FIVE THINGS THAT MAKES AMAJU STAND OUT AS THE MOST ACCOMPLISHED FOOTBALL ADMINISTRATOR IN OUR NATIONS HISTORY

Amaju Melvin Pinnick is a name that rings a bell. A gallant warrior that won a thousand battles and is still standing tall in the line of duty. His arrogance comes with a touch of braveness, his brilliance is clothed with wisdom and his achievements in a sector littered with great men of valor is just a testament of his relentless spirit, doggedness and class. 

Today, December 1, 2024, he turns 54 but looking back at his records and counting his many legacies, many will think he is a centurion. 

Welcome to the world of the Delta state born administrator who in eight years dominated the headlines as he dazzled the world with uncountable achievements that distinguished him as Nigerias finest football administrator and one of the best Sports icons that ever lived. 

On the auspicious ocassion of his 54th birthday anniversary, this writer, who over the years have stood out as a staunch critic of the former NFF president, is not shy to take a quick dash down memory lane as he highlights the 5 things that sets Amaju apart as one of Africa's finest football administrator and without mincing words, Nigeria's best ever football administrator. 

1. First Nigerian to emerge back to back NFF president. 

Many before him, tried but failed. Infact many before him didn't even have a chance to contest for a second term as they were either battling with countless cases or running from pillar to posts as anti corruption agencies come after them day and night. Coincidentally, this man was also a victim of this victimization but in the midst of the trials and tribulations, Amaju contested and emerged NFF president for a record second term. 

2. First Nigerian to Emerge CAF VICE PRESIDENT. 

Before Amaju Pinnick, the likes of Orok Oyo and Dr Amos Adamu have enjoyed their fair share of popularity as executive committee members of Africa's apex football body, but non rose to the position of Vice president. However, the former chairman of Delta state sports commission did so in style. At thesame period, he was chairman of four key Committees in CAF and became one of the strongest and most feared football administrator in the world. 

3. First Nigerian to be appointed Match commissioner at the Semi Final and Third place matches of a FIFA World Cup. 

That too was one of the highpoints of his illustrious career as he was honored for his deep passion and love for the beautiful game by FIFA. 

Those achievements are worthy of mention and will always distinguished Amaju Pinnick as one of football icons of all time. 

4. He is the first and only NFF president that made sure that Nigeria's football became 80 percent autonomous. 

He fought so hard to achieve 100% autonomy for the NFF but couldn't, because of the many negativity around our football. However, it is on record that Amaju remains the only NFF president that managed to secure close to fifteen corporate sponsorship for the Nigeria football federation and the various national teams. 

5. He is the first African in history to be cleared by the FIFA Ethics committee of 115 charges as he emerged victorious to become a member of the FIFA Council. 

His kinsmen labeled him with all forms of allegations. They tied him to the stick and waited for him to be crucified but like a cat with nine lives Amaju came out unscathed. He was cleared of all allegations and charges by the FIFA Ethics as he emerged from the blues to become a member of the FIFA Council. Today, he is the first Nigerian in history to occupy the exalted position of FIFA Council member and member, executive committee of the Confederation of African football, CAF.

Join me fellow Nigerians with heads bowed, as we doff our hats for an icon of our time, a legend of the beautiful game and the commander of football in the federal republic of Nigeria. 

Together, let's say a thousand gbosas for Chief Amaju Melvin Pinnick, the governor that Delta state will dream to have, as he marks another glorious birthday.