Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State has attributed Nigeria’s disappointing “zero medal” outcome at the recent Paris Olympics to the failure of the Nigerian government. Fintiri voiced his concerns during a meeting with a delegation from the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), led by its president, Ibrahim Musa Gusau, in Yola on Thursday.
Expressing disappointment over the government’s neglect of sports, Governor Fintiri emphasized the sector’s significant potential to unite the nation and drive economic growth. He acknowledged that the failure was not solely the central government’s responsibility, noting that state and local governments also contributed to the “monumental failure.”
“The country’s ‘zero medal’ outing at the Olympic Games in Paris resulted from the government’s failure to provide athletes with the necessary facilities to develop their skills,” Fintiri stated.
The governor assured the NFF delegation that the state government is committed to completing an international sports complex in Adamawa by March 2025. He also pledged to invest in the sports industry, with plans to develop and export talent from the state.
Earlier in the meeting, NFF President Ibrahim Musa Gusau informed the governor that the delegation was in the state to inspect the ongoing stadium construction and encourage its timely completion. On the matter of hiring a new coach for the national team, the Super Eagles, Gusau said, “The process is a long one, but I can assure you that very soon, we’ll name a new coach for the team.”
Gusau also revealed that the Super Falconets, Nigeria’s female football team, are currently in camp and will be departing for Colombia in two weeks to participate in the 2024 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
During the meeting, Governor Fintiri was presented with a Super Eagles jersey, symbolizing the partnership between the Adamawa State government and the NFF.
Governor Fintiri’s comments underscore the urgent need for greater government support and investment in sports development to improve Nigeria’s performance in future international competitions. The ongoing construction of the stadium and the state’s commitment to nurturing local talent reflect Adamawa’s dedication to advancing sports and creating opportunities for young athletes.
