Kalu gets NFF members support to vie for FIFA presidency

Former Abia State Governor, Orji Uzor Kalu’s dream of becoming the next FIFA president at the weekend received the support of the board members of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). But the board wants him to make a formal request for endorsement from the federation.

Speaking on the merits of having a Nigerian in charge of the world football governing body, a member of the NFF Technical Committee, Alhaji Yusuf Fresh, said Dr. Kalu’s achievement with Enyimba International of Aba while he held sway as the Abia State governor showed that given higher responsibility he would not be found wanting.

“I am enthusiastic and happy that Nigerians are starting to show interest in the top football position in the world. Dr. Orji Kalu has the right to contest for the FIFA job but he must get the endorsement of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

“He cannot aspire to contest without the backing of the NFF and if he seeks our support, we shall surely give him.

“He has countless of achievements to show from his performance as two-time Governor of Abia State. He made Enyimba what they are today because it was through his effort that Nigeria broke the CAF Champions League jinx. He won the competition twice as well as the CAF Super Cup.”

Also speaking on Kalu’s ambition, Alhaji Ahmed Mu’azu Kawu, who is also the chairman of the Nigeria Nationwide League (NNWL), said it is not abnormal, although but advised him to go through the proper channel to actualize the dream.

“I like the doggedness of Dr. Orji Kalu in aspiring to be the FIFA president. Of course, he’s qualified and has the record to back it up. But he has to go through the proper channel, that is seeking the clearance of the Nigeria Football Federation,” he said.