Donald Trump said it best "The lack of imagination is the curse of the damned"!!, I watched with very opened jaws at the display of the Super Falcons against the Germans. My fellow TV viewers were happy at our elimination, which surprised me a lot. I watched a German team that was ripe for the taking. A German team that was without imagination and creativity and were lacking of anything that shows that they were champions. I saw a German team devoid of the usual mechanical finesse that we have grown to love. I saw a team that feared the physicality of the Nigerian side.
Our team was even worse!! Eurcharia's girls ran, chased, and suffered from a lack of tactical support from the bench. The dearth of knowledge was very evident. Eucharia was out of depth, not knowing when to change the game, make substitutions that would matter and she was limited in understanding what she could do to WIN. Yet, we thank God for a slim loss. The celebration of mediocrity is indeed becoming a national habit.
Some positive notes though, I thank the German physical triainer/coach for keeping these girls in shape, they ran for 90 minutes but we couldn't even do the business (maybe if we had someone who could work on the "heads" of the team, just maybe the story would be different).
One wonders what planning and tactical session the team would have been put through. One wonders if there are any analysis of the opponents during these sessions. Do they utilize any scouting intelligence? Do they use video technology or the indices of stats and data to support any of their training programs. or do we do the typical "training" of running around and talking shop??
Super Falcons elimination though painful, is an output of a system that is failed, tired and lacking of new and creative ideas and imagination. And it is the damned that will continue with a failed system and complain about failures. I fear that Eucharia is heading for the gullotine!!.
My advice to the federation, is to expand the scouting and tactical scope of our female national teams. We need to scout for new Nigerian blood, where the world goes shopping for female players, The NCAA league. In the NCAA (American Collegiate League) female soccer league, I know for certain that we can find new players (ask Coach Sam Okpodu, of Newberry College, and a formerly of West Virginia Female Soccer program). There are more than 15 players of Nigerian parentage and heritage, actively participating in collegiate soccer in universities across the USA.
We need to find the new "Alukos" of England and sign them up before they are snapped up by other countries. We need to strengthen our female football department in the federation's secretariat, and focus its work on player development in primary and secondary schools nationwide (girls must be given an added incentive to play football in school).
As sad as I am, I must temper my annoyance with some optimism, that the future can only get better. We must continue our work in discovering new talents, who will challenge for shirts in the various female national teams.
On a comical note, I also watched the ministers senate confirmation exercise on TV today, and I echoed President Obasanjo's now famous statement "I dey laugh ooooo"!!!, "the curse of the damned" is upon us.
Lets hope I am wrong on this one.... The country needs a miracle.
And what is up with the curfew in Abuja!! we send in soldiers on our streets because our government lacks imagination, creativity and the will to deal decisively with this issue. kai, the curse of the damned again............Shame!!!!
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Monday, June 27, 2011
In Search of Truth, the Nigerian football Mess
For the last 10 weeks, I have read in numerous media publications, stories regarding the continued crises raging in Nigerian football. I have taken it upon myself to actively mediate and find a lasting solution to the problems that is currently bedeviling Nigerian football. Trying in my way to play the peacemaker in the resolution of this current crisis, between the Alh. Aminu Maigari NFF board, and the Jerret Tenebe NFA interim committee.
As is with anything Nigerian, the intrigues and multi-layered facets of issues have left me, with certain key inferences. Firstly, there are deep rooted issues in both camps, that are personal, political, and in some cases, not in the best interest of football. Secondly, while trying to tread carefully, and peel away at the layers of the issues, I have come to observe that the issue of legitimacy can be easily resolved without external influences (devoid of the current personal and political undertones that seem to be present and very strong in both camps).
Furthermore, I have come to question the real motives of some of the actors in both camps. Like a true Robert Ludlum thriller, encircling both camps, the "vultures" and "jackals" are poised to see that this crisis germinates into an imbroglio that will see them picking up the pieces and leaving the table with the remnants of the fallout, they are currently strategically positioned to be the beneficiaries of the current crisis. Whether its in the supply of vital information, or disinformation, or the silent advice that becomes public knowledge the next day, or the provision of access to people holding the strings of the polity, these individuals are the crux of the reason why these crises have and will not be solved in the foreseeable future. Except................
