By Akeem Busari
In a groundbreaking move, Portuguese side FC Esmoriz has appointed 20-year-old Nigerian, Oluwademilade Ajibade, as its Chief Scout for Africa, marking a historic milestone in international football scouting.
Ajibade, a former footballer and graduate of Brooklyn College, United Kingdom, once featured for Tonic FC before hanging up his boots to pursue what he describes as his true passion — talent discovery and football management.
Speaking on his appointment, Ajibade expressed gratitude and excitement, describing the opportunity as “a dream come true and a challenge I’m eager to embrace.”
He credited his father, Prince Dapo Ajibade, a respected football administrator, for inspiring his deep understanding and love for the game.
“This appointment isn’t just for me,” he said. “It’s a message to young Africans that you’re never too young to take big steps in football administration.”
Ajibade noted that reactions from football coaches and enthusiasts across the continent have been overwhelmingly positive, fueling his drive to identify and nurture potential stars for FC Esmoriz and other top clubs worldwide.
With this appointment, Ajibade becomes one of the youngest professional scouts globally — and a symbol of Africa’s rising influence in international football development.