GTI Assets Management and Trust Limited, the promoter of the Nigeria Football Fund (TNFF), has announced its commitment to building a football academy. To finance this initiative, the company is inviting the public to invest in an initial public offering that aims to raise N5 billion through the issuance of 5 billion units at N1.00 each.
Speaking at a news conference in Lagos, Nelson Ine, Executive Director of Fund Management at GTI, described the project as an effort to create a “football economy” within Nigeria’s sports ecosystem. He explained that the funds will provide sustainable solutions to the challenges facing Nigerian football, with particular focus on clubs in the Nigeria Professional Football League. Ine emphasized that low‑income earners and football enthusiasts should consider investing now, before a major deal is signed that could increase the fund’s value. “This is the best time to invest because we are in the process of securing deals with investors. Once a major deal is signed, the value will rise,” he said.
Regarding the use of the raised capital, Ine assured that a well‑defined template governs the allocation of all money, making diversion of funds unlikely. The custodian of the fund is prohibited from releasing money for purposes outside the original objectives, which include referees’ allowances, league production, and other league‑related expenses.
Abubakar Lawal, Group Managing Director of GTI, urged stakeholders to view the project as a national journey that requires collective responsibility. “Nigeria is the way it is today because we have not taken responsibility. The duty is not on politicians to deliver the future of Nigeria; we are the ones who must think and act, while they provide supportive policies and enablement,” he said. Lawal noted that TNFF’s assets are open to investors worldwide and mentioned that his team is engaging FIFA for endorsement, which he believes will place Nigeria on the map by demonstrating the organization’s capacity and commitment to the project.
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