NSFA Chairman dismisses crisis claims, clarifies roles of FA and Coaches
NSFA Chairman dismisses crisis claims, clarifies roles of FA and Coaches
By Abubakar Hassan
The Chairman of the Niger State Football Association (NSFA), Comrade Ahmed Yusuf Fresh, has dismissed insinuation of a rift between the State FA and the state Football Coaches Association, insisting that there is no crisis between both bodies.
Speaking while receiving members of the Nationwide League One (NLO) Clubs Forum who paid him a courtesy visit at his residence in Minna, the FA Chairman emphasized that football administration operates within clearly defined rules, structures, and responsibilities.
According to him, the FA remains the custodian and administrator of football in the state, while coaches function as technical experts within the system.
He explained that coaches, as affiliates of the FA, are primarily responsible for imparting tactical knowledge, techniques, and strategies of the game to players, stressing that their role is distinct from administrative duties.
“Football is governed by rules, frameworks, and regulations, and every stakeholder has a defined role. Coaches are technical men, not administrators. Their duty is to train players and execute strategies on the field of play,” he said.
Comrade Fresh who is the Chairman of Chairmen of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) noted that attempts to blur these roles often lead to misunderstandings, adding that with time, all stakeholders would better appreciate the structure guiding football management in the state.
He reaffirmed the FA’s commitment to upholding professionalism and ensuring that all football activities are conducted in line with established guidelines.
The NSFA Chairman also commended the NLO Clubs Forum for organizing themselves and demonstrating commitment to the development of football, describing the forum as a welcome initiative, assuring them of the FA’s support, particularly in addressing key challenges such as registration, participation, and the sustainability of clubs in the league.
He further called for greater collaboration with the state government to ease the financial burden on clubs, especially in areas of logistics, accommodation, and general participation in the league. He noted that while paying participation fees is important, sustaining teams throughout the competition remains a major concern that requires collective effort.
Responding to the award presented to him by the forum, Comrade Ahmed Yusuf Fresh described it as a significant recognition, noting that it reflects the collective appreciation of football stakeholders across the state. He pledged to continue supporting initiatives that will advance the growth of the game.
Earlier, the Coordinator of the NLO Clubs Forum in the state, Mallam Tanko Bawa Mayaki, said the visit was aimed at strengthening collaboration with the FA and seeking support for clubs representing the state in the Nationwide League.
He acknowledged existing concerns within the football ecosystem but attributed them largely to role conflicts, particularly where some coaches attempt to assume administrative responsibilities.
He added that the forum was established with the approval of the FA Chairman to unify club owners and create a stronger platform for engagement with stakeholders, including the government.
The Coordinator also highlighted the financial challenges faced by clubs, noting that many struggle with registration fees, participation costs, and the overall sustainability of competing in the league, and appealed for greater government support, especially in easing the burden of logistics, accommodation, and other operational expenses.
Other members of the forum who made contributions during the visit emphasized the need for unity and adherence to established football structures in the interest of football development in the state
The high point of the visit was the presentation of an award to the NSFA Chairman by the forum in recognition of his leadership style and contributions to football development in the state.
