Perspective from Sport

Fatma Samba Diouf Samoura It is no longer news that Senegalese Fatma Samba Diouf Samoura have been appointed as the new Secretary General of FIFA. The president Gianni Infatino made this announcement at the FIFA congress held in  Mexico. This is a positive move by the FIFA executive as they have demonstrated their intention to show transparency and enhance good governance. I was particularly thrilled with the appointment for two  main reasons; firstly, She is the first African to be appointed to the lofty position. Secondly, she was appointed because of her track records with the United Nation coupled with the fact that she has no background in football.  This has always been my belief that you do not have to have any background in football administration to attain such heights. This is what I will like to see happen in Nigeria, it should be more of competence rather the politics and self-interest that have bedevilled our football.  Se...

It has been over a year now going on two since Amaju Pinnick led board assumed the reign of the football arena. In one of the few interviews he granted, he came across as someone who has a clear picture of where Nigerian football should be heading too. He highlighted the fact that Nigeria football needs to begin to embrace the scientific approach to the game.  To this end, the NFF has sent some referees, ex-football players /coaches and FA Congressmen on some capacity building courses in the UK. I think we need to begin to change our parochial orientation and see from a wider perspective. It is not just about qualifying for international competitions alone but we have to put the basics right and then we will enjoy many more international competitions The problems confronting the football sector are beyond the surface, there are deep-rooted issues that need to be addressed if we are able to move forward. As the good book says "if the foundation is re moved what can ...