Nigeria’s football community is in mourning following the death of former Nigeria Football Association (now Nigeria Football Federation) president, Ibrahim Galadima, who passed away on Saturday at the age of 74 in Kano.
The news was confirmed by former NFF General Secretary, Sani Toro, who expressed grief over the loss of the respected sports administrator and prayed for his eternal rest.
In an official statement, the Nigeria Football Federation described Galadima as a highly respected figure whose contributions significantly shaped the development of football in Nigeria over several decades.Galadima served as president of the NFA from 2002 to 2006, a period noted for key administrative reforms and Nigeria’s continued presence in continental and international football competitions. Before his presidency, he held several important roles, including Chairman of the Kano State Football Association and Executive Chairman of the Kano State Sports Council.
He also served as First Vice President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee and was part of the Presidential Monitoring Committee on stadium development ahead of the FIFA World Youth Championship 1999.
Reacting to his passing, NFF President Ibrahim Gusau described Galadima as a mentor and father figure, praising his integrity, wisdom, and lasting impact on Nigerian sports administration.Born on June 14, 1951, in Kano, Galadima dedicated much of his life to public service.
His career included roles as Commissioner for Social Welfare, Youth and Sports, and later Commissioner for Works, Housing, and Transport in Kano State.His death adds to a series of losses in Nigeria’s football community in 2026, including notable figures such as Henry Nwosu, Adegboye Onigbinde, and Sani Zubairu.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by his family in accordance with Islamic traditions.