Omidiran Grieves over ex-NFA Chairman Ibrahim Galadima

By Jude Opara

The Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Hon. Hulayat Motunrayo Omidiran, has expressed deep shock over the death of former Chairman of the Nigeria Football Association (now Nigeria Football Federation), Alhaji Ibrahim Galadima, who died in Kano on Saturday, at the age of 78.
Omidiran, who served as a member of the NFA board during tenure of Galadima between 2002 and 2006, recalled her close working relationship with the late Kano state-born sports administrator, adding that his contributions to the growth of Nigerian football remain invaluable and enduring.
In a statement on Sunday, Omidiran who spoke through Ademola Lawrence, the Spokesperson of the Federal Character Commission further described the death of Galadima as a great loss not only to Nigerian football but to the entire sporting community.
“He was a man of immense wisdom, discipline, and integrity, whose leadership helped shape the structure and direction of football administration in Nigeria,” the FCC boss said.
According to Omidiran, the period of Galadima’s stewardship witnessed remarkable progress for Nigerian football on the global stage, describing his legacy as one built on selfless service, integrity, and a deep passion for youth and sports development.
“I had the privilege of serving on the NFA Board under his leadership between 2002 and 2006. It was a period of strong institutional direction and achievement, during which Nigeria rose to become the 9th-ranked football nation in the world. That milestone reflected the collective commitment, vision, and discipline that defined his leadership.
“Alhaji Galadima dedicated his life to the advancement of sports in Nigeria. His contributions went beyond football, touching lives and institutions across the country. His legacy will remain a guiding light for future generations,” she added.
The former Chairman, NFF Women’s Football Development Committee extended her condolences to the family of the late sports icon, the government and people of Kano state, and the entire Nigerian football community.
The late Ibrahim Galadima’s distinguished career included service as Chairman of the Kano State Football Association, Executive Chairman of the Kano State Sports Council, First Vice President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee, and Commissioner for Youth and Sports in Kano state.