In a bold step aimed at enhancing the welfare and safety of footballers in Nigeria, the National Association of Nigeria Professional Footballers (NANPF) has officially appointed Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Kalu Chijioke as the new Director of Players’ Safety and Security.
This appointment was communicated to the Force Sports Officer, CP Tony O. Emefiele, through a formal letter from the NANPF leadership, which was addressed to the office of the Inspector General of Police in Abuja.
As an affiliate of both the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), NANPF represents the collective interests and welfare of professional football players across Nigeria, with former Nigerian international Abe Sunday currently at its helm.
In the letter of appointment, NANPF expressed its confidence in CSP Kalu Chijioke’s vast experience in sports administration and his enduring commitment to the well-being of Nigerian athletes. The union believes that his leadership will facilitate the implementation of essential safety and security policies designed to protect players both on and off the pitch.
“The unbounded passion and professional track record of CSP Kalu make him the ideal candidate for this role,” stated the NANPF. “His involvement will empower the Union and, by extension, all Nigerian professional footballers to benefit from expert safety and security guidance in their daily activities.”
The union has also called for the full cooperation and support of relevant law enforcement and sports bodies to ensure CSP Kalu Chijioke can effectively fulfil his new responsibilities.
This landmark appointment underscores NANPF’s renewed commitment to player safety and sets a new standard for the support of professional athletes in Nigerian football.
CSP Kalu Chijioke Erem, who is also a member of the NPF Sports Planning Committee, serves on the board of the Mixed Martial Arts Federation and is part of the NOC Technical & Development Committee. With 20 years of law enforcement experience, he is poised to usher in a new era for players’ welfare and safety in Nigeria.
