NFF hails transparency as key to longstanding partnership with Nigeria Pitch Awards

By Samuel Ahmadu

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has highlighted transparency as a cornerstone of its enduring partnership with the Nigeria Pitch Awards, which has thrived for over a decade.

During a press conference held in Abuja on Monday, Ademola Olajire, Director of Communications at the NFF, emphasized that the success and longevity of the collaboration are rooted in the transparency, accountability, and credibility of the voting process.

“What has maintained the NFF’s support for the Pitch Awards over the years is the unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability, and integrity,” Olajire stated.

“The organizers have excelled in these areas, particularly by involving a college of voters to ensure that the entire process remains transparent and fair.”

The 10th edition of the Nigeria Pitch Awards took place on June 8, with Victor Osimhen and Asisat Oshoala emerging as the standout winners, being crowned King and Queen of the Pitch respectively. The prestigious ceremony was held at the Ibom Icon Resort in Akwa Ibom State, Uyo.

The organizers of the Nigeria Pitch Awards have expressed their deep appreciation for the crucial role played by Nigerian sports journalists and the college of voters in the success of the awards since their inception in 2012.

Reflecting on the event’s journey from its beginnings in Lagos, they credited the sustained success and consistency of the awards to the support from sports editors and journalists across the country.

Mr. Shina Phillips, President of the Nigeria Pitch Awards, acknowledged the significant contribution of the Nigerian media. He highlighted that the creation of an award platform with a distinct character—defined by transparency, credibility, and integrity—was the driving force behind the awards.

Phillips praised the meticulous process of assembling a knowledgeable and professional college of voters, which has ensured that the awards process remains free of controversy.

“It is with great humility that I extend my gratitude to all Nigerian sports editors and journalists who have supported the awards since 2012,” Phillips said.

“Our aim was to establish an award platform with a unique character, underpinned by core values of transparency and integrity. We have successfully achieved this through a carefully structured voting process involving some of Nigeria’s most experienced sports journalists and an independent collation body.”

He concluded by affirming that the organizers are proud of the awards’ ten-year history and deeply appreciative of the college of voters, who have ensured that the Nigeria Pitch Awards remain a respected and transparent institution in Nigerian football.