By Akeem Busari
Another illustrious name was yesterday added to the growing list of influential members of the society as patrons of the Nigeria Football Supporters Club (NFSC).
At a brief but colourful ceremony held at the headquarters of the Lagos State Traffic Maintainance Agency in Oshodi, Lagos, the Chief Executive Officer of the agency, AIG Chris Olakpe (rtd) was installed as a National Patron of the NFSC by Rev. Samuel Ikpea, the National Chairman of the club.
The investiture which was witnessed by members of staff of the agency, members and the world famous band members of the club, as well as the press, saw the elated LASTMA boss dancing and singing to some popular songs of the supporters club band, as he proudly donned the full regalia of the NFSC.
In the words of Rev. Ikpea, the recipient was truly deserving of the honour due to his passion and support for sports and particularly, football.
” We have been following your track records as it concerns your love, passion and selfless support for the youths and with sports as a platform.
“It is important that we inform you too, that Nigeria football supporters club was founded in 1955, as an NGO. And ever since then, the club has travelled to virtually all parts of the world supporting our various national teams with members of this club, spending their hard earned resources with little or no support from the government,” Ikpea disclosed.
“Therefore, in line with our mission and selfless desires to continue to help the development of Nigeria through sports, we deemed it wise to install you as a patron of this great club ” Ikpea stated.
In his reaction, the retired AIG of Police expressed delight over the honour done to him.
He described the award as one of the best he had ever received.
“I am highly elated and happy for this honour and recognition. As a matter of fact, this is one of the best moments in my life. And I shall cherish it forever, ” he remarked with smiles.
” Let me say that until this moment, my belief, like others, was that you are enjoying government support and patronage. Now, I know better and must commend your selflessness and patriotism,” Olakpe noted.
He went on to assure the NFSC of his total support at all times, adding that the government, well-placed individuals and the corporate bodies should rally in support for the club, whose members he described as patriotic Nigerians.
