The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has announced plans to make coaching education more accessible by taking its programmes closer to coaches across the country.
NFF President Ibrahim Musa Gusau revealed the initiative during the closing ceremony of the CAF B-Licence Refresher Course organised by the federation. He said the goal is to ensure coaches can access quality training within their states and local government areas without travelling long distances.
According to Gusau, coaching education remains a critical part of the federation's long-term football development strategy. He noted that significant progress has been made since the current administration took office, particularly in the area of coach development.
"When we came into office, the situation was not particularly encouraging with regard to coaching education. Today, there is clear evidence of progress through the numerous courses conducted and our return to the CAF A-Licence convention," Gusau stated.
The NFF president said the federation is committed to creating an environment that supports both coaches and players. He added that strengthening grassroots coaching structures will contribute directly to the overall growth of Nigerian football.
Gusau also addressed concerns raised by participants regarding certificates for coaches who previously completed CAF B-Licence courses. He assured stakeholders that the federation is working closely with CAF to ensure all eligible coaches receive their outstanding certifications.
The federation chief disclosed that Nigeria now has enough qualified instructors to conduct CAF B-Licence programmes across different regions of the country. This development will allow more courses to be organised at state and zonal levels.
"You can remain in your state and have access to the course. We must continue to educate our grassroots coaches because that is the foundation for the holistic development of football in Nigeria," he said.
Gusau further stressed that football coaching has become increasingly technical and scientific. As a result, coaches must continue learning and upgrading their knowledge to keep pace with modern developments in the game.
While acknowledging that CAF regulations limit the number of participants allowed in A-Licence programmes, he pledged that the federation would continue to provide development opportunities for coaches at various levels.
A total of 50 coaches participated in the four-day CAF B-Licence Refresher Course, which began on Sunday and was conducted in two separate streams.
Among those present at the closing ceremony were NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi, Technical Director Augustine Eguavoen, Head of Coaching Education Dr Terry Eguaoje, Director of Media and Communications Ademola Olajire, Coach Abdulrafiu Yusuf, and Nigeria Football Coaches Association President Ladan Bosso.
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