By Samuel Akpan
In a move aimed at ensuring the Super Falcons defend their WAFCON crown without financial hitches in Morocco, the National Sports Commission and NFF have constituted a seven-member welfare committee backed by the Presidency.
The initiative followed a meeting in Abuja between NSC Director General Bukola Olopade and NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi.
The panel was created specifically to support the team’s title defence and prevent any welfare-related distractions during the tournament.
Aisha Falode, an NFF Executive Board member, will chair the committee, while Ruth David serves as secretary.
Other members are Margaret Icheen, Babagana Kalli, Emeka Iyama, Aderonke Tinuoye, and Tobechukwu Oluchi.
Olopade said the Federal Government was determined to give the players a completely smooth campaign.
” President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR alongside the First lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu CON, are both personally committed to seeing that the Falcons successfully defend their title in Morocco which is why this ad-hoc committee was put in place to further assist the NFF to ensure a seamless campaign for team,” he stated.
He reiterated that player welfare is central to success on the pitch.
“Welfare is an non-negotiable key part of any team’s competition success and with this committee, the players can be rest assured that the NSC and NFF are taking their welfare very seriously for the WAFCON,” Olopade added.
Mohammed Sanusi described the development as historic, noting it is the first time a dedicated welfare committee has been set up for the senior women’s national team ahead of a major tournament.
“This shows the level of commitment the NSC is putting on Women’s football and it will only make the women’s game to continue to grow rapidly in the country,” the NFF General Secretary said.
He, however, clarified that the committee is not meant to replace existing structures.
“We believe this committee is not going to the WAFCON to take the responsibilities of anybody but to make sure we have a seamless campaign for the tournament,” Sanusi added.