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On a day that we celebrate the election of Barack Husein Obama as the 44^th president of the United States of America, it is critical to conclude this series.

Ours is a world of possibilities. The dreamer who is ready to give the necessary sacrifice and pay the price will surely fulfill his fantasies. Congratulations to the people of America who have never failed to reinvent themselves.

Most importantly, God’s speed to the man of the moment on whose shoulders now rest the responsibility of healing a sick nation and bridging completely the schism that divides them.

Finally, it is time to be optimistic about our future as Nigerians as we can only get better with positive participation from all and sundry. God bless Nigeria.

Football Club Owners

It is impossible to win all the times. You win some and you lose some. Club owners must be committed to playing by the rules of the game. When this is done, the quality of matches and the clubs are not only going to improve, but they would have ensured the continuous viability of our beloved sport.

When we make up our minds that we must win at home always whether by fair or crooked means, we are actually nailing the coffin of football in our country. A situation where match officials are bribed and in the process compromised cannot augur well in the long term.

The rules of the game as concerning club and owners must be strengthened and strictly adhered to. Clear punishments for infringements must be well spelt out and meted out to erring parties. This is absolutely necessary as we cannot continue to grope in the dark while light is shining across other leagues.

The most important responsibility of a football club is the welfare of the players. This is very important. Without the players, what would have been the lot of the game over the past years? When football clubs adequately take care of the players, the continuous improvement of the game can be ensured.

Proper contract and compensation plans must be in place including insurance policies. Basic medical aids in case of sudden injuries must be made available. I also believe that each club must invest in an ambulance to forestall fatality in any unfortunate incident.

It would not be asking too much to have a club invest not only in physiotherapists but also a doctor. When this is done, there is a double assurance to the players that they are well taken care of. This can only rub off positively on the performance of the players. Suffice to say that most of the investment can be recouped when a player is sold to a foreign club.

The clubs must also be involved in the education and enlightenment of their fans. They must evolve a business model in doing this. What we are lacking in Nigeria is not the people but a well thought out system. A system that seeks to educate, entertain and reward fans must be put in place.

Fans must know that when they behave in a certain manner their club may be positively or negatively affected. The positive must be emphasized and somehow rewarded.  It is also possible to have a fans register and produce ID cards to promote loyalty and passion. A properly organized fans set up ensures the viability of a club.

Corporate Bodies

What an honour it is when a company’s name is taken across the world in a blink of an eye through sponsored advertisement. A perfect example is Heineken, major sponsor of UEFA champions’ league. It is about time our major corporate bodies get into the sponsorship of our local football clubs.

What is in it for them? Imagine a situation where this is done! Jobs are created, social vices are reduced, products and services are enhanced and the general quality of life is improved. Corporate organizations can only survive when there is enough volume of business generated to meet set objectives. With sponsorship comes greater awareness and what is called ‘sentimental purchase’ in consumer behaviour.

Recently, UBA partnered Arsenal to develop a consumer prepaid card for its fans in Nigeria. You won’t believe the number of my friends   that have picked up the card. While this is quite advanced and may not be feasible for the time being, other things like branding of jerseys, stadium premises and vehicles could be done.

While my submissions above may not be exhaustive, I strongly believe that if implemented would go a long way in enhancing the quality of our league and I look forward to the day when a match between Gateway of Abeokuta and Enyimba of Abia make me forget my lunch entirely!

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