By Ayomide Otitoju
Union Bank of Nigeria has reinforced its commitment to youth empowerment and educational advancement through its sponsorship of the 11th edition of the Greensprings Football Academy training camp.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the bank disclosed that the recently concluded five-day football camp, held in Lagos, provided intensive training for children aged 5 to 17. The event featured a blend of emerging football talent and experienced professionals, creating an immersive and enriching experience for all participants.
The training camp offered young players the opportunity to receive expert coaching from top international trainers affiliated with prestigious organisations, including West Bromwich Albion Football Club, the Dutch Football Association, and the English Football League.
Local football development was also well represented, with coaching input from the Lagos State Football Association and celebrated Nigerian football legend, Victor Ikpeba, fondly known as “The Prince of Monaco.”
Speaking at the camp’s closing ceremony, Union Bank’s Lead for External Communications, Bukola Ayeni, emphasized the bank’s long-standing dedication to education and youth development under its Edu360 initiative.
“Union Bank is proud to support the Greensprings Football Academy under our Edu360 initiative, which reflects our core value of being deeply rooted in community development,” Ayeni said. “Edu360 promotes access to quality education—both formal and informal—including sports, in line with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 4.”
She further noted that the bank, which recently marked its 108th anniversary, remains committed to shaping the next generation of Nigerian leaders through purposeful and impactful youth-focused programmes.
Also speaking, the Founder and CEO of Greensprings School, Lai Koiki, underscored the significance of preparing today’s youth for tomorrow’s challenges.
“We are preparing the youth to be future-ready—not just in football, but as leaders,” Koiki said. “This camp is about more than sports; it’s about building confidence, character, and capacity.”
The sponsorship by Union Bank forms part of its broader strategy to invest in education, youth talent, and sustainable community development across Nigeria.
