**Let’s Put Sentiment Aside – He’s Still the Best for the Job
By Ben Ogbemudia
Two years ago, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, the General Secretary of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), was elected as the 1st Vice President of the National Association of Physical and Health Education, Sports, and Dance (NAPHERSD) during the association’s congress held at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. To this day, Sanusi continues to serve as a visiting lecturer at this prestigious institution.
He holds traditional titles such as Danmasani Wajeke of Wammako district in Sokoto State and Dan-Buran of Gwandu Emirate in Kebbi State. Sanusi has also served multiple terms as President of the National Colleges of Education Games.
A qualified coach, Sanusi was responsible for accommodation and logistics during the 8th All-Africa Games, hosted by Nigeria in 2003, before becoming the Director of Competitions at the NFF. He assumed the role of General Secretary of the NFF in March 2015.
It’s important to emphasize that professionalism should never be sacrificed for sentiment, as this won’t help Nigerian football progress. The key question we should be asking is: Does Dr. Mohammed Sanusi have the necessary qualifications, experience, and leadership qualities to serve as the Secretary General of the NFF? Based on his track record, the answer is clear.
Sanusi’s nationality is irrelevant to his professional capabilities. If he was born in Kebbi State and now claims ties to Ogbomosho, Oyo State, is there anything wrong with that? Let’s not forget figures like Dr. Amos Adamu, who have similarly served with distinction.
Critics need to be specific when questioning Dr. Sanusi’s leadership and how it may have hindered the progress of the NFF. What areas are being affected? Is this truly about competence, or are some attempting to undermine him due to ethnicity? We cannot afford to engage in this “pull him down” syndrome if we want to move forward as a country. Haba! Let’s focus on progress, not unnecessary division.