Pam Signs Contract With Argentine Scout Houseman After Kaduna Talent Hunt

Nigeria U-20 hopeful Jahmang Pam has signed a contract with renowned Argentine football scout and agent Marcelo Houseman following a week-long talent identification programme in Southern Kaduna.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the agreement was signed at ABT Football Academy, Kwoi, Southern Kaduna, at the conclusion of the scouting exercise organised by Alhamdu Bala, chairman and proprietor of the academy.

The programme attracted more than 800 young footballers from 15 academies, who underwent intensive training, technical assessments, tactical sessions and competitive matches as Houseman searched for promising talents with international potential.

At the end of the exercise, Houseman selected 16 players across the U-17 and U-20 categories for further development and consideration for opportunities abroad.

Pam, who featured prominently throughout the programme, caught the Argentine scout’s attention with his technical ability, tactical intelligence, vision, versatility and understanding of the game.

Houseman described the youngster as an exciting prospect capable of attracting interest from clubs outside Nigeria, but stressed that discipline and continuous improvement would be crucial to his progress.

“Pam has exceptional qualities, but talent alone is not enough; he must remain disciplined, focused and committed to continuous improvement,” Houseman said.

He added that efforts would be made to secure an international opportunity for Pam within the next few weeks.

“I see a player with great potential, and my responsibility is to help create the right pathway for him to grow and compete at a higher level,” he said.

Pam’s mother and personal manager, Adama Jang, described the agreement as a major step forward in her son’s career, while the player himself called it a “dream come true”.

“I feel happy and motivated by this opportunity. I know there is still a lot of work to do, and I am ready to learn, improve and give my best,” Pam said.

Pam began playing football in Jos, Plateau State, at the age of nine and later featured for Mighty Jets before gaining wider recognition with a call-up to Nigeria’s U-20 side, the Flying Eagles, in 2024.

He was invited to the team’s training camp under former coach Aliyu Zubairu ahead of the WAFU B U-20 qualifiers.

Bala described the scouting programme as an important platform for exposing young Nigerian players to international opportunities.

He said the 16 selected players would remain in camp for further training and development, while the academy would continue collaborating with Houseman and other international football development partners.

Bala also urged young players and their parents to be cautious of individuals who promise overseas contracts without credible professional arrangements. (NAN)