Agha Ibiam in London
President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Mr. Amaju Melvin Pinnick, has assured Nigerians that the federation will be up and doing to ensure that Nigeria qualify for 2018 World Cup finals in Russia.
However, he expressed displeasure on the exit of both the Flying Eagles and Golden Eaglets from international competitions, adding that coaches should isolate business from coaching for Nigeria football to go beyond where it is.
Pinnick who was in London at the weekend made the comment when speaking with the Association of Nigerian Journalists in the United Kingdom (ANJUK) at Marriot Hotel.
He said he was on transit from Zurich after attending a meeting with other two African football managers.
According to him, the most important project for his board now is how to qualify the country for Russia 2018 World Cup as all the junior teams has failed to make it to the global stage.
The former Delta Sports Commission chairman maintained that the future of Nigeria football will be robust as the Super Eagles is settled for the tournament.
He said, “There is no form of politics surrounding the preparation and the country has the youngest and talented footballers in the continent.”
Pinnick however stressed that one major problem faced by his federation was the issue of finance as the country is going through serious economic challenges.
”You are also aware that the country is facing financial difficulties and it is affecting us, but we will try our best to see that the country’s flag is hoisted in Russia,” he promised.
Nonetheless, Pinnick applauded Nigeria’s Europe-based players especially those plying their trades in England for the superlative and unmatched performances most of them have been exhibiting recently.
”I am really happy for our players in Europe especially in those in England. They are adjudged the best and they are still young in their respective club sides,” concludes the NFF chief.
