World Games: NAFA excited as Nigeria set to represent Africa in Germany - Sporting Tribune

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

The Nigeria American Football Association (NAFA) has described the invitation extended to the Nigeria team to represent Africa at the upcoming 2026 International Federation of American Football (IFAF) Flag Football World Championships, billed to be held in the City of Düsseldorf, Germany, as a turning point for flag football in Nigeria.

NAFA called on all Nigerians to join the team in celebrating the announcement and to follow Nigeria's team journey to Germany, adding that the team will showcase the talent, spirit, and resilience of Nigeria on the global stage.

NAFA President, Babajide Akeredolu, in a statement, said the announcement of Nigeria's invitation to the world games is a historic step forward for the sport, athletes, and Nigeria.

He said:" The Nigerian American Football Association (NAFA) is thrilled to inform the Nigerian public of a groundbreaking development in the international flag football community.

"Today, the International Federation of American Football (IFAF), in collaboration with the NFL and the City of Düsseldorf, officially announced that Düsseldorf, Germany, will host the 2026 IFAF Flag Football World Championships from August 13th to 16th, 2026.

"We are proud to announce that Nigeria will be fielding both men's and women's national teams at the Championships, ready to compete against the best flag football nations in the world.

"This marks a historic step forward for our sport, our athletes, and our nation. As the spotlight shines on Düsseldorf next year, Nigeria's flag football teams will be there, fuelled by passion and determination to represent our country with pride."

Akeredolu appreciated the Chairman of the Flag Football Development Board, Minister for Youth Development, Olawande Ayodele; the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko; and the Director-General, Bukola Olopade, for their consistent support of NAFA's vision and commitment to empowering youth through sport.

The NAFA President also acknowledged the support and strategic partnership from NFL Africa, NFL Flag, and Browns Nigeria, saying that their dedication to NAFA's flag football programmes in Nigeria has been instrumental in the journey.