Haruna seeks coaching reforms, flags underrepresentation challenges

The Chairman of the Kaduna State Football Coaches Association, Ibrahim Ahmed Haruna, has outlined a reform-driven agenda to tackle the underrepresentation of Nigerian coaches at elite and international levels. Haruna attributed the trend to several structural challenges, noting that “limited access to internationally recognized coaching certifications, lack of continuous professional development opportunities, administrative and political […]

The Chairman of the Kaduna State Football Coaches Association, Ibrahim Ahmed Haruna, has outlined a reform-driven agenda to tackle the underrepresentation of Nigerian coaches at elite and international levels.

Haruna attributed the trend to several structural challenges, noting that “limited access to internationally recognized coaching certifications, lack of continuous professional development opportunities, administrative and political interference, inadequate funding and sponsorship, preference for foreign coaches in elite teams, and poor exposure and networking opportunities” continue to hinder the growth of indigenous coaches.

To address these issues, he said his administration is focused on transforming the Kaduna State Football Coaches Association into a more structured and effective body.

“My strategic plan is to transform the Kaduna State Football Coaches Association into a well-structured and effective body,” he said in a chat with Daily Trust.

He explained that this would involve “establishing a clear and reviewed constitution, creating a centralized database for all registered coaches, and strengthening coordination across the 23 Local Government Areas through zonal representatives.”

Haruna also emphasised transparency and communication, adding that the association would “introduce a proper accounting system with annual financial reporting and ensure regular congresses and quarterly meetings, supported by active communication channels.”

On partnerships, he noted the need to “build strategic relationships with corporate organisations, NGOs, and key football stakeholders for sponsorship and technical support.”

Speaking on capacity development, Haruna stressed that training remains critical to progress.

“Training is essential for development, and we will partner with the Nigerian Football Federation to secure more slots for Kaduna coaches, introduce subsidized training programmes, and organise local coaching clinics and workshops using certified instructors,” he said.

Haruna further linked the struggles of Nigerian clubs in continental competitions to systemic issues.

“Nigerian clubs are struggling due to poor funding and financial instability, weak league structures, inadequate infrastructure, administrative inefficiencies, travel and logistics challenges, limited investment in youth development, psychological factors, and poor player retention,” he said.