Confederation of Africa Football (CAF) head of safety and security and Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Presidential aspirant, Dr. Christian Emeruwa has assured Nigerians that he would run an all-inclusive government where everyone would be a stakeholder and contribute to football development if he wins the NFF election.
The Sports administrator made the remarks during an interview on 103 sports programmes monitored by Platinumnewsng.com on Wednesday morning.
Dr. Emeruwa sympathized with the struggles of the player union and he spoke at length on possible solutions to the unending crisis of ‘exclusion’ bedevilling Nigeria Football.
“You know, we we we must stop this idea of exclusion. We say that football is big enough for everyone to be involved in and I am coming to build a viable football economy where players would be one of the key drivers because without them we will not start any football in the first instance.
“They (Players Union) have a reason for advocating for inclusion in the entire system, and I agree with their postulation that they need to be included.
“And there’s probably an agitation, to have more representation and to have a voice around the table where decisions are made. I think it’s it’s good because you need every football member to be represented around the table when you are discussing football matters and players are key, players key.
“To talk about coaches will also be key drivers because without a good coach you cannot have good players. So we have to develop the capacity of our coaches and also the administrators because Nigeria in the last 30 years Nigeria has not changed any Secretary of State Football Association and these are the people helping to organize the various league games across the country.” Emeruwa said.
Speaking on the various factions of the player union, Dr. Emeruwa proposed a viable solution to both parties, speaking about how he intends to unite them.
“I have spoken to the leadership of both the Professional Footballers Association of Nigeria which is led by Babangida, as well as the other group, you know, which is led by a gentleman from Kogi State.
“And I have told both groups that if I become when I become the President, they will have to come together. We cannot be dealing with two different players’ unions. We need one formidable, strong players union that will be affiliated with people and that will now be fully responsible for promoting and developing the ideas of players’ interest within the territory of Nigeria. This is how it is done.” Emeruwa concluded.