The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has formally unveiled the FIFA Talent Development Scheme (TDS) for Girls at the Noble Hall Leadership Academy in Abuja, marking a major milestone in female grassroots football development. The initiative, which follows the successful rollout of the boys’ version two years ago, is designed to help FIFA member associations unlock their full potential by identifying, nurturing, and developing young talents from an early age. NFF President Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau MON emphasized the importance of the program, highlighting Nigeria’s long-standing dominance in African women’s football and celebrating the girls as the first beneficiaries of this new phase.
Speaking during the launch, the NFF President assured the participants that top experts will be engaged to guide their progress, with hopes that the rising talents could one day represent Nigeria on the global stage. He encouraged the girls to model the discipline and commitment of stars like Asisat Oshoala and Rasheedat Ajibade, noting that the scheme reflects FIFA’s global vision of strengthening football from the grassroots upward. Representing the NFF General Secretary, the Director of Competitions, Ms. Ruth David, added that the TDS is part of FIFA’s long-term strategy to enhance worldwide competitiveness by investing heavily in youth development.
Head of Women’s Football at the NFF, Hajiya Amina Daura, expressed appreciation to the school for hosting the launch and explained the broader purpose of the program. She noted that the FIFA-driven initiative, championed by Arsène Wenger, is not only about discovering future footballers but also about shaping well-rounded individuals who may one day become coaches, referees, physiotherapists, doctors, or sports psychologists. She highlighted football’s role in promoting discipline, health, and opportunities—especially for young girls at the grassroots level who need structured pathways to excel.
In her closing remarks, the Proprietress of Noble Hall Leadership Academy, Hajiya Maryam Muttalab Duba, thanked the NFF for choosing the institution and reaffirmed the school’s commitment to nurturing future leaders. She expressed optimism that some of the participating students could go on to represent Nigeria in international football. The event was attended by several high-ranking NFF officials, including Mr. Dayo Enebi Achor, Dr. Ayo Abdulrahaman, Coach Abdulrafiu Yusuf, and other key technical and administrative personnel, underscoring the Federation’s strong support for the development of girls’ football nationwide.
