In a heartfelt response to the passing of former Nigeria Football Association (NFA) chairman Ibrahim Galadima, football stakeholders have called for the postponement of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) match between Kano Pillars FC and Rivers United FC, scheduled for Sunday in Kano.
Dr. Suleiman Musa, President of InterTech Football Academy Kano, led the appeal to the relevant authorities, emphasising that delaying the match would serve as a mark of honour and respect for a man who devoted his life to the advancement of football in Nigeria. Galadima’s influence continues to resonate across generations.
The request comes on the day of Galadima’s burial, following his passing Saturday. He was widely respected as a statesman and played a pivotal role in the establishment and growth of Kano Pillars Football Club.
Former FIFA-badged referee and football administrator, Dr. Alex Manna, supported Dr. Musa’s plea, stating, “This is absolutely in order, as doing otherwise would send a disrespectful signal regarding the death of an icon—a principled gentleman of our time. Ibrahim Galadima was a beacon of good ideals.”
In his condolence message, Alhaji Ahmed Shuaibu Gara Gombe, former chairman of Gombe United Football Club, expressed his devastation at Galadima’s death. “Since his passing was announced, I have been speechless. I was very close to the late Ibrahim Galadima,” he said.
Since the announcement of Galadima’s passing, numerous football stakeholders, including the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the National Sports Commission (NSC), have paid tribute to the late football Icon.
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