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West African Football Leaders Unite for Infrastructure Boost in Côte d’Ivoire
Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire – In a powerful display of regional solidarity, Aboubacar Sampil, President of the Guinean Football Federation, joined Ivorian officials and football dignitaries in marking a historic milestone: the construction of a modernized National Technical Football Center in Côte d’Ivoire. The development, hailed as a beacon for football infrastructure across West Africa, drew key figures from the continent’s footballing landscape.
The ceremony, held on Thursday, January 16th, 2025, saw the laying of the foundation stone for the revitalized center, a project aimed at transforming the nation’s football development infrastructure. This ambitious undertaking signifies Côte d’Ivoire’s commitment to solidifying its position as a leading force in African football.
Adding weight to the occasion were the presence of Veron Mosengo, the CAF Secretary General, and Gelson Fernandes, FIFA’s Regional Director of Member Associations, underscoring the global significance of the project.
“The restoration of this technical center is a testament to Côte d’Ivoire’s unwavering dedication to nurturing young talent and elevating football standards across West Africa,” said a spokesperson for the Ivorian Football Federation.
For Sampil, the event transcended a mere ceremonial occasion. As the head of the Guinean Football Federation, he viewed it as an opportunity to learn and glean insights that could be applied to elevate football in Guinea. "The event provided valuable lessons and inspiration, and upon returning to Conakry, I am committed to charting a course for the rejuvenation of Guinean football," Sampil remarked.
This collaborative effort highlights the growing emphasis on infrastructure development within African football, fostering stronger ties and a shared vision for a more robust and competitive football landscape on the continent.