By Alisious Kongo: Liberty Online TV
On Liberty Online TV’s Breakfast Show, Executive Director of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Dr. Emmanuel Saffa Abdulai, outlined sweeping reforms aimed at transforming Sierra Leone’s sports sector. Since his appointment in 2024, Dr. Abdulai has sought to move the Authority from a struggling institution into one that is inclusive, accountable, and diverse.
Reflecting on the NSA’s six-year journey, he acknowledged its shortcomings before his tenure but highlighted reforms now in place. “We make sure every discipline operates within the law through congresses and constitutions,” he said, emphasizing that development must begin locally before reaching the international stage.
The NSA, he noted, has drafted anti-doping regulations and a national sports policy while pushing for diversity through the establishment of a disability desk. He credited government for ensuring financial support, stressing that resources are now shared across disciplines rather than concentrated on football alone.
Accountability, he argued, has been central to progress. The NSA manages government’s sports budget, purchases tickets, and books hotels to ensure transparency, though associations are required to submit annual calendars — a task some failed to complete. “FIFA funds remain outside our control,” he clarified, adding that global football bodies prefer to limit government involvement.
Turning to football, Dr. Abdulai rejected claims that Leone Stars players are demotivated, insisting they receive proper pay, five-star accommodation, and full logistical support. He admitted the NSA influenced changes in the national team setup, including the appointment of coach Mohamed Kallon.
Reflecting on Sierra Leone’s recent qualifier against Guinea-Bissau, he observed that Kallon “locked the defense with his experience after just three games.” While acknowledging that the results “are not bad,” he stressed that the coach must keep improving. “He has been pardoned for the World Cup qualifiers, but he must qualify Sierra Leone for AFCON — or else there will be a problem.” He further revealed that the NSA has agreed on a contract figure with Kallon but said the deal will only be finalized after the World Cup qualifiers.
Beyond football, Dr. Abdulai announced 3 million Leones annually to support the women’s premier league, temporary job opportunities for youth, and plans for better sports infrastructure. On the ongoing national stadium renovation, he admitted signing errors delayed the project but promised the 23,000-seater facility will be ready by October next year.
Despite financial constraints, Dr. Abdulai expressed optimism: “We want to make sports a prioritized vocation for Sierra Leonean youth.”