By Ed Malik, A /edmalik06@gmail.com
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) on Tuesday met with representatives of the National and International Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the NFF headquarters in Abuja, to seek areas of common interest to improve he game of football.
NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, MON, who received the executives of the professional body expressed the Federation’s appreciation for the visit. He remarked that it was noteworthy that NSBMB’s International President, Professor Dario Alessi, who is not Nigerian, is an ardent supporter of the Super Eagles. “We deeply appreciate your expression of empathy to the Nigeria Football Federation regarding the Super Eagles’ imminent absence from the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals in the USA, Canada and Mexico.”
In response, Professor Alessi, revealed that Nigeria is his preferred team in the game of football, noting that he consistently attends any match featuring Nigeria’s National Teams to show his support. Though, disappointed that Nigeria will not be participating in the FIFA World Cup finals, he remains committed to supporting the team in their quest for international success.
The Nigeria Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology serves as the host to the International Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. This global initiative commenced on November 24 in Abuja. Prof. Matthew O. Wegwu, President of the NSBMB, who was also on the team to the NFF briefed the attendees about the relationship and collaboration between Biochemistry and Football.
“Our purpose here is to pay a courtesy call on the NFF. There exists a relationship between Biochemistry and Sports, when we consider sports as scientific activity, it inherently involves chemistry, which contributes essential elements that enable sports to excel, such as sports science and sports medicine. Our goal is to establish and strengthen this connection”, said Wegwu.
“I assure you that, based on our communication with the NFF, our footballers will henceforth perform remarkably well, and with scientific support, we shall triumph in all our competitions.”
Notable individuals who were present during the visit includes NFF President, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, MON; the International President, Professor Dario Alessi; the NSBMB Vice President, Professor M. A. Milala; Secretary General, Professor A. Abubakar; Treasurer, Professor A. N. Ukwuani- Kwaja and; other coordinators.