After due analysis, my personal findings and opinions remains that we can and are ready for REFORM. The reform in the structure of the board, the secretariat and its daily operations, the technicalities of managing football, the sponsorship (economically beneficial sponsorship, involving an active ownership and participation by Private Sector), and grassroots development of our teams, so as to ensure the sustained maintenance of our place, as a giant in the football world.
We are talking about reforms that will ignite life back into the league and see fans back in the stands and increased and an avid follower-ship of our national pastime by us, the citizens.
Many do not realize the role of football in the Nigerian nation state. The role it plays in solidifying, unifying and entrenching the meaning of being a Nigerian. We all bleed GREEN and WHITE anytime any of our national teams or representatives take to the field. And those who manage this beautiful game in this country, should know this fact and ensure that they do all they can, to forestall any attempt to kill the game in this country.
I am bothered by the continuous litigation, criminal and judicial investigations, claims and counter claims by one group or another seeking control of this great game. It is high time we commence true dialogue, that will be truly acceptable to ALL stakeholders and one that allows participation, transparency, the rule of law, sound business and sporting ethics.
I would like to propose the following strategy to resolving this crisis:
As is with anything Nigerian, the intrigues and multi-layered facets of issues have left me, with certain key inferences. Firstly, there are deep rooted issues in both camps, that are personal, political, and in some cases, not in the best interest of football. Secondly, while trying to tread carefully, and peel away at the layers of the issues, I have come to observe that the issue of legitimacy can be easily resolved without external influences (devoid of the current personal and political undertones that seem to be present and very strong in both camps).
Furthermore, I have come to question the real motives of some of the actors in both camps. Like a true Robert Ludlum thriller, encircling both camps, the "vultures" and "jackals" are poised to see that this crisis germinates into an imbroglio that will see them picking up the pieces and leaving the table with the remnants of the fallout, they are currently strategically positioned to be the beneficiaries of the current crisis. Whether its in the supply of vital information, or disinformation, or the silent advice that becomes public knowledge the next day, or the provision of access to people holding the strings of the polity, these individuals are the crux of the reason why these crises have and will not be solved in the foreseeable future. Except................
After due analysis, my personal findings and opinions remains that we can and are ready for REFORM. The reform in the structure of the board, the secretariat and its daily operations, the technicalities of managing football, the sponsorship (economically beneficial sponsorship, involving an active ownership and participation by Private Sector), and grassroots development of our teams, so as to ensure the sustained maintenance of our place, as a giant in the football world.
We are talking about reforms that will ignite life back into the league and see fans back in the stands and increased and an avid follower-ship of our national pastime by us, the citizens.
Many do not realize the role of football in the Nigerian nation state. The role it plays in solidifying, unifying and entrenching the meaning of being a Nigerian. We all bleed GREEN and WHITE anytime any of our national teams or representatives take to the field. And those who manage this beautiful game in this country, should know this fact and ensure that they do all they can, to forestall any attempt to kill the game in this country.
I am bothered by the continuous litigation, criminal and judicial investigations, claims and counter claims by one group or another seeking control of this great game. It is high time we commence true dialogue, that will be truly acceptable to ALL stakeholders and one that allows participation, transparency, the rule of law, sound business and sporting ethics.
I would like to propose the following strategy to resolving this crisis:
- Would like to urge the Aminu Maigari board to organize a formal face to face meeting with the Tenebe group. This has to happen with a view to articulating the issues, understanding the differences between both groups, and identifying those areas that are clearly problematic. I propose a small committee of no more than 9 persons should carry out this exercise, and be done within one week. The committee should be made up of: NSC, NFF, NFA, Selected and agreed private individuals (2-3 persons)
- A stakeholder forum should be organised. this forum will allow all stakeholders of football in Nigeria, to be present, discuss and pro-offer key recommendations that will be integrated into a holistic ROADMAP for the development of football, and presented to Nigerians worldwide.
- The Football Congress should then be convened to agree to the content of the Roadmap and to review the recommendations of both the stakeholder forum and committee.
I have come to believe that the key actors in both groups want what is best for Nigerian football and are willing to do whatever it takes to achieve that. Such passion should not be lost or set aside. I believe that appropriate participatory avenues exist to accommodate all those passionately willing to TRULY serve (watch out for the Vultures and Jackals).
The only thing I see stopping the above proposal from happening today, is the "noise" and "heat" being generated by the "Vultures and Jackals", knowing that a peaceful resolution of this impasse, will cost them any opportunity to fleece our dear country through this means.............
