The Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Hon. Hulayat Motunrayo Omidiran, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former President of the Nigeria Football Association (now Nigeria Football Federation), Ibrahim Galadima.
The Eagle Online recalls that Galadima died in Kano on Saturday, April 18, 2026 following a prolonged illness at the age of 78.
Omidiran, a former elected member of the NFA Board during Galadima’s tenure between 2002 and 2006, recalled her close working relationship with the late Kano State-born sports administrator, noting that his contributions to the growth of Nigerian football remain enduring and invaluable.
She said: “The passing of Alhaji Ibrahim Galadima is a great loss not only to Nigerian football but to the entire sporting community.
“He was a man of immense wisdom, discipline, and integrity, whose leadership helped shape the structure and direction of football administration in Nigeria.”
Omidiran further recounted that the period of their stewardship witnessed remarkable progress for Nigerian football on the global stage, describing his legacy as one built on selfless service, integrity, and a deep passion for youth and sports development.
She added: “I had the privilege of serving on the NFA Board under his leadership between 2002 and 2006.
“It was a period of strong institutional direction and achievement, during which Nigeria rose to become the ninth-ranked football nation in the world.
“That milestone reflected the collective commitment, vision, and discipline that defined his leadership.
“Alhaji Galadima dedicated his life to the advancement of sports in Nigeria.
“His contributions went beyond football, touching lives and institutions across the country.
“His legacy will remain a guiding light for future generations.”
Omidiran, the former Chairman of the NFF Women’s Football Development Committee, extended her condolences to the family of the late sports icon, the government and people of Kano State, and the entire Nigerian football community.
She said: “On behalf of the Federal Character Commission, I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the Nigerian football family.
“May Almighty Allah grant him Aljannah Firdaus and give all those he left behind the strength to bear this great loss.”
Galadima’s distinguished career included service as Chairman of the Kano State Football Association, Executive Chairman of the Kano State Sports Council, First Vice President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee, and Commissioner for Youth and Sports in Kano State.
