NFF launches FIFA talent development scheme for girls to boost grassroots football
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) on Wednesday officially launched the FIFA Talent Development Scheme (TDS) for girls at the Noble Hall Leadership Academy in Abuja, marking a major milestone in the development of grassroots female football in the country.
The initiative, which followed the rollout of the boys’ programme two years ago, is part of FIFA’s global effort to assist member associations in identifying and nurturing football talent through structured development pathways.
Speaking at the launch, NFF President Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau (MON) said the scheme would serve as a platform to discover and develop the next generation of Nigerian female football stars.
He emphasised Nigeria’s longstanding leadership in African women’s football, a position reinforced by recent Confederation of African Football (CAF) awards.
“This scheme is dedicated to uncovering talents among both boys and girls.
“We will bring in experts to train and develop your skills, and we hope some of you will go on to represent Nigeria, following in the footsteps of stars like Asisat Oshoala and Rasheedat Ajibade, ” Gusau said.
Representing the NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi (MON), the Federation’s Director of Competitions, Ruth David, described the programme as a long-term global commitment by FIFA to enhancing competitiveness through grassroots talent grooming.
Hajiya Amina Daura, Head of Women’s Football at the NFF, expressed gratitude to Noble Hall Leadership Academy for hosting the launch.
She highlighted that the TDS initiative, conceived by FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development, Arsène Wenger, is designed not only to develop players on the field but also to prepare them for careers across the football ecosystem.
“Football opens doors to discipline, health, and a wide range of careers, from coaching and refereeing to sports medicine and psychology,” Daura said.
The Proprietress of Noble Hall Leadership Academy, Hajiya Maryam Muttalab Duba, lauded the recognition and reiterated the school’s commitment to nurturing future leaders, including potential national-team footballers.
The event was attended by senior NFF officials, including Head of International Competitions Dayo Enebi Achor, Head of National and Inter-Club Competitions Dr. Ayo Abdulrahaman, and Chief Technical Officer Coach Abdulrafiu Yusuf.
With this launch, Nigeria takes a significant step toward sustaining its dominance in African women’s football while providing young girls with opportunities to excel both on and off the pitch.
