In a significant move for sports development, the National Sports Commission (NSC) has officially begun the process to establish a recognised national governing body for flag football in Nigeria. This marks the first concrete step towards creating a formal federation dedicated to this emerging sport.
NSC Asserts Statutory Authority Over Federation Formation
In a statement released on Tuesday, 2nd December 2025, the Special Assistant on Media to the NSC Director General, Kola Daniel, clarified the current landscape. He stated that no previous association, whether local or international, has been officially recognised to represent Nigeria in flag football competitions. Daniel emphasised that the NSC holds the statutory authority under Nigerian law to approve and regulate all sports federations, including this new discipline.
The Director General of the NSC, speaking on the ongoing process, highlighted the commission's commitment to an inclusive approach. "The National Sports Commission is currently engaging all stakeholders in flag football regarding the finalisation of a unified national federation," he said. He added that the NSC values contributions from all groups and is dedicated to building a governance structure that is inclusive, aligns with international standards, and supports Nigeria's broader sports development goals.
Transparency and Inclusiveness as Founding Principles
The NSC Director General was careful to note that the recognition process is still ongoing and that no final decision has been made. He aimed to reassure athletes, coaches, existing organisations, and international partners about the future federation's foundation. He promised that the new body would be built on the core principles of transparency, inclusiveness, and best practices. This framework is intended to ensure Nigeria is properly and effectively represented in international flag football competitions.
Following the formal inauguration of the federation, the next expected step will be elections to select its executive members. The NSC has indicated that more specific information, including the election timetable, membership criteria, and transitional arrangements, will be made public in the coming days.
Paving the Way for Structured Growth
This initiative by the National Sports Commission represents a pivotal moment for flag football in Nigeria. By moving to establish a single, recognised federation, the sport is set to transition from informal or fragmented groups to a centrally organised body. This structure is crucial for coordinating national teams, accessing international funding and competitions, and implementing standardised development programmes across the country. The move signals the government's intent to nurture non-traditional sports and expand Nigeria's sporting footprint on the global stage.
