teaching them how to maintain proper diets to enhance performance. Additionally, fitness programs are tailored to each player’s needs, focusing on building endurance, strength, and flexibility.

Academy Head Trainer’s Insight:

“We believe that investing in the physical and mental development of our players from a young age will set them up for success in their professional careers. Our facilities and programs are designed to ensure that every player receives the best possible training to maximize their potential.”

Scouting and Identifying Talent

CK Gefane FC’s youth academy also places significant emphasis on scouting and identifying top talent from the surrounding regions. The club has expanded its scouting network to include not only Kaduna but also neighboring cities and towns, ensuring that no potential star is overlooked. Scouts attend local tournaments, school competitions, and community events to identify young players who show promise and potential.

In addition to local scouting, CK Gefane FC has begun exploring international scouting opportunities, attending tournaments and showcases in countries like Ghana, South Africa, and Ivory Coast to identify talents across Africa. This has allowed the club to expand its pool of young players, bringing in international talent that enriches the academy’s development programs.

Scouting Director’s Statement:

“Our goal is to find the best young players and give them the platform to grow. We look for more than just technical skills; we want players with the right mentality, discipline, and passion for the game. CK Gefane FC is committed to developing a new generation of stars, and our scouting system plays a vital role in that.”

Success Stories from the Academy

As of 2025, CK Gefane FC’s youth academy has already produced several players who have gone on to make a significant impact both domestically and internationally. Olatunde-Matthew Oladotun, who is currently playing for FC Baltika in Russia, is one of the academy’s biggest success stories. His rise through the ranks of CK Gefane FC serves as a testament to the effectiveness of the academy’s approach to player development.

Other academy graduates, like Musa Mohammed and Fisayo Olamide, have also begun to make waves, with both players representing CK Gefane FC in international competitions and gaining recognition from top clubs worldwide.

Mrs. Akadri Bilikisu Blessing’s Closing Thoughts:

“The future of CK Gefane FC lies within our youth academy. We are committed to providing young players with the best resources and opportunities to become professional footballers. Our academy is our investment in the future of the club, and we are confident that many more stars will emerge in the coming years.”

CK Gefane FC’s youth academy is proving to be a pivotal force in the club’s growth and development. With world-class facilities, a strong coaching staff, and an ever-expanding scouting network, the club is set to continue producing top talent for years to come.