The Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Sunday Dare, has engaged the leadership of Nigeria Football Federation via video conference to discuss the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on football in Nigeria and firm up strategies to mitigate the effect of the disruptions and protect the domestic football industry.
The Minister informed the NFF team that in view of the Coronavirus pandemic that has practically paralysed the sports industry, it is imperative to assess its impact on the domestic sports industry, including football, and consider strategies for charting a new course for football in the post-COVID-19 era.
He reiterated the need for the NFF to keep stakeholders, including the Government and private sector, duly informed on the steps being taken so they can consider interventions to protect the industry.
It was also agreed that the current football season will be concluded within six to eight weeks of the re-opening of the country and a clear go-ahead by the relevant authorities is obtained to commence football activities.
The format to be adopted upon the resumption of football activities regarding the completion of the various Leagues and Cup competitions will be determined by the time available, health and security guidelines, as well as decisions by global football authorities on football calendar and international competitions (CAF and FIFA).
NFF will constantly review the football calendar as the issues develop and periodically keep stakeholders informed on proposals and plans, Dare said.
The Minister was said to be working on many channels including but not limited to the setting-up of an Athletes Protection Fund and sourcing for intervention/support funding that could be utilised to support athletes and sports, including the football industry, affected by this pandemic.
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