…to distribute 2000 balls and 5000 flag kits across the country in 2026.
LAGOS, NIGERIA – The Nigeria American Football Association (NAFA), in a landmark collaboration with the Cleveland Browns’ BROWNS NIGERIA and NFL FLAG, is proud to announce the upcoming launch of the “ONE BALL, ONE FLAG, OUR FUTURE” initiative in April 2026. This ambitious program is designed to catalyze the growth of American football across Nigeria by providing critical equipment and resources to thousands of young athletes.
As part of this initiative, earlier announced at the NAFA FAME AWARDS night, the Cleveland Browns will donate over 2,000 American footballs, while NFL FLAG has committed to providing 5,000 flag kits. These resources will be distributed to a broad network of beneficiaries, including secondary schools, Nigeria School Sports Federation (NSSF) coordinators, Nigeria University Games Association (NUGA) and existing flag football leagues nationwide.
Expanding the Reach of American Football
While the sport has seen explosive growth, NAFA recognizes the significant work remaining to institutionalize the game nationally.
“Our current five-year plan aims to reach over 4,000 secondary schools, yet this ambitious target represents less than 4% of the secondary schools across Nigeria,” stated Babajide Akeredolu, President of NAFA. “To truly transform the sporting landscape and provide every child with an opportunity to play, we need significant help to expand our reach to at least 20% of secondary schools over this same period. ‘ONE BALL, ONE FLAG, OUR FUTURE’ is the catalyst we need to bridge that gap.”
A Legacy of Partnership
The collaboration between NAFA and NFL FLAG dates back to 2023, following several high-profile milestones that have solidified Nigeria’s influence in the global American football ecosystem. Key highlights include:
- 2023: Initial collaboration established to develop grassroots flag football with NAFA coordinating the first ever U13 tournament for Flag Football in Nigeria.
- 2024: Successful execution of the NFL expansion event in Nigeria where NAFA coordinated a mini U13 school tournament for the NFL.
- 2025: The historic NFL Flag U13 tournament, where Nigerian talent was showcased at the Africa Championships in Egypt.
This new donation of 5,000 flags is a direct recognition of Nigeria’s rising status as a powerhouse in flag football.
A Commitment from the Cleveland Browns
The Cleveland Browns who operate locally as BROWNS NIGERIA, the first NFL club to be awarded marketing rights in Nigeria under the NFL Global Markets Program, remain dedicated to the region’s development.
“We, the Cleveland Browns, are so proud to partner with NAFA to help elevate the sport of American football in Nigeria,” said Nayeli, Cultural and International Marketing Coordinator for the Cleveland Browns. “As we enter the Nigerian market, we set goals to help develop the sport, build the Browns fandom, and celebrate the vibrant community of Nigeria. We saw the impactful work of NAFA, and we knew we had to connect with them.” adds, Matt, Director of Marketing for the Cleveland Browns.
About the Nigeria American Football Association (NAFA)
The Nigeria American Football Association (NAFA) is Nigeria’s only National body dedicated to growing the game of American Football. Established in 2019, its vision is to create opportunities through the game of American football. Since its inception, To date, NAFA has introduced the game of American Football directly to over 10,000 young men and women in 18 States and over 300 schools and has led Nigeria to its first victory at the maiden Africa Continental Flag Football Championship games. NAFA is an Associate member of the International Federation of American Football (IFAF).
About BROWNS NIGERIA
As part of the NFL’s Global Markets Program, the Cleveland Browns are the first NFL team to be granted international marketing rights in Nigeria, aiming to grow the game of American football in the country as BROWNS NIGERIA, through fan engagement, marketing, and community initiatives, including partnering with the Nigerian American Football Association (NAFA).
For more information, visit https://www.clevelandbrowns.com/fans/nigeria