Oliseh: We are starting from a near-zero point

Super Eagles coach, Sunday Oliseh, is aware of the challenges inherent in his job after admitting that he’s “starting from a near-zero point”.

Oliseh released an 18-man list of foreign-based players who are expected to join their home-based counterparts in camp as the team prepares for the Africa Cup of Nations qualifier with Tanzania in Der es Salaam in September.

The former Eagles captain spoke in Lagos on Monday, at a closing-gong ceremony on the floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE).

“We are starting from a near-zero point. There is nothing much on ground to develop on. But I have confidence that if we all work together, and we have patience, and we have support, we will get there,” he said.

“The NFF has promised to give me total support in my developmental programs that are aimed at returning us to the glory days. I cannot achieve much without their support. But I am also aware that they cannot support me the way they would want to without adequate support and funding from Corporate Nigeria.”

Amaju Pinnick, president of the Nigeria Football Federation, called the visit a significant symbolic event that is meant to open the door for a more substantial project – the desire of the NFF to see Nigeria’s top clubs quoted on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

“We consider this opportunity a priceless privilege. The NSE is a place for high integrity, transparency and accountability, and these are the values we want to drive in Nigeria football,” he said.

“We are determined to reposition Nigeria football and work with relevant stakeholders to build a sustainable football culture. We want to win matches but building the culture is more important.”

The NFF boss explained that the administration’s capacity building programs is intended to update all workers in football on modern dynamics of the game.

“The NSE has a pivotal role to play to help us achieve our dream of having Nigerian clubs quoted on the stock exchange. The way to go now is private sector. We want the support of Corporate Nigeria for our programs so that we can reduce the burden on government.”

Oscar Onyema, CEO of NSE, expressed belief that Oliseh will shine brilliantly in his second calling (as head coach) as he did in his first calling (as a player).

“All of us here, NSE board members, management and myself, believe that you will be a success. You have what it takes and you look like someone who is ready to conquer everything on his route to the top.

“Yes, I believe that it is time that Nigerian clubs come to the market (Nigeria Stock Exchange). Clubs like Manchester United (England), Juventus and AC Milan (Italy) are quoted on the stock exchange. Nigeria is the biggest black nation in the world and the excitement that football generates in our land is incredible.”