Abuja: The Chairman of the Federal Capital Territory Football Association, Mouktar Mohammed, emphasized the need for continuity, stability, and sustainability in football development in Abuja, rather than relying on quick fixes. Mohammed made these remarks during a media parley held at the Old Parade Ground, Area 10.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Mohammed highlighted the progress made by the association in grassroots football, league organization, and national competitions, despite facing financial and infrastructural challenges. He noted that Abuja has become a significant hub for top Nigerian clubs like Enyimba FC, Rangers International FC, and Kano Pillars FC. The FCT also hosted a Federation Cup semi-final for the first time in its history last year.
Despite these achievements, Mohammed acknowledged the FCT’s ongoing struggle to establish a club in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL). “We cannot manufacture our way into the Premier League. It has to be organic and sustainable,” he stated,
attributing the challenge to inadequate sponsorship and the dominance of state government-backed clubs with stronger financial capabilities. He commended the rise of privately-owned clubs in Nigerian football, citing Remo Stars FC as a successful example of long-term planning, patience, and investment.
Mohammed advocated for the creation of a sports tax fund to support grassroots sports development, infrastructure, and youth training centers nationwide. He expressed concern over the poor state of sports facilities in the FCT and highlighted that completing several abandoned stadium projects across the area councils could significantly boost sports development.
He warned against converting football pitches and school sports grounds into commercial projects, describing this trend as detrimental to youth development and grassroots sports. “We must protect sports lands and facilities. Without infrastructure, football development becomes almost impossible,” Mohammed stressed. He also mentioned that the FCT FA ma
intains a robust working relationship with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) in hosting competitions and promoting grassroots football programs in Abuja.