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The sports talent management industry is undergoing significant transformation, with a growing number of young and resourceful professionals—especially women—entering the rapidly evolving sector.
In a recent media interaction, Princess Ojuolape Kosoko, the newly appointed Chief Executive Officer of TopPro Sports Management Company, expressed her commitment to elevating the standards of talent management in Nigeria and across Africa.
“Managing talent goes beyond paperwork and rhetoric. It is a demanding role that requires compassion, honesty, trust, and professionalism in every aspect,” Kosoko emphasized.
Speaking on the scope of TopPro’s work, she highlighted their holistic approach to managing athletes both during and after their playing careers.
“At TopPro Management Company, we work with top talents, ensuring they are well-managed on and off the field. For instance, with Folashade Ijamilusi, we are securing deals outside of football for her because, as we all know, a footballer’s career is short,” she explained.
Kosoko also underscored the importance of passion over mere ambition in football, noting that players driven by passion tend to have longer and more rewarding careers.
In a pointed message to football administrators, she urged coaches to remain focused on their primary responsibilities and allow agents to handle player management.
“I would advise football coaches to step back and let agents do their jobs. Our role is to scout and manage players, not dictate team selections. Everyone should focus on their specific duties for the overall development of the game in Nigeria,” she concluded.
* Akeem Busari
