IFAF Confirms NFAF As Nigeria’s Official Governing Body, Ends Membership Uncertainty

The International Federation of American Football (IFAF) has officially recognised the Nigeria Federation of American Football (NFAF) as the body responsible for administering the sport in Nigeria, ending months of uncertainty over the country’s international status.

The clarification was contained in an official response from IFAF Managing Director Andy Fuller, following enquiries about why the former Nigeria American Football Association (NAFA) was still listed in the world governing body’s membership directory despite the National Sports Commission (NSC) having inaugurated the NFAF.

The confirmation effectively dismisses fears that Nigeria risked losing its international recognition during the transition to the new federation.

NAFA President Babajide Akeredolu had previously expressed concerns that establishing a new governing body could jeopardise Nigeria’s Associate Membership of IFAF.

He argued that such a move could require Nigeria to undergo a fresh membership assessment with no guarantee of regaining recognition, adding that the deadline for membership applications had already passed.

However, Fuller explained that IFAF had been fully informed throughout the restructuring process and had closely monitored developments.

“Historically, NAFA has been the IFAF Member Federation for Nigeria,” Fuller said.

He added that the global governing body was fully aware of the governance reforms introduced by the National Sports Commission and the creation of the NFAF.

“IFAF is aware of the changes to the governance of the sport in Nigeria and the formation of the new body, NFAF, drawing together NAFA and other key stakeholders to serve all forms of American football from grassroots through to high performance.”

In a significant endorsement of the NSC’s handling of the transition, Fuller praised the Commission for its openness throughout the process.

“I am deeply grateful for the transparency shown by the Sports Commission during this process.”

He then made IFAF’s position unequivocal.

“IFAF recognises NFAF as the body charged by the Sports Commission for the oversight of the sport and our records reflect this.”

Fuller explained that the continued appearance of NAFA on IFAF’s public membership directory was merely an administrative matter.

“In due course, our website will be updated to reflect the leadership of NFAF.”

The clarification confirms that Nigeria’s international recognition has not been interrupted and that no further approval from an IFAF Congress is required for the NFAF to be recognised as the country’s governing body.

The announcement also reinforces the National Sports Commission’s efforts to reform the governance of American football in Nigeria through collaboration with stakeholders and the international federation.

With the issue now resolved, attention shifts to the 2026 IFAF Flag Football World Championships in Düsseldorf, Germany, where Nigeria’s men’s and women’s national teams will compete against the world’s leading nations.

Expressing confidence in Team Nigeria, Fuller said:

“In August, we will welcome the Nigerian national teams to Germany to compete in the IFAF World Championships. I have no doubt that they will represent Nigeria well on the global stage and truly showcase the talent within the country.”

The IFAF statement provides long-awaited certainty for Nigerian players, coaches and officials, allowing preparations for the World Championships to continue with the assurance that the NFAF is fully recognised by the sport’s international governing body.