The Nigeria Football Federation held an unprecedented send-off ceremony to honour the Management and Staff members who retired between 2019 and the present.
This event, a first in the history of the NFF, saw retirees receiving financial benefits as part of their farewell package.
Among those honoured were prominent figures such as Mr. Bola Oyeyode, the former Director of Competitions; Mr. Lawrence Katken, a former Chief Operating Officer of the Nigeria National League; and Mr. Babatunde Akinsanya, who once served as Director of Finance & Administration.
Other notable retirees included Dr. Robinson Okosun, Mr. Siji Lagunju, and Mr. Abdulrafiu Yusuf, all of whom served as Deputy Directors in the Technical Department, as well as Mr. John Adelowo and Mr. Karim Bako, who were Deputy Directors in the Accounts Department. Additional honourees included Mr. Sunday Okayi, Mr. Emmanuel Adesanya, and Mrs. Edith Uzoechi, bringing the total number of retirees celebrated to 20.
Speaking at the event, NFF General Secretary Dr. Mohammed Sanusi emphasized the Federation’s commitment to recognizing and rewarding the dedication of its staff.
He stated, “The present NFF administration will always be intentional about rewarding hard work, diligence, productivity, creativity, and enterprise. Management and Staff should always have it in mind that the interest of the Federation (and that of Nigeria Football, on the general plane) is paramount.”
Sanusi further expressed his admiration for the retirees, noting, “I congratulate those who have retired that we are celebrating today, and I pray that they continue to thrive in good health and sound mind in their different endeavors.”
Representing the retirees, Babatunde Akinsanya praised the NFF President, Ibrahim Gusau, and his administration for their thoughtful gesture.
Akinsanya remarked that this initiative would leave a lasting legacy, benefiting future retirees, whether they retire upon reaching the age of 60 or after serving the nation for 35 years.
He commended the leadership, stating, “Posterity will be kind to the present leadership for instituting something that will eventually benefit every member of staff whenever they retire.”
The event not only celebrated the retirees’ contributions but also set a positive example for current staff, reinforcing the message that their service and commitment will be duly acknowledged and rewarded.
