NFF pledges wider access to CAF coaching courses across Nigeria

By Joe Apu

President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Ibrahim Gusau, has reiterated the Federation’s commitment to expanding coaching education across the country, promising to bring CAF-certified training programmes closer to grassroots coaches.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the CAF B-License Refresher Course in Abuja on Wednesday, Gusau said the NFF has made significant progress in coaching development since his administration assumed office and remains determined to create opportunities for coaches to improve their knowledge and qualifications.

According to him, the Federation inherited a challenging situation regarding coaching education but has since recorded notable achievements through the organisation of several coaching courses and Nigeria’s return to the CAF A-License convention.

“When we came in, the situation was not particularly great with regards to 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,” Gusau said.

The NFF President also addressed the issue of coaches who completed CAF B-License courses years ago but are yet to receive their certificates, assuring participants that the Federation is working closely with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to resolve the matter.

Gusau revealed that the NFF now has a sufficient number of qualified instructors capable of conducting CAF B-License courses across states, zones and local government areas, eliminating the need for coaches to travel long distances to attend training programmes.

“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 holistic development of the game,” he added.

He stressed that football coaching is becoming increasingly scientific and technical, making continuous education essential for coaches seeking to remain relevant in the modern game.

While noting that participation in the CAF A-License course would remain limited due to CAF regulations, Gusau assured coaches that the Federation would continue to provide opportunities for professional growth at all levels.

A total of 50 coaches participated in the four-day refresher programme, which commenced on Sunday and was conducted in two streams.

Among dignitaries present at the closing ceremony were NFF General Secretary Dr Mohammed Sanusi, NFF Technical Director Augustine Eguavoen, Head of Coaching Education Dr Terry Eguaoje, Director of Media and Communications Dr Ademola Olajire, Coach Abdulrafiu Yusuf and President of the Nigeria Football Coaches Association, Ladan Bosso.