Shehu Dikko’s support boosting activities of Abuja All Stars – Team manager Abaya Musa
Shehu Dikko’s support boosting activities of Abuja All Stars – Team manager Abaya Musa
Former Nigerian footballer and Team Manager of All Stars International Abuja, Abaya Musa, has praised the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, for his continued support towards veterans football activities in the country.
Speaking on the objectives and activities of the Abuja All Stars team, Abaya Musa explained that the association was created to unite retired footballers and football lovers while promoting healthy living among former players.
According to him, the initiative has helped many ex-internationals and retired players stay active and avoid health challenges through regular exercise and social engagement.
“All Stars of Abuja comprises veterans who have played and retired from football and also people who love to be around the game. We make it a process that keeps many ex-internationals away from health challenges because they continue to exercise and play football,” he said.
The former defender further disclosed that several programmes and activities have been lined up to continuously engage members, while commending Shehu Dikko for creating an enabling environment for veterans football to thrive.
“We have a lot of activities lined up to engage our people, and Mallam Shehu Dikko makes sure a lot of things are made easy for the veterans so there won’t be challenges,” Abaya Musa added.
Reflecting on modern football, the former defender lamented the decline in passion and discipline among some present-day players compared to his generation.
According to him, football during their era was driven more by passion and dedication rather than financial rewards.
“Then, we played football with passion and love for the game. Nowadays, some players are distracted by betting, partying, social media and other things affecting their careers,” he stated.
Abaya Musa, who was regarded as one of the strong defenders of his era, noted that intelligence and discipline helped players of his generation succeed at the highest level.
The former central defender featured for notable clubs including Folly Babes, Manchester United, Pako FC, Crown FC, Katsina United, Shooting Stars SC, OUK FC, Enyimba FC and also had a stint with S.S. Lazio before returning to Nigeria to conclude his playing career with Kwara United.
