By THE long-standing crisis within the Delta State Grassroots Coaches Association has come to an end following a reconciliation meeting convened by former Nigeria international and Delta State Sports Commission member, Sam Okiemute Sodje.
The meeting, which took place on Sunday, 16th March at TM Place, Airport Road, Effurun, saw both factions of the association agree to a resolution that aims to restore unity and progress.
From left, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and Sam Sodje
United Kingdom-born Sodje, who is also a member of the Delta State Football Association, acted as a mediator in the dispute.
Addressing those present, he urged all members to embrace reconciliation in good faith, emphasising that unity was essential for the development of coaches, the association, and the players they train.
“My decision is driven by the desire to transform football coaching and grassroots teams in Delta State through a well-structured programme that will be launched soon,” Sodje stated. “However, this vision cannot be realised in an atmosphere of division.”
After extensive deliberations, both parties agreed to several key resolutions, including the dissolution of the existing executive committee and the retention of the association’s registered name, Delta Youth Football Club Owners and Coaches Association (DYFCOCA).
A new bank account will also be opened for the association, and an interim committee has been set up to oversee its affairs for the next six months, after which elections will be held to establish a new leadership in line with the organisation’s constitution.
The newly appointed interim committee members are:
Edoviobaghogho Kelly – Chairman
Idoko Daniel – Vice Chairman
Moses – Secretary-General
Ukujere Cyril – Treasurer
Olabanji Kelly Okimiji – Provost/Member
Sodje reaffirmed his commitment to fostering peace and progress in Delta State’s sports sector, aligning his efforts with the vision of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State.
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The former Reading FC defender noted that the governor’s M.O.R.E agenda aims to maintain Delta’s reputation as the leading state in sports development across Nigeria.
“There should be no division in any part of the sports sector,” Sodje remarked.
“Only through unity can we achieve the best for Delta State and ensure that we remain number one in sports nationwide.”
With the resolution now in place, stakeholders are optimistic that the association can move forward and focus on nurturing football talents at the grassroots level.
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