Head of Education at the Nigeria Football Federation, Dr Terry Eguaoje, has thrown his weight behind the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) new coaching qualification standards, insisting that only properly certified coaches should be allowed on the bench for club and national team competitions.
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CAF recently reinforced its licensing regulations, mandating that assistant coaches must possess at least a CAF B Licence, while head coaches are required to hold a CAF A Licence. Coaches from other confederations must present equivalent qualifications, such as a UEFA Pro Licence.
Eguaoje described the move as long overdue and necessary for the development of football across the continent.
“Modern coaching is no longer guesswork. It is scientific, technical and data-driven,” he said. “You cannot allow individuals without proper training to manage teams at elite levels.”
He stressed that structured coaching education ensures tactical awareness, player welfare, and professional standards are maintained.
“A qualified coach understands sports science, psychology, match analysis and player development. These are critical in today’s football,” he explained.
Eguaoje further argued that the new requirements should not be seen as punitive but as a step toward raising standards across African football.
“If anything, the standards should be raised even further. We must align with global best practices,” he added.
He also urged Nigerian coaches to embrace continuous education rather than view the licensing framework as a hurdle.
“Learning never stops in football. Coaches must upgrade themselves consistently if they want to remain relevant,” he said.
According to Eguaoje, enforcing strict licensing requirements will ultimately benefit players and clubs by ensuring they are guided by competent professionals.
“When coaching improves, the quality of football improves. That is the bigger picture,” he concluded.
The new CAF regulations are expected to reshape technical benches across African competitions, reinforcing professionalism and accountability within the sport.
