—- reveals World Cup Experience, others
By Emmanuel Olagunju
Renowned Sports Administrator and Football Expert, Dr Amos Adam, has identified inadequate funding and the late release of funds as bases for various challenges confronting sports development in Nigeria.
Dr Adam said this on Thursday while featuring on the Sports Centre personality interview program held on the WhatsApp platform of the group.
The interview tagged “Our World Cup Season” was anchored by Bello Omotunde Muritala and Rotimi Alabi .
Responding to questions during the show, Dr Adam submitted that the success or failure of any team during major competitions rests squarely on the coaching staff , who bear the primary responsibility for team performance.
On his early involvement in sports, Dr. Adam revealed that the journey began during the primary school days, where he played as a goalkeeper. He further disclosed that he later represented his hometown, Sure in Kebbi State, as a goalkeeper, an experience that strengthened his love for the game.
Dr. Adam explained that his decision to choose sports as a carrier was driven by a genuine passion for sporting activities from a young age.
Reflecting on his tenure as Sole Administrator in the country and his first World Cup experience, Dr. Adam described it as a significant learning opportunity. According to him, the experience reinforced the importance of adequate preparation for global tournaments.
“It was during our first World Cup participation that I realized that the World Cup is not a joke. We need to prepare seriously if we want to compete effectively,” he remarked.
He expressed disappointment in the absence of the Super Eagles in the ongoing FIFA world cup.
” Sports naturally involve both victories and setbacks.”Naturally, I felt bad, but it’s sports; sometimes you win, and sometimes you lose,” he stated.
Addressing concerns about the alleged imposition of players by some football administrators, Dr.Adam maintained that recommendations could be made but the final decision on player selection rested entirely with the coaching crew.
“I did not tolerate the imposition of players. Any player brought forward would have to be assessed by the coach. Once the coach accepts the player, he cannot make excuses later because he takes full responsibility,” he explained.
Regarding the role of sports administrators, Dr. Adam emphasized that administrators are responsible for providing leadership, ensuring proper management, and protecting the technical team from undue interference.
“As an administrator, your responsibility is to provide leadership and ensure that nobody interferes with the team. The coaching crew must take absolute responsibility,” he said.
