Delta Gov Oborevwori Urges Nigerian Football Leaders to Prioritize National Interests

Governor Oborevwori expressed gratitude to the NFF for selecting Delta as the venue for this significant meeting, emphasizing the state’s peaceful environment and hospitality. “We know the role the round leather game plays in Nigeria; Nigeria is a football-loving country,” he stated. “You are aware of the enormous burden on you all as the decision makers for millions of Nigerians who are lovers of the game of football.”

He highlighted the unifying power of football, saying, “Football is beyond the everyday sporting event; it has become a strong unifying game for Nigeria and Nigerians. It has no age, religious, political, ethnic, social, or geographical barrier in our country.” He continued, “This is why I call on you today to put the interest of the country first in taking decisions concerning the game of football. Look beyond the ball and see the joy or sadness that will be on the faces of Nigerians because of your decisions or indecision concerning the game of football.”

Welcoming the delegates to Asaba, the governor remarked, “I feel very happy to be in your midst today to address this august body, an assemblage of football administrators and stakeholders from different parts of our country who are here for the Annual General Assembly of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).” He also noted the state’s sports culture, pointing out Delta’s recent achievements, including winning 111 medals at the National Youth Games for the eighth consecutive time.

Oborevwori highlighted the importance of infrastructure, mentioning that “the Stephen Keshi Stadium is a FIFA-approved stadium for international football matches, and the Super Eagles have played football matches several times at the stadium.” He reiterated the state government’s commitment to developing sports facilities and promoting youth engagement through competitions such as the annual Zenith Bank/Delta Headmasters’ Football Competition, which nurtures young talent.

Encouraging the delegates to explore the local culture, he said, “Asaba is peaceful; Deltans are generally receptive and accommodating, so feel free to go around the town, visit our tourist sites, the Mungo Park House, Lander Brothers’ Anchorage, the Film Village, and Mariam Babangida Park, among others; and do enjoy our delicacies – Ofe Nsala and Pounded Yam, Owo and Starch, among others.” He wished the NFF members fruitful deliberations.

Mr. Amaju Pinnick, representing the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), emphasized the importance of unity among NFF members, stating, “Be united and love one another for the overall development of football in the country.” He expressed confidence in Nigeria’s potential to qualify for upcoming tournaments, saying, “I believe that Nigeria will qualify for the World Cup as well as the Nation’s Cup.”

Senator John Owan Enoh, Minister of Sports Development, also addressed the assembly, noting President Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to sports development, particularly in football. He remarked, “The NFF is the biggest platform where matters concerning football are discussed, as well as appraisal on previous performance and ways forward.” He acknowledged the significant challenges ahead, urging NFF members to take their responsibilities seriously, particularly in qualifying the national team for the 2026 World Cup and the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Minister Enoh encouraged the NFF to be deliberate in their pursuit of success, stating, “A conducive atmosphere has been provided for the NFF to thrive.”

NFF President Ibrahim Gusau reiterated the significance of the assembly, saying, “This annual general assembly is the forum through which issues and activities of football are discussed with a view to promoting the game of football.” He commended President Tinubu for his love and support for the NFF, assuring attendees that Nigeria would qualify for the 2026 World Cup.

The assembly concluded with a shared commitment to advancing Nigerian football and a renewed focus on national unity through the beloved sport.