TheCable

Abba Yola, one of the aspirants aiming to replace Amaju Pinnick, the incumbent NFF president in the September 30 election, says he is totally committed to returning Nigeria football to a sustainable path.

Yola, who has gathered over 40 years of experience in Nigeria’s sports administration, outlined his vision for Nigeria’s football on Friday.

“I desire to see that Nigeria football is placed at par with other successful footballing countries and my administration as NFF president will commit itself fully to achieving this within a short time,” he said.

“As an establishment person, I shall also use my wide contacts in government to reach out to the corporate community with a view to encouraging them to invest in our football in the years ahead.”

He commended the outgoing Pinnick executive and the NFF congress for starting a sound transition process that he said would earn Nigeria plaudits from around the world.

“I believe the election will go smoothly and devoid of the rancour that used to dominate previous elections into the NFF board,” he said.

Yola, who is currently chief of staff to Sunday Dare, the sports minister, has imprints in football and basketball as well as being secretary for several local organising committees for major competitions in the country.