Attempts to ‘remove’ Dr. Mohammed Sanusi as General Secretary of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) were unsuccessful on Friday as the 2024 Annual General Assemble of the Federation ended in Asaba, Delta State.
There were speculations before the AGA that Sanusi’s tenure elongation might be punctured. Dr, Sanusi is the longest-serving General Secretary in history having been in office from March 30, 2015 making 3,476 days or nine years six months and four days. His closest rival in tenure, Sani Toro, served from December 21, 1993 to May 3, 1999 (five years, six months and 12 days).
The Guardian learnt on Friday that the issue of Sanusi’s tenure elongation was treated as an ‘in-house’ at the 2024 AGA, which took place at the Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba.
One of the state football association chairmen, who attended the AGA revealed to The Guardian in a telephone conversation on Friday that Sanusi retained his position as NFF Scribe. “Sanusi has retained his position as SG. I will give you more details later,” he said.
NFF President, Ibrahim Gusau told curious journalists at the end of the AGA that it was not the duty of the AGA to discuss Sanusi’s tenure saying: “We will treat that at the NFF Board level.”
Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu has issued a strong directive to the NFF to ensure the Super Eagles, not only qualifies for the 2026 FIFA World Cup but also wins the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
This mandate was delivered by the Minister of Sports, John Enoh, during the AGA in Asaba. In his address, Enoh emphasised the importance of the NFF’s commitment to national football development, particularly in bringing success to all national football teams under its supervision. He urged the NFF leadership to adopt a focused and strategic approach in order to achieve these lofty targets, as the nation’s football reputation rests heavily on the performance of the Super Eagles and other teams.
The NFF President, in his speech, affirmed that the board is working diligently to ensure the success of all levels of football teams, from youth to senior categories. He stressed that the federation is leaving no stone unturned to enhance the chances of success for each squad under its jurisdiction.
Delta State Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Oyeme, who represented Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, reaffirmed the state’s commitment to providing conducive environment for sports development.
He assured that Delta State will continue to support all sporting federations, creating opportunities for growth and excellence across various disciplines.
