Nigeria begins preparation for 2026 World Cup - Coach reveals

Nigeria’s American football scene is set for structured growth, with Head Coach and Quality Control Director Kenny Nwankwo hailing the official approval of the Nigerian Federation of American Football (NFAF) by the National Sports Commission (NSC) as a pivotal moment for the sport.

The NFAF, now the only governing body for American football in Nigeria, officially inaugurates its new board on Tuesday, February 10, at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja.

Speaking exclusively, Nwankwo praised the leadership of Hon. Bukola Olopade, Director-General of the NSC, for resolving longstanding disputes and uniting stakeholders under a single, credible federation.

"I want to commend the Director General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, for his leadership, vision, and for playing the role of a unifier at a very important moment for the sport. What he has done shows clarity of purpose and a genuine understanding that progress requires alignment, not division," Nwankwo said.

Nwankwo, who led Nigeria to double gold at the inaugural Africa Flag Football Championship in Egypt in 2025, emphasised that the federation’s approval is the culmination of years of success.

"Results created the opportunity we now have. Our achievements in 2025, winning both the men’s and women’s titles, are why Nigeria is now eligible to compete at the Flag Football World Championships in Germany this August," he noted.

He highlighted the importance of continuity and collaboration with the newly formed NFAF board, led by Babajide Akeredolu, reaffirming his commitment to building elite teams and expanding the sport at grassroots levels.

"As Quality Control Director and Head Coach, my focus remains unchanged. My elite coaching staff and I look forward to working with the newly formed federation to continue building the strongest flag football teams Nigeria can field, while growing the sport at every level," he said.

He added, "I also congratulate my President, Babajide Akeredolu, on his reconfirmation, and BB Sasore on his appointment as Technical Director. I have known BB since I relocated to Nigeria, and his understanding of flag football is one I respect greatly. I look forward to working closely with him."

Nwankwo also underlined the need for unity and shared purpose among all stakeholders, calling it essential for long-term success.

"This is a moment for unity, collaboration, and steady progress. If we remain aligned, the future of Nigerian flag football is very strong," he added.

The newly inaugurated board will be led by Babajide Akeredolu as President. Other members include Idris H. Shuaibu, Azeez Amida, Ized Meremoth, Lawrence Ojaide, Seye Obatolu, Aisha Shuaibu, Akpan Michael, Solomon Oludaisi, Uchenna Asife, Ugochi Otti, Amadi Chukwuemeka, Okabonye Chukwuani, Barikisu Ademoh, Maryam Yakoub, Mark Orduen, Olaide Yusuf, and Sasore Bodunrin.