Lagos State Football Association (LSFA) chairman, Hajji Gafar Olawale Liameed, has been strongly endorsed by a prominent grassroots football administrator for a position on the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) executive committee, Naija Footy reports.
The endorsement comes from Pastor Oscar Ezinwa Emmanuel, Secretary-General of the Nigerian Grassroots Football Federation (NGFF), who praised Liameed as a seasoned and capable football leader with the necessary attributes for the role.
Emmanuel’s support followed Liameed’s official announcement to vie for the South West representative seat on the NFF Executive Committee at the federation’s elective congress set to occur in Abuja next month.
In a statement under the title “The Best and Well-Prepared Man for the Job,” the NGFF secretary-general encouraged football stakeholders across the South West to back Liameed, highlighting his vast experience and contributions to football advancement.
Emmanuel mentioned that his relationship with Liameed has lasted over 20 years, offering him insights into Liameed’s dedication, expertise, and passion for the sport.
He asserted that Liameed brings the commitment, experience, and managerial skills necessary for meaningful contributions at the highest levels of Nigerian football administration.
Liameed’s work with the LSFA and his initiatives such as founding 36 Lion FC were emphasized as experiences that have familiarized him with various facets of football administration and growth.
The NGFF official further applauded Liameed’s grassroots football contributions, including interaction with stakeholders, support for coaches, and efforts to elevate football education standards.
Emmanuel highlighted Liameed’s consistent support for young coaches, referees, and administrators, noting his financial aid that enables them to attend training programs, refresher courses, and professional development seminars.
He also pointed out that Liameed’s grassroots initiatives have opened doors for players, coaches, referees, and administrators to gain practical experience through tournaments and other football activities.
According to Emmanuel, several talents who have surfaced from these initiatives have gone on to significantly impact the domestic game, with Liameed also instrumental in identifying players who later represented Nigeria at various national team levels.
Considering these accomplishments, Emmanuel expressed confidence that Liameed would offer substantial value to the NFF Executive Committee if elected.
He urged football stakeholders in the South West to support the LSFA chairman, citing his extensive network, grassroots relationships, international connections, administrative experience, club management background, and talent identification record.
Emmanuel further described Liameed as a proficient administrator in football association matters, tournament management, player development, and coach relations.
He encouraged delegates and other stakeholders eligible for the electoral process to endorse Liameed with their support and vote at the upcoming NFF congress in Abuja.
