NAFA Calls for Kano Govt Support to Develop American Football

By Muzammil Dalha Yola

The Nigerian-American Football Association (NAFA) has called on the Kano State Government and other stakeholders in sports to support its efforts aimed at developing the game at grassroots levels. Coach Oluwatobi Abayomi Abe, NAFA's Head of Students Programme, made the call during a two-day Nigerian American Football programme held in Kano.

The programme, which attracted 12 secondary and primary schools across the metropolitan area, provided students with the opportunity to acquire skills, learn the laws, and understand the rudiments of the game. Coach Abe emphasized the need for support to encourage students to develop an interest in the game, as many young generations are mostly inclined towards playing soccer.

He highlighted that Nigerian-American Football is a lucrative business, with players securing scholarships and earning substantial amounts during their playing careers, both within and outside the country. This, he noted, underscores the importance of investing in the development of the game.

Coach Abe expressed gratitude to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, the leadership of the State Ministry of Education, game masters, and other partners for their unwavering support. He assured that NAFA would do everything possible to ensure that Kano, Jigawa, and Adamawa benefit significantly from the development of the game in the North and the country at large.

The NAFA Head of Students Programme also acknowledged the support received from the National Sports Commission under the leadership of Malam Shehu Dikko and other partners. He pledged that efforts would be intensified to organize competitions at the state and national levels to achieve the set objectives.

Coach Abe commended the participants for their commitment and determination despite the short notice, urging them to sustain the tempo towards the overall development of the event across the country. He also applauded NAFA for their moral and financial support in conducting the programme.

Earlier, the Head of School Sports in the Kano State Ministry of Education, Ibrahim Bello, described the two-day programme as educative, noting that it would inspire students to develop an interest in the game.

The programme featured displays on how to handle the ball, positioning, and other tactics, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the game. With the support of stakeholders, NAFA aims to promote American Football in Kano State and beyond, fostering a new generation of players and enthusiasts.