The Director of France Médias Monde Nigeria (Radio France Internationale – RFI), Mr. Joseph Penny, has announced plans to extend the organisation’s free football academy and journalism training programme to Kebbi State.
Penny made the pledge during an advocacy visit by a Kebbi State Government delegation led by the Commissioner for Information and Culture, Alhaji Yakubu Ahmed Birnin Kebbi, to the organisation’s Lagos office on Wednesday.
He said RFI has empowered hundreds of young Nigerians through its youth development initiatives, particularly in football and journalism, noting that Kano State has recorded significant success under the program.
According to him, Kebbi State will soon be integrated into the initiative, creating opportunities for talented youths to develop their skills.
“We provide free football training for young people, and outstanding participants are given opportunities to join foreign football clubs that express interest in their talents.
The programme has achieved remarkable success in Kano State, and we are delighted to extend the same opportunity to Kebbi State,” Penny said.
He also highlighted Kebbi State’s economic potential, describing it as a destination with vast opportunities for investment and sustainable development.
Penny cited the Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival, the state’s thriving rice production and other economic initiatives as key assets capable of boosting internally generated revenue and attracting strategic partnerships.
Responding, the Commissioner for Information and Culture, Alhaji Yakubu Ahmed Birnin Kebbi, commended RFI for choosing Kebbi as a strategic partner.
He said the proposed football academy would provide a platform for talented youths across the state, including players of Kebbi United Football Club, to hone their skills and compete at national and international levels.
The commissioner also outlined the achievements of Governor Nasir Idris’ administration, particularly in infrastructure and human capital development.
According to him, the state government has made significant investments in the construction and renovation of schools, healthcare facilities, road infrastructure and a modern State Secretariat, reflecting its commitment to improving the welfare and living standards of the people.
The delegation included the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ahmed Idris; Special Adviser on Public Enlightenment and Orientation, Ibrahim Jombali; Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yahaya Sarki; Special Adviser on Strategic Communication, Abdullahi Idris Zuru; and Special Adviser on New Media, Aliyu Bandado Argungu.
