By Ohuakanwa Chibuzo
The Super Eagles’ quest for a historic fourth Africa Cup of Nations title in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire, has received substantial support through an unprecedented presidential “carte blanche” from President Bola Tinubu, as stated by Chief Olusegun Alalade, the chairman of Karamba Football Club in Osun State.
Praising the deliberate efforts of Tinubu and Minister of Sports Development John Enoh, Alalade expressed gratitude for the timely approval of funds, signaling a new era of hope and glory for the Super Eagles ahead of the AFCON.
Alalade, a financial expert and legal practitioner, emphasized the significance of President Tinubu’s administration in sports development, citing the recent release of N12 billion to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). This financial boost aims to settle outstanding debts, cover various allowances, and manage medical, travel, and accommodation expenses for the upcoming AFCON Championship.
As an involved club owner and sports administrator, Alalade asserted that the punctual funding underscores Tinubu’s genuine commitment to youth and sports development. He confidently declared it as the initiation of a promising era, showcasing a renewed dream and vision for the nation’s youth.
Describing Tinubu’s generous gesture as a bold step, Alalade characterized it as evidence of transformative leadership, positioning sports development as a potent unifying force. He encouraged proactive engagement with football club owners and sports philanthropists, advocating for special financial support at the grassroots level, considering the ongoing economic reforms.
Alalade urged the President, through the Minister of Sports, to prioritize the collective efforts and philanthropic contributions of club owners in nurturing local players for national duties. He emphasized the need for budget allocation aligned with President Tinubu’s welfare-oriented stance, addressing the challenges faced by club owners in preparing players for national competitions, including the impact of economic reforms on their responsibilities.
Alalade called for continued support and intervention from the Federal Government to alleviate the burdens faced by club owners, highlighting the costs associated with grooming local players and the vital role they play in contributing talent to represent Nigeria on the international stage.