Despite admitting he is an underdog ahead of the 2022 NFF elections slated for September 30 in Benin City, Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly member Hon. Nse Essien has said that his passion for youth development is one of the reasons that has spurred his desire to become a Board Member of the football federation.
Essien, who is the owner of Nigeria National League (NNL) side, FC One Rocket, recently declared his interest to represent the South-South in the next NFF executive board.
He said: “It appears I am the underdog, but I am not afraid to throw my hat into the ring. I have something to contribute to the development of Nigerian football. It’s not about what we will get from Nigeria football but about our capacity and what we can bring on board. It shouldn’t be business as usual.
“I am a major contributor to the development of the youth. Football is about the youth. I have been a major investor in the youth over the years. I run a professional football team in the NNL; FC One Rockets and Carabana football Academy. These two teams have contributed players to the junior national teams.”He continued: “I have connections within and outside Nigeria and this could help improve our football. We have no reason for our football not to be on TV. Government has no business in football and so our leaders must be ready to think outside the box.
“Our economy is dwindling, by 2030, there will be less dependence on oil. How will we be funding football? We need visionary leaders and I think I am well prepared to offer my best for the development of football,” he concluded.