THE Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President, Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, has reaffirmed his commitment to advancing Nigerian football as he pledged concerted efforts to take the sport to higher heights.
The former Chairman of Zamfara State Football Association who was elected on September 30, 2022 clocked two years in office yesterday.
Speaking as his two years anniversary, Gusau cited the existing peace in Nigerian football as one of his major achievements in office.
He said the peaceful relationship atmosphere has contributed to the improved performances of both the men’s and women’s national teams.
Gusau maintained that the Super Eagles’ second place finish at the 2024 AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire was as a result of his administration’s unwavering support to all the national teams.
“We have seen remarkable progress in women’s football, particularly the Super Falcons who reached the knockout stage of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup without a single defeat in regulation time.
“The Super Falcons were among the top 12 teams at the 2024 Olympics, showcasing their strength in world football. Our investment in their preparation was key to this success,” said Gusau.
He added that with enhanced preparation and support from the NFF, Nigeria’s junior women’s teams, the Falconets and the Flamingos, have continued to dominate at the continental level and rank among the best globally.
“We are committed to supporting these teams because they represent the future of Nigerian women’s football and serve as a talent pool for the Super Falcons,” he added.
Gusau also said that the federation is working assiduously to strengthen the different football leagues in the country.
“We are collaborating with various stakeholders to improve on the different aspects of the game. Our strong relationship with FIFA and CAF has also secured additional technical support for Nigerian football,” he said.
The NFF President reiterated his commitment to transparency and accountability which according to him are essential ingredients in the bid to attract more corporate sponsorship.
Gusau, therefore, said in the next two years, he would focus on ensuring that Nigeria does not only qualify for all major world tournaments but bring home laurels.
The Zamfara born football administrator succeeded Amaju Pinnick as the 40th president of the NFF at the 78th Elective Congress in Benin City, Edo State.