Terdoo Adema, a young boy who once lived in an Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in Benue State, is on the brink of starting a professional football career in Europe, showcasing a remarkable turn of events from hardship to opportunity.
Terdoo Adema, now 18, was first discovered in 2019 at Daudu IDP Camp 2 during a talent scouting event organized by Ontrade Football Academy. The event showcased the presence of John Fashanu, the well-respected former international footballer and ex-captain of Wimbledon FC, who made a visit to the camp with the exciting purpose of discovering untapped talent. His journey from Nigeria to the football world has inspired many, and his eagerness to support young athletes reflects his commitment to nurturing the next generation of talent.
When Terdoo was found
Terdoo Adema, then was only 13 years old at the time, visited and boldly participated in a two-a-side match alongside Fashanu. His impressive skill and football intelligence amazed both the organizers and the residents of the camp, leading to his instant recognition.
However, after that initial promise, contact with Adema was lost for several years, causing many to fear that his opportunity had slipped away. Setbacks came, but he continued to train and hone his skills within the IDP camp. Fate intervened when he was referred to a new scouting project by Friday Onoja, a camp manager who was unaware of his earlier encounter with the Academy.
During a routine presentation of players to the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), a staff member recognized Adema from the 2019 scouting event, which reignited the hope that had once seemed out of reach. “This is the same boy we discovered five years ago,” the SEMA officer, who had been the camp manager during the original event, said with emotion. “Seeing him again, now more skilled and mature, is nothing short of inspirational.”
Helen Aisha Ogenyi, who is leading the scouting project, announced that Adema is on his way to Europe to pursue his dream of becoming a professional football player. She highlighted that Adema’s journey represents resilience, divine favor, and the incredible untapped potential found within Nigeria’s IDP camps. “Terdoo’s story highlights the immense talent hidden in our displaced communities. We cannot afford to let these lives waste away. The government and stakeholders must address the root causes of displacement and create opportunities for young people,” Ogenyi stated.