I call on Aminu Maigari and Jerret Tenebe (two men, with very close relationships) to take the path of strong leaders, who have taken unpopular but very necessary and legendary steps, and resolve this current impasse. I have heard that the matter is out of their hands (Nonesense!! I dont believe it, it can only be out of their hands if they give or hand it over). This matter is still in your hands, Gentlemen.
I urge you both to be leaders worth emulating, take the Attahiru JEGA approach, tell Nigerians that an organised football administration is possible and achievable in this time, country and with Nigerians at the helm. Be leaders that will be known as living legends....... do what most have said, cant be done.......
Thursday, June 23, 2011
President Jonathan, What's taking you so long???
May 29th, 2011 came and passed with the investiture of Goodluck Jonathan as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. He promised a fast and smooth transition, and also to get hunker down and get to work quickly. With the new air of expectation and the ardent hopes of a reunified vision, even when some misguided and teleguided youths of the North Eastern sector of the country, became restive, Nigerians were filled with hope, that this elephant was finally beginning to turn the corner towards being the true giant, that it is, in Africa.
Although optimism was tampered with caution, we still had something to be hopefully about. This new man, who is one of us, a humble, introvert, who was lucky enough to keep his head down, play his cards right, and land the plum job, someone who understands what it means to be a member of the Nigerian masses. Someone who can identify with the hundreds of millions of Nigerians. Indeed, it was a time to be excited, about being alive to see a perceived fair, not all that free, but we'd take it, a time to feel good to being a Nigerian. We had expectations of our brother.
its being almost a month, and from the indications and indices in the National Assembly and the overall Nigerian polity, I am seriously becoming disheartened. I read the newspapers, online journals, listen to local and international news, and the air, is fast losing that optimism and outlook for a better tomorrow. The spring in our steps, 6 weeks ago, is fast fading. As fast as President Jonathan "do nothing and conceed everything approach" is fastly becoming a mainstay in our psyche!!.
If I could have direct access to him, my question would be thus, does it take a whole PDP machinery to help set up your cabinet and team?? What is taking you so long???
The longer president Jonathan delays the announcement of his cabinet, the more anxious people get. Everyday, Nigerians are inundated with different stories in the media, and it seems we are back to the Yar Adua era, where the country is slowly grinding to a halt because of this perceived impasse in the selection of ministers.
Your Excellency, my advice is simple. You cannot please the world, and most especially the hawks in the PDP. For those seeking payment for doing their civil duty, ministerial appointment is not it. Please be firm, and drive the country towards economy prosperity during your tenure.
Select people who are going to challenge the system and the economy, seek those who are ready to serve and not award contracts that are hyper inflated and add no value to your brothers and sisters, the masses. Be strong and select those who will share your vision for a greater Nigeria. You have started well, with the selection of Prof. Attahiru Jega, he has left a legacy for you, for Nigeria, and for the entire Africa, that we are people capable of conducting credible elections. Please continue down that path, and select those who will massively and positively impact Nigerians with their contributions.
Dont delay in your conviction, don't delay in showing Nigerians that you are indeed the leader they voted for, and they were right to have stood behind you. Release the names of your team, let them assume office and begin to impact on the lives of the starving, suffering masses of Nigeria. The time for lobbying is over, you know your team. Please share this privileged information with your people. The time for development is now.
Although optimism was tampered with caution, we still had something to be hopefully about. This new man, who is one of us, a humble, introvert, who was lucky enough to keep his head down, play his cards right, and land the plum job, someone who understands what it means to be a member of the Nigerian masses. Someone who can identify with the hundreds of millions of Nigerians. Indeed, it was a time to be excited, about being alive to see a perceived fair, not all that free, but we'd take it, a time to feel good to being a Nigerian. We had expectations of our brother.
its being almost a month, and from the indications and indices in the National Assembly and the overall Nigerian polity, I am seriously becoming disheartened. I read the newspapers, online journals, listen to local and international news, and the air, is fast losing that optimism and outlook for a better tomorrow. The spring in our steps, 6 weeks ago, is fast fading. As fast as President Jonathan "do nothing and conceed everything approach" is fastly becoming a mainstay in our psyche!!.
If I could have direct access to him, my question would be thus, does it take a whole PDP machinery to help set up your cabinet and team?? What is taking you so long???
