Bode Alabi backs Odegbami to lead NFF

NBode Alabi backs Odegbami to lead NFF

...Calls for fresh sustainable direction in Nigerian football

The President of TSM Football Academy, Epe, Lagos, Bode Alabi, has called for the former Nigeria international, Segun “Mathematical” Odegbami, to be given the opportunity to lead the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) following the ongoing reorganisation of Nigerian football administration.

Alabi believes Odegbami’s illustrious playing career, administrative experience and long-standing advocacy for reforms make him a strong candidate to provide a new direction for the country’s football.

In a statement titled “From the Green Eagles to the Glasshouse: Why Segun Odegbami’s Vision Can Redefine Nigerian Football,” Alabi described the former Green Eagles captain as a figure whose experience cuts across both the playing and administrative sides of the game.

Odegbami was a key member of Nigeria’s historic 1980 Africa Cup of Nations-winning team and played a leading role in the country’s maiden continental triumph on home soil.

According to the Ondo State born football stakeholder, Odegbami’s achievements on the pitch, combined with decades of advocacy for better football administration, grassroots development and improved governance, have prepared him for a leadership role at the NFF.

“His journey represents a unique intersection of legendary on-pitch success and decades of critical administrative advocacy,” Alabi noted.

He further pointed to Odegbami’s 2015 bid for the FIFA presidency as evidence of his ambition to contribute to football governance at the highest level.

Alabi, a maritime consultant also praised Odegbami’s continued involvement in Nigerian football through broadcasting, writing and youth development, arguing that such engagement gives him a strong understanding of the challenges confronting the sport.

The TSM Football Academy president believes Odegbami’s leadership could help address what he described as longstanding structural problems, including grassroots development, transparency, electoral reforms and player welfare.

He also stressed that Odegbami’s reputation for integrity could help rebuild confidence between football stakeholders, players and supporters.

With the NFF undergoing reorganisation, Alabi believes the moment presents an opportunity for a new leadership philosophy focused on sustainable development rather than short-term solutions.

He called for a system that prioritises grassroots football, modern infrastructure, transparent governance and better environments for players and coaches, insisting that Nigeria possesses the talent to return to the top echelon of African football.

Alabi, stressed that the transition from the legendary Green Eagles captain to the Glass House could represent more than a change of leadership, it could signal a new chapter for Nigerian football.