Nigeria’s men’s and women’s flag football teams will not participate in the upcoming world championships in Germany due to visa issues, as confirmed by the International Federation of American Football. Consequently, the teams will not be replaced, and opponents scheduled to face Nigeria in the initial rounds will receive automatic wins. The top two finishers in each competition, excluding the United States, will directly qualify for the 2028 Olympics. The U.S., being the reigning champions for both men’s and women’s categories, has secured a spot as the host nation.
Despite missing the world championships, Nigeria still has an opportunity to earn a spot in the Los Angeles Games. If they achieve a top-two finish at next year’s continental championship, they will advance to the final qualification stage in the “Olympic Q-Series.” Six men’s and six women’s teams will ultimately compete at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.
Efforts were made by the IFAF, along with event partners and relevant authorities, to facilitate the teams’ travel to Germany, but unfortunately, visas could not be obtained in time for the championships. Nigeria claimed victory in the inaugural IFAF African Flag Football Championships in Cairo last year, showcasing the country’s growing presence in the sport. Furthermore, Nigeria had a significant representation in the NFL last year, with 19 players of Nigerian origin at the beginning of the 2025 season.
