Nigerian Football
FOOTBALL ICON, ODEGBAMI MAKES PASSIONATE APPEAL OVER HIS GOVERNORSHIP CANDIDACY
Former Nigeria national football team captain and a continental icon, Segun Odegbami who has ventured into politics, has sent a passionate appeal to members of the sports community for support.
He is a candidate for governorship seat of Ogun State on the platform of Zenith Labour Party. His appeal in the form of an open letter to the sports constituency reads:
My dear Friends in Sports,
Some months ago, I took a major step that you all are likely to be aware of. I joined the train of Nigerian politics.
I understand the reaction of most of you in keeping a respectable distance from my unilateral decision by not openly associating with it in anyway, or even expressing an opinion, one way or the other. You all may also already have your political interests and affiliation.
I believe that had I informed you, or sought your opinion on the matter, it is most probable that you would have advised me to avoid the temptation, by all means, and not ventured to enter into the Lion’s den of Nigerian politics.
You would probably have correctly reminded me of our past general understanding of the relation between sports and politics. They never worked well together.
Strategically, those were the sentiments I did not want to hear at all at the time I took my decision.
Nigerian politics are not of the sort that, as a sportsman, an Olympian for that matter, I would ordinarily want to be associated with – the graft, the lies, the corruption, the intimidation, the treachery and betrayals, even killings -conducts and tendencies that do not work well with the values that we espouse in competitive sport – merit, transparency, equity, excellence, healthy competitiveness, fair play, clear rules and regulations, winning and losing graciously, friendship, discipline, honesty, equality, and integrity.
On the value scale, Sports and Politics are planets apart from each other.
So, for me to have unilaterally plunged into this obvious murky minefield means there must be more to my decision than meets the ordinary eye. Yes, indeed, there is.
The separation of Sport from politics in Nigeria has been responsible, in the main, for the stunted growth of an industry that should be thriving with the abundance of natural talent available. Sport has the capacity to make Nigeria a global superpower.
Through sport we could have united Nigerian people better, ‘laundered the image of the country better, taken a lot of our young boys and girls off the tracks of illiteracy, joblessness, drugs, prostitution, crime and uncontrolled emigration, and prepared them to pursue happiness through a sector they have a passion for, that engages them, creates global job opportunities for them,makes them healthy, wealthy and wise, empowers them, and imbibes in them the best of human values.
What we do now is deny the entire demography of young people entry into the opportunities to be productive on a global scale because of our myopic optic of the power of sport.
Through the decades, sport has continued to show the world glimpses of its ability to breakdown racial, social and religious barriers, and, through strategic deployment of its power and followership, to drive economic, political and cultural goals that can help in transforming Nigeria.
We have said a great deal through the years but have failed to move from ‘talk’ to ‘walk’.
Sport remains a wasting natural resource in Nigeria.
Previous political leaders have lacked the understanding to use it to drive national goals of development beyond winning athletic medals and trophies.
Intermittently between 1960 and 1980, Nigeria was actually on the right trajectory. The Olympics Games of 1980 was an unfortunate tipping point.
Since then, sport has been getting only the short end of the stick of government’s attention. Successive changes in government and in sports administration left the field with a deficit of human capacity and the vision to advance the cause.
Since then, major experienced and knowledgeable stakeholders have never been in position ofpower to influence, or even implement, their visions and ideas.
Sport,therefore, needs the fuel of political power to be able to burn brightly. Sport needs political power to will facilitate and implement advancement and development of the sector.
Sport is a driver as well as major contributor to the national economy, culture, tourism, diplomacy, infrastructural development, youth engagement and empowerment, and so on.
Since I ended my career as an active sports person, I have experienced the roles that sport can play in all the above sectors. In the eternal words of late Nelson Mandela in 1995, sport has the power to change the world.
There is a glaring disconnect between sport and government in taking advantage of what sport offers Nigeria and its army of youths in every cranny passionate about sport but wasting like beautiful flowers in the desert.
We cannot,therefore, stay away from politics and expect that things will change. Nothing will change unless we go in there and effect the change ourselves.
It is as simple as that. That’s my motivation for daring to break away from the norm and enter the lion’s den.
