Top 10 Football Academies In Nigeria 2025: Programs, Registration Fees And Admission Requirements
Football is the most popular sport in Nigeria, and many young talents dream of playing professionally. Joining a top football academy is the best way to develop skills, gain exposure, and increase the chances of signing a professional contract.
Nigeria is home to some of the best football academies in Africa, producing world-class players like Kelechi Iheanacho, Victor Osimhen, and Wilfred Ndidi. If you’re an aspiring footballer or a parent looking for the right academy for your child, this article provides detailed information about the best football academies in Nigeria in 2025, including programs, registration fees, and admission requirements.
1. Pepsi Football Academy
Overview
The Pepsi Football Academy is one of the most famous and well-established football academies in Nigeria. Founded in 1992, it has produced stars like Mikel Obi and Elderson Echiejile. The academy operates in various locations across Nigeria, making it accessible to many young talents.
Programs Offered
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Youth Development Training
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Tactical and Technical Coaching
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Schooling & Football Education
Registration Fees
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New Registration: ₦6,000
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Annual Renewal Fee: ₦2,000
Admission Requirements
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Age: 5 to 16 years
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Birth certificate
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School result as proof of education
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Passport photographs
2. Kwara Football Academy (KFA)
Overview
Established by the Kwara State Government in 2005, KFA is known for its high-level coaching and academic programs. The academy is open to both male and female players and offers a boarding system to provide full-time training.
Programs Offered
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Professional Football Training
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Academic Education (Secondary School)
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International Exposure & Scouting
Registration Fees
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₦50,000 – ₦150,000 per session
Admission Requirements
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Age: 13 to 21 years
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Must pass a fitness test
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Medical clearance
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Parental consent
3. Midas Football Academy
Overview
Founded in 2006, Midas Football Academy is one of the fastest-growing football academies in Nigeria, offering international football trials and partnerships with European clubs.
Programs Offered
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Grassroots Training
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International Trials
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Scouting and Player Management
Registration Fees
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₦30,000 – ₦100,000 per session
Admission Requirements
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Age: 6 to 18 years
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Ability to play competitive football
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Good physical fitness
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Parental/guardian consent
4. Barcelona Football Academy (FCBEscola Lagos)
Overview
FCBEscola Lagos, the official Barcelona Football Academy in Nigeria, follows the same training philosophy as FC Barcelona. It is one of the most prestigious academies in the country.
Programs Offered
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Spanish-Style Football Training
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Tactical Development
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International Scouting Opportunities
Registration Fees
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₦130,000 – ₦200,000 per year
Admission Requirements
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Age: 6 to 18 years
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Football skill assessment
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Medical clearance
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Registration form submission
5. Papilo Football Academy
Overview
Founded by Nigerian football legend Nwankwo Kanu, Papilo Football Academy is focused on developing young footballers into professionals. The academy has sent several players to European clubs.
Programs Offered
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Professional Football Training
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European Trial Opportunities
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Technical & Tactical Coaching
Registration Fees
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₦30,000 – ₦150,000 per year
Admission Requirements
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Age: 12 to 20 years
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Football skill evaluation
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Fitness test
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Commitment to training schedule
6. Abuja Football College
Overview
Abuja Football College (AFC) is a top-tier academy offering full-time residential football training. The academy has partnerships with international football clubs and scouting agencies.
Programs Offered
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Elite Training & Development
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Academic Education (Schooling & Football)
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European Football Trials
Registration Fees
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₦100,000 – ₦500,000 per year
Admission Requirements
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Age: 12 to 19 years
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Good fitness level
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Passion for football
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Parental consent
7. Lagos Tigers Football Academy
Overview
Lagos Tigers Football Academy is a private football academy that focuses on grooming young talents while providing academic education alongside football training.
Programs Offered
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Weekend Football Training
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Basic & Advanced Coaching
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International Scouting
Registration Fees
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₦25,000 – ₦100,000 per year
Admission Requirements
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Age: 3 to 16 years
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Ability to follow coaching instructions
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Fitness test
8. Buruj Sports Academy
Overview
Buruj Sports Academy is well known for its strong focus on international scouting and professional football development.
Programs Offered
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Advanced Football Training
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International Competitions
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European Club Trials
Registration Fees
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₦50,000 – ₦200,000 per session
Admission Requirements
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Age: 10 to 22 years
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Football talent test
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Good physical fitness
9. AS Roma Academy Abuja
Overview
AS Roma Academy Abuja is affiliated with AS Roma, the Italian football club. The academy offers the same training methods as AS Roma’s youth team in Italy.
Programs Offered
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Professional Youth Development
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Italian Football Philosophy
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International Exposure
Registration Fees
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₦150,000 – ₦500,000 per year
Admission Requirements
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Age: 6 to 18 years
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Football skill assessment
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Medical fitness test
10. SiaOne Soccer Academy
Overview
Founded by ex-Super Eagles coach, Samson Siasia, SiaOne Soccer Academy aims to develop young Nigerian players for the international football stage.
Programs Offered
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Tactical Football Training
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Player Management & Transfers
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International Football Trials
Registration Fees
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₦50,000 – ₦300,000 per year
Admission Requirements
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Age: 12 to 20 years
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Strong passion for football
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Physical fitness test
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which is the best football academy in Nigeria?
The Pepsi Football Academy is widely regarded as one of the best in Nigeria due to its long history and success in producing professional players.
2. How much does it cost to enroll in a football academy in Nigeria?
The cost of enrolling in a football academy in Nigeria ranges from ₦6,000 to ₦500,000 per year, depending on the academy and the program.
3. What age can a child join a football academy?
Most football academies in Nigeria accept children between 5 and 18 years old.
4. Do Nigerian football academies offer scholarships?
Yes, some academies like Kwara Football Academy and Abuja Football College offer scholarships to exceptionally talented players.
5. Can I join a football academy without experience?
Yes! Some academies accept beginners, while others require a basic level of football skill.
Final Thoughts
Joining a top football academy in Nigeria is the first step toward a professional football career. These academies train, mentor, and connect young players to local and international clubs.
If you’re serious about football, choose the right academy, work hard, and stay dedicated—your dream of becoming a professional footballer could come true!
