Monday Kanu writes……
The recent NFF Annual General Assembly (AGA) has once again highlighted the glaring marginalization of the players union, a critical stakeholder in Nigerian football. The utter disregard for the union’s presence, voice, and participation is a disturbing trend that has persisted for far too long. Despite their integral role in the sport, players continue to be denied a seat at the table, their interests ignored, and their contributions diminished.
This blatant and intentional exclusion undermines the principles of fairness, equity, and collective progress. The NFF’s failure to engage with the players union has far-reaching implications. At this point, the most pertinent and urgent matter is for the NFF to take the issue of ex players’ welfare, especially their failing health as a matter of urgency.
Prostate health challenges continue to ravage our community, with the tragic loss of another beloved individual on October 4th, 2024. As numerous others endure in silence, it’s imperative we act and act fast. Organizing a health retreat for our veteran footballers would be a vital step toward rectifying the neglect and providing them with the support and care they’ve earned.
While emphasizing this urgent health matter, we urge the NFF to:
- Recognize the players union as a vital partner
- Resuscitate the Reconciliation Committee that was headed by Comrade Philip Shuaibu for the purpose of unity among the factions
- Provide a formal platform for union representation
- Engage in meaningful dialogue on players’ concerns
- Ensure inclusive decision-making processes
It’s time for the NFF to break this cycle of marginalization and embrace the Players Union as an essential component of Nigerian football’s success.
We urge those in authority, especially within our Glass House, to recognize that life’s fleeting nature applies to all. Therefore, everything is NFL (Not For Long). May this awareness guide your decisions.
