Veteran sports broadcaster Aisha Falode, representing the President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Ibrahim Musa Gusau, delivered an emotional and inspiring speech during the Bet9ja Foundation Ex-International Press Conference and Draw held at the NIS Hall, National Stadium Surulere.
Sports247Naija reports that Falode used the occasion to appreciate the city of Lagos for its role in shaping her life and career, while also celebrating the impact of Nigerian football legends on future generations.
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“Everyone has ties and history with Lagos and in particular, Lagos has been very good to me,” she said.
“Wherever I am today, Lagos nurtured me. As a young student of Muslim Teachers Training College, Surulere, I also represented Lagos at two National Sports Festivals — Kaduna ’77 and Oluyole ’79 — winning bronze and silver medals. So, I thank Lagos,” she added.
Falode further emphasized the importance of honouring former football stars whose achievements inspired younger generations of Nigerian players across the world.
“Many footballers of Nigerian descent were inspired by those before them, and they have now become inspirations to those coming after them. So honouring these legends is not too much to ask,” she stated, while assuring attendees that the NFF President is fully supportive of the initiative.
The respected broadcaster also paid tribute to late Christian Chukwu, describing him as a pioneering figure who helped open doors for several Nigerian football greats, including late Stephen Keshi.
She concluded by appreciating prominent sports entrepreneur Kunle Soname for his immense contributions and continuous support towards sports development in Nigeria.
The event gathered football stakeholders, ex-internationals, administrators, and sports enthusiasts in celebration of Nigeria’s football heritage and the continued growth of the game.
