Nigerian football officials have been tasked by the President Muhammadu Buhari to ensure the country’s football development is not thwarted.
The President was speaking while receiving a 10-year football development plan from the Sports Minister, Sunday Dare in Abuja. He submitted that football is a national asset and therefore those charged with its administration must adhere to best international practice. He described football as citizens’ passion and a major tool for unity and affirmed that it was the responsibility of the government to safeguard sports which has brought Nigeria many laurels.
“Indeed, just as I expect and demand a higher standard of patriotism, responsibility and commitment from those charged with the administration of our football, I also urge all stakeholders to work together constructively and patriotically,” said Buhari
Adding that: ”This government is interested in developing a football culture that will accommodate global best practices that will also help the nation to lay a solid foundation for her domestic football, put in place professionally and efficiently run leagues, entrench a consistent and stable football calendar and create a value chain which will boost the sports ecosystem.”
He urged the NFF to salvage the domestic league at all levels, saying that Nigeria’s football development must return to the path of focus on grassroots and youth development, and an overall good governance structure around every level of its development.