4th Batch set for NIS/ LSFA training for grassroots coaches
The President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, has extended his congratulations to Professor Olawale Moronkola, Director-General of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), on the institution’s 50th anniversary. Gusau praised Moronkola for his leadership, particularly highlighting the significant advancements made during his three and a half years at the helm of the NIS.
During a courtesy visit to the Director-General, accompanied by senior NIS staff, Gusau acknowledged Moronkola’s efforts in elevating the NIS to new heights and for producing highly skilled football coaches, a source of pride for both the NFF and the country. He also promised to strengthen collaboration between the NFF and NIS under Moronkola’s leadership, noting the DG’s consistent support for NFF initiatives.
Both Gusau and Moronkola expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the National Assembly for their increased funding for sports development.
In a related development, the NIS is set to continue its training program for grassroots football coaches in Lagos State, with a new batch of trainees scheduled to begin on February 22, 2025.
Chairman of the Lagos State Football Association, Haji Gafar Liameed, shared that the success of the previous three batches has spurred greater interest in the program. “We are seeing increased awareness, and many more coaches are eager to join, which shows the desire to improve,” he said. “Lagos State is leading the way, and other states are now following our example.”
Liameed confirmed that over 100 coaches had registered, but only 100 would be selected to maintain the quality and standards set by NIS in previous sessions. He expressed hope that the program would continue to build on its success, thanking Professor Moronkola for his pragmatic approach.
The training, aimed at enhancing grassroots coaches’ knowledge of modern football coaching techniques, will feature renowned coaches such as former Super Eagles Assistant Coach Fatai Amoo, Nduka Ugbade, Peter Nieketen, and James Adesina as resource persons.
