Minister of Sports Augusta James-Teima has praised the leadership of the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) for what she described as visionary leadership, unity, and commitment to football development in the country.

Speaking on Friday, 22 May 2026, during the turning of the sod ceremony for the construction of a new 435-seater pavilion at the SLFA Academy Field in Kingtom, the Minister said the progress being recorded by the football association continues to bring honour and recognition to Sierra Leone football.

The ceremony, hosted by SLFA President Babadi Kamara, attracted government officials, football stakeholders, and invited guests who gathered to witness the commencement of the infrastructure project.

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Representing President Julius Maada Bio at the event, Madam James-Teima conveyed greetings from the Head of State and said the government remains pleased with the direction football development is taking in Sierra Leone.

According to the Minister, the steady growth and achievements within football have made the work of government and the Ministry of Sports easier, noting that serious commitment naturally attracts support.

“Parents always support children who show seriousness and discipline, and that is exactly what the football association is demonstrating,” she stated while assuring the SLFA leadership of continued government support and advocacy.

Madam James-Teima commended the SLFA for creating opportunities for young people through football development programmes, which she said are helping to keep youths away from harmful social activities.

She noted that football is increasingly playing an important role in human capital development and national progress.

The Sports Minister also praised the association’s efforts toward gender inclusion and acknowledged the growing involvement of women in sports administration and development.

She emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration among football stakeholders, stating that success can only be achieved when people work together.

Madam James-Teima praised the working relationship between the SLFA Executive Committee, staff, and football stakeholders, describing it as an example of teamwork capable of driving national development.

Highlighting the importance of infrastructure development, the Minister referenced ongoing projects including the Technical Centre, Football Arena Project, and the proposed new SLFA Secretariat, which she described as transformational initiatives for Sierra Leone football.

She observed that previous facilities were not suitable for a modern football administration but expressed satisfaction that significant improvements are now underway.

The Minister further stated that the reforms currently taking place within the football association are in line with the government’s national development priorities.

Expressing optimism about the future of the sport, Madam James-Teima said Sierra Leone could qualify for the FIFA World Cup within the next five years if the current unity and progress are sustained.

Special praise was also reserved for SLFA President Babadi Kamara and members of the Executive Committee, whom she described as democratic, visionary, disciplined, respectful, selfless, fearless, and God-fearing leaders.

According to the Minister, achievements that could not be realized over a long period are now being accomplished within a short time because stakeholders are working together in unity.

She warned that disunity could reverse the gains currently being made and called on all football stakeholders to remain united for the continued growth of the game.

Madam James-Teima also thanked the football association for supporting women in leadership, particularly through the provision of office space for female executives, which she described as a demonstration of inclusion and cooperation.

She further commended the Oversight Committee for promoting accountability and seriousness within the sports sector, emphasizing that sports should be viewed as a powerful national institution capable of transforming lives and helping young people achieve their dreams.

In her closing remarks, the Minister appealed to the public to protect sports infrastructure and avoid acts of vandalism, stressing that the ongoing football projects are intended to benefit the entire country by providing a more conducive environment for football activities.

She concluded by praying for continued unity, peace, love, and understanding within the sports sector and encouraged stakeholders to continue working together for the advancement of football and national development in Sierra Leone.