The Authentic Nigeria Football and Allied Sports Supporters Club (ANFASSC), a prominent Nigerian sports supporters organization, has affirmed the strong unity among established supporters clubs in the country and their resolve to resist divisive elements. This declaration follows a recent initiative by the National Sports Commission (NSC) aimed at consolidating the various supporters clubs under a unified umbrella. ANFASSC National President, Prince Abayomi Ogunjimi, commended the NSC’s efforts, particularly under the leadership of Mallam Shehu Dikko and Hon. Bukola Olopade, recognizing their commitment to fostering collaboration within the sports supporter community. He emphasized the shared objectives of the established supporters clubs and the importance of maintaining their existing collaborative framework for the benefit of all involved. Ogunjimi stressed the recognition of these functional supporters clubs by stakeholders, highlighting the need to present a united front against opportunistic intrusions that could jeopardize their collective strength and effectiveness.
ANFASSC attributes its prominence in the Nigerian sports supporters landscape to its distinctive approach, which encompasses organized fan support, a structured itinerary of events, active corporate social responsibility initiatives, and robust relationships with stakeholders. The organization acknowledges the groundwork laid by earlier supporters clubs while emphasizing its commitment to adopting global best practices and continuously innovating in its approach to fan engagement. This forward-thinking approach, coupled with an understanding of the global landscape of sports support, has propelled ANFASSC to the forefront of Nigerian fan organizations. The organization acknowledges the legacy of previous supporters’ groups, recognizing their foundational role in shaping the current landscape of sports fandom in Nigeria.
This declaration of unity comes at a crucial time for Nigerian football, as the Super Eagles embark on their qualifying campaign for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The upcoming qualifiers, along with the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) hosted by Morocco, represent major milestones for Nigerian football. In anticipation of these crucial tournaments, ANFASSC has called for unwavering support for the newly appointed Super Eagles coach, Eric Chelle. Recognizing the importance of collective effort in achieving national sporting objectives, Ogunjimi emphasized the need for all stakeholders to put aside differences and rally behind the coach and the team.
The call for unity extends beyond mere symbolism, serving as a practical strategy for achieving national footballing ambitions. Qualifying for the World Cup and winning the AFCON are identified as top priorities, requiring a cohesive and supportive environment for the national team. ANFASSC’s leadership believes that a unified front, encompassing fans, administrators, and the team itself, is essential for success in these high-stakes competitions. This call for unity transcends mere support for the team, representing a broader appeal for national cohesion around a shared sporting ambition.
Furthermore, Ogunjimi assured the NSC, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), and other sporting federations that the established supporters clubs would remain a cohesive force dedicated to supporting Nigerian sports. He expressed confidence in the unity of the established supporters’ groups, dismissing concerns about potential disruptions from fringe elements. This assurance aims to alleviate any apprehension among sporting authorities regarding potential divisions or discord within the supporters’ ranks. The message conveyed is one of steadfast commitment to the positive development of Nigerian sports, with the established supporters clubs acting as a stabilizing force.
In essence, ANFASSC’s message resonates on multiple levels, encompassing not only a commitment to supporting the national team but also a broader commitment to the unity and advancement of Nigerian sports. It underscores the organization’s role as a unifying force, bringing together diverse groups of fans under a shared banner of national pride. It also emphasizes the importance of structured fan engagement, strategic partnerships, and a forward-looking approach in building a vibrant and impactful supporters’ culture. This commitment extends beyond football, embracing all allied sports and underscoring the organization’s broad vision for the future of Nigerian sports fandom. The message is clear: unity, collaboration, and a shared vision are the key ingredients for success, both on and off the field.
