NNL boss, Aluo graces Next Level scouting meet in Abuja as organizers shop for future stars

Photo: NNL Chairman, George Aluo (right) with one of the event organizers, Jouko Gorissen at the venue of the scouting program

By Ifeanyi Eduzor

Chairman of the nation’s second tier league, NNL, George Aluo today graced the Next Level Scouting meet taking place at the Turf Arena in Abuja.

Aluo took the kick off of the week long event that is attracting over 10 scouts from different parts of Europe.

One of the organizers of the event Jouko Gorissen expressed confidence that the next football superstar comparable to Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo will emerge from Africa, particularly Nigeria, given the immense talent present in the country.

Gorissen emphasized the importance of discovering and nurturing young players with exceptional potential. 

The Next Level Scouting programme has brought together over 300 young players from 16 academies across Nigeria, with successful players set to secure opportunities in top footballing nations such as Belgium, Norway, Sweden, Germany and the Netherlands.

“We have 10 scouts on the ground and another 198 scouts worldwide watching the games online. There are 16 teams competing for professional contracts and opportunities are not limited to Europe alone.

“Clubs from Japan, Korea, Saudi Arabia, America, Brazil, Egypt, South Africa, and even Australia are watching right now.”

He praised Nigerian players for their distinct style of play, saying: Nigerian players are known for high-paced, high-intensity, strong, and technical football. 

“We’ve already spotted a few players in the first game who seem ready to take the next step.”

Gorissen expressed optimism about Africa’s football future: “Studies suggest that the next Messi or Ronaldo will come from Africa. This is what we hope to see here. 

“Our job is to find the right clubs where these players can develop and progress to the next level.”

In his remarks, Usman Alfa, Chairman of USYAK Academy and Team Manager of Niger Tornadoes FC, emphasized the dual purpose of scouting-talent discovery and financial investment.

“Our goal is to discover talents and generate revenue because football is both a passion and a business. 

“We have 16 academies participating, giving young players a platform to showcase their skills.

“Each team will play two matches, and the best talents will be selected to advance in their football careers.”

The Next Level Scouting 2025 event is set to be a game-changer for Nigerian football, offering young players a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be scouted by top clubs worldwide. With extensive global interest and investment in African football, the dream of producing the next football icon from the continent is closer than ever.