In a recent interview with tobexmedia.com
Nigerian futsal Coach Adams Daud Kolapo shared insights into the current state of futsal in the country, highlighting its potential, existing challenges, and the ongoing efforts to grow the sport at the grassroots level.
Coach Kolapo, an 11-1 Futsal certificate holder and passionate advocate for the indoor variant of football, opened the conversation by introducing himself as a dedicated coach committed to nurturing young talents and promoting futsal across Nigeria.
“I am Coach Adams Daud Kolapo, an 11-1 Futsal certificate holder and a passionate futsal coach dedicated to developing young players and promoting the beautiful game of futsal,” he said. “Over the years, I have had the privilege of working with talented players and helping them achieve their goals.”
Explaining the essence of the sport, Coach Kolapo described futsal as a dynamic and skill-intensive version of football played indoors.
“Futsal is a fast-paced indoor game that is a variant of football, played with a small ball and on a hard surface. It demands a high level of technical skills, tactical awareness, and physical fitness,” he explained.
Globally, futsal has served as a development platform for many football stars due to its emphasis on ball control, quick passing, and decision-making in tight spaces.
In terms of governance, Coach Kolapo noted that futsal in Nigeria operates under the umbrella of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), which oversees football activities in the country.
He also pointed out the presence of the Nigeria Futsal Association, which collaborates with the NFF to promote and develop the sport nationwide.
While he is currently not a member of a dedicated futsal coaches’ body, he revealed his affiliation with the Football Coaches Association of Nigeria, where he participates in football coaching development initiatives.
According to Coach Kolapo, one of the most pressing challenges confronting futsal in Nigeria is the lack of adequate infrastructure, particularly indoor facilities that meet international standards.
“We need more indoor arenas and courts that can host futsal competitions and training sessions,” he stated.
He also emphasized limited funding as a major obstacle affecting the organization of tournaments, player development, and grassroots expansion. Additionally, low public awareness about the sport continues to slow its growth.
“Many people in Nigeria are still unfamiliar with futsal. Increasing awareness is crucial if we want the sport to grow,” he added.
Addressing the scarcity of futsal competitions in the country, Coach Kolapo attributed the situation to a combination of financial constraints, inadequate facilities, and limited institutional support.
Without sufficient investment and infrastructure, organizing regular leagues and tournaments remains difficult for promoters and stakeholders.
Despite these setbacks, Coach Kolapo and other stakeholders are actively working to revive and popularize futsal across Nigeria.
He disclosed that he has been collaborating with fellow futsal coaches and referees to initiate programs aimed at restoring the sport’s visibility.
“I have been contacting some Futsal coaches and Futsal referees to bring the game back to life and promote it. We are working on running some grassroots programs, conducting coaching clinics, and engaging schools to introduce Futsal to young players. We are also using social media to raise awareness and build a community around the sport.”
While acknowledging the challenges ahead, Coach Kolapo remains optimistic about the future of futsal in Nigeria.
“It is a challenging journey, but with dedication and hard work, we can make futsal a beloved sport in Nigeria,” he concluded.
