The Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), His Excellency Rt. Comrade Philip Shaibu, has urged players of Plateau United Football Club to sustain their improved performance in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
Shaibu gave the charge earlier on Wednesday during an interactive session with the team in Jos, Plateau State along with the Commissioner for Sports, Plateau State during their training session where he commended the players for their recent resurgence in form after a difficult start to the season.
Speaking candidly, the former Deputy Governor and Bendel Insurance player noted his personal attachment to certain NPFL clubs, including Bendel Insurance, Plateau United and Enugu Rangers.
“There are three clubs I always watch in the NPFL, Bendel Insurance, Plateau United and Enugu Rangers, because I have a sentimental attachment to them,” Shaibu said on a lighter note.
He admitted that he was initially concerned about the performance of Bendel Insurance and Plateau United at the start of the current season.
“When the league started, I wasn’t happy with Bendel Insurance and Plateau United because of their poor performance. Both teams were struggling on the table. But now, I am happy, especially with the way they have turned things around. They still have the opportunity to win the title, and that is why I am encouraged,” he stated.
Shaibu also disclosed that during his meeting with Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, the governor spoke positively about the team’s recent improvement, an indication, he said, that the state’s leadership is closely monitoring and supporting the club’s progress.
“When I met your governor yesterday, he talked about your improvement. It shows he is truly watching you and your progress. Please keep up the performance,” he urged the players.
Emphasising the importance of discipline in football, Shaibu reminded the team that tactical execution depends largely on players’ commitment and adherence to instructions.
“As a footballer, you must be very disciplined. If you are not disciplined, you cannot play according to the tactical pattern of your coach. Discipline gives you direction and defines your pattern of play,” he said.
He further stressed the importance of teamwork, noting that modern football requires collective responsibility from all positions on the pitch.
“Football is teamwork. A striker cannot score without support from teammates. Even goalkeepers score goals these days. Everybody can be a scorer, midfielder, striker, defender, depending on the pattern of play,” he added.