Former NFF President Ibrahim Galadima Dies at 74

Former NFF President Ibrahim Galadima Dies at 74

Former president of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Ibrahim Galadima, has died at the age of 74.

Galadima, one of Nigeria’s most respected football administrators, passed away on Saturday, leaving behind a legacy that significantly shaped the country’s domestic football structure and sports governance.

He led the then Nigeria Football Association (now NFF) between 2002 and 2006, a period widely regarded as influential in the development of football administration in the country.

His death has triggered widespread tributes from across the Nigerian football community, with current NFF President Ibrahim Gusau describing him as a mentor and father figure to many sports administrators.

Gusau said Galadima’s leadership was marked by integrity, discipline, and commitment to the growth of Nigerian football.

“Alhaji Ibrahim Galadima was a mentor to so many of us in various leadership positions in Nigerian sports today. He was the epitome of high dignity, diligence, and integrity,” Gusau said.

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He added that Galadima’s guidance and fatherly counsel would be deeply missed by the Nigerian football family.

Galadima, born on June 14, 1951, in Kano State, had a long career in sports administration and public service. He previously served as chairman of the Kano State Football Association and executive chairman of the Kano State Sports Council, and also held the position of first vice president of the Nigeria Olympic Committee.

He also served in various political roles in Kano State, including Commissioner for Social Welfare, Youth and Sports, as well as Commissioner for Works, Housing and Transport.

Former Super Eagles captain and Kano Pillars general manager Ahmed Musa also paid tribute, describing Galadima as a father figure and key architect in the development of Kano Pillars Football Club.

“Alhaji Galadima was more than just a football administrator; he was a father figure, a mentor, and a pillar of the game in Nigeria,” Musa wrote on X.

Musa added that Galadima’s vision played a key role in shaping Kano Pillars FC and nurturing young talents who went on to represent Nigeria at various levels.

Across the football community, Galadima is remembered for his contributions to sports development, talent discovery, and institutional growth within Nigerian football.

Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in accordance with Islamic rites.

Former NFF President Ibrahim Galadima Dies at 74