Nigeria Football Federation has honoured 2 employees, Ruth David and Danlami Alanana with long service award in recognition of their commitment, loyalty, exceptional service and invaluable contribution to the growth of the nation’s football over a period of 20 years.
The event which was held in Benin, Edo state during the Annual General Assembly, AGA is in line with NFF’s tradition of honouring employees who have distinguished themselves in the course of their duties over the years and was witnessed by the state governor, His Excellency Godwin Obaseki
David and Danlami were eulogized for their dedicated service with a loud ovation from friends, board members and staffers alike.
General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi eulogized the duo as epitome of dedication with unrivalled passion for excellence in discharging their duties.
An elated Danlami told our correspondent that “ I feel elated to have been recognized for a long service Award. Actually, mine is 21 years of service. It’s a recognition that all what I have been doing is not in vain.
“ I will dedicate more time and energy to the service of the federation. I gave all the glory to God for making it possible for me to receive the Award. It is joyous occasion for me.
He described his greatest moment as been a pioneer staff of the Nigeria Professional Football League that midwife premier league in the country.
“My greatest moment- working for the federation- was when I was deployed to the league(now LMC) with the likes of Tunji Babalola, Ayo Abdulrahman and late chief Oyuiki Obaseki as chairman. It was an honour for me which I will continued to cherish for the rest of my life
On her own, Ruth David , Head of Female Football told Blueprint sport that “ the past 20 years has not been a bed of roses . I came in a Youth Corper, luckily I was retained in the Account Department where I served. From there , I was posted to the Competition Department .It has been interesting ,growing and learning on the job.
She singled out the FIFA Female Leadership Development Programme (FLDP) in Zurich 2016-17 as the programme that prepared her rigorously for mentoring as a leader in the female football.
“They taught us how to be leaders. The programme was beneficial because it prepared me for the task ahead .
“According to her, handling issue of female football is not a tea-party. Though mingling with players, encouraging and mentoring them is very interesting because I look after them like a mother” She said
“I want to grow more on the job. I’m still learning and striving towards perfection. I always take a cue from my bosses” She said
David is a graduate of Bayero University, Kano with Masters Degree in Sports Management . She was born in Zaria and attended Army Children’s School and others before her admission at Bayero University.
She has served as secretary to all the Women National teams and various Women Committee and rose as Head of Women Football Development Unit.
She is one of the 35 Women football administrators world-wide selected by FIFA for her development programme. Through her career progression, she rose to the rank of an Assistant Director, Sports, under International Competition Department, she currently head the department.
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