CAF Reinstates Nigeria into Grade A Coaching Convention After Nine Year Wait

Posted : 08 May 2026

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially readmitted Nigeria into the CAF A Coaching Convention. This landmark decision ends nearly a decade of waiting for the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). The approval was confirmed in a letter sent to the NFF by CAF Coaching Education Project Manager Jaida Zakaria. The letter stated that the NFF's submitted curriculum has been fully approved for immediate implementation.

Nigeria has struggled for years to gain recognition for the CAF A category. While the country had previously secured approvals for D, C, and B licenses, the A license remained elusive. The last time the NFF conducted a CAF A-License coaching course was in 2017. This long absence forced many Nigerian coaches to travel to neighboring countries like Ghana to upgrade their credentials.

Dr. Terry Babatunde Eguaoje, the NFF Head of Coaching Education, described the development as a major milestone. He noted that the federation worked tirelessly for nine years to achieve this breakthrough. Eguaoje believes this move will significantly boost the quality of domestic coaching across Nigeria. It also creates a clear pathway for local tacticians to obtain elite certifications without leaving the country.

NFF General Secretary Dr. Mohammed Sanusi also expressed his excitement regarding the news. He confirmed that the federation will immediately begin putting logistics in place for the first course. The NFF must now submit a formal request through the CMS platform to schedule the sessions. A final inspection visit from CAF officials will follow to ensure all facilities meet continental standards.

Local coaches have reacted to the news with massive enthusiasm. Many had missed out on top jobs across Africa because they lacked the specific CAF A qualification. The reactivation of the program is expected to improve tactical standards in the Nigeria Premier Football League. It also ensures that Nigerian coaches can compete favorably for international roles.

The NFF intends to start the registration process for interested participants in the coming weeks. This program is anticipated to attract hundreds of coaches eager to advance their professional careers. The move is a vital part of the NFF's broader strategy to improve grassroots and professional football development.

CAF Reinstates Nigeria into Grade A Coaching Convention After Nine Year Wait

ADD A COMMENT :

Hot Topics