The president of the Nigerian American Football Association, Babajide Akeredolu, has stated that the demonstration of American Flag Football at the ongoing 22nd National Sports Festival, in Abeokuta, Ogun State, will serve as vital preparation for the upcoming African tournaments in Egypt.
Flag football made its National Sports Festival debut as a demonstration sport at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta on Monday, joining the list of other demonstration sports at the games like arm wrestling and e-sports.
The exhibition featured the men’s and women’s national teams as well as the age-grade teams in 5v5 games.
Akeredolu described the National Sports Festival as a major platform for NAFA and its talent to showcase the sport to Nigerians, adding that NAFA has expanded from 13 states last year to 17 states this year.
“We are ready to showcase talents at all levels of the game, from U-12 and U-13 to established leagues and the national team. The exhibition will comprise a myriad of exciting activities, including a mini competition and a showcase for the young athletes set to represent Nigeria in Egypt. We are highlighting the U-13 players and those excelling in the Nigerian Secondary Schools Flag Football League, which we have organised in collaboration with the Nigeria School Sports Federation since 2020.”
Akeredolu added that the tournament in Egypt will serve as a crucial step toward qualification for next year’s World Games.
“Our priority is creating as many match day scenarios as possible to foster team synergy. We’ve already started building chemistry through training camps, and playing together consistently is essential.”
NAFA vice president, Seye Obatolu, encouraged players in various leagues to give their best and showcase the true essence of American Football.
“There are many misconceptions about American Football being overly physical and tackle-focused. This is an opportunity to highlight the safer aspects of the sport. Spectators will be able to see these athletes in action while we identify potential new talents.
“Our approach is to get as many people playing flag football as possible, while a small percentage can later transition to tackle football.”
