Skip to main content

Safety And Security In Nigerian Football Stadia: A Call To Action

 

By Jamilu Uba Adamu

As the beautiful game continues to captivate audiences worldwide, the importance of safety and security in football stadia cannot be overstated. In modern football administration, substantial investments are made to train security personnel on crowd control measures, ensuring spectators and players are safeguarded on match days. However, the reality in Nigeria is alarming.

A stadium with a capacity of 18,000 was recently grossly overcrowded with nearly 30,000 football fans. The stark reality is that overcrowding, due to the overselling of tickets, poses a significant threat to the structural integrity of our dilapidated stadium stands. The consequences of a disaster are too catastrophic to contemplate.

It is imperative that the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) takes proactive steps to address this ticking time bomb. The NPFL must encourage teams to educate fans, club officials, and security personnel on crowd control and ticket sales management. This includes training stewards and security officers on the importance of safety measures, such as emergency evacuation procedures, first aid, and access control measures.

Furthermore, clubs must be held accountable for ensuring that their stadia meets minimum safety standards. The benefits of prioritizing safety and security in our football stadia extend beyond preventing disasters. A safe and secure environment enhances the overall fan experience, fostering a more enjoyable and family-friendly atmosphere.

In conclusion, the NPFL and clubs must treat the issue of safety and security in our football stadia with the urgency it deserves. By investing in education and training all relevant stadium personnel, we can prevent tragedies and ensure that football matches remain thrilling in a safe and secure atmosphere. As the saying goes, "a stitch in time saves nine." Let us act now to safeguard lives.

It is worth commending the efforts of Dr. Christian Emeruwa, Head of Safety and Security at the Confederation of African Football (CAF), who has been instrumental in training safety and security officers, police, and other relevant stakeholders through the CAF Safe Stadium Initiative. His tireless efforts have benefited several African countries, including Comoros, Djibouti, Kenya, and Uganda. It is our hope that the Nigerian NPFL will soon benefit from this initiative and prioritize the safety and security of our football fans.


Jamilu Uba Adamu wrote from Kano. Can be reached via jameelubaadamu@yahoo.com

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Coach Abdu Maikaba in High Demand as NPFL Clubs Scramble for His Services

  By Muzammil Dalha Yola  Former coach of Kano Pillars FC, Enyimba FC, Akwa Utd, and Plateau Utd, Abdu Maikaba, is highly sought after by top Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) clubs. The experienced tactician, known for developing young talent from the grassroots, has become a hot commodity in the league. Bendel Insurance and Remo Stars have expressed strong interest in securing Maikaba's services, while Katsina United and Wikki Tourist FC are also in the running. The coach's impressive track record of producing talented players has made him a coveted asset for clubs looking to strengthen their squads. Maikaba's expertise in identifying and nurturing young talent has earned him a reputation as one of the most astute coaches in the NPFL. His ability to develop players from the grassroots level has made him a highly sought-after commodity in the league. As the new 2024/25 season approaches, the race to secure Maikaba's services is intensifying. Which club will ...
Post a Comment
Read more

NUGA Council Fixes Date for Zone E Preliminaries

By Muzammil Dalha Yola  The Nigeria University Games Association (NUGA) Zone E has scheduled its preliminary games for February 18-24, 2024, at Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology Wudil. This decision was made during the Council's meeting at ADUSTECH Wudil, attended by representatives from various universities in the zone. According to Abdullahi Datti Abdullahi, Chairman of the LOC Media & Publicity Committee, the Council discussed events, modalities, rules, and regulations, as well as necessary facilities to be provided. Prof. Abdulkadir Muhammad Danbazau, Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee, expressed ADUSTECH's readiness to host the competition successfully. He also solicited support from Council members and appreciated their considerations during the meeting. The meeting saw the election of Prof. Mustapha Abubakar from Federal University Dutse (FUD) and Nura Muhammad of ADUSTECH Wudil as Chairman and Secretary of NUGA Council Zone E, respectively. ...
Post a Comment
Read more

Coal City International Cup: Organizers Assure of Readiness as Top Clubs Confirm Participation

  By Muzammil Dalha Yola   The stage is set for the inaugural Coal City International Cup, a pre-season football tournament scheduled to hold from August 1st to 11th at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu. Organizers have confirmed that all arrangements are in place for a successful tournament, with all eight participating clubs reaffirming their commitment to the event. According to Ifeanyi Ogbu, Managing Director of Ski-Hi Entertainment, "We still have the eight teams that have confirmed participation. We have not changed or substituted any team." The tournament boasts an impressive lineup, featuring three league champions from their respective countries, including Rangers (Nigeria), Corinthians (Brazil), and Gor Mahia (Kenya). Other participating clubs include 9 times NPFL champions Enyimba (Nigeria), 4 times NPFL champions Kano Pillars (Nigeria), 2023/24 NPFL runners up Remo Stars (Nigeria), FC Coton (Benin Republic), and FC Kallon (Sierra Leone). The tournament promise...
Post a Comment
Read more