In a landmark agreement signed on July 26 in Rabat, Niger has partnered with FIFA to integrate football into its national education system through the “Football for Schools” programme—an ambitious initiative positioning sport as a catalyst for youth development and socio-economic progress.
The signing ceremony took place at FIFA’s newly inaugurated regional office for Africa.
Attending the event were FIFA President Gianni Infantino, Niger’s Minister of Education Dr. Elisabeth Shérif, Minister of Sports Sidi Mohamed Almahmoud, and representatives from the Nigerien Football Federation (FENIFOOT).
The agreement outlines a structured framework built around four strategic pillars: training teachers, incorporating football-related content into school curricula, organizing school tournaments, and establishing a robust monitoring and evaluation system.
This makes Niger one of the first two African nations—alongside the Central African Republic—to pilot the initiative.
FIFA had already delivered 720 footballs to 30 primary schools and youth organizations in the Dosso municipality earlier this year, marking the programme’s initial rollout in the country.
“For the FIFA President, ‘Niger’s example is set to inspire other African countries.’”
The initiative aims to instill key values such as discipline, solidarity, and teamwork among school-aged children while embedding sports into everyday educational practices.
It reflects a multi-sector investment strategy, with a long-term goal of empowering Nigerien youth and fostering national cohesion.
Niger’s commitment to football-driven social development mirrors broader regional trends. In Benin, for example, reforms in local football—including the creation of a Pro League, restructuring of the sporting calendar, and implementation of VAR technology—highlight how sport is being leveraged for professional and civic development.
Training centers in towns like N’dali and Missérété have also been established, combining formal education with athletic training under FIFA’s guidance.
With its youth representing a crucial part of the nation’s future, Niger’s partnership with FIFA sets a precedent for aligning sport, education, and socio-economic policy in West Africa.
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