The first-ever CAF Safe Stadium Initiative Workshop in Nigeria concluded in Abuja on Thursday, with Dr Mohammed Sanusi, General Secretary of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), delivering an inspiring message to participants about the importance of professionalism and polite engagement in implementing safety measures.
Dr Sanusi expressed gratitude to Dr Christian Emeruwa, Head of CAF Safety and Security, for his dedication to ensuring Nigeria benefitted from the groundbreaking initiative.
He highlighted the significance of politeness as a critical tool for successful application of the workshop’s teachings.
“It is important that when you want to address issues, you should be polite,” Dr Sanusi advised participants. “This will help you avoid unnecessary conflicts while implementing the knowledge you have acquired during this workshop.”
The workshop, which drew participants from sectors including all 20 Nigeria Premier Football League clubs, was praised for its impact in equipping attendees with the skills needed to safeguard lives and property within stadium environments.
On the final day, participants attended a practical session at the MKO Abiola National Stadium, led by Dr Emeruwa, with a focus on crowd control and operational safety strategies. Dr Emeruwa commended the NFF’s leadership for supporting the initiative, describing it as a transformative step toward a safer football environment in Africa.
The workshop concluded with the presentation of certificates of participation to all attendees, marking a significant milestone in the quest for safer stadiums in Nigeria.
Dr Sanusi’s closing charge underscored the role of professionalism and respect in ensuring that the lessons learned are effectively applied to make Nigerian football environments safer for all.
