Sports

NFF Inaugurates 3-Man Task Force For Age-Grade National Teams

Published

2 years ago

October 20, 2022

By Joel Ajayi

In its effort to ensure Nigeria’s age grade national team which includes, U23, U20 and U17 excel ahead of different international competitions, the Nigeria Football Federation NFF inaugurated the three-man task force whose primary duty is to advise the federation on the successful preparations of three national teams.

The inauguration became necessary as the U23 Men’s national team will on this weekend trade tackles with their Tanzania counterparts in the 2023 CAF African Nations Cup (AFCON) qualifier as other 2 National teams also have crucial engagements.

Speaking during the inauguration on Thursday at NFF head office in Abuja, the President of the federation, Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau outlined the responsibility for the task force, he urged them to discharge their duty to bring the desired changes in the national teams.

According to him, the task force included Aminu Balele Kurfi, Chairman of FCT Football Association, Abba Mouktar Mohammed and Sports Marketing guru, Hon. Bukola Olopade.

While outlined the responsibility for the task force, NFF boss said, the task force will advise NFF Board on the way we are going to have proper preparation for the teams as well as to seek the public and private sector to ensure we give maximum support to these teams for them to succeed in their different engagements.

“They are to advise the NFF board on the way forward on preparation as well as the main tournament for these three of age grade national teams which is U23, for qualifiers to the all Africa games and Olympic for them to qualify and their participation.

“Our under 17 have already qualified for the nations cup and world cup, while qualifying games are coming up for the U20 team.”

He said that Balele will be the Chairman while Bukola Olopade becomes the Vice-Chairman and Mouktar Mohammed, Member of the task force.

In his remark, the Chairman of the Task Force, Aminu Kurfi Balele assured Nigerians that the task force will do its best.

He admitted that the task ahead is enormous but believed that it is achievable with support from Nigerians, especially the media to execute the task successfully.

“The assignment given to us is huge. To prepare the national teams for successful tournaments is not an easy task, we will do everything in making sure that all the teams do well.”

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Sports

NNL Chairman Promises Exciting Second Stanza

Published

1 hour ago

March 21, 2025

The Gleamer

The Chairman of the Nigeria National League (NNL) has assured fans and stakeholders of a more competitive and well-organized second stanza of the season.

Speaking on Friday in Abuja at the 2025 Next Level Scouting event, held at the Turf Arena, Central Business District, Aluo emphasized that the league is committed to maintaining high standards.

The scourting event, organized in partnership with USYAK Academy, attracted over 10 scouts from around the world, all keen on discovering future football stars.

Aluo acknowledged that while the first stanza of the league had been successful, the second phase would be more challenging due to increased competition and desperation among clubs.

“We know the second stanza will be more difficult because desperation sets in. That’s why we need to closely monitor matches, ensuring officiating remains as fair and transparent as it was in the first phase. Clubs that deserve to win should win, whether playing at home or away.”

“Like in the first stanza, all our matches will be live on television and streaming platforms. We also want to improve match venues—some of the pitches are not up to standard.We’ve given clubs until the 28th of this month to upgrade their pitches or relocate to better venues because we want matches played in TV-friendly stadiums.”

Aluo praised referees for their efforts in ensuring credible officiating, which has contributed to the league’s growing popularity.

“I want to commend the referees for their job. It may not be 100% perfect, but officiating has been very good.

“Fans have also been wonderful, and their enthusiasm is attracting more people to NNL matches. We’re seeing crowds at NNL games almost as much as in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL). That’s a great sign for our growth.”

Regarding the NNL Super 8, Aluo confirmed that while the venue is yet to be finalized, it will be announced before the end of the league season: “We’re happy with the progress of the league, and we believe the second stanza will be even better. As for the Super 8, the venue will be announced before the league concludes.”

He also expressed gratitude to the media for their role in promoting the league’s positive image: “I want to thank the media for their unwavering support. They have been instrumental in driving the league forward, and with their continued backing, we will take the NNL to the next level.”

With these assurances, fans can look forward to a thrilling and competitive second stanza, as teams battle for promotion, relegation and a place in the NNL Super 8.

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