CFFL set to kick off, aims to develop Nigerian flag football talent

The Community Flag Football League (CFFL) has officially launched in Lagos, marking a major step forward for the development of flag football in Nigeria. The league’s inaugural season, CFFL S1, is set to begin on April 13, 2025, with eight teams; Outlaws, Wolverines, Spartans, Lagos Lions, Mavericks, Titans, Squad X, and Panthers, competing for the championship title.

As flag football prepares to debut at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, the CFFL has expressed its commitment to expanding the sport beyond competition. The league has outlined plans to develop young Nigerian athletes by working with secondary schools, as well as a long-term vision to establish a world-class sports arena dedicated to flag football.

Owner, Outlaws Athletics, Akitoye Ogboye, stated that the CFFL was more than just a league, describing it as the foundation of a movement. He emphasized that the initiative aimed to create opportunities for athletes to improve their skills, compete at the highest level, and eventually represent Nigeria internationally.

Similarly, Owner of Dragons / Squad X, Habeeb Funsho, pointed out that the CFFL’s objective extended beyond forming a league, as it sought to build the future of flag football in Nigeria. He explained that the league aimed to create a pathway from secondary school participation to professional play and international competition. According to him, with the right infrastructure and investment, Nigeria could establish itself as a powerhouse in the sport.

A key player in Outlaws, Priscilla Igbinoba, highlighted the competitive nature of flag football. She mentioned that the sport was a true test of skill, speed, and teamwork. She further stated that the league provided athletes with a platform to compete at a high level and push themselves to become better. With the sport’s upcoming inclusion in the Olympics, she believed this was the perfect time to elevate their game and prove that Nigeria could compete on a global stage.