NFF's FIFA-Funded Infrastructure Project Earns CAF Commendation

NFF's FIFA-Funded Infrastructure Project Earns CAF Commendation

By Our Reporter 

Acting General Secretary of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Samson Adamu, has praised the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) for its investment in football infrastructure following an inspection of the ongoing NFF-FIFA Players' Hostel and new training pitches at Package B of the MKO Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Adamu, who toured the facility on Monday alongside NFF President Ibrahim Musa Gusau, described the project as a landmark investment that would leave a lasting legacy for Nigerian football and provide a strong platform for the development of future generations of players.

He said the facilities would enhance talent development and strengthen the country's football ecosystem by providing quality accommodation and training infrastructure for the various national teams and age-grade programmes.

"As a Nigerian, I am proud of what is being built here. The future of Nigerian football looks extremely bright. This is the type of facility that will help produce the next generation of exceptional players, including future stars in the mould of Jay-Jay Okocha," Adamu said.

He noted that a country of Nigeria's size requires modern infrastructure capable of serving all national teams while creating an environment where talented players from across the country can be identified and nurtured.

Adamu also expressed appreciation to the NFF and the Federal Government for their hospitality during his working visit, which includes preparations for the upcoming CAF Congress and CAF Awards, both of which the continental football body plans to stage in Nigeria.

"I am here on a working visit to plan for the CAF Congress and the CAF Awards. Although Nigeria is home for me, I have been warmly received, and I appreciate the hospitality extended by the NFF leadership," he said.

Speaking during the inspection, NFF President Ibrahim Musa Gusau reaffirmed the Federation's commitment to completing the project within the agreed timeline.

According to Gusau, the construction contract spans 24 months, with work currently in its 15th month after commencing in March 2025. He expressed confidence that the contractors would deliver the project on schedule.

He disclosed that one of the artificial pitches is already about 80 per cent completed, while work is progressing simultaneously on other components of the project. The natural grass pitch, he added, is nearing full rooting ahead of the commencement of internal finishing works.

Gusau commended the quality and pace of construction, noting that the project's proximity to the NFF headquarters has enabled the Federation to conduct regular inspections and closely monitor progress.

"We are satisfied with the standard of work and remain committed to supporting the contractors to ensure the project is completed within the agreed timeframe," he said.

The NFF-FIFA Players' Hostel and training pitches project is expected to provide modern accommodation and world-class training facilities for Nigeria's national teams, while contributing to the long-term growth and development of football across the country.