A significant step towards football development in Nigeria took place on Saturday, September 14, 2024, as the Lagos State Football Association LSFA, in collaboration with the Nigeria Institute for Sports NIS, launched a special training course aimed at improving the knowledge and technical skills of football coaches in Lagos State.
The course, which seeks to train over 3,000 grassroots football coaches over the coming years, began with the first batch of 100 coaches at NIS. The training features both practical and theoretical sessions and is led by experienced figures in Nigerian football, including former Flying Eagles and U23 coach Fatai Amoo and ex Nigeria international Dele Aiyenugba. Professor Olawale Moronkola, Director General of NIS, also participated in the training sessions.
The one month course will take place every Saturday, with subsequent batches of 100 coaches undergoing the same training in the coming months. The final batch will conclude in December. This special course is a prerequisite for any coach seeking to be licensed by the Lagos FA to operate within the state.
Editorial
The launch of the NIS/LSFA special training course marks a significant milestone in Lagos State’s commitment to advancing grassroots football. By providing structured and certified training for over 3,000 coaches, this initiative ensures that the future of Nigerian football is built on solid technical foundations. Coaches are critical in the development of young players, and ensuring they are equipped with the latest techniques and knowledge is vital.
This training program, spearheaded by seasoned professionals like Fatai Amoo and Dele Aiyenugba, promises to bring a wealth of experience and insight to participants. The collaboration between LSFA and NIS reflects the growing recognition of the need for professionalism in football coaching at all levels. As grassroots football continues to thrive in Lagos, this initiative is expected to raise the standards of coaching, resulting in improved player development and, ultimately, a stronger national football presence.
The fact that this course is a requirement for licensing within Lagos underscores the importance of professional credentials in today’s competitive football landscape. The program is not just about compliance it is about empowering coaches with the right tools to nurture talent and contribute meaningfully to Nigerian football.
Did You Know?
- The Nigeria Institute for Sports NIS is the country’s premier sports education institution, providing training for athletes, coaches, and sports administrators.
- Lagos State is one of the most active regions for grassroots football in Nigeria, producing numerous professional players over the years.
- The LSFA’s initiative to certify 3,000 coaches over the next few years represents one of the largest coach development programs in the country.
- Former Nigeria international Dele Aiyenugba was a key figure in Nigerian football, known for his performances as a goalkeeper for the Super Eagles.
- Football coach certification is becoming increasingly important worldwide as clubs and football associations seek to professionalize the sport at every level.
