The league provides a platform for secondary school students aged 12–18 to showcase their skills, with the ultimate goal of securing educational and sports scholarships.
By TheInvestigator
Season 3 of the Nigerian Secondary School Flag Football League (NSSFFL) culminates with the prestigious Aketi Bowl II, as revealed during a press conference held Tuesday in Calabar, the Cross River State capital. Speaking to journalists present Babajide Akeredolu, President of the Nigerian American Football Association (NAFA) said the event, held to celebrate the grand finale of the league, highlighted NAFA’s remarkable achievements and vision for the future of American football in Nigeria.
Established with a mission to provide transformative opportunities for Nigerian youth, “NAFA has rapidly expanded the reach of American football across the country” Akeredolu said. Emphasizing grassroots development, “the association has positioned flag football as a gateway for young athletes to hone their skills, secure scholarships, and access global opportunities” he added.
The initiative has seen growth, with over 3,200 students from 156 schools across 13 states participating in this year’s NSSFFL preliminaries.
Babajide Akeredolu, President of the Nigerian American Football Association (4th from left) speaking.
The Evolution Of NSSFFL
The NSSFFL has grown significantly since its inception. In its first season, 20 schools fielded 40 teams, engaging 840 students. By Season 3, participation skyrocketed, with 156 schools and 312 teams competing nationwide.
Akeredolu highlighted the importance of flag football as an accessible and strategic introduction to American football for young athletes.
The league provides a platform for secondary school students aged 12–18 to showcase their skills, with the ultimate goal of securing educational and sports scholarships.
Aketi Bowl: A Legacy Of Excellence
Named in honour of the late Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON, former governor of Ondo state the Aketi Bowl symbolizes determination and the transformative power of sports.
The tournament’s second edition, hosted in Calabar, brings together top performers from nine states, representing 18 schools, 36 teams, and 180 student-athletes.
The Lagos State Government, through its Sports Commission and Ministry of Education, has played a pivotal role in NSSFFL’s success, providing access to athletes, facilities, and training for officials.
Global Partnerships And Future Aspirations
NAFA’s ambitions extend beyond Nigeria. As the recognized body of the International Federation of American Football (IFAF), NAFA has forged partnerships with organizations like the NFL and Gridiron Imports Akeredolu revealed. These collaborations aim to secure scholarships, provide training, and integrate Nigerian athletes into global American football leagues.
One notable partnership is with Osi Umenyiora’s “The Uprise,” which offers NFL training and league opportunities for African youth. Ten athletes from NSSFFL have already benefited from this initiative, with plans to expand participation in the future.
Looking ahead, NAFA plans to introduce university leagues, develop national teams, and eventually transition into tackle football. The association also seeks to engage Nigerian NFL players in fostering the sport’s growth at home.
During the interactive session, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Sports, Mr Samuel Egbala revealed that the state government has no financial commitment to the tournament and commended the organisers for finding the Cross RIver worthy.
