Nigeria football supporters club president scouts for successor

Mr. Ladipo said he has been the sole financier of the club since inception.

The President General, Nigeria Football Supporters Club, Rauf Ladipo, said he is now working towards getting a successor who will take over the leadership mantle of the association as he prepares to retire.

Mr. Ladipo, who has headed the club for 23 years since its formation, made this known on Thursday in Abeokuta, when he appeared at the monthly guest forum of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, SWAN, Ogun State Chapter.

“I’m getting old and I know this, I recognise this. I’m looking and working towards a successor,” he stated.

Mr. Ladipo, who was accompanied by the President of the Ghana Football Supporters, Abraham Dauchus, however, noted that his successor must be a person who has 100 per cent passion for the club and soccer.

He said since inception of the club 23 years ago, he has remained the sole financier, stressing that the club is not and should not be seen as a money making venture for whoever has to lead. He prayed for a God-chosen successor who would be genuinely committed and dedicated to the growth of the club and football development in the country.

Mr. Ladipo, who predicted that the Super Eagles will qualify for the World Cup, advised Nigeria’s football governing body, the NFA, to avoid distraction and power tussle, within its rank.

“Nigeria is going to qualify for the world cup, just as I predicted of Nigeria winning Africa Nations Cup. But I want to add that we must first put our house in order,” he said.

Mr. Ladipo advised sports persons and supporters not to use juju but fast and pray for success in different sports.