As part of efforts to strengthen grassroots football development and professionalise coaching in Osun State, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has concluded a 60-hour CAF D Licence Coaching Course for 40 grassroots coaches in the State.
The training, hosted by the Osun State Football Association (OSFA) at the Lanreleke Sports Academy, brought together 40 coaches from across Osun State.
The Osun FA in a statement signed by its Media Officer, Seyi Akanni, noted that the intensive programme featured leadership, technical and practical sessions facilitated by CAF-certified instructors led by the NFF Technical Director, Coach Augustine Eguavoen.
He stressed that participants were exposed to modern coaching methodologies, including age-appropriate training, player safety, talent identification and contemporary approaches to youth development.
According to him, the Chairman of Osun State Football Association, Mayor Sola Fanawopo, who spoke ata the closing ceremony, congratulated the participants on their commitment and discipline throughout the programme.
The statement reads in part, “He emphasized that the future of Nigerian football depends significantly on the quality of coaches at the grassroots, stressing that coaches shape character, instil discipline, and lay the foundation upon which future stars are built.
“Mayor Fanawopo stated that the D Licence course is crucial for strengthening technical knowledge and improving training methods for young players, but charged the coaches that obtaining a certificate must not be the end, but the beginning of continuous learning and professional excellence.
“He reaffirmed the commitment of Osun FA to creating more opportunities for coach education, grassroots development, and discovery of young talents through deliberate investment in coaching, youth structures and competitions.
“He charged every participant to return to their clubs, academies, schools and communities as ambassadors of good coaching practice, to apply the knowledge acquired, mentor upcoming coaches, prioritize players’ welfare and uphold discipline, fairness, integrity and respect.
“He appreciated the NFF, CAF, the instructors and all stakeholders, noting that the quality of football tomorrow will be determined by the quality of coaching provided today.”
In his remarks, Eguavoen urged the participants not to rest on their oars, assuring them of his willingness to provide guidance and mentorship beyond the training programme.
He observed that more coaching courses were needed across the states of the federation, adding that Nigeria required more qualified trainers to take over from the current generation and sustain the development of the game.
Responding on behalf of the participants, Babajide Olusola Babatola expressed appreciation to the organisers and facilitators, saying the coaches had gained valuable knowledge and professional experience that would enhance their coaching careers.
He also appealed for their inclusion in subsequent football development programmes, particularly the CAF C Licence Coaching Course, to enable them to advance their professional qualifications.
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