The Voice of Experience

Former Sports Ambassador Segun Odegbami has added his voice to the growing concerns about the integrity of the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) elections. The elections, set to take place next month, have been marred by allegations of irregularities and bias.

### A Lifetime of Dedication to Football

Segun Odegbami has been a stalwart of Nigerian football for over five decades. As an undergraduate student in 1973, he was invited to join the national team, the Green Eagles, a relationship that has remained unbroken to this day. He rose through the ranks to become Captain of the national team and Olympic Games contingent, and has served in various capacities, including as Chairman of the Governing Council of the National Institute of Sports.

### The Problem with NFF Elections

Odegbami has been vocal about the need for change in the NFF. 'The time has come to test my judgement and character, a burden that I must carry even in the evening of my life,' he said. 'I find that there is really nothing for me to lose in standing by what I believe are the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth!'

But what does this mean for the future of Nigerian football? 'The reality is that football administration in the past two decades, in particular, has not matched or complimented the level of talent and possible achievements,' Odegbami explained. 'The growth of our football industry has been stunted by faulty decisions taken more in ignorance than by any malicious intentions since the early part of the 1990s.'

### What's at Stake

The NFF elections have been criticized for being predetermined, with the outcome already decided in favor of certain individuals. Odegbami is not alone in his concerns, with many calling for a more transparent and inclusive process.

### What's Next?

As the elections draw near, the NFF must address the concerns of Odegbami and others. 'If we do not take concrete steps to reform our football administration,' Odegbami warned, 'we risk losing the trust of our fans and the confidence of the international community.'

### Key Facts:

  • Segun Odegbami was decorated as Sports Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in 1998.
  • He has been involved in Nigerian football for over five decades.
  • The NFF elections have been marred by allegations of irregularities and bias.
  • Odegbami has called for a more transparent and inclusive election process.
  • The NFF must address the concerns of Odegbami and others to avoid losing the trust of fans and the international community.

'I am raising my voice again, as Nigerians know me for my activities and contributions in sports and in football,' Odegbami said.