The House of Representatives intervened yesterday to prevent the Nigerian women’s national football team, the Super Falcons, from boycotting the upcoming Women’s World Cup tournament.
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In response to the brewing dispute between the Super Falcons and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Mr. Olumide Osoba initiated a motion during the plenary, which was chaired by Speaker Tajudeen Abass.
As a result, the House established an Ad-hoc Committee tasked with investigating the matter.
The House of Representatives made a resolute commitment to propose necessary reforms that would avert the planned protest and boycott by the Super Falcons in the Women’s World Cup.
Furthermore, these reforms are intended to prevent similar occurrences from happening in the future.
The lawmakers strongly urged the NFF to ensure that the match bonuses and allowances owed to the Super Falcons are promptly paid. In light of this, the NFF and other relevant stakeholders have been summoned to appear before the Ad-hoc Committee.
Their presence is required to provide a comprehensive report detailing the steps taken to resolve the ongoing dispute and to guarantee the Super Falcons’ smooth participation in the 2023 Women’s World Cup.
Mr. Olumide Osoba emphasized the imperative role of the House in intervening in this matter. He highlighted the potential embarrassment that would befall Nigeria if the Super Falcons were to boycott the prestigious tournament.
Additionally, he expressed deep concern over the neglect and mistreatment experienced by athletes, which ultimately undermines their morale and tarnishes the nation’s reputation.
The House of Representatives’ proactive stance in addressing the conflict between the Super Falcons and the NFF demonstrates the significance they place on promoting fairness and integrity within Nigerian sports.
By establishing the Ad-hoc Committee, they have taken a crucial step towards resolving the dispute and ensuring the Super Falcons’ involvement in the Women’s World Cup.
The House’s determination to propose reforms serves as a preventative measure to avoid similar controversies in the future and to protect Nigeria’s reputation on the global stage.
The summoning of the NFF and relevant stakeholders underscores the seriousness with which the House regards this issue. The Ad-hoc Committee expects a detailed account of the measures implemented to rectify the ongoing dispute.
By doing so, they aim to establish transparency and accountability within the Nigerian football community.
It is essential for the NFF and other involved parties to cooperate fully and provide comprehensive explanations to restore faith in the management of women’s football and secure the Super Falcons’ participation in the upcoming tournament.
The House of Representatives’ intervention sends a strong message that the mistreatment and neglect of athletes will not be tolerated. They recognize the adverse consequences such actions have on the morale of the players and the nation’s reputation.
By championing the cause of the Super Falcons, the House demonstrates its commitment to upholding the principles of fairness, justice, and respect within Nigerian sports.
Through their proposed reforms and diligent investigation, they aim to rectify the dispute and ensure that the Super Falcons proudly represent Nigeria in the Women’s World Cup, leaving a positive legacy for future generations of female athletes.
