The Nigerian Federation of American Football (NFAF) was recently established by the National Sports Commission (NSC), marking the official launch of the federation. This move aims to transition from internal disputes to a structured, globally competitive future for Nigerian sports through the creation of a unified governing body.
The primary goal of the NSC’s intervention was to restore order, trust, and national coordination within the sport, which had previously been divided by internal conflicts and lacked cohesion. Before this formal establishment, the NSC and the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) withdrew provisional letters or recognitions issued to various groups to clarify and confirm that no single organization or group was authorized or recognized to represent Nigeria in American football.
Babajide Akeredolu, President of the Nigerian Federation of American Football, acknowledged the pivotal role of the NSC Director General, Hon. Bukola Olopade, stating, “Hon. Bukola Olopade’s intervention brought clarity, peace, and direction. He united all stakeholders and gave the sport a fresh start.” He emphasized that “today is not just the birth of a Federation but the beginning of a movement.”
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During the inauguration, NSC Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko urged the board to align with the commission’s RHINSE Agenda, setting high standards for domestic administration and the overall development of American football in Nigeria. The federation is committed to achieving institutional strengthening through creating a robust system for good governance and transparency; talent cultivation inspired by Nigerian athletes in the Super Bowl to develop local talent; and youth empowerment by using sports as a tool to provide opportunities for young Nigerians to grow and succeed.
The newly inaugurated board features a diverse group of stakeholders dedicated to advancing the sport. Its leadership includes President Babajide Akeredolu, Technical Representative and Director Sasore Bodunrin, and members including Idris Shuaibu, Azeez Amida, Aisha Shuaibu, Ized Meremoth, Lawrence Ojaide, Seye Obatolu, Akpan Michael, Solomon Oludaisi, Uchenna Asife, Ugochi Otti, Amadi Chukwuemeka, Chukwuani, Barikisu Ademoh, Maryam Yakoub, Mark Orduen, Olaide Yusuf, and Dr. Oluyonmi Oluwasanmi.
Has the NFAF set its sights on the global stage, with a strong vision to elevate the profile of American football in Nigeria and beyond. A major milestone is the upcoming Flag Football World Championships scheduled for August 2026 in Düsseldorf, Germany, where Nigeria eagerly anticipates showcasing its talented athletes. By uniting players, coaches, sponsors, and sports officials, and establishing a clear strategic roadmap, the NFAF is well-positioned to transform American football from a niche sport into a major pillar of Nigeria’s sports landscape. This effort aims to inspire youth participation, attract international recognition, and foster sustainable growth for the sport across the country.
