NFF Launches FIFA Talent Development Scheme for Girls in Abuja
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has officially inaugurated the FIFA Talent Development Scheme (TDS) for Girls, marking a new chapter in grassroots football development.
The launch took place on Wednesday, 10 December, at the Noble Hall Leadership Academy in Abuja, two years after a similar program was introduced for boys.
NFF President Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau MON described the initiative as a vital step in talent identification and development.
‘This scheme is dedicated to uncovering talents among both boys and girls. Nigeria has consistently led women’s football in Africa for the past twenty-five years, a fact validated by recent CAF Award recognitions. I extend my congratulations to these young girls as the first beneficiaries of this initiative,’ Gusau said.
He assured participants that experts would be enlisted to train and nurture their skills, with the hope that some might emulate national icons such as Asisat Oshoala and Rasheedat Ajibade.
Representing the NFF General Secretary, Director of Competitions Ms Ruth David emphasized that the TDS is part of FIFA’s long-term collaboration with member associations to enhance global competitiveness.
‘It reflects a commitment to nurturing talent worldwide,’ she noted.
Head of Women’s Football at the NFF, Hajiya Amina Daura, expressed gratitude to the school for hosting the program and explained its broader vision.
Initiated by FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development Arsène Wenger, the scheme aims not only to discover players but also to prepare young girls for diverse roles in football, including coaching, refereeing, physiotherapy, and sports medicine.
‘Football provides an avenue for discipline, health, and career opportunities, especially for young girls from the grassroots level,’ she said.
The Proprietress of Noble Hall Leadership Academy, Hajiya Maryam Muttalab Duba, thanked the NFF for selecting the institution as the venue, stressing the school’s commitment to nurturing future leaders.
She expressed hope that some of the students would one day represent Nigeria on the international stage.
