Football in Niger is entering a new chapter! FIFA is boosting the game across the country through new FIFA Arena mini-pitches and major progress on FENIFOOT’s new headquarters, all supported by the FIFA Forward program.
Two New Mini-Pitches for Young Players
Two modern mini-pitches have been installed at CES 22 Talladje and CES 9 Harobanda schools in Niamey. These are part of FIFA’s new global “FIFA Arena” project, making Niger one of the first 11 countries in the world to launch these small, high-quality pitches.
Around 10,000 young people from nearby schools and communities will benefit. These pitches provide children with a safe, fun, and inspiring place to play football, helping build teamwork, confidence, and social inclusion.
FENIFOOT’s New Headquarters Taking Shape
At the same time, the new six-floor headquarters of the Nigerien Football Federation (FENIFOOT) is under construction. Funded entirely by FIFA Forward, this project represents a big step forward for football development in Niger.
Worth nearly USD 4.2 million, the building will provide better workspaces for staff, regional leagues, and technical teams. It will also include more accommodation for players and coaches at the technical centre.
Leaders Celebrate Football’s Growth
The inauguration of the mini-pitches will welcome top FIFA officials, including Elkhan Mammadov, Gelson Fernandes, and Gianni Infantino, along with national leaders and guests from across Niger.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino congratulated FENIFOOT, saying: “You are part of our Starting 11, the first countries to open FIFA Arena mini-pitches. This project can change the lives of millions of children.”
FENIFOOT President Issaka Adamou added: “When football becomes an educational tool, it helps prepare the future of our youth. Through sport, we’re building inclusion, education, and citizenship.”
Making Football Truly Global
The FIFA Forward program, launched in 2016, helps all 211 FIFA member associations grow football by fairly redistributing FIFA’s revenues. By the end of 2026, FIFA plans to invest a record USD 5 billion in global football development.
The FIFA Arena initiative supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by giving children, especially in less advantaged areas, more chances to play. Niger joins countries like Algeria, Liberia, Georgia, Thailand, and Paraguay in this worldwide project, which aims to build 1,000 new mini-pitches by 2031.
Football Dreams Taking Flight
These new pitches in Niamey are more than just fields, they are dream factories. They will help young Nigeriens play, grow, and chase their football dreams.
“These pitches are platforms where dreams take flight,” said Elkhan Mammadov from FIFA. “We’re proud to work with FENIFOOT to create even more opportunities for Niger’s youth.”
