Former NFF chairman Ibrahim Galadima dies at 78

A former chairman of the Nigeria Football Federation, Ibrahim Galadima, has passed away at the age of 78.

Galadima, who also held the traditional title of Galadiman Fagge, died on Saturday evening at a hospital in Kano, according to his younger brother, Abba Galadima.

Funeral prayers are scheduled for Sunday, April 19, 2026, at the Fagge Juma’at Mosque in Kano.

The late administrator was widely regarded as a key figure in Nigerian football, having played a major role in shaping the sport during his tenure. He served as chairman of the football federation between 2002 and 2006, a period marked by efforts to strengthen the organisation and enhance Nigeria’s presence on the international stage.

He also contributed to sports development at the state level as chairman of the Kano State Sports Commission, where he supported both grassroots and elite sporting initiatives.

Tributes have begun to pour in, including from Kano Pillars FC, a club he helped establish. In a statement, the team expressed condolences to his family, the government and people of Kano State, and the wider football community.

The club’s management, led by General Manager Ahmed Musa and Chairman Ali Muhammad Umar, described Galadima’s death as a significant loss and prayed for strength for his loved ones.

Born on February 15, 1948, Galadima is remembered for his lasting contributions to football administration and his role in building a strong foundation for the growth of the sport in Nigeria.