Gusau: We will continue to encourage football development from the grassroots

President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau (MON) affirmed on Wednesday that his administration will continue to prioritise the development of football from the grassroots, saying it is the only way to grow the game sustainably, as no one can realistically build an edifice from the rooftop. 

Speaking at the monthly awards ceremony of the Nigeria National League, held in Abuja, Gusau reiterated that awards remain important projects to be encouraged because they help to spur better performances from all actors in an industry. 

“One of my NFF’s key commitments is to invigorate grassroots football and the associated leagues, recognizing them as the foundation for the future of the sport in Nigeria. We are grateful that after two and a-half years, we are witnessing tangible progress. By the end of our tenure, we anticipate that Nigerians will observe further positive developments and enhancements within our domestic league,” Gusau said.

The NFF boss further highlighted the importance of synchronizing Nigeria's football calendar with international standards. 

"This season marks the first occasion that we have successfully aligned our calendar with global leagues, an achievement that many deemed unattainable." This alignment is not restricted to the top-tier league but also encompasses the Nigeria Women's Football League (NWFL).

Under Gusau's leadership, substantial advancements have been made to improve the domestic league, and he expressed optimism regarding continued progress in the years ahead. The NFF's focus on grassroots development aims to secure a promising future for Nigerian football.

The NNL Awards ceremony recognizes exemplary performances and accomplishments within the Nigeria National League, shining a spotlight on the deftness of athletes, coaches and teams nationwide. Through the celebration of these achievements, the NFF seeks to foster a culture of excellence and competition within Nigerian football. 

Also present at the occasion were NFF 2^nd Vice President/Chairman NPFL, Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye; Senior Special Assistant to Mr. President on Grassroots Sports Development, Prince Adeyinka Adeboye; NNL Chairman, Chief George Aluo; NNL CEO, Mr Emmanuel Attah; former NFF General Secretary, Ambassador Fanny Amun (MON); Chairman FCT FA, Hon. Abba Mouktar Mohammed; representative of the NSC Chairman, Mallam Salihu Abubakar; representative of the NSC DG, Edidowei Oweife; NFF’s Director of Media & Communications, Dr Ademola Olajire; President of NRA, Hon. Sani Zubairu; Chairman of NFF Referees Committee, Madam Faith Irabor and; NNL COO, Danlami Alanana.  

PHOTO 1: Gusau presenting his address at the NNL awards 

PHOTO 2: NNL Chairman Aluo presenting an award to the NFF boss, with Elegbeleye (left), Adeboye (second from left) and Alanana (right) watching.

PHOTO 3: Gusau and other dignitaries with all the award winners.