President Dr. Julius Maada Bio welcomed the newly elected executive of the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA), led by President Babadi Kamara, to State House. The courtesy visit highlighted the association’s commitment to promoting peace, unity, and transparent administration throughout the country’s football landscape.
Dr. Emmanuel Saffa Abdulai, Executive Director of the National Sports Authority (NSA), took the opportunity to thank the government for its continued investment in sports, particularly football. He emphasised the game’s broad social and economic benefits, pointing out that football has created job opportunities for Sierra Leonean youth both locally and abroad, as well as contributed to the growth of tourism. “Your Government’s passion for sport has been evident in the support you have given to football in particular,” said Abdulai, a doctor. He also stated that the NSA, with government support, aims to expand grassroots infrastructure and scouting networks, including ensuring that every district has an artificial turf pitch to identify and develop talent for national teams.
Madam Augusta James Teima, Minister of Sports, praised President Bio’s unwavering support for football and other sports. She commended the newly elected SLFA executive for demonstrating unity and collaboration in the face of challenges during the recent congress. “On behalf of the Ministry of Sports and the NSA, I am honoured to present to you the newly elected president and executive of the SLFA,” said Madame Teima. She also used the opportunity to highlight recent national accomplishments, including the Sierra Queens’ WAFU Championship victory and strong performances in basketball, gymnastics, and other sports.
Mr. Babadi Kamara, the newly appointed SLFA President, thanked President Bio for his long-held belief in football as a tool for national unity. He described his executive team as the most inclusive in the organisationβs history, intentionally representing all regions and tribes. “Football has no boundaries,” Mr. Kamara declared, promising that his administration will prioritise transparency, actively pursue corporate sponsorships, and strengthen the game at all levels, from grassroots to national teams.
President Bio congratulated the new SLFA leadership on their election and encouraged them to turn their promises into tangible results for the country. He reaffirmed his administration’s support for football as a unifying force and urged the SLFA to continue its early efforts to engage companies in sponsorships. He also congratulated the Sierra Queens on their WAFU Championship victory and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ongoing investment in women’s football and other sports that bring honour to Sierra Leone.
During the meeting, Mr. Kamara urged the government to expedite the completion of the National Stadium, arguing that a world-class venue would boost Sierra Leone’s international competitiveness while also providing a fitting home for the Leone Stars and their supporters. The discussions demonstrated a shared commitment from the government and football authorities to build infrastructure, increase inclusivity, and harness the sport’s unifying power across the country.
