NFF commences Coach Educators’ Course in Abuja

By Olaolu Joseph –

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) on Thursday launched its Coach Educators’ Course in Abuja, becoming the sixth country in Africa to implement the initiative. The federation’s Secretary-General, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi (MON), coordinated the inauguration ceremony.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Sanusi expressed his delight over the programme’s rollout, noting its significance in developing elite coaches. “We are pleased to host this course at this time, marking the second edition of the programme. I was part of the inaugural batch, and we recognise the importance of equipping coaches to take on educational roles,” he said.

He explained that coaching education differs from conventional coaching courses, highlighting the scientific and methodological approaches it entails. “While a coaching course focuses on techniques and tactics, coaching education is about transferring technical and tactical knowledge using effective methodologies,” he said.

Participants in the programme, he noted, will be assessed upon completion. Those who excel may proceed to higher-level coaching certifications, while others can enrol in CAF ‘C’ and ‘D’ licence courses.

Sanusi stressed the need for active engagement during the course, adding that participants would be evaluated based on their teaching competence, not just passive learning. He encouraged participants to embrace continuous improvement in both knowledge and attitude.

“I believe the CAF instructor will deliver the core aspects of this course effectively. We expect to see measurable improvement by the end, especially in participants’ attitudes and behaviours, which will be proof that they’ve truly benefited,” he added.

The NFF scribe also emphasised that graduates of the programme are expected to pass on their knowledge to others, thereby strengthening the technical capacity of Nigerian football at various levels.

Among those present at the opening ceremony were CAF Expert Michael Amenga; National Technical Director Augustine Eguavoen; NFF Director of Finance and Administration Paulinus Anameje; Director of Legal Services Barr. Okey Obi; Deputy Director (Technical) Mrs. Faith Ben-Anuge; Head of Education Dr. Terry Eguaoje; and the fifteen participating coaches.