The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Galadima, who died after a protracted illness.
In a statement issued on Saturday, SWAN President, Isaiah Benjamin, through the Association’s Secretary-General, Amb. Ikenna Okonkwo, described the late Galadima as a trailblazer and an administrator of remarkable excellence whose contributions to Nigerian football remain indelible.
Galadima, who served as Chairman of the then Nigeria Football Association (NFA) between 2002 and 2006, was widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the nation’s football administration before handing over to Sani Lulu in 2006.
Reacting to the news of his demise, Benjamin said he received the development with shock and profound sadness, noting that the late administrator’s legacy would continue to inspire generations within the sporting community.
“I received the news of Alhaji Ibrahim Galadima with shock and expression of sadness,” he said. “He is one man I have known and admired personally over the years due to his sagacity and benevolent approach. He will be well remembered for his impact in Nigeria football and sports generally.”
The SWAN President further described Galadima as “a man with a heart of gold,” who consistently sought avenues to make meaningful impact, earning him admiration across the sports fraternity and beyond, including his role as a respected community leader in Kano State.
He also extended condolences to the bereaved family and the wider sporting community, praying for the repose of the deceased.
“On behalf of the entire sporting media, I extend our deepest condolences to his immediate family, Kano State and the entire sports fraternity. We pray that Almighty Allah forgives his shortcomings and grants him Aljannatul Firdaus, while giving his loved ones the fortitude to bear this great loss,” Benjamin added.
According to family sources, the late Galadima will be laid to rest on Sunday, April 19, 2026, in accordance with Islamic rites. His funeral prayer is scheduled to hold at the Fagge Juma’at Mosque by 10 a.m. in Kano State
