Calabar, Nigeria – The President of the Nigerian American Football Association (NAFA), Mr. Babajide Akeredolu, has stated that Cross River State will be the host of the Football National Tournament Finals starting from Wednesday, January 15, 2025 by 8a.m at the U.J Esuene Sport Stadium. He emphasized the transformative impact of American football and other sports in creating opportunities for young Nigerians. Speaking during a press briefing held in Calabar, Mr. Akeredolu stated that the introduction of American sports in Nigeria has opened doors to job opportunities, skill development, and recognition for many youths.
He noted that the growing popularity of American football in the country is a testament to its potential, especially in providing a platform for young talents to thrive. “Our aim is to create a pool of opportunities for young ones,” Mr. Akeredolu said.
The NAFA President expressed gratitude to the Cross River State Government and the Cross River State Commissioner for Sports for their support. He acknowledged their role in ensuring that the Football National Tournament Final was successfully hosted in Calabar, a city known for its vibrant sports culture.
“Their support has been instrumental in making this event a reality. This collaboration shows how government involvement can help promote sports and its benefits for our society,” he added.
Also speaking at the briefing, the Vice President of the Nigeria School Sport Federation (NSSF), Mr. Emmanuel Ebong, lauded the partnership between NAFA and NSSF. He highlighted how the collaboration has brought lesser-known sports into the spotlight, giving them the attention they deserve.
“Many people didn’t know about some of these sports before, but now they are becoming popular because of the efforts of organizations like NAFA. Most of the athletes who represent Nigeria in national and international competitions started with us at NSSF,” Mr. Ebong said.
The event was attended by notable personalities in the sports sector, including the Special Adviser to the Governor on Sports, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Sports, and other stakeholders.
Attendees expressed optimism about the future of American football and other sports in Nigeria, with hopes that the initiative will inspire more young people to explore careers in athletics, coaching, and sports management.
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