The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has been making strides in promoting football development in the country, and President Ibrahim Gusau’s leadership has been instrumental in this progress.
As the Chairman of the Lagos State Football Association (LSFA), Hajji Gafar Liameed has had a front-row seat to observe and collaborate with the NFF on various initiatives.
In this interview with the Media shortly after the NFF Annual General Assembly, Hajji Gafar shares his insights on why President Gusau has performed well in his role, highlighting his leadership style, support for grassroots football, and engagement with stakeholders.
President Gusau’s tenure has seen notable successes in Nigerian football, including the Super Falcons’ recent achievements and the growth of domestic competitions. As a key stakeholder in Nigerian football, Hajji Gafar’s perspective on the NFF President’s performance provides valuable context and insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the sport in the country.
Can you elaborate on your leadership style and how you plan to involve other stakeholders in decision-making?
Hajji Gafar: I have a leadership style that is built on firmness, integrity and accountability. No leader can achieve success without input from others. So I run an inclusive style which takes into account the view of others. I will listen to the stakeholders, get their ideas and merge them with mine and together we can achieve a common goal. Obviously, nobody knows it all. A leader leads from the front and that is what I do.
You have been at the forefront of youth development. What is your motivation?
Hajji Gafar: The future of football and sports in general is in the youth. There are talents everywhere waiting to be harnessed and the joy of giving youths an opportunity to showcase what they have, giving them opportunities that might change their lives and their loved ones is unexplainable. There have been success stories from these developmental projects and that alone is enough motivation.
Your time as Lagos FA boss is drawing lots of positive attention. Tell us about your time so far at the helm.
Hajji Gafar: My time so far has been eventful. I have been able to pull resources together to bring life back to our football and support the dreams of many young people. The Lagos league is now better and we are looking for more avenues to give the different academies clubs the needed support to excel. I also have the most vibrant technocrats on my board at FA which has yielded unimaginable positives in Lagos football just 2 years in office.
During this time, we have hosted two Federation Cup finals and we got commendation for the way we organised the events. We are ready to organize more events and to give our teams the enabling environment to thrive and make Lagos the hub of football.
We are also working hard to keep our facilities in good shape and soon we will be able to adequately refurbish and put to good use some other facilities.
The Flying Eagles will play at the World Cup in Chile, what are your thoughts?
Hajji Gafar: We have prepared well and I believe the team is ready to go. We have exciting young talents who are ready to soar. You know how I’m interested in youth football development and I will keep my eye on that one.
The team has shown promise in their buildup to the World Cup. I know they will do well and I urge Nigerians to keep supporting them. It is not just the Flying Eagles, the Golden Eaglets are in the semifinal of the WAFU-B tournament and our Falconets in the next round of the World Cup qualifiers. The future is looking bright as we churn out these future stars who will announce themselves to the world soon.
36 Lion is one of the best in the country. How has the journey been?
Hajji Gafar: As the founder of the club, I now serve as an adviser in other to eschew compromises. The project is one after my heart. We rose to be among the best in the country by hardwork and insisting on quality. We have discipline as our watchword and we will not trade that off at anytime. It has been a story of persistence and success. We have our eyes set on bigger projects and to become better. Seeing our players doing well gives us joy and also serves as motivation for others.
How do you think President Gusau’s leadership style has contributed to his success in promoting Nigerian football?
Hajji Gafar: President Gusau’s leadership style has been instrumental in his success, showcasing a deep understanding of Nigerian football’s complexities. His approach has brought continuity and dynamism to the NFF, evident in his appointment as WAFU B President. This role will further amplify his impact on West African football development.*
What role do you believe the NFF President has played in advancing women’s football in Nigeria, particularly with the Super Falcons, Flamingos and Falconets recent successes?
Hajji Gafar: President Gusau’s administration has witnessed notable successes in women’s football, particularly with the Super Falcons, Flamingos, and Falconets. His leadership has likely contributed to these teams’ performances, demonstrating his commitment to Nigerian football’s growth. He has also shown commitment to making the women’s league better, the bedrock of our national teams. Then you talk about adequate preparation for our national teams going for international competitions. I’m aware the Flamingos have been camping in Abuja and the Falconets too are receiving attention. When you create the enabling environment for growth, success will follow.
Gusau is someone who insists on due process and this has trickled down to the state FAs and other institutions.
How has President Gusau supported grassroots football development in Nigeria, and what impact has this had on the sport?
Hajji Gafar: President Gusau’s support for grassroots football development is crucial for Nigerian football’s long-term success. The NPFL and NLO Youth Leagues are evidences of his vision for the sport’s growth. This suggests a focus on nurturing young talent and promoting football development nationwide. We have also seen the NPFL Youth League for the U17 and U19s which has received support from the NFF.
What initiatives has President Gusau undertaken to improve football infrastructure in Nigeria, such as national team camp and training facilities?
Hajji Gafar: His leadership emphasizes the importance of proper facilities for national team camps and training, which is vital for Nigerian football’s progress. Example is the ongoing NFF project for infrastructure and camp site for the various national sides. It includes a 68-room accommodation block for the players, known as the NFF-FIFA Players Hostel, which will include 62 single rooms, four suites and two executive suites plus kitchen, restaurant, sauna, meeting rooms and a banquet hall.
Two new training pitches will be installed, one synthetic and one natural grass, alongside the hotel while an existing synthetic pitch will be revamped. A stand with 1,838 seats will be constructed for spectators along with two dressing-rooms for players and two for officials. Gusau has done well and can still achieve more. He needs our support.
How has President Gusau engaged with stakeholders, including state football associations, clubs, and fans, to promote Nigerian football?
Hajji Gafar: President Gusau has demonstrated his commitment to engaging with stakeholders, including state football associations, clubs, and fans. His interactions with various groups showcase his dedication to promoting Nigerian football and fostering a collaborative environment.
How has President Gusau collaborated with state football associations, such as the LSFA, to promote football development across Nigeria?
Hajji Gafar: Our collaboration with the NFF, under President Gusau’s leadership, has been productive. We work together to promote football development across Nigeria, sharing resources and expertise to achieve common goals.
What impact has President Gusau’s leadership had on local football in Nigeria, including the NPFL and other domestic competitions?
Hajji Gafar: President Gusau’s leadership has positively impacted local football in Nigeria, including the NPFL and other domestic competitions. His support for the Super Eagles and other national teams has trickled down to local football, inspiring growth and development.
