Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara has rewarded the players and coaches of the Real Madrid Football Academy in Port Harcourt with N50 million. The cash gift followed the team’s successful football tour of the United Kingdom.

The governor made the announcement on Friday while receiving the academy’s management and students at Government House, Port Harcourt. He praised the team for their discipline and good behaviour throughout the trip, noting that they returned victorious without any incident that could embarrass the state.

Fubara recalled that the academy was established by his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, to nurture young talents who could build successful careers in football. He said the UK tour was meant to expose the students to international football standards and expressed satisfaction that some of them had already attracted interest from foreign clubs.

The governor assured the students that the state government would address complaints about inadequate facilities and accommodation at the academy. He also urged them to take their studies seriously alongside their football development, stressing that character is as important as talent.

Academy Principal Dr Prudence Isaac-Harry thanked the governor for sponsoring the tour, which involved 61 student-athletes and 12 officials. She said the team won a silver trophy and left a strong impression during matches in Southampton and London, opening doors for further international opportunities.