Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau has challenged the new board of the Nigeria National League (NNL) to ensure equity, justice and fair play in running the affairs of the league.
Mutfwang threw the challenge on Friday when he declared open the 14th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Nigeria National League (NNL) in Jos.
The governor, who was represented by Commissioner for Youths and Sports, Lawandi Datti said that the league would thrive better if the board conducted its activities transparently with fairness and justice.
“I see the new board of the NNL with its composition of quality, viable and men of integrity.
“I honestly believe that with this composition, the NNL is positioned to change the trajectory in the administration of football not only in Nigeria but in Africa as a whole.
“I therefore challenge the board to ensure equity, justice and fair play in running the affairs of the league,” he said.
He congratulated the NFF for qualifying for the next edition of the Africa Cup of Nations competition tagged “Cote d’Ivoire 2023.”
He said that the feat achieved by the national female team, The Super Falcons in last Female World Cup was also worthy of mentioning.
Mutfwang said that he was greatly humbled by the board’s choice of Jos to host the 14” edition of NNL AGM.
The governor said that the decision had given him confidence that his administration’s efforts to reposition and improve sports and football in particular, was fast gaining recognition by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the board of the NNL in particular.
He stated that in the past, Jos and indeed Plateau used to be hub of Nigeria Football, having produced great footballers like Segun Odegbami, Felix Owolabi, the Ateugbus, Bendict Akwuegbu, Ahmed Musa and Michel Obi.
He added that the state also produced great coaches like Samiala Mabo of blessed memory, and a host of others.
According to him, it is the resolve of his administration to restore the lost glory of football in Plateau.
“I am aware that no football league world-wide can strive without huge financial investment.
“It is on this note that Plateau Government is making a commitment to invest heavily in the development of football in the state.
“At the moment the state boasts of clubs like Plateau Unitd FC in the Nigeria Premier League (NPFL), and Mighty Jet FC in the NNL and a host of other clubs in the Nationwide League.
“Consequently, we shall continue to invest in grassroots football development, while ensuring that our own football team, Mighty Jet FC, gain promotion to the NPFL at the end of this football season,” he added.
Mr Chidi Okonkwo, President, Nigeria National League Club Owners and Managers Association pledged to work with the board for the success of the league.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that managers and owners of the 40 clubs billed to participate in the 2023/2024 NNL season, attended the AGM.
