The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) on Wednesday, 10 December, officially inaugurated the FIFA Talent Development Scheme (TDS) for Girls at the Noble Hall Leadership Academy in Abuja.
The initiative, which comes two years after the debut of the boys’ version, is aimed at helping FIFA member associations fully harness their grassroots football potential. NFF President, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau (MON), highlighted the importance of the programme, noting that it focuses on early talent identification and structured development.
According to him, Nigeria’s dominance in women’s football on the continent for over 25 years—reinforced by recent CAF Awards—underscores the value of investing in young girls.
“This scheme is dedicated to uncovering talents among both boys and girls. I congratulate these young girls as the first beneficiaries of this initiative. Football remains a sport of great interest to many young people, and that is commendable,”
– Alhaji Gusau
He assured the participants that the NFF will engage top-level experts to train and guide them, with hopes that some may eventually represent Nigeria internationally and emulate global stars like Asisat Oshoala and Rasheedat Ajibade. Gusau also reiterated that the FIFA-designed programme is intended to grow football from the grassroots to the global stage.
Representing the NFF General Secretary, Dr Mohammed Sanusi (MON), the Director of Competitions, Ms. Ruth David, described the TDS as a strategic collaboration between FIFA and its Member Associations to elevate global competitiveness in football.
“The Talent Development Scheme reflects a long-term commitment to nurturing talent worldwide.”
Head of Women’s Football at the NFF, Hajiya Amina Daura, thanked the school for hosting the inaugural session and explained the broader vision of the programme. She noted that the TDS—conceptualised under the leadership of FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development, Arsène Wenger—aims not only to identify promising young players but also to shape well-rounded, health-conscious individuals who could become future coaches, referees, physiotherapists, doctors, or sports psychologists.
“Football provides discipline, health benefits, and career opportunities, especially for young girls at grassroots level.”
In her closing remarks, the Proprietress of Noble Hall Leadership Academy, Hajiya Maryam Muttalab Duba, expressed appreciation to the NFF for choosing the institution as the launch venue. She reaffirmed the school’s dedication to grooming future leaders and expressed optimism that some students may one day play for Nigeria.
Dignitaries at the event included NFF Head of International Competitions, Mr Dayo Enebi Achor; Head of National and Inter-Clubs Competitions, Dr Ayo Abdulrahaman; Chief Technical Officer, Coach Abdulrafiu Yusuf; and other NFF officials.
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