You all know me and my antecedents in and out of sport.
I have always being the ‘guinea pig’ in my own various ventures in sport, using the results of my work as testimonies of their efficacy, or failure.
Either way, the important thing has always been that I did something rather than prevaricate and play ‘siddon look’.
So, I am venturing again into politics, a new and unfamiliar terrain. I have painfully found out, to my chagrin, that it poses an exciting new kind of challenge that,with the support of my major constituencies (sport and the media), we can,together, surmount, make a difference and possibly change our world.
I assure you I am not motivated by vaulting ambition for power.
Neither is this a quest to amass wealth.
My intention is simple – to use sport, a territory I am very familiar with and for which I am eminently qualified, to drive a national development agenda.
I choose to start ‘small’, to emulate our ‘brother’, George Opong Weah of Liberia, and plant a political seed that will germinate quickly to establish in Ogun State the foundation of a new political paradigm in Nigeria.
My mission is that Ogun State will become the take-off point of a revolution using the power of sports and other related fields of entertainment that includes culture, music, arts, film, dance, drums, literature, hospitality, theatre and leisure, among others to initiate and undertake the fastest national development program driven by youths, in our history.
Starting from Ogun State, we can replicate the model and establish a continent-wide renaissance, an unaccomplished dream of Africa’s founding political fathers atIndependence from colonial rule around 60 years ago.
Their goal was to reclaim the dignity, respect and equality for the Black Race and Africans in the world.
In the general architecture of the world today, those goals can be attained quickly only through a cultural revolution, deploying the energy and passion for the arts, culture and sports to drive productivity and innovation, building an industry in the process that will be the fastest and most effective transformative tool in the world.
That’s why I am attempting, even against all the odds, to become the next governor of Ogun State where I come from.
I intend to use the State as both a laboratory and a launch pad, working with the best brains and talents across the sectors to make this dream become reality.
I shall soon have an interactive session with all members of our sports family in order to share my vision and mission in Ogun State. But until that happens, I am writing this to crave your understanding and support.
This is going o be a very daunting task, but I assure you that Sport has prepared me adequately for the challenges ahead. To me, ‘failure’ does not exist.
The will to win is the essential tonic that drives the spirit of hard work, single-mindedness, commitment, determination, never-say-die attitude, teamwork, humility, fair play, decency, honesty, integrity, discipline and dedication to the cause.
My ‘campaign’ started subtly a few days ago.
I am contesting for governorship of Ogun State. The party platform I am using is Zenith Labour Party. It is a new party, the last to be registered by INEC, the last party logo on the ballot paper, an empty structure waiting to soak in persons that embrace our simple motto – ThePeople, Our Priority.
I did not join any of the other major parties in order to be able to get to this point where I can even contest without carrying any existing or future burdens as result ofGodfather(s), political patrons, political funders and investors, and so on.
We are setting up new structures across the State, populated by disenfranchised people, people living with physical disabilities, civil servants, retirees, restless youths,women, and the elderly.
I humbly invite you to support me in any way, join me, or simply just watch me without shooting me down.
Your compatriot,
Segun Odegbami
As the countdown begins for the commencement of the 2026/27 Nigeria’s lead football league’s season, strategic partners of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), GTI Asset Management & Trust Limited, have welcomed plans by the National Sports Commission (NSC) and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to significantly increase the prize money for Nigeria’s top-flight football competition, describing the move as a major step towards strengthening the domestic game.
The proposed increase, recently announced by the country’s football authorities, is expected to enhance competition among clubs and improve the league’s attractiveness to investors and corporate sponsors.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, GTI’s Head of Media and Publicity, Andrew Ekejiuba, said the initiative demonstrated a renewed commitment by Nigerian sports administrators to reposition the NPFL as a commercially viable and globally competitive league.
“GTI commends this progressive initiative. Increasing the NPFL prize money sends a strong statement of intent that will undoubtedly motivate clubs, improve competitiveness and send the right signals to investors and stakeholders about the future of Nigerian football,” Ekejiuba said.
He added that additional financial support from the NSC would further strengthen league operations and accelerate ongoing reforms.
