FTAtlantic Integral FC 0–2 Pape Academy FC
About Us
About Pape Academy
Pape Academy is more than a football school — it is a laboratory for character, excellence, and the realization of dreams. Founded in the heart of Niger State, Nigeria, we are dedicated to transforming raw grassroots talent into professional athletes and responsible citizens.
Our Story
From a Vision to a Movement
Pape Academy was founded by Dr. Abdullahi Kuso with a singular belief: that world-class football talent exists in every corner of Nigeria, but too many young players are lost to a lack of structure, coaching, and opportunity.
Starting with a small group of local boys and a borrowed pitch, the academy quickly grew into one of Niger State's most organized youth football programs. Within its first year, Pape Academy won the Pre-season Kpakungu tournament and earned its historic place in the Nigeria League One (NLO) for the 2025/2026 season — making it one of the youngest academies to compete at the national league level.
Today, with over 50 active players, 6 qualified coaches, and a structured management committee, Pape Academy is not just developing footballers — it is building a culture of excellence that extends far beyond the pitch.
Our Philosophy
The Four Pillars of Pape Academy
Every decision we make is guided by these four principles that define who we are and how we develop our players.
Development First
Winning is a byproduct of excellence. We prioritize long-term technical, tactical, and physical growth over short-term results. Every training session is designed to make players better, not just to prepare for the next match.
A Players' Academy
Pape Academy is not a school — it is a players' academy. Good footballers are scouted, invited, and given everything they need to become professionals. If you have the talent and the hunger, there is a place for you to be part of something great.
Character Building
We are not just producing footballers — we are raising men of integrity. Discipline, respect, punctuality, and leadership are drilled into our players as intensely as ball mastery. A Pape Academy graduate is recognized by his conduct as much as his talent.
Professional Pathway
Our participation in the NLO gives players direct exposure to professional football structures. Combined with our scouting network and relationships with NPFL clubs, we create tangible pathways for talented players to progress to the highest levels of the game.
The Pape Difference
Why Pape Academy?
NLO
National League Participation
Competing in the Nigeria League One gives our players real competitive experience at the professional level.
6
Dedicated Coaches
Full senior and junior technical crews — technical advisers, chief coaches, and trainers focused on daily player development.
100%
Merit-Based Selection
We are a players' academy. Every player here was scouted and invited on footballing ability — nothing else.
Leadership
The Vision Behind the Academy
Founder & President
Dr. Abdullahi Kuso
Our vision for Pape Academy is to provide a platform where every young boy with a dream and a ball can find the guidance needed to reach the global stage.
2024
Founded
50+
Players
NLO
Licensed
Voices
What People Are Saying
“Watching Pape Academy in the NLO this season made the whole town proud. A brand-new club, first season at national level, and they finished second in the Bida Centre — losing only one match all campaign. That is not luck, that is proper work.”
Supporter
Followed the team all season in Bida
Track Record
Our Achievements
From founding to national league participation in under two years — Pape Academy is building a legacy of excellence in Nigerian football.
NLO 2025/2026 Participation
Became one of the youngest academies in Nigeria to earn a place in the national third-tier league.
NLO 2025/2026 Runners-Up — Bida Centre
Finished 2nd in our debut national league season, closing the campaign with three consecutive wins and four clean sheets in five matches.
Pre-season Kpakungu Champions
Won the pre-season Kpakungu tournament, announcing our arrival on the competitive scene.
Academy Founded — 2024
Dr. Abdullahi Kuso established Pape Academy with a vision to transform grassroots football in Niger State.
50+ Players in Active Development
Growing from a handful of players to a full multi-age-group academy within two years.
50+
Active Players
1
Trophies
6
Expert Coaches
NLO
League Status