Founder and President of the Nigeria Pitch Awards, Shina Philips, has expressed his appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for initiating reforms aimed at addressing challenges within Nigerian football, while calling on all stakeholders to actively support and participate in the process.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Saturday, Philips welcomed the reform initiative led by the Presidency and the National Sports Commission, describing it as an important opportunity to identify the structural challenges affecting Nigerian football and determine areas requiring stronger government intervention and support.
“The reforms initiated by the President and the National Sports Commission will highlight the challenges facing our football and draw the much-needed intervention and support from the Presidency,” Philips said.
Philips described the reform process as a bold step towards confronting the challenges facing Nigerian football and expressed optimism that it would help lay the foundation for a stronger, more vibrant and sustainable football system.
He also emphasised the importance of football to Nigeria’s national identity, noting its ability to unite citizens, particularly during matches involving the country’s national teams.
“Football has a large following in the country, and during matches involving our national teams, Nigerians become united, setting aside their differences to support and celebrate the national teams,” he said.
While commending the National Sports Commission for its role in the reform process, Philips urged the Presidency and relevant football authorities to maintain close engagement with FIFA to ensure that any proposed reforms remain consistent with the global football governing body’s statutes, regulations and principles.
“The Presidency and the National Sports Commission should work closely with the interim management of the NFF and FIFA to ensure that the reforms align closely with FIFA rules and guidelines,” he said.
Philips also expressed confidence in the interim management of the Nigeria Football Federation, led by Dr Emmanuel Ikpeme and Dr Ademola Olajire, describing both men as experienced football administrators capable of contributing meaningfully to the rebuilding process.
“I have known Dr Emmanuel Ikpeme and Dr Ademola Olajire for decades, and I believe they have the experience and capacity to steer the federation in the right direction,” Philips said.
He consequently called on football administrators, clubs, players, coaches, referees, supporters, sponsors, media organisations and other stakeholders to support the interim management and contribute constructively to the reform process.
“I call on all stakeholders to give them all the support they need to rebuild our football. The growth and development of Nigerian football is a collective responsibility,” Philips added.
The Nigeria Pitch Awards founder said the success of the reform process would ultimately depend on collective commitment, constructive engagement and a shared determination to restore confidence, strengthen football administration and position Nigerian football for sustainable growth.
