Union Bank Empowers Young Talent Through Edu360 at Greensprings Football Academy

Union Bank Empowers Young Talent Through Edu360 at Greensprings Football Academy

L-R: Bukola Ayeni, Lead External Communications, Union Bank of Nigeria; West Bromwich Albion Football Club coaches; Mrs Lai Koiki, Founder and CEO, Greensprings School and participants of the 11th Greensprings Football Camp sponsored by Union Bank of Nigeria under its Edu360 initiative at the school's Awoyaya campus in Lekki, Lagos recently.

Lagos, Nigeria – April 24, 2025
Union Bank of Nigeria has once again reaffirmed its commitment to youth development and quality education through its sponsorship of the 11th edition of the Greensprings Football Academy. The five-day intensive football training camp, held from April 13 to 17 at the Greensprings School Lekki campus, brought together aspiring footballers aged 5 to 17 for world-class coaching and mentorship.

The camp featured seasoned coaches from renowned international organizations including West Bromwich Albion Football Club, the Dutch Football Association, and the English Football League (EFL). They were joined by coaches from the Lagos State Football Association and Nigerian football legend, Victor Ikpeba, fondly known as “The Prince of Monaco.”

The event culminated in a vibrant closing ceremony on April 17, attended by notable figures from the football community, including Lagos State FA Chairman Laimeed Gafar, and visiting West Bromwich Albion coaches Samuel Jake Whitmore, Jordan Hall, and Owen Jones.

Speaking at the ceremony, Bukola Ayeni, Lead, External Communications at Union Bank, emphasized the significance of the Bank’s involvement through its Edu360 initiative. “Our sponsorship of the Greensprings Football Academy underlines our commitment to community-focused development. Edu360 is not just about formal learning—it’s about holistic education, including sports, which aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 4 on Quality Education,” she said.

Union Bank’s Edu360 initiative, which supports educational innovation and youth empowerment, continues to serve as a platform for nurturing future leaders—both on and off the pitch. With a legacy spanning over 108 years, Union Bank remains a pillar of support for Nigeria’s youth.

Founder and CEO of Greensprings School, Mrs. Lai Koiki, echoed the need for a future-forward approach to education, stating, “We are preparing the youth not just for football, but for leadership and life.”

Victor Ikpeba also commended the Academy and its sponsors, noting, “This school is doing an incredible job empowering young boys and girls, not just in football but through education as a whole.”

The Academy, known for producing players for Nigeria’s Under-17 National Team, continues to shine as a beacon of excellence in youth football development. This year’s top-performing students, Alabi Aliami and Ayodeji Boluwatife, earned special recognition, including exclusive virtual training sessions with international coaches.

The success of this year’s edition further highlights the unifying power of football and the critical role of partnerships in shaping the future of Nigeria’s youth. Union Bank remains steadfast in its mission to uplift communities and inspire young stars through impactful programs like the Greensprings Football Academy.

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About Union Bank of Nigeria Plc:
Established in 1917 and listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange since 1971, Union Bank is one of Nigeria’s oldest and most trusted financial institutions. With over 300 branches nationwide, the Bank offers a wide range of banking services to individuals and businesses. These include account management, loans, trade finance, and cutting-edge digital banking solutions.

For more information:
Visit: www.unionbankng.com
Media Contact:
Favour Bukola Ayeni
Phone: +234 0201 2716800
Email: mediarelations@unionbankng.com