A one –time Vice Chairman of then Nigeria Football Association (NFF), Richard Nwabufor Obienu has thrown his weight behind the plans and programmes of the present NFF administration, headed by Amaju Melvin Pinnick.
The fiery administrator showered praises on the Amaju Pinnick –led NFF for the on-going reforms that have restored the credibility of the domestic League, improved Nigeria’s reckoning in the international football community and registered a rebirth in the various National Teams, among other groundbreaking feats.
[pull_quote_center]“I must say that I am truly impressed by the moves being made by the Amaju Pinnick –led NFF. I have been in the United States of America for some months but I have been following developments back home with keen interest.[/pull_quote_center]
[pull_quote_right]“I was here as vice chairman when the body was Nigeria Football Association (NFA), and I can tell you that it takes a courageous and focused team to initiate the reforms that we are witnessing.[/pull_quote_right]
“Everyone knows Obienu says it as it is, without minding whose ox is gored. But when I see good moves, I recognise them,” Obienu said on a visit to the NFF Secretariat on Thursday, where he met with the General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi and a number of members of Management.
“I am delighted at the way things are going: the commitment to transparency, accountability, integrity. The reforms are excellent, and I believe the choice of Sunday Oliseh as Super Eagles’ Head Coach is genuinely inspired,” the former vice chairman noted, recalling the events of 2002 Africa Cup of Nations where he stood by Oliseh despite the team captain’s castigation by top officials.
Obienu, who was saddled with the responsibility of ensuring Super Eagles’ qualification for the 2002 FIFA World Cup and was successful, called on Nigerians at home and in the diaspora to support the efforts of the NFF Board and Management.
“I appreciate that Nigerians are very passionate about sports, particularly football, and everyone has an opinion. But we must give a team that has shown focus and genuine intention the benefit of doubt. “They are not there yet, but with our support and prayers, they will take our football to a great level.”