We are accountable to people – NFF

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has reiterated its commitment to building a transparent federation that is interactive with people and open to constructive criticism.

Speaking in Lagos on Wednesday, the President of the body, Amaju Pinnick affirmed that the transparency of the glasshouse is what is attracting sponsors to them continually, as they aim to take football sponsorship from the government, but there is need to consolidate the relationship between the NFF and sponsors the more.

According to Pinnick, “We are accountable to people. We want to build a very robust football federation that is quite interactive, where people can even criticize us constructively and advise us on steps to take, to be much more successful.

Explaining the transparency of the football house, Pinnick said “Sponsors do not have anything to lose, if they leave us alone. So we need to convince them, and tell them why they should put money into football.

“They were very happy seeing our financial details of the year published in various newspapers. What more proof do you need to show that you are working with people with credibility?”

Pinnick further refuted claims that the Super Falcons are neglected, and more attention is given to the Super Eagles.  He accepted that the body truly did not start well with the female team, but believes that everyone is now happy.

“I only make people understand that there are some points (like the 208 World Cup) where we need to focus on our main brand, the Super Eagles. The Super Falcons are the most successful female football team in World Football, not just in Africa. They have nine African titles, Germany has eight in Europe and the United States has eight in CONCACAF.

“I take responsibility that we did not start well with the Super Falcons, but so far, we have made them happy and every promise we have made to them has been fulfilled” he said.