South East Football Stakeholders Endorse Gusau for Second Term as NFF President

Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President Ibrahim Musa Gusau has received a boost in his bid for re-election after key football stakeholders from the South East endorsed his candidacy for another term in office.

The endorsement was made on Saturday during a strategic virtual meeting attended by NFF First Vice President Felix Anyansi-Agwu, Nigeria National League (NNL) Chairman George Aluo and the chairmen of the five South East state football associations.

The stakeholders said continuity and stability were necessary to sustain what they described as progress recorded in Nigerian football under the current NFF administration.

South East FAs Back Gusau

The meeting was attended by Chikelue Iloenyosi of Anambra, Dr Obioma Onyeaghala of Abia, Senator Obinna Ogba of Ebonyi, Tony Ugwu of Enugu and Ifeanyi Dike of Imo.

Speaking after the meeting, Anyansi-Agwu said the endorsement was based on what he described as the achievements of the Gusau-led administration, particularly in the areas of transparency, accountability, grassroots football development and the welfare of Nigeria’s national teams.

He maintained that the current leadership had improved confidence in the federation through what he described as prudent resource management and an inclusive approach to administration.

NNL Chairman Highlights League Reforms

NNL Chairman George Aluo also commended the administration for its handling of the domestic league structure.

According to Aluo, the second-tier league has experienced improved organisation, increased support and stronger enforcement of club licensing regulations under the current leadership.

He argued that changing the leadership at this stage could disrupt the reforms and progress already recorded within the domestic game.

Stakeholders Cite Grassroots and International Relations

Anambra FA Chairman Chikelue Iloenyosi said the Gusau administration had provided state football associations with a greater sense of inclusion while placing increased emphasis on youth football development.

Other South East FA chairmen also praised the NFF leadership for what they described as improved relations with FIFA and CAF, a stronger international image for Nigeria and greater autonomy for the technical departments of the national teams.

Mobilisation Ahead of NFF Elections

The South East football leaders pledged to mobilise support for Gusau ahead of the NFF Elective Congress, expressing their belief that his re-election would provide continuity for the ongoing reforms within Nigerian football.

The endorsement represents a significant show of support from the region as the NFF prepares for its next electoral process, although the outcome of the election will ultimately be determined by the delegates participating in the Elective Congress.