The longer president Jonathan delays the announcement of his cabinet, the more anxious people get. Everyday, Nigerians are inundated with different stories in the media, and it seems we are back to the Yar Adua era, where the country is slowly grinding to a halt because of this perceived impasse in the selection of ministers.
Your Excellency, my advice is simple. You cannot please the world, and most especially the hawks in the PDP. For those seeking payment for doing their civil duty, ministerial appointment is not it. Please be firm, and drive the country towards economy prosperity during your tenure.
Select people who are going to challenge the system and the economy, seek those who are ready to serve and not award contracts that are hyper inflated and add no value to your brothers and sisters, the masses. Be strong and select those who will share your vision for a greater Nigeria. You have started well, with the selection of Prof. Attahiru Jega, he has left a legacy for you, for Nigeria, and for the entire Africa, that we are people capable of conducting credible elections. Please continue down that path, and select those who will massively and positively impact Nigerians with their contributions.
Dont delay in your conviction, don't delay in showing Nigerians that you are indeed the leader they voted for, and they were right to have stood behind you. Release the names of your team, let them assume office and begin to impact on the lives of the starving, suffering masses of Nigeria. The time for lobbying is over, you know your team. Please share this privileged information with your people. The time for development is now.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
wow, I voted, and it felt good
On that glorious April morning, I left home, and it felt like something special was going to happen that day. People trooped to the street where we registered, and checked our status. A lot of us were expectant. Lo and behold, the multitude was there ooooo.
Can you believe this, I thought I had the inside track on this voting thing. Only to find out that I was late!!!!
How can one be late at 7 AM???? Believe me, I was. Didn't get accredited until 10 AM, and found myself getting really angry at ME, for not getting here on time.
Surprisingly enough, we queued in two lines, for men and women. We kept talking excitedly and waited our turn to get accredited, the NYSC officials and the police officers quietly herded us in this exercise, and surely enough, it was my turn. Found my name, got my number ticket, and got my finger painted. Then, surprising enough. I turned round again to see over a thousand people who had been accredited waiting patiently for the last person to be accredited, so that voting could commence.
In that wait, I made friends, saw old friends, and chatted with people I would never have thought this was possible. We were all neighbours, and wanted to participate in this key civil duty. We wanted our votes to count. It was great. For the first time in my life. I saw Nigerians of all cadres, religious inclinations, a catholic reverend sister, was queueing up with the local imam.
I was in awe. This exercise lasted for 13 hours, and we were civil, there were some testing times, but the entire exercise was great. I had experienced elections in America, Belgium and other countries and it was a thing of pride to have been part of this unique experience. To top it off, a lady brought out a water dispenser from her home, with paper cups and served all those who needed water. For FREE!!!! is this Nigeria????
At 2.50pm, I voted. YES!!!! I did.
I am proud of Nigeria. Proud of the entire peoples of this country, all 300 Plus nationalities that make up this incredible and very unique place we all claim to be our home. Incredible. What a rush............
Can you believe this, I thought I had the inside track on this voting thing. Only to find out that I was late!!!!
How can one be late at 7 AM???? Believe me, I was. Didn't get accredited until 10 AM, and found myself getting really angry at ME, for not getting here on time.
Surprisingly enough, we queued in two lines, for men and women. We kept talking excitedly and waited our turn to get accredited, the NYSC officials and the police officers quietly herded us in this exercise, and surely enough, it was my turn. Found my name, got my number ticket, and got my finger painted. Then, surprising enough. I turned round again to see over a thousand people who had been accredited waiting patiently for the last person to be accredited, so that voting could commence.
In that wait, I made friends, saw old friends, and chatted with people I would never have thought this was possible. We were all neighbours, and wanted to participate in this key civil duty. We wanted our votes to count. It was great. For the first time in my life. I saw Nigerians of all cadres, religious inclinations, a catholic reverend sister, was queueing up with the local imam.
I was in awe. This exercise lasted for 13 hours, and we were civil, there were some testing times, but the entire exercise was great. I had experienced elections in America, Belgium and other countries and it was a thing of pride to have been part of this unique experience. To top it off, a lady brought out a water dispenser from her home, with paper cups and served all those who needed water. For FREE!!!! is this Nigeria????
At 2.50pm, I voted. YES!!!! I did.
I am proud of Nigeria. Proud of the entire peoples of this country, all 300 Plus nationalities that make up this incredible and very unique place we all claim to be our home. Incredible. What a rush............
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