‘Sports federation election not all-comers affair’

The National Sports Commission (NSC) has revealed that it has already started moves to help the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) secure the services of Arsenal star, Ethan Nwaneri, who is also being courted by England.

Some top retired English footballers have been pressing the Three Lions’ new manager, Thomas Tuchel, to name the youngster in his team for the coming World Cup qualifiers.

Nwaneri has been fantastic since gaining a regular spot in Arsenal’s lineup following the absence of the injured Bukayo Saka. He dazzled fans once again on Tuesday night, scoring one goal in the Gunner’s 7-1 demolition of PSV in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League Round of 16.

There were reports, yesterday, that the 17-year-old left footer has told his family members that he will represent the first country that approaches him—whether England or his parents’ country, Nigeria.

Quoting multi-award-winning journalist, Shina Oludare, soccernet.ng said that a family source close to the midfielder revealed that Nwaneri is ready to honour, whichever national team makes the first move.

It said that this development has put the NFF on high alert as they seek to strengthen the Super Eagles with top talents of Nigerian descent.

The Director General of the NSC, Bukola Olopade told The Guardian, yesterday, that they will assist the NFF in whatever way to secure Nwaneri;s services for the Super Eagles.

Ethan Chidiebere Nwaneri was born on 21 March 2007 in Enfield, London, to a Nigerian father and an English mother. He joined Arsenal Academy at a young age.

Though, Olopade did not give details, it is believed that the move to secure Nwaneri for the Super Eagles is in line with a declaration made earlier by the Chairman of the NSC, Shehu Dikko that the era of losing Nigerian-born players/athletes to other countries was over.

Meanwhile, Olopade has said that the NSC would not join issues with those already campaigning for the sports federation election. He said: “Our focus for now is how the Super Eagles can qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. When it is time for election into the boards of the various sports federations, we will let Nigerians know our plans.

“One thing I know is that the NSC won’t allow all manner of people to vie for top positions in the forthcoming federation election. It won’t be an all-comers affair like we have witnessed in the past.

By Gowon Akpodonor