Bassey canvasses support for Pinnick-led NFF

African Football Confederation (CAF) General Coordinator, Paul Bassey, has appealed to Nigerians to support the current reforms embarked upon by the President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Amaju Pinnick.

A a statement released by the NFF on Sunday said the reforms had so far recorded “remarkable’’ successes.

It said that Bassey, a FIFA Match Commissioner spoke against the backdrop of improved reckoning of the country by the world football community as well over credible steps the board taken so far.

“We must begin to assess the impact of the new NFF administration in real terms.

“I am of the firm opinion that the recent appointment of Pinnick as Member of Organising Committee for the FIFA U-20 World Cup is the latest acknowledgement by world football,

“That the new NFF is projecting Nigeria football very well internationally.

“I look at the reforms being embarked upon by the Pinnick and I see the need for Government and every Nigerian to support this team. They are in the interest of our country’s football.

“I am not saying they should not be criticised when they make any wrong moves. What I am saying is that from what I can see, their moves are credible and innovative and they deserve support.

“Of course, if they make any wrong move, we should let them know and criticise constructively.

“I can see a lot of passion in what they are doing. There is synergy between the NFF and the League Management Company (LMC) and this is good for Nigerian football.

“For the first time ever, they got the Nigeria Stock Exchange to welcome a football figure to sound the closing gong on the floor of the NSE.

“They are also committed to transparency and accountability, which is why they are working with world renowned firms like Pricewaterhouse Coopers, Bain & Co and Financial Derivatives.

“In the boardroom, you see a young, energetic and dynamic team deliberating and coming up with great ideas for the development of the game.

“And the secretariat also makes flawless arrangements for our team’s travels for international matches and competitions. The committees are also allowed to function properly.

“They are not there yet, but they need our support and they will get there. I believe they have the capacity to deliver.

“Corporate Nigeria should assess their scorecard so far and wade in with greater support for Nigeria football,” the statement quoted Bassey, a CAF Instructor on Club Licensing as saying.