Former footballer Bassey Akpan, renowned as the goalkeeper of the tournament during the 2001 FIFA U-17 World Cup, is poised to embark on a new chapter in his football career.

Akpan is in line for a coaching role at Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) club Akwa United FC.

Akpan, whose football journey included a stint with Kano Pillars FC during the 2021/2022 season, appears ready to transition from active playing to coaching. His wealth of experience, particularly as a goalkeeper, positions him well for this new role.

Recent sightings have shown Bassey Akpan donning Akwa United FC’s coaching attire while training the club’s goalkeepers, stepping in for the veteran goalkeeper trainer Moses Effiong.

Moses Effiong, a celebrated figure in Nigerian football, notably part of the 1980 Africa Cup of Nations-winning squad, has served as Akwa United FC’s goalkeeper coach for many years. During his tenure, the club achieved remarkable successes, including two Federation Cup titles and clinching the NPFL title in 2021.

However, with Moses Effiong advancing in age, Akwa United FC’s management is taking proactive steps to ensure the continuity of their goalkeeping coaching. This includes the recruitment of Bassey Akpan into the coaching crew led by Coach Fatai Osho.

Should this transition become official, it would represent a strategic move by the management team led by Elder Paul Bassey, aligning with the legacy of grooming talented individuals from Akwa Ibom state. Notably, former NPFL top-scorer Akarandut Orok embarked on a similar transition in 2022, retiring from active football to join the club’s technical staff.

Bassey Akpan’s potential coaching role signifies the club’s commitment to nurturing and harnessing local football talent, ensuring that experienced individuals like Akpan continue to contribute to the sport’s growth and development in Nigeria