By Aderonke Ojo
Justin Ezeude, Head Coach of Jay One Football Academy, has urged football academies and clubs to prioritise continuous camping, discipline and close monitoring in the development of young players nationwide.
Ezeude made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja.
He said that the approach had contributed significantly to the academy’s impressive performance in the 2026 FCT Football Association (FCTFA) Division One League.
He said keeping players together in camp had helped the coaching staff to improve their understanding, teamwork and discipline while monitoring their character.
“The boys are doing well because most of them are in camp. They are together, we train them together and they are dedicated to the team.
“We train in the morning and sometimes in the evening. It has really helped to bring the boys together,” he said.
According to him, the current Jay One squad was assembled in February 2026 and had remained in camp preparing for the league and other competitions.
He said the players would remain in camp until November before taking their annual break and returning in January 2027.
The coach explained that Jay One had operated an annual camping programme since 2014, describing it as an important part of the academy’s player-development system.
“When you keep them in camp, you are able to monitor their character and understand the kind of players they are.
“Talent is important, but discipline, punctuality and good character are also very important,” he said.
He urged other football academies, clubs to adopt similar structures where possible, stressing that proper player development required more than football training.
Ezeude said young players must be taught punctuality, discipline, responsibility and respect for instructions if they were to succeed in their careers.
“If you tell a player to report by 7 am, he should be on the field before that 7 am, he should not come late.
“These are some of the things we need to work on with young African players. Discipline is very important,” he said.
The coach spoke against the background of Jay One Football Academy’s qualification for the final of the 2026 FCTFA Division One League.
Jay One was drawn alongside Casmat FC, FHA FC and Pride FC in the Super 8 of the 2026 FCT Football Association (FCTFA) Division One League in Abuja.
The academy defeated Casmat FC 2-1 in its opening match, followed by a 3-1 victory over FHA FC, before playing a 1-1 draw against Pride FC to finish top of the group.
Ezeude, who is also the Chief Executive Officer of Jay One Football Academy, described the achievement as a significant milestone for the academy.
He said that the team would remain focused on winning the league.
“Definitely, we are going for the NLO playoffs in September, and we believe we will get the ticket.
“We know it will not be easy, but we will go there and do our best,” he said.
He stated that it was a very good development for the team, knowing that the boys had shown their desire and determination to work hard and get to the right place.
The coach said that the academy would continue its preparation to win the title, while the date of the 2026 FCTFA Division One League finals would be announced.
“We are working hard to make sure we win the league. Qualifying for the final is already a plus, but we want to carry the league, title and trophy,” he said.
He added that the team’s qualification had also secured its participation in the Nationwide League One (NLO) next season.
Ezeude said Jay One would represent the FCT at the NLO playoffs in September and expressed confidence that the team would secure the ticket.
Ezeude commended the Chairman of the FCT Football Association, Adamu Mouhktar, and its Secretary, Haruna Ilerika, for their encouragement and support for youth in football development.
He also applauded the academy’s supporters for their backing throughout the campaign and gave glory to God for the team’s progress.
NAN reports that the 2026 FCT Football Association (FCTFA) Division One League commenced on July 13 at the Area 3 Football Pitch in Abuja.
The FCT Division One League serves as the primary local pathway for clubs in Abuja to qualify into the Nationwide League One (NLO), the third tier of Nigerian club football.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Precious Akutamadu/Joseph Edeh