ABOUT

The Nigerian Secondary School Flag Football League (NSSFFL) is a transformative initiative spearheaded by the Nigerian American Football Association (NAFA). NAFA introduced flag football as an entry point to the sport for new athletes with a commitment to encouraging sportsmanship, teamwork, and skill development. NSSFFL stands as an organization dedicated to promoting the sport of flag football among school-aged children between the ages of 12-18.  

Our league brings together passionate coaches, dedicated parents, and enthusiastic players from communities across the nation. With a focus on integrity, respect, and fair play, NSSFFL sets the standard for excellence in youth flag football and has received significant support from Governmental bodies and private entities, including the Lagos State Government, NSSFFL received vital support from the Sports Commission, Ministry of Education, and collaboration with Global Wealth University in Togo. 

234

SCHOOLS

18

STATES

500

TEAMS

5000

PLAYERS

MISSION

MISSION

At NSSFFL, our mission is clear; To obtain educational and sports scholarships for the winning teams, provide young athletes with a platform to engage in healthy competition, cultivate leadership skills, and advance in the game.  

Through structured leagues, tournaments, and educational initiatives, we strive to create a positive and inclusive environment where players can succeed.  

LAGOS STATE KICK STARTS FLAG FOOTBALL GROWTH

In 2021, NAFA laid the groundwork for youth American football in Nigeria by hosting its maiden secondary school flag football event in Lagos. The qualifiers featured over 40 schools across four venues, including Dairy Farm Field and LASU Field. With the support of the Lagos State Sports commission, this pioneering effort introduced flag football to hundreds of students, sparking interest and setting the stage for structured competition. The event emphasized grassroots development, talent discovery, and awareness-building. NAFA’s leadership, including President Babajide Akeredolu, championed the sport’s potential to foster discipline, teamwork, and scholarship opportunities. The success of this inaugural showcase led to the formal establishment of the NSSFFL, positioning Lagos as the launchpad for a nationwide youth flag football movement.

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FIRST OFFICIAL SEASON OF NSSFFL

The first official season of the NSSFFL kicked off in May 2022 at Teslim Balogun Stadium, Lagos. Featuring 20 male and 20 female teams from public and private schools, the league engaged over 900 student-athletes. NAFA’s structured format introduced competitive flag football to Nigerian youth aged 12–18, with matches emphasizing skill development, sportsmanship, and academic pathways. The season garnered national attention, with NAFA securing partnerships for scholarships and training. Field officials and coaches underwent certification programs, boosting capacity. The league’s success validated NAFA’s vision of using American football as a tool for youth empowerment and laid the foundation for future expansion across states.

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NSSFFL SEASON 2 & AKETI BOWL 1

Season two of the NSSFFL, branded as the *Aketi Bowl*, was held in Akure, Ondo State, from July 31 to August 5, 2023. With 75 schools from seven states participating, the tournament marked a major leap in scale and visibility. Over 2,000 athletes competed, showcasing flag football’s growing appeal. Government Secondary School, Akwa Ibom, and African Church Grammar School, Ogun, emerged champions. NAFA honored Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu’s support by naming the bowl after him. The event featured scholarship awards, dignitary attendance, and media coverage, solidifying NAFA’s role in youth sports development. The Aketi Bowl became a symbol of excellence and unity in Nigerian flag football.

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NSSFFL SEASON 3

Domestically, the NSSFFL expanded to 13 states, with over 3,200 students from 156 schools participating. NAFA’s partnerships with NFL Africa, Browns Nigeria, and Gridiron Imports deepened, offering scholarships and international exposure. The league’s third season reinforced flag football’s role in youth development, safety culture, and global integration. NAFA also announced plans for collegiate leagues and a dedicated stadium.

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AKETI BOWL II

Aketi Bowl II, the grand finale of NSSFFL Season 3, was hosted in Calabar, Cross River State, in January 2025. Featuring 180 athletes from 18 schools across nine states, the tournament celebrated the league’s exponential growth. Lagos State dominated both male and female categories, defeating Akwa Ibom in tightly contested finals. The event honored the late Governor Akeredolu’s legacy and showcased NAFA’s commitment to youth empowerment. Scholarships, training certifications, and media engagement highlighted the tournament’s impact. NAFA’s leadership reaffirmed its vision to expand into tackle football, university leagues, and global competitions, positioning Nigeria as a rising force in American football.

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