The agreement was signed on Friday at the Samson Siasia Sports Complex during the final of the 2026 Prosperity Cup.
The agreement was signed on Friday at the Samson Siasia Sports Complex during the final of the 2026 Prosperity Cup.
The signing was witnessed by former Nigeria Football Federation President, Amaju Pinnick, and NFF Secretary General, Mohammed Sanusi.
In the male final, debutants Okoroma United of Nembe edged out Akinima Biogbo of Yenagoa 1-0 to emerge champions of the 8th edition of the tournament.
The winners carted home ₦40 million while the runners-up received ₦13 million.
In the female category, Active Ladies of Agudama defeated defending champions Afini Ladies of Amarata 1-0 to claim the title and ₦10 million prize. The runners-up went home with ₦7 million.
Governor Douye Diri, who expressed delight at the Barcelona partnership, said the academy would engage youths productively and steer them away from social vices.
“The agreement with one of Europe’s biggest clubs will open opportunities for our young talents,” the governor said.
He noted that the Prosperity Cup has grown significantly under his administration, rising from fewer teams in 2020 to 227 teams this year, with the introduction of female and para-soccer categories.
Diri commended the improved standard of play and charged Bayelsa United to avoid relegation from the Nigeria Professional Football League.
Bernat Villa Garris said FC Barcelona was impressed with the talent in Bayelsa and expressed readiness to support the development of players and coaches in the state.
Amaju Pinnick praised Governor Douye Diri’s commitment to sports development, saying the state and the Niger Delta region are filled with talents capable of becoming stars like Lamine Yamal and Lionel Messi.
