The sports minister, Sunday Akinlabi Dare has promised that his tenure in office will see new trappings added to the image and progress of Nigerian football, as he wants to leave behind a positive legacy that will be a strong point of reverence for stakeholders in the country’s most vibrant unifying sector for several years to come.
Dare stated as much during a meeting with members of the executive committee of Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), led by the soccer governing body’s president, Melvin Amaju Pinnick and general-secretary, Dr Muhammed Sanusi, during which crucial and topical issues affecting the round leather game were discussed at length.
Megasportsarena.com can also report that a communiqué issued after the gathering pointed out that the meeting, which was the first of such since Dare became sports minister earlier this month, was another step towards ensuring better re-positioning Nigerian football – with the league as one of the major issues.
Officials added that the meeting, which was at the instance of Dare, helped the minister interface with the NFF board towards achieving smooth football administration in the country as well as chart fresh routes towards a more dynamic focus.
A report about the day’s proceedings added: “The NPFL has been on an indefinite break with a date for resumption yet to be announced despite the initial plans to follow other world leagues schedule.
“Apart from the league, other issues discussed were how to reposition youth development in sports while also working with the ministry towards early preparations for participation in tournaments and championships.
“It also discussed how to reach out to all factions with a view to having an amicable resolution of all problems as well as developing sporting facilities, particularly football pitches and other stadia infrastructure.
“Also, the need to improve the positive perception of football administration in the country was discussed, likewise the need to ensure that the NFF Bill now with the National Assembly is transmitted for assent by the president and also to ensure efficient management of resources and deepening private investment in sports development.”
