BREAKING: NSC recognises Nigerian federation of American football, ends leadership crisis

The National Sports Commission (NSC) has formally confirmed the establishment of the Nigerian Federation of American Football (NFAF) as the official body charged with overseeing the administration and development of American football in the country, Sport360NG reports.

The decision brings an end to years of internal disputes that stalled the sport’s growth, opening the door for unified leadership, structured governance and nationwide coordination.

An official inauguration of the NFAF board has been scheduled for Tuesday, February 10, at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, marking the start of a new chapter for American football in Nigeria.

The breakthrough followed the intervention of the Director-General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, whose mediation brought together previously divided stakeholders. His efforts echo a similar role he played in resolving governance challenges in Nigerian e-sports.

Explaining the Commission’s position, Olopade said the creation of the NFAF was aimed at restoring order and credibility to the sport while ensuring coordinated national development. He also pledged continued institutional support to drive grassroots participation, strengthen administrative structures and enhance Nigeria’s competitiveness internationally.

Babajide Akeredolu has been appointed President of the Nigerian Federation of American Football. He previously led Nigeria to continental success at the inaugural Africa Flag Football Championship in 2025, where both the men’s and women’s teams defeated hosts Egypt to secure the titles.

Reacting to his appointment, Akeredolu commended the NSC for its decisive leadership, describing Olopade’s intervention as a unifying moment for the sport.

“His intervention brought peace, direction and a fresh start. We are now one family, focused on governance, development and taking Nigerian American football to the world,” he said, adding that the Federation’s emergence signals “not just the birth of a Federation, but the beginning of a movement.”

Technical Representative and Director of the Federation, Sasore Bodunrin, described the development as a major boost for youth empowerment and sports development. He revealed that preparations are already underway for the Flag Football World Championships scheduled for Düsseldorf, Germany, in August 2026, where Nigeria hopes to showcase its growing talent base.

The newly constituted NFAF Executive Board includes Babajide Akeredolu as President, alongside Idris H. Shuaibu, Azeez Amida, Ized Meremoth, Lawrence Ojaide, Seye Obatolu, Aisha Shuaibu, Akpan Michael, Solomon Oludaisi, Uchenna Asife, Ugochi Otti, Amadi Chukwuemeka, Okabonye Chukwuani, Barikisu Ademoh, Maryam Yakoub, Mark Orduen and Olaide Yusuf, with Sasore Bodunrin serving as Technical Representative and Director.