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Yesterday, Sierra Leone’s Parliament executed its constitutional mandate to scrutinize and oversee the National Sports Authority (NSA), inviting key stakeholders in football to address critical issues.
The session highlighted the authority’s ongoing efforts to reform sports administration and resource management in the country.
Dr. Emmanuel Saffa Abdulai, Executive Director of the NSA, delivered a detailed account of the authority’s progress and challenges since his appointment seven months ago. His address was described as eloquent and transparent, shedding light on reforms and debunking misinformation aimed at undermining his leadership. The Honorable Deputy Speaker supported the discussion with insights into national team affairs, emphasizing teamwork as a cornerstone of success.
Dr. Abdulai reaffirmed his commitment to transformative leadership, emphasizing that the NSA will prioritize infrastructure development, capacity building, talent identification, and resource optimization in the coming year. He pledged that all unused government resources will be returned to the consolidated fund, and hotel and logistical arrangements will adhere to principles of integrity and transparency.
“The NSA will no longer operate under anyone’s whims and caprices,” he declared, underscoring the authority’s independence and focus on serving the nation’s best interests.
The session also addressed attempts by detractors to tarnish Dr. Abdulai’s reputation through blackmail and misinformation. Parliamentarians and stakeholders dismissed such efforts, framing them as resistance to necessary change. Dr. Abdulai expressed resolve to overcome opposition, stating, “Those who stand against the status quo will always face persecution, but we are committed to leaving a lasting legacy.”
Looking ahead, the NSA plans to build sports infrastructure, nurture local talent, and enhance the capacities of sports professionals. These reforms aim to ensure sustainable development and elevate Sierra Leone’s position in regional and international sports.
Dr. Abdulai’s track record, including his role in the successful organization of the 2018/2019 Premier League, serves as a testament to his capabilities in public service. “Let it be known that today marks the beginning of a new era for sports administration in Sierra Leone,” he asserted.
Parliament’s engagement with the NSA signals a renewed focus on accountability and progress in sports governance. With the leadership of Dr. Abdulai and support from government institutions, Sierra Leone’s sports sector appears poised for significant transformation.
