NFF hails return to CAF A coaching convention after nine-year hiatus

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has expressed delight in Nigeria’s readmission into the Confederation of African Football (CAF) coaching convention. This move will allow the country to resume CAF A coaching licence courses after nine years of suspension.

CAF confirmed the approval in a letter sent to the NFF on Wednesday by its Coaching Education Project Manager, Jaida Zakaria.

“We are pleased to inform you that the CAF A course curriculum submitted by NFF has been approved. You can now proceed with submitting a request for a CAF A course through the CMS, subject to an inspection visit,” the letter stated.

The development marks a significant breakthrough for Nigeria’s coaching education structure, ending a nine-year wait for reinstatement into the elite coaching programme.

CAF Approves Nigeria’s Return

NFF Head of Coaching Education, Dr Terry Babatunde Eguaoje, described the approval as a major achievement for Nigerian football.

“This is truly huge, after nine years. Admission into the CAF A coaching convention is a big deal,” Eguaoje said.

“This is in addition to the CAF D, C and B licences that had been approved at various times by CAF.”

NFF Begins Preparations for First Course Since 2017

NFF General Secretary, Dr Mohammed Sanusi, who is also a CAF coaching instructor, said the federation was delighted by the decision and would immediately begin preparations for the programme’s return.

“We are elated by this positive development for the cause of coaching in our country,” Sanusi said.

“The NFF will commence preparations in earnest to put logistics in place for the first CAF A-Licence coaching course in this country since 2017.”

The CAF A Licence is one of the continent’s highest coaching certifications. It is considered a critical qualification for coaches seeking to manage top-flight clubs and national teams across Africa.