The Vice-President, Nigeria Tennis Federation (NTF), Malam Yusuf Datti, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of ex-NFA Chairman, Ibrahim Galadima, describing him as a father in Nigerian sports whose legacy will endure for generations.
n a statement signed on Tuesday, Datti said Galadima, during his lifetime, consistently remained above board, which earned him the tag “Mr. Integrity ”
SolaceBase reports that Galadima died on Saturday at the age of 78 at a hospital in Kano after a protracted illness.
Datti, who is also the Tournament Director, Dala Hard Court Tennis Championships, stated that Galadima’s life was marked by service, integrity and a deep commitment to youth development through sports, adding that his contributions remain unmatched.
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“Alhaji Galadima was a giant in Nigerian sports and a father to many of us in this sector,” he said, while also describing him as a mentor who guided many administrators with humility and wisdom.
‘’Dala Hard Court Tennis Championship will miss his ever-present and the support he gave the sport all the time,’’ the statement said.
‘’We will miss his mentorship and guidance.’’
He highlighted Galadima’s tenure as Chairman of the Nigeria Football Association (NFA) between 2002 and 2006, recalling that the period witnessed remarkable achievements, including the back-to-back CAF Champions League victories by Enyimba FC in 2003 and 2004, as well as triumphs by the Super Falcons at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in 2002 and 2004.
He noted that Galadima was instrumental in the establishment of Kano Pillars FC, laying the foundation for its emergence as a dominant force in Nigerian football.
He also referenced the late administrator’s roles as Chairman of the Kano State Sports Commission, First Vice President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee, and Commissioner for Social Welfare, Youth and Sports in Kano State.
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The statement read, ‘’Galadima’s impact extended beyond administrative positions, as he consistently advocated grassroots sports development and chaired the Presidential Football 10-Year Development Plan for Nigeria.
He noted that the late sports icon would be remembered for his insistence on due process and his willingness to mentor younger administrators.
