NSC Inaugurates Pioneer Board for Nigeria Federation of American Football

The National Sports Commission (NSC) has formally inaugurated the maiden board of the Nigeria Federation of American Football (NFAF), marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to diversify and modernize its sports landscape.

The ceremony, held at the MKO Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, underscored the Commission’s commitment to developing emerging sports and positioning them as viable contributors to economic growth and national development.

NSC Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, described the newly appointed officials as “pioneers,” emphasizing that their leadership will shape the future of one of the fastest-growing sports globally.

“Today marks an important moment in the continued growth and diversification of our sports in Nigeria,” Dikko said.

“American football represents new opportunities and frontiers, and this inauguration is clear evidence that Nigerian sports is opening itself to fresh ideas.”

Highlighting Nigeria’s rising influence in the sport, Dikko referenced the recent Super Bowl, where six athletes of Nigerian descent featured, with four finishing on the winning side, a development he said should inspire confidence in the federation’s long-term potential.

He reaffirmed the Commission’s readiness to provide institutional support but stressed the importance of discipline, innovation, and measurable results.

“The Commission will support you as we do other federations, but we expect excellence.

Nigerian sports must work  and must work for the people,” he added.

President of the NFAF, Babajide Akeredolu, acknowledged the challenges that preceded the federation’s formation, noting that the board is prepared to build on foundations already laid.

“It’s been a long journey, but now we are here. Our focus is on the best interest of Nigeria, and we are excited about the opportunity before us,” Akeredolu said.

“Many seeds have already been planted, and we intend to grow a forest that will sustain the sport for years to come.”

Nigeria has already recorded early success in flag football.

In 2025, the male and female national teams clinched titles at the inaugural African Flag Football Championship in Cairo, Egypt,  a feat that secured the country automatic qualification for the 2026 IFAF Flag Football World Championships.

The newly inaugurated board is led by President Babajide Akeredolu, alongside Vice Presidents Idris Shuaibu and Azeez Amida.

Other members include Sasore Bodunrin, Lawrence Ojaide, Seye Obatolu, Aisha Shuaibu, Ized Meremoth, Akpan Michael, Solomon Oludaisi, Uchenna Asife, Ugochi Otti, Amadi Chukwuemeka, Okabonye Chukwuani, Barikisu Ademoh, Maryam Yakoub, Mark Orduen, Olaide Yusuf, and Dr. Oluyonmi Oluwasanmi.

With the board now in place, stakeholders believe the federation is well positioned to accelerate grassroots participation, strengthen Nigeria’s international presence, and unlock new opportunities within the rapidly expanding world of American football.