The Coalition of Nigeria Football Lovers strongly condemns the proposed tenure elongation of Dr. Mohammed Sanusi as the General Secretary of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). This move is unacceptable, considering Sanusi’s 10-year tenure has been marred by significant decline and underachievement in Nigeria’s football.
Despite Nigeria’s abundance of talented footballers, globally recognized and celebrated, Sanusi’s leadership has failed to translate this potential into tangible success. Instead, Nigeria’s football has suffered:
– Decline in international rankings
– Failure to qualify for major tournaments
– Poor performance in regional competitions
– Lack of infrastructure development
– Inefficient management of football resources
Sanusi’s tenure has been characterized by:
– Discriminatory staffing practices
– Contractual employment of unqualified individuals
– Illegal entry points for staff
– Lack of transparency and accountability
Football plays a critical role in harmonizing Nigerians, transcending ethnic, religious, and geographical divides. It is imperative that the NFF leadership prioritizes the development of the sport, rather than perpetuating mediocrity.
We demand:
1. Immediate termination of Sanusi’s tenure
2. Investigation into NFF’s administrative practices
3. Implementation of merit-based recruitment and management
4. Transparency and accountability in NFF’s operations
The Coalition urges the Federal Government, Sports Ministry, and NFF stakeholders to reject this proposed tenure elongation. It’s time for a new era of leadership, focused on revitalizing Nigeria’s football and harnessing its potential for national unity and pride.
Date: 1st October, 2024
Signed by: Adegboyega Olaitan,
National Secretary, Coalition of Nigeria Football Lovers
