NFF/Sport Ministry: The Key To Uniting Nigerians Through Football

By Adewale Ajayi 

The average Nigerian wakes up daily, thinking of how to fulfil a dream of three square meals per day. The harsh economy reality is seriously haunting every Nigerian home. The rich is no longer comfortable and the poor is finding life even more complicated. 

At a time like this, there is need for intervention. The Nigerian government has continued to use all available platforms to pacify the masses but all propagandas are falling on deaf ears. 

Just when it seem that all hopes are lost, the Nigeria ministry of youth and sports development,  in conjuction with the Nigeria football federation, in the buildup to Tuesday's vital World Cup qualifier between the Super Eagles of Nigeria and the Black Stars of Ghana are ignorantly using football to unite Nigerians once again. 

For the first time in many years, Nigerians from all walks of life are united for one reason, which is, supporting the Super Eagles to victory on Tuesday. 

Nigerians from the North, South, East and West have embarked on the long trip to Abuja, putting behind them their many problems, forgetting their many worries, all because of football. They are happy that for ones, they have a reason to come together, sing and dance in one voice and hopefully win together. 

The sports Ministry and the Nigeria football federation have combined to reduce the burden on these fans by paying for the gate fees of over 20,000 football fans and providing buses that will convey them from  their doorsteps to the match venue. 

As if that is not enough, they have also created a very conducive environment for private individuals to join the train and help bring smiles on the faces of Nigerians. 

Africa Pillar of Sports, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu was the first to doll out ten million naira for the purchase of 5000 match tickets for football fans to watch the games from the popular side on Tuesday. 

Nigeria Pillar of sports, chief Donatus Ejidike is also giving out 2000 tickets for same purpose. 

The office of the head of service of the federation, has also declared Tuesday March 29 as half day for all civil servants in Nigeria, to enable them  have enough time to be at the stadium and support the Super Eagles against their perennial rivals, the Black stars of Ghana

The Supporters club, the media and all stakeholders of football are united for a common goal. In the last 12 years or more, Nigerians have not been this united, nothing has brought everyone this close than football and it is looking as if this unity will pave way for victory and a ticket to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. 

If it does happen, everyone must recognize and appreciate the role of individuals and organizations like the sports Ministry and NFF in making this huge dream a reality