NFF to decentralize coaching education - Gusau

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is set to decentralize its coaching education programs, enabling coaches across the country to access certification courses within their own states and local communities. This move aims to reduce the need for coaches to travel to the capital, Abuja, for training.

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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.

NFF President Ibrahim Gusau announced the initiative, emphasizing its role in strengthening grassroots football development and enhancing nationwide access to coaching education. He stated that the federation now possesses enough qualified instructors to conduct CAF B-Licence courses in various regions, alleviating the financial and logistical burdens previously faced by coaches. "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," Gusau said.

Gusau highlighted the significant progress in coaching education since the current NFF administration took office, contrasting it with a less favorable situation previously. He noted the numerous courses conducted and Nigeria's return to the CAF A-License convention as evidence of this improvement. The federation pledges continued support for coaches and players.

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When we came in, the situation was not particularly great for 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.

Additionally, the NFF is working to resolve concerns regarding coaches who completed the CAF B course years ago but have yet to receive their certificates. Gusau assured attendees that the federation is actively engaging with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to expedite the issuance of these credentials. He stressed the increasing technical and scientific nature of modern football, making continuous education vital for coaches at all levels to stay current with evolving methodologies and trends.

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He assured all participants that the Federation is working closely with CAF to ensure every eligible coach receives their certificate.