South East Football Leaders Unanimously Endorse Gusau For Second Term
Sports Correspondent
Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, has received a major boost in his re-election bid after key football stakeholders from the South East unanimously endorsed him for another term in office.
The endorsement was made on Saturday during a strategic virtual meeting attended by NFF First Vice President, Chief 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 essential to sustain the progress recorded in Nigerian football under the current administration.
Those present at the meeting included Chikelue Iloenyosi (Anambra), Dr. Obioma Onyeaghala (Abia), Senator Obinna Ogba (Ebonyi), Tony Ugwu (Enugu), and Ifeanyi Dike (Imo).
Speaking after the meeting, Anyansi-Agwu described the endorsement as a reflection of Gusau’s achievements since assuming office, citing improvements in transparency, accountability, grassroots football development, and the welfare of national teams.
According to him, the current NFF leadership has restored confidence in the federation through prudent management of resources and inclusive leadership, while laying a solid foundation for sustained football development across the country.
NNL Chairman George Aluo also praised the administration for strengthening the domestic league structure, noting that the second-tier league has witnessed better organisation, increased support, and improved enforcement of club licensing regulations.
He said the ongoing reforms have created a clear pathway for growth, warning that a change in leadership at this stage could disrupt the progress already being made.
Anambra FA Chairman, Chikelue Iloenyosi, said Gusau’s administration has given state football associations a greater sense of belonging while prioritising youth football development nationwide.
Other FA chairmen commended the NFF President for improving Nigeria’s relationship with FIFA and CAF, enhancing the country’s international image, and allowing the technical departments of the national teams to operate without undue interference.
The South East football leaders pledged to mobilise support across the region and beyond ahead of the NFF Elective Congress, expressing confidence that Gusau remains the best candidate to consolidate ongoing reforms and drive Nigerian football to greater heights.
