The Lagos State Football Association LSFA has announced that only coaches certified by the Nigeria Institute for Sports NIS will be licensed to operate in Lagos. This decision follows the implementation of a Memorandum of Understanding MOU between LSFA and NIS to ensure coaches meet the necessary qualifications. Coaches in Lagos were invited to a meeting at the Football House in Surulere to discuss this new requirement.
LSFA Chairman, Hajji Gafar Olawale Liameed, highlighted the support from Governor Babajide Olushola Sanwo Olu and the Lagos State Sports Commission in creating an environment conducive to football development. The initiative aims to enhance coaching standards and ensure best practices. Coaches will need to pay N25,000 for NIS certification training and N5,000 to obtain a coaching license. The training will be conducted in batches, to certify over 2,000 coaches within two years. LSFA also plans to collaborate with other Southwest states for uniform licensing and capacity building.
Editorial
The LSFA’s new policy mandating NIS certification for coaches is a significant step towards professionalizing football coaching in Lagos State. By setting higher standards for coaching qualifications, LSFA aims to ensure that coaches are well equipped with the latest techniques and knowledge, fostering a better training environment for players.
This move reflects a broader commitment to elevating the quality of football in Lagos. The support from Governor Sanwo Olu and the Lagos State Sports Commission has been crucial in creating the infrastructure needed for such initiatives. The rehabilitation and reconstruction of stadia across the state provide the necessary facilities for these training programs.
For the coaches, this policy presents both a challenge and an opportunity. The financial investment in certification and licensing may be a hurdle for some, but it is an essential step towards enhancing their professional credentials. The structured training and certification process will likely lead to more competent coaching, ultimately benefiting the players and the sport as a whole.
The LSFA’s plan to train and certify over 2,000 coaches within the next two years is ambitious but achievable with the right support and execution. Collaboration with other Southwest states for uniform licensing standards is also a commendable initiative that could lead to more consistent and high quality coaching across the region.
As this policy is implemented, it will be interesting to observe its impact on the football ecosystem in Lagos. Higher coaching standards are expected to translate into better player development, more competitive teams, and overall growth of the sport at both grassroots and professional levels.
Did You Know?
- The Lagos State Football Association LSFA has mandated that only coaches certified by the Nigeria Institute for Sports NIS will be licensed to operate in Lagos.
- Coaches will need to pay N25,000 for NIS certification training and N5,000 to obtain a coaching license.
- LSFA aims to train and certify over 2,000 coaches within the next two years as part of this initiative.
- The initiative is supported by Governor Babajide Olushola Sanwo Olu and the Lagos State Sports Commission, who have been instrumental in providing the necessary infrastructure.
- LSFA plans to collaborate with other Southwest states for uniform licensing and capacity building, promoting consistent coaching standards across the region.
