Chief Operating Officer of the Nigeria Federation of American Football, Aisha Shaibu, has revealed that preparations are already in full swing for Team Nigeria’s participation at the 2026 IFAF World Championships in Germany.
Shaibu disclosed that both the men’s and women’s teams have opened camp as coaches begin assessing players ahead of Nigeria’s historic appearance on the world stage.
“We’re building for the future, and preparations have already begun for the World Championships,” Shaibu said.
The federation official explained that the coaching crews are working closely with players to establish a competitive squad capable of representing Nigeria with distinction in Germany.
According to her, the early commencement of camping reflects the federation’s determination to ensure the teams are fully prepared.
“Both our men’s and women’s teams are already in camp, and the coaches are putting the players through their programmes as we prepare for our debut,” she added.
Shaibu also revealed that the federation’s ambitions extend beyond the 2026 World Championships, with attention already turning to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games, where flag football will make its Olympic debut.
She believes Nigeria has the talent to compete internationally if the current development programme is sustained.
“Our objective is not just to compete at the World Championships but to build a team capable of qualifying for and competing at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics,” she stated.
The Nigeria Federation of American Football has intensified grassroots development in recent years as it seeks to establish the country among the emerging forces in flag football ahead of the sport’s historic Olympic debut.
