President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Amaju Pinnick, has insisted that the football body is united and focused, after a peace meeting with the Chris Giwa-led faction ended in a deadlock on Wednesday.
The meeting, which was arranged by Minister of Sports, Solomon Dalung, ended abruptly after both camps almost came to fisticuffs.
Although both parties refused to settle their differences, Pinnick has thanked the Minister for his efforts.
“We want to say a big ‘Thank You’ to the Honourable Minister, the Permanent Secretary and the Director General for their wonderful efforts in trying to solidify the unity among the football family,” he said in a statement.
“Wednesday’s meeting was another of such efforts and we praise the attitude of the Minister, Permanent Secretary and Director General all through the meeting.
“The NFF wishes to reiterate that we remain focused as ever on the several programs that we have this year. On Friday, the Super Eagles have an important match against Tunisia at the African Nations Championship.
“In two months, we have a crucial double–header against Egypt in the race for the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations.”
Pinnick also called for support from every stakeholder in the game, to ensure that Nigerian teams perform well in various competitions this year.
“We are calling on everyone to work with the present administration to consolidate on the glorious run of the various National Teams. This is a very, very important year for Nigeria football: the Super Eagles will conclude the qualification series for the 2017 Cup of Nations and start the qualification series for the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
“There is the Olympics football tournament in Rio. We also have age-grade women World Cup competitions and the African Women Championship, and qualifying campaigns for the U-20 and U-17 teams.
“The NFF is happy that the whole family remains united and committed to the attainment of more successes”, he added.
The two factions are expected to reconvene next Tuesday with Dalung.
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