New strategic partnership for the development of football between Kazakhstan and Lagos

Today marks the beginning of a new era in international collaboration in football as the Aktobe Regional Football Association of Kazakhstan and the Lagos State Football Association (LSFA) entered into strategic discussions to establish a long-term football development partnership.

This meeting, facilitated by GSL Global Network, reinforces its dedication to fostering important global football relationships.

Askhat Sagitzhanuly Kalzhanov, President of the Aktobe Regional Football Association, traveled to Lagos to meet Hajji Gafar Liameed, President of the Lagos State Football Association.

Their discussions aimed to identify areas of mutual cooperation that would improve the development of football in both regions.

Key themes included establishing sustainable opportunities through technical exchanges, youth development initiatives, coach education, talent identification, club partnerships and international exposure for football players and administrators.

As the commercial capital of Nigeria and a prominent football hub, Lagos offers ample opportunities for collaboration. With over 2,000 football academies, 10 professional clubs, a variety of grassroots competitions and one of the richest pools of football talent in Africa, Lagos stands out as a prime location for football development, player cultivation and innovation.

The Lagos State Football Association has consistently positioned itself as a forward-thinking governing body by implementing strategic initiatives that support grassroots football, enhance capacity development, promote women’s football, organize youth competitions, foster international partnerships and ensure sustainable football management.

During his visit, President Kalzhanov participated in the Train The Trainers programme, where Serbian football instructors deliver an intensive coaching development course in Lagos.

He conveyed his admiration for the quality of the program and the FA’s dedication to continuing coach education and technical excellence. This initiative strengthens the belief that investing in coaches is one of the most effective strategies to improve the overall level of football development.

President Kalzhanov will remain in Lagos for another week to observe other football activities, visit football academies and selected professional clubs and continue discussions with the Lagos State Football Association on practical areas of collaboration.

Both associations are hopeful that this partnership will facilitate exchange programs for coaches, players and technical experts, while also paving the way for new avenues of international cooperation and investment in football.

The Lagos State Football Association is dedicated to forging global partnerships that create opportunities for its football ecosystem and further position Lagos as Africa’s leading center of football excellence.