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Kenny Nwankwo has outlined bold vision to grow Flag Football in Nigeria
Following Nigeria's historic double triumph at the inaugural African Flag Football Championships in Cairo, Egypt, head coach and quality control director of the men’s national team, Kenny Nwankwo, has revealed a comprehensive vision to grow the sport in Nigeria.
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The Nigerian men’s and women’s flag football teams both claimed gold medals, becoming Africa’s first flag football champions and securing qualification for the 2026 IFAF Flag Football World Championships.
What Kenny said
Speaking to Pulse Sports on the broader goal of developing the sport across Nigeria, Nwankwo emphasised that a coordinated and collaborative approach is essential.
“When it comes to the popularisation of our beautiful game of Flag Football in Nigeria, the most important thing is Division of Labor. It’s not at all obvious to me that any single entity can accomplish this goal alone,” he said.
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He added, “The various stakeholders need to do their part in this regard. The problem must be solved methodically and intentionally.”
Nwankwo applauded the Nigerian American Football Association (NAFA) for its pivotal role in expanding the sport at the grassroots level.
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Nigeria made history at the inaugural African Flag Football Championships.
“NAFA has one of the more crucial roles, which is to proselytise across the nation. NAFA will continue to do the important work of penetrating the grassroots, bringing the sport to the youth across the country and developing that aspect of the movement," he added.
He also recognised the importance of strong local league structures in sustaining growth among older players.
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He said, “Leagues such as the Community Flag Football League (CFFL), Abuja Flag Football League, and Ogun State Flag Football League have the responsibility of creating and sustaining a healthy and competitive adult league structure that gives adults the opportunity to participate in both recreational and professional Flag Football domestically.”
Coach Nwankwo stated that the ultimate responsibility now lies with the national teams to maintain dominance on the international stage and prove that the sport is worth embracing.
“The final piece which I will admit will be left to people like myself and Nire Ayida (who leads the women’s team) is to continue to show and prove in international play. Nigerians love and gravitate towards success. Shamelessly even. And I don’t blame them at all.
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07:28 - 23.06.2025
African Flag Football Championships: Nigeria win gold, qualify for 2026 World Championships
Nigeria's men's and women's flag football teams won gold at the inaugural African Flag Football Championships, securing spots in the 2026 World Championships.
“My goal, and I’m sure I speak for Nire as well, is to continue to dominate internationally. That will serve as proof that this sport can be a value-add both to athletes individually and to the nation. If all the respective stakeholders follow this blueprint, the sky is the limit for our beautiful game!," he added.
Nigeria's flag football team has qualified for the 2026 World Cup.
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