Edo State football, long affected by years of neglect and structural decline, is undergoing a steady and notable revival under the current leadership of the Edo State Football Association (EDO FA), led by its Chairman, Mr Fred Newton Erhunmwunse.
For over 15 years, football development in the state suffered from the absence of a clear vision and structured programmes. Competitive activities were irregular, the State FA Cup was often difficult to organise, and vital capacity-building initiatives—such as training for coaches, referees, and players’ welfare —were largely neglected. These gaps left the football ecosystem stagnant and disconnected from national development pathways.
That narrative began to change with the emergence of Erhunmwunse as Chairman of EDOFA. Since assuming office, his administration has introduced reforms aimed at restoring structure, competitiveness, and long-term planning to football in the state. Organised football activities have been reintroduced, with a strong emphasis on grassroots engagement and sustainable development.
In recent months, multiple grassroots and competitive tournaments have been staged across Edo State, creating regular platforms for players to develop and gain exposure. These competitions have also attracted increased participation from former international players, football administrators, local authorities, and private stakeholders, many of whom have invested resources into talent discovery and youth-focused programmes.
As a result, confidence in the Edo football system is gradually being restored. Young talents now have clearer pathways to showcase their abilities, while the state is increasingly being recognised as an emerging hub for football development in Nigeria. What was once a dormant system is becoming more vibrant, competitive, and forward-looking.
The progress recorded at the state level has also begun to attract national attention. In a strategic move to consolidate Edo State’s rising profile, Erhunmwunse recently held a high-level meeting with the President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, in Morocco. The engagement focused on strengthening football administration, enhancing grassroots development, and aligning Edo State’s initiatives with national football development objectives.
Discussions centred on improved collaboration between the NFF and State Football Associations, talent identification frameworks, stronger league structures, and sustainable development models. The EDO FA Chairman briefed the NFF President on ongoing reforms in Edo State while seeking institutional backing to further deepen the gains already recorded.
Alhaji Gusau commended the proactive approach, describing the engagement as timely and forward-thinking. He reaffirmed the NFF’s commitment to supporting progressive State Football Associations that demonstrate clarity of purpose and commitment to grassroots growth, noting that such initiatives are critical to the long-term success of Nigerian football.
Beyond the meeting itself, the engagement further highlighted Erhunmwunse’s leadership style—one defined by focus, foresight, and strategic intent. At a time when many would prioritise leisure while abroad, he chose instead to engage national football authorities on issues directly impacting development back home. This has reinforced perceptions of his administration as one driven by planning, accountability, and national relevance.
The renewed national attention is expected to boost confidence among potential sponsors and development partners, who are more likely to engage with a system that enjoys institutional support and clear direction. With credibility comes opportunity, and Edo State football now appears better positioned to attract sustainable investment.
Looking ahead, stakeholders and football enthusiasts will be watching closely as talent discovery, grassroots expansion, coaches’ capacity enhancement, and empowerment initiatives continue to take centre stage under the current EDO FA leadership.
Indeed, Edo State football is entering a new chapter—one marked by positive hope, stronger structures, and a growing sense of purpose for the benefit of the people of Edo State and the future of the game.