Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State on Wednesday in Benin City charged the new Executive Committee of the Nigeria Football Federation headed by Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau to enthrone the ethos of transparency, openness and inclusiveness in running the game in the country, and to not shy away from taking stern measures to curb the malaise of hooliganism in the domestic League.
“I challenge you to do your best to take Nigeria Football back to its rightful position. You must work hard to put in place the building blocks that will become a solid football system to benefit from the thriving global football economy. Resources, finance and investment are big challenges with the game in our country.
“With transparency, openness and inclusiveness, you will attract the funds. Let us put the past behind us and work for the interest of Nigeria Football. You must never shy away from adopting stern measures to restore sanity in the game; apply the full weight of the law to sanction erring clubs who bring the game to disrepute, disruption and destruction.
“Please allow me to praise my deputy for his vision, passion and commitment in pursuit of revitalizing the domestic league and school sports, and his dedication to installing Edo State on the path of sporting excellence. We seek NFF’s partnership and support in Edo sports culture to drive sports tourism.”
Speaking earlier, President of NFF, Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau expressed appreciation to the Edo State Government for hosting the historic NFF Elective General Assembly in Benin City on 30th September 2022. While eulogizing the commendable football culture of Edo State, he congratulated Governor Obaseki and the State Government on the promotion of Bendel Insurance to the elite cadre of Nigeria league.
“Your Excellency, please permit me to commend your good self and the Deputy Governor for the great job you are doing in the area of sports infrastructure and sponsorship of sports. The Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium is a world-class facility and we know it has been used and still being used to prepare Nigeria athletes in all sports for international competitions.
“Sir, please be rest assured that the NFF will partner the Edo State Government by bringing matches of the various National Teams here to continue to showcase the facility to the world.”
Also at the occasion were the Deputy Governor of Edo State, Rt. Hon. Philip Shaibu, NFF Executive Committee Members, Ms Aisha Falode and Rt. Hon. Nse Essien, Secretary to the Edo State Government, Barrister Osarodion Ogie and the Chairman of Edo State Football Association, Mr. Roland Abu Momoh.
