Gusau promises NFF support for futsal, beach soccer

In the frame of providing inspiration, support and encouragement to all aspects of the Nigeria Football sector to grow and attain some level of sustainability, the Ibrahim Musa Gusau-led NFF has pledged to support futsal and beach soccer to return to full-steam activities.

Speaking during a courtesy call by a team from Futsal Nigeria, a private entity that is partnering with the NFF officially to promote and project the game of futsal (5-A-Side football) in Nigeria, Gusau recalled that the country previously participated in a Futsal World Cup qualifying fixture against Egypt a decade ago, and has actually made its mark in beach soccer in the continent and globally before a deliberate hiatus some years ago.

“Some years ago, we decided to stop taking part in beach soccer at international level until such a time that we have grown the game locally with a stable league and clubs that have true passion for the game. I believe that we have achieved that now, and it is time that we encourage and support futsal and beach soccer again to return to full action.

“I am delighted that even FIFA is thinking of organizing a Futsal World Cup for women. Our country is blessed with talented footballers at all levels, men and women, and I am sure that even if we are not in the maiden edition, we will soon have a team that will qualify to participate in subsequent editions of the competition.”

Secretary of the NFF Futsal and Beach Soccer Committee, Abubakar Barde, said the committee was eager to see how to bring a new momentum to futsal and beach soccer in the country.

Shamsudeen Tijani Yusuf, Coordinator of Futsal Nigeria, stated that the company is determined to engender interest in 5-A-Side football in Nigeria, being a game that traverses both recreation and competition levels. “Futsal is a very interesting game and we believe our country can begin to make a serious impact at continental and global levels with the talents at our disposal.” He was in company with Futsal Nigeria’s Head of Communication and Strategy, Nurudeen Nyako and Head of Women in Futsal Nigeria, Miss Maryam Bukar.

He then presented T-Shirts and brochures to the NFF President and the General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi.

Also present at the event were NFF 1st Vice President, Chief Felix Anyansi-Agwu; NFF Executive Committee member, Alhaji Sharif Rabiu Inuwa; Director of Finance and Admin, Mr. Babatunde Akinsanya; Director of Communications, Mr. Ademola Olajire and Head of Marketing and Sponsorship, Mr. Alizor Chuks.