Nigerian football is set for new heights as the world football governing body, FIFA, is set to provide more funding and support for its football development projects than ever before through its FIFA Forward FIFA Development Program.
It was gathered that the football development program is designed to offer comprehensive, individually tailored support for the growth of football in Nigeria and each member association and the six confederations.
Additionally, it aims to advance FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s vision by making football truly global and boosting the sport’s level of competition on a global scale.
With over 2.8 billion USD committed to a diverse array of plans that provide locally-relevant backing to the needs of the six confederations and 211 member associations during the last two editions (FIFA Forward 1.0 and 2.0), which started in 2016, the next four-year cycle, which runs from 2023 to 2026, “represents an increase in football development investment of almost 30% and is a direct consequence of the reinforced governance and financial situation of the new FIFA since 2016.”
Up to US$5 million will be given to Nigeria, to cover operational costs associated with football-related activities, and US$3 million will be used to carry out well-thought-out, targeted football projects that help achieve long-term football development goals.
Nigeria must fulfil the requirements outlined to receive development funds.
In addition, FIFA informed that Nigeria and other member associations that are deemed to require the most support will get up to US$1.2 million each to cover the cost of travel and accommodation for their national teams as well as football equipment gear.
Additionally, FIFA will give each confederation US$60 million to develop, promote, and coordinate football in the regions of its member associations, as well as up to US$5 million to each zonal/regional association to coordinate regional football competitions for adults, children, and youth.