GTI, which has been involved in the league’s restructuring and commercial development over the past four years, also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting efforts aimed at transforming the NPFL into one of Africa’s leading football competitions.
According to Ekejiuba, the company has worked alongside the NPFL Board to improve corporate governance, enhance commercial opportunities and increase investor confidence in the league.
“The contributions of GTI Group cannot be overlooked. Over the last four years, we have remained steadfast in supporting the NPFL and helping to lay the foundation for a more structured, commercially viable and globally competitive football league,” he said.
The company stressed that collaboration among the NSC, NFF, NPFL Board and private-sector stakeholders would be critical to sustaining progress.
While welcoming the planned increase in prize money, GTI cautioned that deeper structural reforms would still be required to unlock the league’s full potential.
“It is not yet time to celebrate because there is still a great deal of work to be done,” Ekejiuba said.
He identified improved governance, club licensing, infrastructure development, broadcast production, content and data management, financial accountability and fan engagement as key areas requiring continued attention.
GTI said its long-term objective remains the creation of an accountable and transparent football ecosystem capable of attracting greater corporate investment and sponsorship into Nigerian football.
The company also noted that the current financial value of the NPFL, including the recently announced grant support, represents only a fraction of the league’s potential earnings.
“This collaboration between the NSC and NFF further complements the efforts of the NPFL Board and GTI. We welcome more partners to join this transformation journey because the current value, including the grant recently announced, represents less than two per cent of the league’s overall potential revenues which we expect to unlock over the next five years,” Ekejiuba said.
The latest endorsement from GTI comes as stakeholders intensify efforts to improve the commercial profile of the NPFL and position it as a stronger contributor to the growth of Nigeria’s football industry.
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Prominent Nigerians from all walks of life gathered at Saint Stephen’s Cathedral, Modakeke, on Friday to pay their final respects to former Super Eagles coach and ex-Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Technical Director, Chief Adegboye Onigbinde, whose burial rites drew dignitaries from across the country.
The solemn ceremony attracted top government officials, traditional rulers, political leaders, academics, philanthropists, religious figures, business executives, retired civil servants, former Nigeria internationals and football administrators, all united in celebrating the life and legacy of one of Nigeria’s most influential football personalities.
Tributes poured in for the late tactician, remembered as a pioneer who broke barriers for indigenous coaches in Nigerian football. Onigbinde was the first Nigerian coach to lead the country’s senior national team to the Africa Cup of Nations final and the first indigenous coach to take the Super Eagles to the FIFA World Cup finals.
Clergy members who officiated at the funeral service described the Modakeke High Chief as a man of integrity, discipline and service, whose influence extended beyond Nigeria to the global football community.
Beyond his achievements with the national team, Onigbinde served as Technical Adviser to the Trinidad and Tobago Football Association and later rose to become a Technical Advisor to FIFA.
Representing the NFF, former Super Eagles captain and current Technical Director, Augustine Eguavoen, paid glowing tribute to the late coach, describing him as a mentor who played a significant role in shaping his football career.
“Chief Onigbinde had a tremendous impact on my footballing career,” Eguavoen said. “He was a pathfinder who elevated the status of indigenous coaches through his intellect, professionalism and dedication to the game.
“The NFF recognises and appreciates his immense service to our country. He rose to the pinnacle of the coaching profession through hard work, discipline and commitment. He was a towering figure in coaching, not only in Nigeria but globally.
“He was the first Nigerian to lead our Eagles to silver medals at the Africa Cup of Nations and the first indigenous coach to guide the team at the FIFA World Cup. Even after retirement, he continued to contribute immensely as a resource person during NFF coaching programmes. His legacy is enduring and impressive.”
Eguavoen added that the nation and the football community would continue to cherish the contributions of the late coach while praying for the peaceful repose of his soul.
Former Nigeria captain and member of the NFF Technical and Development Committee, Dr Felix Owolabi, also extolled Onigbinde’s qualities, describing him as a courageous leader, an exceptional mentor and a man of unquestionable integrity whose knowledge of football earned him widespread respect.
