By 
FIFA has given Nigerien football a major lift through its FIFA Forward and FIFA Arena programs, unveiling two new school mini-pitches and backing the construction of the Niger Football Federation’s (FENIFOOT) new headquarters.
The two modern mini-pitches at CES 22 Talladje and CES 9 Harobanda in Niamey make Niger one of the first 11 countries worldwide, and the third in Africa after Algeria and Liberia to launch the FIFA Arena project.
The initiative aims to bring football closer to communities by creating safe, sustainable spaces where children can play and grow.
Around 10,000 young people from nearby neighborhoods are expected to benefit directly from the new facilities, which also promote social inclusion, education, and personal development through sport.
During the inauguration, attended by FIFA and Nigerien officials including FIFA’s Elkhan Mammadov, Gelson Fernandes, and FENIFOOT President Issaka Adamou, FIFA President Gianni Infantino praised Niger’s commitment.
“Congratulations to the Nigerien Football Federation,” said Infantino.
“You are part of our Starting 11, the first countries to open FIFA Arena pitches. This project has the power to change the lives of millions of children.”
FENIFOOT President Adamou highlighted the educational impact:
FENIFOOT President Issaka Adamou being handed a package.
“When football becomes an educational tool, it prepares a nation for the future. Bringing the game into schools strengthens civic education, inclusion, and youth development.”
Mammadov described the new pitches as “platforms where dreams take flight,” while Fernandes emphasized that “the FIFA Forward program is tangibly transforming football across all member countries.”
Meanwhile, work continues on FENIFOOT’s six-storey headquarters in Niamey, fully funded by FIFA Forward at a cost of about USD 4.2 million.
Once completed, it will provide modern offices, training facilities, and accommodation to support football administration and development.
Launched in 2016 under President Infantino, FIFA Forward is the world’s largest football development program, ensuring all 211 member associations benefit from FIFA’s revenues. By 2026, FIFA plans to invest a record USD 5 billion in global football growth.
The FIFA Arena project, announced at the 2024 Sustainable Sport Summit in Paris, supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and aims to install at least 1,000 mini-pitches worldwide by 2031, giving children everywhere more chances to play, dream, and thrive through football.
