NFF Decentralizes Coaching Education, Says Gusau

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) announced its plans to decentralize coaching education across the country, allowing coaches to access certification programs within their states and local communities instead of needing to travel to Abuja. NFF President Ibrahim Gusau made this announcement on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, during the closing ceremony of the CAF B-Licence Refresher Course in Abuja.

According to Gusau, the initiative is part of a broader effort to strengthen grassroots football development and improve access to coaching education nationwide. He stated that the federation now possesses sufficient qualified instructors to conduct CAF B coaching courses in various states, zones, and local government areas, thereby alleviating the burden on coaches previously required to travel to the Federal Capital Territory for training.

"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 emphasized.

Gusau acknowledged the significant progress made in coaching education since the current administration took office, noting that the situation was less favorable when they assumed control. "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," he added.

Additionally, Gusau assured participants that the NFF is working closely with CAF to address concerns from coaches who completed the CAF B course several years ago but have yet to receive their certificates.

He emphasized the increasing importance of continuous education for coaches at every level, reflecting the technical and scientific nature of modern football. While participation in the CAF A-License program would remain limited due to CAF regulations, he pledged that the NFF would ensure that coaches at all levels benefit from ongoing educational opportunities.

The closing ceremony drew several football officials and experts, including NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi and NFF Technical Director Augustine Eguavoen, as well as other key figures within the organization. The federation believes that expanding coaching education beyond Abuja will enhance grassroots football structures and improve technical development across the nation.