The Ilaji Football Group has officially launched its international operations, marking a major step in its mission to create a globally integrated football ecosystem linking Africa to Europe, particularly Malta and beyond. The landmark event, held on November 3, 2025, at the Grand Excelsior Hotel in Malta, attracted key industry stakeholders, partners, and guests who witnessed the unveiling of the Group’s strategic vision and brand identity.
Founded to nurture football talents and establish sustainable pathways into professional football, the Ilaji Football Group aims to raise operational and ethical standards in the sport. Its structure integrates academy development, club ownership, and strategic partnerships — providing young athletes with new global opportunities for growth and exposure.
In his address, Dr. Justin Fenech, Deputy Chairman of the Group, emphasized the importance of creating tangible international pathways for players, anchored on professionalism and ethics. “Ilaji Football Group stands for opportunity, excellence, and transparency. Our commitment is to create a system where talent from Africa and Malta can find a clear and structured route into European football,” he said.
Chairman Engr. Dotun Sanusi reaffirmed the Group’s focus on community impact and youth empowerment. “Football is a unifying language. Through the Ilaji Football Group, we are building a bridge that connects continents, cultures, and dreams,” he noted.
Presenting the Group’s operational strategy, Group CEO Mr. Timothy Gingell highlighted a long-term plan centered on sustainable investment, partner engagement, and brand development. He also revealed that the Group is in advanced talks to acquire FC Vysočina Jihlava, a professional football club in the Czech Republic — a move that will immediately establish international pathways for African talents.
Prince Adesina Araoye, the Group’s Chief Commercial Officer (CCO), added that achieving financial sustainability will enable the Group to leave a lasting legacy in global football development. Meanwhile, Mr. Jasper De Muinjick, Head of Football, detailed the Group’s technical framework for aligning academy standards across its clubs in Nigeria, Malta, and the Czech Republic.
The launch was attended by notable figures including Malta Football Association (MFA) Vice Presidents Mr. Adrian Casha and Mr. Trustin Farrugia Cann, the Mayor of Swieqi Mr. Noel Muscat, Mr. Francesco Postiglione, CEO of Casumo, and Dr. Abib Olamitoye, Group Chairman/CEO of Ibadan Central Hospitals, Tolu Medical Centres, and Academy Suites.
With a growing presence in Nigeria, Malta, and the Czech Republic, the Ilaji Football Group is positioning itself as a leading force in modern football development — combining sporting excellence with education, ethics, and commercial sustainability.
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