FIFA has no right to dictate to Nigeria
Published:Tuesday | July 8, 2014 | 12:00 AM
THE EDITOR, Sir:
I note with concern the threat by FIFA to the Nigerian government to reinstate the executive committee of Nigeria's football federation or risk a ban.
It is timely that FIFA and other international sporting bodies take a reality check. Unlike the European, American, and some South American federations that are largely funded by private sources and sponsors, the African, Caribbean and some South American federations are largely funded by public funds. In fact, I dare say that except for public funds invested in these sporting associations, their ability to continue as going concerns would be tenuous.
It is incredulous of FIFA and other international sports bodies to insist on no governmental interference when scarce public resources are invested in these federations. FIFA certainly will not put their money where their mouth is and fully replace the Nigerian government's investment in the football programme.
Nigeria, Jamaica and many other economically challenged nations need to take a fresh look at the cost to remain members of these bodies versus the benefits that are derived.
MILTON SCOTT
Kingston 17