FIFA, NFF Roll Out Grassroots Talent Scheme for Young Female Footballers

FIFA, NFF Roll Out Grassroots Talent Scheme for Young Female Footballers

By Niyi Busari 

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) on Wednesday, 10 December, formally launched the FIFA Talent Development Scheme (TDS) for Girls at the Noble Hall Leadership Academy in Abuja, marking a major step in advancing grassroots female football development across the country, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The initiative, which follows the rollout of a similar programme for boys two years ago, is part of FIFA’s global effort to support member associations in maximising their talent-development potential. NFF President, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau (MON), described the scheme as a crucial pathway for discovering and nurturing young female footballers.

“This scheme is dedicated to identifying talent among both boys and girls. Nigeria has remained a dominant force in women’s football in Africa for more than 25 years, as recognised in recent CAF Awards,” Gusau said. He congratulated the participating students, noting that the NFF will engage seasoned experts to develop their skills with the hope that some may eventually represent the nation and follow in the footsteps of stars like Asisat Oshoala and Rasheedat Ajibade.

Representing NFF General Secretary Dr Mohammed Sanusi (MON), Director of Competitions Ruth David said the programme reflects FIFA’s long-term commitment to raising global football standards. “The Talent Development Scheme is part of FIFA’s collaboration with Member Associations to build competitiveness worldwide,” she stated.

Head of Women’s Football at the NFF, Hajiya Amina Daura, thanked Noble Hall Leadership Academy for hosting the launch and highlighted the scheme’s broader developmental purpose. She explained that the TDS, conceptualised under FIFA Chief of Global Football Development Arsène Wenger, is designed not only to identify players but also to expose young girls to future roles in coaching, refereeing, sports medicine, psychology, and other football-related professions. “Football provides a platform for discipline, health, and career growth, especially for girls at the grassroots,” she said.

Proprietress of Noble Hall Leadership Academy, Hajiya Maryam Muttalab Duba, expressed gratitude to the NFF for selecting the school as the venue and reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing future leaders. She expressed hope that some of the participants would one day don the national colours.

The event was attended by senior NFF officials, including the Head of International Competitions, Dayo Enebi Achor; Head of National and Inter-Clubs Competitions, Dr Ayo Abdulrahaman; and Chief Technical Officer, Coach Abdulrafiu Yusuf, alongside other staff of the federation.