How to Start a Football Career in Nigeria: Step-by-Step Guide?

Football in Nigeria is increasing rapidly, the love of football is tremendous to the society currently leaving in right now; so many Nigerian dream is to become a great Nigeria best Striker and a Godfather in Football Victor Osimhen. But there are certain reality hindering the chances to be a footballer top footballer in Nigeria. 

What Happen?

Football isn’t just a game in Nigeria  it’s a passion, a lifestyle, and for many, a dream career. With countless talented young players across the country, the path to becoming a professional footballer is not easy, but it is very possible. 

Whether you're a teenager with big dreams or a parent seeking guidance for your child, this guide will walk you through every essential step of starting a football career in Nigeria.

 

The Nigerian Dream

From dusty fields in Ajegunle to the stadium lights of Europe, countless Nigerian stars have gone from humble beginnings to global fame. Players like Jay-Jay Okocha, Nwankwo Kanu, Mikel Obi, Victor Osimhen, and many others have proven that greatness can start anywhere. But what exactly does it take to become a professional footballer in Nigeria? Is talent enough?

 

The truth is, talent is only part of the story. Discipline, networking, good coaching, training opportunities, and luck also play vital roles. Let’s break it down step-by-step.

 

Step 1: Start Playing Early

The earlier you start playing football, the better. Many top footballers started kicking a ball before the age of 10. However, it’s never too late. What matters most is consistency and development.

 

What to Focus On when starting early:

 Play as often as possible every day if you can.

Practice dribbling, passing, shooting, and defending.

Learn the rules of the game and study professional matches.

Play in both informal settings (street games) and organized teams (school or community).

 

Step 2: Join a Local Football Team

You need structured training to grow as a player. Joining a football team gives you access to:

Coaching

Regular matches

Tactical understanding

Physical training

 

What You Gain: 

Discipline and team spirit

Weekly training routines

Exposure to local tournaments

A chance to measure your ability against other players

 

Step 3: Train Like a Professional

If you want to become a professional, you have to train like one. Raw talent isn’t enough in today’s competitive football world. You must commit to structured, disciplined, and continuous training.

Key Aspects of Training:

Physical Conditioning: Fitness is non-negotiable. Work on speed, stamina, strength, and agility.

Technical Drills: Control, dribbling, passing, and shooting should be practiced daily.

Tactical Awareness: Understand formations, positioning, and game strategy.

Mental Strength: Stay focused, patient, and resilient. Football is as much a mental game as it is physical.

 

Step 4: Attend a Football Academy

Football academies offer a structured environment to refine your talent. They also provide access to better coaching and sometimes even scouts from bigger clubs.

 

Why Academies Matter:

Regular professional-level training

Education combined with football (in some cases)

Scouting opportunities

Showcasing your talent in bigger tournaments

 

Step 5: Play in Tournaments

Tournaments are your chance to shine. They provide exposure and experience. Scouts and coaches often attend these events looking for the next big talent.

 

How to Get Involved in a Tournaments:

Participate in inter-school tournaments.

Join community or church leagues.

 Play in youth cups and regional competitions.

Aim for national youth competitions.

 

Step 6: Build a Football CV

Just like applying for a job, you need a football CV when seeking opportunities with clubs, academies, or scouts. Your football CV should showcase:

Your full name, age, height, and weight

Playing position(s)

Playing history (teams, tournaments, achievements)

Skills and strengths

Photos and videos (if available)

 

Step 7: Get an Agent or Mentor

In the football world, having someone who can guide or represent you is powerful. An agent helps with contracts, negotiations, and trials, while a mentor offers advice and guidance.

Things to Look For:

 A trustworthy, transparent agent with a good track record

 A former player, coach, or senior football figure to guide you

Avoid people asking for large fees upfront. Real agents earn a percentage after you sign.

Even if you don’t get an agent immediately, build relationships with coaches, journalists, and ex-players who can help connect you.

 

Step 8: Go for Football Trials

Trials are your bridge to professional clubs. These are opportunities to showcase your ability in front of coaches and scouts.

Tips for Trials: 

Arrive early and stay focused.

Wear proper gear and look presentable.

Play your natural game  don’t overdo it.

Stand out with your work rate, discipline, and confidence. 

Sometimes, trials are open to the public; other times, they’re by invitation. Keep applying and preparing until you get a chance.

 

Step 9: Stay Educated

While your football dream is alive, don’t ignore your education. Many football careers don’t go as planned, and injuries or missed chances can set things back. Education provides a safety net.

 

Also, some foreign clubs and universities offer football scholarships  and they require good academic records.

 

Benefits of Staying in School:

Backup career options

Scholarship opportunities

Better communication and decision-making skills

Ability to understand contracts and manage money later on

 

Step 10: Be Visible Online

In today’s digital world, visibility can change your life. Many players have been discovered through social media or YouTube.

 

Create a Strong Online Profile:

Share your highlight videos

Post training clips, match photos, and achievements

Join football-related Facebook and WhatsApp groups

Connect with scouts, agents, and journalists

But remember to stay professional. Avoid bragging or posting anything that could damage your reputation.

 

 Step 11: Practice Patience and Persistence

A football career doesn’t start overnight. Many players train for years before getting a single opportunity. The road is tough, but your mindset can be your biggest weapon.

 

Stay Committed:

Learn from failure and defeat.

Keep training even when discouraged.

Improve your weak areas.

Take care of your body  avoid drugs, alcohol, or unhealthy lifestyles.

 

Football is full of ups and downs. Stay focused on your long-term goal, and celebrate small wins along the way.

Step 12: Seize Every Opportunit 

Opportunities often come disguised. It could be a last-minute call-up, a small match with a scout in attendance, or even a training invitation. Be ready.

 

 How to Prepare:

Stay fit year-round.

Keep your documents, CV, and gear ready.

Listen to your coaches  they often know when scouts are around.

Don’t turn down trials just because they’re far or small.

 

A single match can change your life if you’re prepared.

 

 Step 13: Aim for National Team Youth Call-Up

 

Playing for Nigeria’s U-17, U-20, or U-23 team can open massive doors. It’s a sign to clubs worldwide that you’re among the best in your age group.

 

 How to Get Noticed:

Shine in local and national tournaments.

Get into recognized academies or state teams.

Make noise through performances, not just words.

Keep track of state football association announcements.

 

 Step 14: Stay Grounded and Humble

Many players lose focus once they get attention or start playing semi-professionally. Humility and discipline are the keys to a long career.

 

Avoid:

Arrogance

Poor attitude on and off the field

Fights with teammates or coaches

Bad habits like lateness or skipping training

People support players with good character scouts, coaches, fans, and even agents.

 

Step 15: Don’t Give Up

 

Not every player makes it at 18 or 20. Some break through at 24 or later. The important thing is not to quit too early.

 

Real Talk:

Not all trials will go well.Not every scout will pick you.

Injuries may come.

Financial challenges may slow you down.

 

But if you stay the course and continue improving, your opportunity will come. Football is full of late bloomers who stayed the course.

 

Conclusion

Starting a football career in Nigeria isn’t a straight road. It’s full of potholes, obstacles, and competition. But with determination, the right approach, and continuous improvement, your dream can become reality.

 

Whether you’re training on bare fields or dreaming from the sidelines, remember: someone is always watching. Give it your best every day, and one day, the world could be chanting your name in stadiums across the globe.