NFF, FIFA Launch Nigeria’s First-Ever Players’ Hostel

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the Federation of International Football Associations (FIFA) have launched a groundbreaking project aimed at revolutionalizing Nigerian football infrastructure.

The project which includes the coonstruction of the Nigeria-FIFA Players’ Hostel and new playing pitches, was officially kicked off on Tuesday at Package B of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.

NFF President, Ibrahim Gusau, hailed the project as a game-changer, emphasizing its significant impact on Nigerian football.

The hostel will provide accommodation for all national teams during international duties, while the new pitches, both grass and artificial will enhance talent development and provide an elite training environment for players and coaches.

“This legacy project will create a world-class preparation hub for our teams, ensuring they perform at their best in major tournaments,” Gusau stated.

Dr Tajudeen Abbas, Speaker of the House of Representatives, highlighted the historic nature of the initiative, calling it a major boost for Nigerian sports.

“This is the first time our sports sector is receiving such a transformational investment. The impact will be enormous—cutting costs, generating revenue, and improving efficiency in player development and preparation,” he remarked.

Mallam Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), urged the NFF to ensure timely completion and effective management of the facility. He suggested concessioning it to a competent firm for proper maintenance.

Johnson Fernandez, the FIFA representative, reaffirmed the organisation’s support, highlighting Nigeria’s rich football talent as proof that such investments will yield long-term benefits.

The event was attended by top dignitaries, including Chairman of the Senate Committee on Sports, Abdul Ningi; former Sports Minister, Sunday Dare; Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashiru Adeniyi; former Edo State Deputy Governor, Philip Shuaibu; and football legends Victor Ikpeba and Samson Siasia.

With the project now underway, stakeholders are optimistic that it will help Nigeria reclaim its dominance in African and global football.