The Nigeria Federation of American Football (NFAF) has taken a bold step toward building a formidable national team with the announcement of an open invitation to athletes across the country for its upcoming national flag football tryouts.
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In an official communication released by the federation, all eligible and suitably qualified male and female athletes have been invited to participate in the selection process for the Nigeria National American Football Team, marking a significant milestone in the sport’s development in the country.
The initiative underscores the federation’s commitment to discovering and nurturing homegrown talent, while establishing a structured pathway for Nigerian athletes to compete on the international stage.
According to the statement signed by the Secretary General, Obillor Chinonso Lilian, the tryouts are designed to identify athletes who not only possess the necessary skill and athleticism, but also demonstrate discipline, teamwork, and the commitment required to represent Nigeria with pride.
“This exercise is aimed at identifying, assessing, and selecting outstanding talents from across the country who possess the requisite skill, discipline, and commitment to represent Nigeria at national and international competitions,” the statement read.
The tryouts will be conducted in two major centres—Lagos and Abuja, providing broad access for athletes nationwide.
The first phase of the tryouts will take place in Lagos from April 3 to April 6, 2026, at the Elegbata Sports Complex, followed by the final phase at the same venue from April 10 to April 12. Abuja will also host its final selection round from April 10 to April 12 at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium.
With daily sessions running for extended hours, the exercise is expected to attract a large pool of talented athletes eager to secure a place on the national team.
Observers say the open nature of the invitation reflects a new direction for American football in Nigeria, one that prioritizes inclusivity, merit-based selection, and nationwide participation.
Under the leadership of the NFAF board, the federation is steadily building a structured ecosystem for the sport, moving away from fragmented efforts of the past toward a unified and professionally managed system.
The introduction of national team tryouts is seen as a major step in positioning Nigeria as an emerging force in global American football, especially at a time when athletes of Nigerian descent continue to shine on international stages.
While participants are expected to cater for their transportation, accommodation, and feeding, the opportunity to be part of the national team presents a significant platform for exposure and advancement in the sport.
Beyond selection, the tryouts represent a broader vision, to ignite grassroots interest, foster national unity through sports, and create a pipeline of talent that can sustain the growth of American football in Nigeria.
As anticipation builds ahead of the April dates, one thing is clear: the NFAF is not just selecting players—it is laying the foundation for the future of American football in Nigeria.
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