NIS seeks NFF collaboration to bridge 2m coaching gap

By Joe Apu

The Director General of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Philip Shaibu, has announced an ambitious two-year plan aimed at addressing a deficit of two million coaches within Nigeria’s sports ecosystem.

Shaibu disclosed this during a condolence visit to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) following the death of former NFA chairman, Ibrahim Galadima. He described the late Galadima as a towering figure whose contributions to Nigerian sports spanned national, state, and community levels.

“We are here to commiserate with the NFF on the passing of Alhaji Ibrahim Galadima, a great leader who will be sorely missed,” Shaibu said. “We also seek collaboration with the NFF in our mission to bridge a two-million coaching gap in the Nigerian sports system. If achieved, it will mark a complete turnaround for coaching in the country.”

Highlighting recent developments, Shaibu revealed that out of 232 students recently matriculated at the institute, 117 are football coaches—representing over 50 percent—an indication of Nigeria’s strong football culture.

The NIS boss also criticized the institute’s past performance, stating that it had not fully lived up to its mandate prior to his leadership. He pledged sweeping reforms, including aligning the institute with global standards set by institutions such as the German Institute for Sports Science and the Australian Institute of Sport.

According to Shaibu, the institute is working with the National Universities Commission to introduce degree programmes, while also decentralizing its operations with zonal offices already established in Yola, Kaduna, Jos, Enugu, and Abeokuta, with plans underway for Benin City.

He commended the leadership of the NFF under Ibrahim Musa Gusau for ongoing reforms and infrastructure projects, including the NFF-FIFA Players’ Hostel and new training pitches.

In his response, Gusau described the late Galadima as a mentor and father figure to many in Nigerian sports.

“Alhaji Galadima was a man of dignity, diligence, and integrity. His legacy will continue to inspire us all,” Gusau said.

On the proposed collaboration, the NFF president assured the NIS of full support, noting that the federation has prioritized coaching development since his administration began. He cited the organization of several coaching programmes, including a CAF C-License course for 30 women coaches, with plans for their progression to B-License certification and efforts to secure approval for a CAF A-License course.

Gusau further advised the NIS to engage federal and state education authorities to broaden support for its initiatives.

Delivering the vote of thanks, NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi urged the institute to incorporate a diploma programme in sports administration into its curriculum.

Top officials from both organizations were present at the meeting, underscoring the significance of the proposed partnership in reshaping Nigeria’s sports development landscape.