NFF to Spread Coaching Education Across Nigeria

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has announced plans to spread coaching education throughout the country. Coaches will now be able to take certification programmes in their states and local communities instead of having to travel to Abuja.

NFF President Ibrahim Gusau shared this news on Wednesday in Abuja during the closing ceremony of the CAF B-Licence Refresher Course. He said this move is part of the federation’s efforts to boost grassroots football and make coaching education easier for everyone.

Mr Gusau explained that there are now enough qualified instructors to run CAF B coaching courses in states, zones, and local government areas. This change will reduce the need for coaches to go to the Federal Capital Territory for training.

“You can be in your state, and the course will be at your doorstep. We need to educate our grassroots coaches. That is the way to go for development of the game,” he said.

The NFF president also mentioned that coaching education in Nigeria has improved a lot since the current administration took over. He said, “When we came in, the situation was not particularly great for coaching education. I believe you can all attest to the fact that significant progress has been made in this area, with the numerous courses we have had and our country’s return to the CAF A-License convention.”

He added that the federation will keep providing support for coaches and players to grow. The CAF B-Licence Refresher Course that just wrapped up lasted four days and had 50 coaches split into two groups.

This programme is part of the NFF’s aim to match coaching standards in Nigeria with the needs of modern football and the rules set by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

Mr Gusau also talked about coaches who completed the CAF B course years ago but still do not have their certificates. He assured everyone that the federation is working with CAF to fix this issue.

“He assured all participants that the Federation is working closely with CAF to ensure every eligible coach receives their certificate.”

The NFF president emphasized that football coaching is now more technical and scientific. He said ongoing education is very important for coaches at all levels.

He noted that modern football requires coaches to keep up with the latest methods and trends in the sport. While participation in the CAF A-License programme will still be limited due to CAF rules, he promised that the federation will ensure that coaches at all levels have access to continuous learning opportunities.

The federation believes that spreading coaching education beyond Abuja will strengthen grassroots football and improve technical skills across Nigeria.