Former Super Eagles defender visits Ikeja LG Chairman AKOD, pledges support for 2027 campaign
Former Super Eagles central defender and pastor, Taribo West, has declared support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid, pledging to participate in the campaign ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
West made the declaration on Wednesday during a courtesy visit to the Executive Chairman of Ikeja Local Government, Comrade Akeem Olalekan Dauda (AKOD).
The former international footballer said Nigerians should support President Tinubu for a second term to enable him to continue and complete the initiatives of his administration.
West disclosed that he was actively involved in supporting Tinubu during his first term and expressed his readiness to join the campaign for his re-election in 2027.
He also commended the Member representing Ikeja Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. James Abiodun Faleke, for his representation, expressing his willingness to collaborate with him on the presidential campaign.
West Calls for Urgent Reforms in Nigerian Football
Beyond politics, the former Super Eagles defender called for urgent reforms in Nigerian football, expressing concern over the decline of the sport and the growing neglect of grassroots talents.
West lamented that talented young footballers across Nigeria were increasingly being overlooked, while players developed abroad were relied upon to fill key positions in the national teams.
He stressed the need to rebuild a football development system that identifies, nurtures and promotes homegrown talents, recalling how many Nigerian players rose from humble backgrounds through their abilities, determination and opportunities at the grassroots.
The former defender also expressed concern about football administration in the country, urging stakeholders to work collectively towards restructuring the sport and restoring public confidence in its management.
As part of his proposed intervention, West advocated bringing together former Nigerian internationals, football administrators and other professionals to develop practical solutions for repositioning the game.
He specifically mentioned former Super Eagles players Julius Aghahowa, Garba Lawal and Ifeanyi Udeze among those who could contribute their experience and expertise to the initiative.
According to West, his interest in football development goes beyond personal ambition, focusing instead on creating opportunities for young Nigerians and restoring the country’s grassroots football system.
AKOD Welcomes West, Promises Meeting with Faleke
In his response, AKOD welcomed the former international and commended his expressed support for President Tinubu’s second-term bid, as well as his commitment to grassroots football development.
The council chairman described West’s intervention on football development as timely, noting that while political activities ahead of the 2027 elections were gaining momentum, youth development and sports remained important national priorities.
AKOD assured West that he would facilitate a meeting between him and Rt. Hon. James Abiodun Faleke to discuss his proposed participation in the President’s re-election campaign and explore possible areas of collaboration.
He added that the proposed engagement would also provide an opportunity to discuss practical strategies for strengthening grassroots football in Ikeja and contributing to wider efforts to reposition Nigerian football.
The council chairman emphasised that football remains a significant platform for youth development, empowerment and national unity, stressing the need for sustained commitment from government and other stakeholders.
AKOD thanked West for taking the initiative to engage with the local government and assured him that his concerns and proposals on football development would receive due consideration.
