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By Rasaq Oboirien
The traditional ruler of Isheri-Olofin Kingdom in Alimosho, Lagos State, HRM Oba Dr. Ibrahim Olasunkanmi Lawal-Bello (Olanwa I, Olofin V), has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to instruct Local Government Councils to enhance sports investments by building infrastructure and employing certified coaches to train players and athletes. This way, youths can pursue careers in sports, especially considering their rich monthly budget allocations.
Speaking with The Sun Sports in an interview at his palace, His Royal Majesty and President of Bucknor FC gave his candid views on how grassroots football and sports can help Nigeria a lot.
“Nigeria’s football sector is in a dire state, from grassroots to national teams (both male and female). Within a year, our football has deteriorated to the point that the Super Eagles failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, as they did in Qatar 2022. The Super Falcons lost their WAFCON title in Morocco and missed the Women’s World Cup slot to South Africa, while the Flying Eagles (U20) did not qualify for the AFCON in Ghana.
“As a stakeholder, I believe urgent solutions are needed starting from the grassroots. The resignation of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President and some executive members is a positive step, as the system needs reform.
“Grassroots football and sports require immediate attention. As the traditional ruler of Isheri-Olofin, I now have closer contact with my mainly youth population—over 70 percent. The government should develop policies and models that promote sports as a viable career for young people. Our age-grade teams, U17 and U20, struggle to qualify from the WAFU Zone, indicating how much Nigeria’s football has declined.
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“Challenges include poor preparation, inadequate scouting, and hiring the wrong coaches. Coaches for youth teams should have a developmental background; appointing results-focused coaches creates issues.
“Addressing these issues doesn’t require rocket science—just grassroots football development. Local Government Councils, now autonomous in allocating funds, must prioritise grassroots sports as part of their mandate.
“I urge President Tinubu to direct all Local Government Councils to establish sports structures. For example, Alimosho, one of Nigeria’s largest LGAs, lacks proper sporting facilities. Youths travel long distances for training, which hampers talent development. When each LGA or LCDA has accessible facilities, it will help coaches identify emerging talents early.
“Furthermore, the Lagos State Government, through the Sports Commission, and local leaders in Alimosho should view sports and facilities as essential for youth development. Sports are not just recreation; they are a billion-dollar industry capable of transforming lives and increasing community revenue.
“Most youths possess football skills, indicating vast grassroots talent. With proper programs, Nigeria can discover future stars like Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Wilfred Ndidi from various LGAs and LCDAs. Remember, Super Eagles legend Taiye Taiwo hails from Isheri-Olofin Kingdom.”
Oba Dr. Ibrahim Olasunkanmi Lawal-Bello also believes that a quick fix for Nigerian football is unlikely; instead, gradual improvement is key. He is optimistic that President Tinubu will appoint competent persons to lead the NFF Normalisation Committee, ensuring sustainable progress.