Among those present at the funeral were former NFF General Secretary Ambassador Fanny Amun, NFF Director of Communications Dr Ademola Olajire, former Super Eagles captain Mutiu Adepoju, representatives of the Osun State Government, traditional rulers, former international players and ex-members of Shooting Stars Sports Club of Ibadan, where Onigbinde made a lasting impact both as coach and administrator.
Dignitaries, football administrators, former internationals, traditional rulers and community leaders attend the burial rites of former Super Eagles coach and ex-Nigeria Football Federation Technical Director, Chief Adegboye Onigbinde, at Saint Stephen’s Cathedral, Modakeke, Osun State, on Friday, paying tribute to one of Nigeria’s most influential football figures.
The Nigeria Football Federation also demonstrated its support for the family by making a financial contribution towards the funeral arrangements.
Widely regarded as one of the architects of modern Nigerian coaching, Chief Onigbinde leaves behind a rich legacy of service, excellence and pioneering achievements that helped shape the development of football in Nigeria and beyond.
For many gathered in Modakeke on Friday, the farewell was not only a burial ceremony but also a celebration of a life devoted to the growth of the beautiful game.
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Nigerian Football
Osimhen Clarifies Absence from Super Eagles Friendlies, Dismisses Transfer Speculation
Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen has moved to clarify the circumstances surrounding his absence from the Super Eagles’ forthcoming international friendly matches against Poland and Portugal, insisting that recent comments by head coach Eric Chelle were misunderstood.
The Galatasaray forward will not be part of Nigeria’s squad for the two high-profile friendlies this month, a development that sparked speculation after Chelle suggested that the striker was focused on resolving issues relating to a possible transfer.
While explaining the absence of key players from his squad, Chelle remarked that Osimhen could be on the verge of changing clubs, prompting widespread reports linking the Nigerian star to a move away from Turkish champions Galatasaray.
“We miss two players because Victor Osimhen may be about to change clubs,” Chelle had said.
The comments fuelled fresh speculation about the future of the 27-year-old striker, who has been linked with several top European clubs following another prolific season in Turkey.
However, Osimhen has now sought to calm the situation, revealing that he personally contacted the Super Eagles coach to discuss the remarks and clear up any misunderstanding.
In a statement posted on his Instagram Story, the Nigerian international stressed that Chelle’s comments had been taken out of context and did not reflect any intention to create controversy surrounding either his future or Galatasaray.
“I just got off the phone with Coach Eric Chelle regarding the comments about me in his recent interview,” Osimhen wrote.
“Unfortunately, his words have been taken out of context and blown out of proportion. He has great respect for Galatasaray, follows most of our games, and never intended to create any controversy.
“I appreciate the conversation, the opportunity to always represent my country, and I look forward to continuing to work with him. He is a great coach whom I respect a lot, and I kindly ask everyone to disregard the speculation surrounding this matter.”
Osimhen’s statement effectively confirms that his absence from the friendlies against Poland and Portugal should not be interpreted as a sign of tension with the national team setup. Rather, it appears to be a mutually understood arrangement as the striker manages personal and professional commitments during the transfer window.
The former Napoli star remains a central figure in Chelle’s plans as Nigeria continues preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign and the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
For now, the Super Eagles will take on Poland and Portugal without their leading marksman. Still, Osimhen has reaffirmed both his commitment to Nigeria and his strong working relationship with the national team coach.
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Samson Adamolekun
December 17, 2018 at 2:18 am
I wish you a divine intervention and all-around victory in this herculean task in Jesus name,I once said in this platform that if George Weah can rise to become President of Liberia, it is also achievable for you.
Congratulations .
Samson Adamolekun
December 17, 2018 at 2:30 am
Dear Segun Odegbami, please I need to advise you more on this, let your campaign slogan assure the residents of Otta, Lafenwa, Itelle, Obasanjo farm area that you will give attention to road infrastructure if elected, all the roads that connect Lagos through Ayobo, Ayetoro from Otta were neglected by Gov. Amosun, you need to do it and complement what Governor Ambode did around the area. This is a fact that must not be neglected because the people are angry, the roads are death trap.
Sport loving youth will be glad to hear you talk on this.
Best of luck.