The suspended president of FIFA, Sepp Blatter has thrown hinted on who he would want to succeed him as head of the world’s football governing body.
As the elections draw closer and many declaring intentions to occupy the exalted position, Blatter has openly declared his support for a former Abia State Governor, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu over former Secretary General, Jerome Champagne, and Prince Alli of Jordan.
Kalu, who has not officially declared his interest for FIFA presidency, is preferred by Blatter. According to Blatter, nominating Kalu would be in the best interest of Africa because of his deep passion for the game.
Speaking in Zurich, Blatter told a Swiss radio on Sunday: “The position of the FIFA president is too important to be left to just anybody.
“I have heard of some candidates who want to take over from me.
“But I find the businessman from Nigeria, Kalu, very qualified and interesting because he is not only a businessman, but a politician with lots of contacts and corporate experience.
“He can bring his great experiences to bear in the running of world football.
“He is passionate about the game.
“I remember how he sponsored one of Nigerian clubs to win the CAF championship twice.
“He is a man that can take world football to the next level.”
“If Africa hopes to win the support of other federations, then they must cue behind the Nigerian businessman.
“Football has developed beyond just anybody taking over.
“I sacked Jerome Champgne in 2010, so how can he come back to lead an Association he tried to destroy.
“You need a man who can command respect and win friends for football.
“With Kalu, Africa stands a better chance.”
Other than Kanu, Segun Odegbami is another African also vying for the office.
The Confederation of African Football is expected to meet in the coming week to decide on which candidate to field for the election scheduled for next year.
