Organisers of the Bayelsa Governor’s Football Tournament, known as the Prosperity Cup, have announced a partnership with Spanish giants Barcelona FC ahead of the 2026 edition. The deal is aimed at raising technical standards and boosting grassroots football development in Bayelsa State.
Tournament Director General Ono Akpe said at a world press conference that Barcelona coaches will run an international coaching clinic in Yenagoa from February 23 to 25, 2026. The UEFA certified programme, organised with the Bayelsa State Ministry of Sports Development and the State Football Association, will take up to 50 coaches.
He explained that the clinic will focus on Barcelona’s coaching philosophy and methodology. Other capacity building plans include refresher courses for referees and training for medical and media personnel involved in the competition.
Akpe said these initiatives are designed to improve the skills of key stakeholders and strengthen football structures in Bayelsa. He noted that the Prosperity Cup is now regarded as one of Nigeria’s leading grassroots tournaments.
For the eighth edition, prize money has been increased to mark Bayelsa State’s 30th anniversary. The male champions will receive 30 million naira, while the female winners will take home 10 million naira.
The 2026 tournament will kick off on March 1 with preliminary matches at 30 centres across the state. Local government finals are scheduled for April 8 to 20, with the grand finale fixed for May 2, 2026.
Akpe said the Barcelona partnership underscores the competition’s commitment to excellence and long term talent development. He invited sponsors, stakeholders and fans to support what he called an exciting new season.
He thanked the Bayelsa State Government, lead sponsors Premium Trust Bank and Linkage Assurance, as well as the Nigerian Customs Service and other backers for their sustained support. He also urged multinational oil companies, the NCDMB and the NDDC to align with Governor Douye Diri’s vision by co sponsoring the event.
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