… Says NAFA Committed to Growing American Football in Africa

The President of the Nigeria American Football Association (NAFA), Nigerias governing body for Flag football, Mr. Babajide Akeredolu, has stated that the demonstration of American Flag Football at the ongoing 22nd National Sports Festival, tagged Gateway Games Ogun 2024, in Abeokuta, Ogun State, will serve as vital preparation for the upcoming African Tournaments in Egypt.

Akeredolu described the National Sports Festival as a major platform for NAFA and its talent to showcase the sport to Nigerians, adding that NAFA has expanded from 13 states last year to 17 states this year.

The NAFA President emphasized that the association is committed not only to competing in national and international events but also to nurturing talents from a young age, ensuring they develop to the level where they can represent Nigeria in global tournaments.

He said: “There will be an exhibition of American Football at the ongoing National Sports Festival. NAFA in collaboration with Showtime Flag Football League is ready to showcase talents at all levels of the game, from U-12 and U-13 to established leagues and the national team.”

“The exhibition will comprise of a myriad of exciting activities including a mini competition, and a showcase for the young athletes set to represent Nigeria in Egypt. We will highlight the U-13 players and those excelling in the Nigerian Secondary Schools Flag Football League, which we have organized in collaboration with the Nigeria School Sports Federation since 2020.”*

Akeredolu stressed that the biggest advantage of participating in the National Sports Festival is increased visibility. “NAFA has been growing. Last year, we were in 13 states; this year, we are in 17. With a platform like this, we can attract more attention to the sport. With over 17,000 athletes being introduced to the sport since our inception, we are confident we can expand further. Our goal remains to become Nigeria’s second-largest sport.”

Regarding the African Tournament in Egypt, he explained: “Beyond the U-13 category, adult players will also be competing in Egypt. The tournament serves as a crucial step toward qualification for next year’s World Games. Our priority is creating as many match day scenarios as possible to foster team synergy. We’ve already started building chemistry through training camps, and playing together consistently is essential.”

He further outlined NAFA’s long-term strategy: “Our approach is not just about participating in events—we are focused on developing talent from childhood to the point where they can represent Nigeria on the global stage. Our mission has been to create opportunities through American Football. We recently launched our initiative for women through Flag Football. We are finalizing talks with NUGA and are developing a certification program for coaches and referees across Africa. With multiple leagues across the country, including Showtime Flag Football League, Community Flag Football League (CFFL) Abuja FLAG Football League (AFFL), and Ogun Flag Football League, this is an excellent platform for players to refine their skills and gain more exposure.”

Akeredolu revealed that NAFA is working closely with the National Olympic Committee to establish proper regulations and best practices for American Football in Nigeria.

“The realization that American Football has Olympic prospects highlights the need for a structured organization. Our first step was engaging with the National Olympic Committee. We are currently working on revamping our constitution that aligns with international best practices, laying the foundation for a federation that will stand the test of time.”

He added: “We have learned from the mistakes of other federations and are committed to ensuring clear structures are in place. Our goal is to foster cooperation among various leagues while allowing them to grow at their own pace, all in the interest of expanding the sport at every level.”

NAFA Vice President, Seye Obatolu, encouraged players in various leagues to give their best and showcase the true essence of American Football.

“There are many misconceptions about American Football being overly physical and tackle-focused. This is an opportunity to highlight the safer aspects of the sport. Spectators will be able to see these athletes in action while we identify potential new talents.”

Explaining why NAFA prioritizes Flag Football over tackle football, Obatolu noted: “Flag Football aligns with our broader strategy for growing the sport. It involves less physical contact, making it easier for anyone to pick up.”

“The cost of running a tackle football program is significantly higher. Tackling requires helmets and extensive protective gear, with startup costs ranging from $2,000 to $3,000. In contrast, Flag Football only requires a ball and flags, making it much more accessible. Our approach is to get as many people playing Flag Football as possible, while a small percentage can later transition to tackle football.”

The Vice President highlighted NAFA’s efforts in scouting and developing new talent through coordinated leagues and training camps.

*”To establish Team Nigeria, we first formed a committee that included representatives from all existing leagues, and we received strong support. Most leagues are part of the steering committee for Team Nigeria. We have also held training camps in both Abuja and Lagos, where many players had the opportunity to showcase their skills.

We must also recognise the role of Mr Bobby Okereke, the General Manager of the team and his NGO, the Nigeria American Football Outreach, through which critical support has been mobilized for the overall operations of team Nigeria. Similarly, alot of appreciation goes to BROWNS NIGERIA for Supporting the women’s team and NAFA as a whole.”*

“Through this process, we initially selected 50 male and female athletes. After nearly two months of rigorous training, we narrowed the group down to 25 male and 25 female athletes. The leagues have been highly supportive, not only in releasing their players but also in monitoring their progress and adjusting their schedules to accommodate training camps.”