Victoria Mgbanwa
The President of Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, has said that football at the grassroots level has remained the foundation of all football, emphasizing that all state governors must also do their best to protect football and ensure its sustainability.
The NFC president made this known during his visit to Osun State during the weekend, where he expressed his appreciation to the state governor for making football a priority in the state also commending the Osun State Football Association, led by Mr. Sola Fanawopo, for promoting inclusivity with the upcoming Women’s League, and the Corporate Football League meant to promote the recreational side of the game.
He said, “Football belongs to all: players, coaches, referees, supporters, volunteers and communities.
“It is good to know that a community-based club, Igbajo United FC has qualified to play in the Nigeria National League. I must say the community-owned clubs in the NNL are doing quite well.
“Grassroots football must remain the foundation of our football. It is the bedrock of the vision of the present NFF administration. I am excited by what is going on in Osun State in this regard. I have been told that 32 grassroots Football Clubs participated in the SmartCity Osun State Football League, that there are over 400 grassroots clubs affiliated to the Osun State FA, that there are over 400 grassroots coaches here alongside 13 referee societies and 15 independent grassroots leagues. This is commendable and I recommend this model to all other States in the Federation.”
He further pleaded with the Osun State Government to assist the Football Association by building more stadiums and modern training pitches, and to also support privately-owned and community-owned Football Clubs with monetary grants.
