In a defining moment for one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing sports, the National Sports Commission, under the resolute leadership of Director-General Hon. Bukola Olopade, has stepped in as the unifying force behind the future of flag football in Nigeria.
Recognizing the explosive rise of the sport and the passion of its growing community, the National Sports Commission played what many now call a “fatherly role” by bringing together all key stakeholders and leaders of flag football across the country.
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In a closed-door meeting led by Hon. Olopade, the Commission made one thing clear: Flag football must not just survive—it must thrive.
With rising interest and competition among platforms and organizations, tensions had threatened to derail the progress made over the years. But Hon. Olopade’s timely intervention helped to calm waters, resolve lingering issues, and reestablish a unified front.
His message was bold and visionary: Nigeria must walk together if it hopes to lead the world in flag football.
As a direct result of this meeting, history was made: Flag Football will now be featured as a demonstration sport at the 22nd National Sports Festival—Gateway Games Ogun 2024.
Even more significant, Showtime Flag Football and NAFA (Nigeria American Football Association) will proudly take the field together in Abeokuta, showcasing a united front and the very best of the sport in Nigeria.
But it didn’t end there.
Hon. Olopade’s leadership also addressed a major concern for thousands of athletes across the country: no more threats, no more confusion in the name of “national team politics.”
The National Sports Commission has assured all players of fair play, freedom, and a future where structure—not ego—leads the way. For many players, coaches, and grassroots enthusiasts, this moment has brought hope, clarity, and a long-awaited smile.
In a country where many new sports struggle for attention and survival, flag football has found its champion in Hon. Bukola Olopade and the forward-thinking leadership of the National Sports Commission.
Special thanks to the Chairman, Mallam, Shehu Dikko and (Hon) Chief Bukola Olopade of the National Sports Commission and the Senior Special Assistant to The President on Grassroot Sports, Honorable Anthony Adeboye for leading this initiative to secure the future and growth of the sport. Also special thanks to Babajide Akeredolu and his team for agreeing crafting a path forward for the sport we all dearly love.
The road to greatness for Nigerian flag football is clearer than ever—and it begins now.
