Otuekong Nse Essien, owner of Nigeria National League club FC One Rocket, has declared his intention to run for one of the coveted seats in the Nigeria Football Federation ahead of the 2022 NFF elections on September 30.
On Monday, in Abuja, the Akwa Ibom state House of Assembly member vying to represent the South-South in the upcoming dispensation purchased the electoral form – sold for N250,000 – for contestants for the board membership position.
Essien, who also founded the CARABANA Football Academy in Uyo, said he was motivated by his desire for sports development and believes the South-South needs capable representation on the NFF board.
“The South-South always has a lot to offer when it comes to sports, on-and-off the pitch. My immediate constituency Akwa Ibom State and indeed the South-South in general is blessed with sporting talents that must properly be showcased. I am hoping to get on the board to help offer more opportunities for exposure and effective engagement of my people,” Essien said.
“Personally, I have been at the forefront of harnessing football talents in Akwa Ibom through my academy and professional club, which incidentally produced the most outstanding player for the Flying Eagles at the last WAFU tournament. I am also a man with concepts and contacts – national, continental, and globally, which when utilised, would help turn around the fortunes of our region.”
“We are proud of the strides of our brother Amaju Pinnick from Delta, and the late Emmanuel Ibah, before his demise. But there’s certainly more to be done in terms of development of talents and infrastructure in the region.’’
