Nigeria: Chukwu on NFF’s delay to name venues for June qualifiers

Former Nigerian coach, Christian Chukwu, has dispelled fears that Nigeria may not have a pitch to host their 2014 World Cup qualifier matches against Namibia and Malawi June 3 and 10 respectively and 2013 Afcon qualifier game against Rwanda June 17.

NFF confessed on Thursday to have ruled out the Ahmadu Bello stadium, Kaduna and National stadium, Abuja as possible hosts of the games because of insecurity concerns for the former and poor state of pitch for the latter.

The Federation has also inspected three other stadia, Obafemi Awolowo stadium, Ibadan, UJ Esuene stadium, Calabar and Dan Anyiam stadium, Owerri.

Fears have been raised as to finding the right stadium for the game but Chukwu said the NFF will announce the suitable choice soon.

"It’s not the fault of the federation to yet name a venue for the qualifiers.

"I think the delay is aimed at providing a suitable and conducive playing ground for them.

"But wherever they settled eventually will be a Nigerian ground, so I don’t see how the team will be disadvantaged.

"Its important the federation liaise with the coach in everything they’re doing concerning where the matches will be played.

"NFF problem is finance. During my time the former governor of Rivers state, Peter Odili was there for us the same way of late Abeokuta, Ogun state has shouldered the responsibility for the women’s teams.

"I think they’re looking for a governor who will pick the bill.

"I know Dan Anyiam stadium, Owerri is among the stadia inspected, the stadium is in perfect shape so if the governor shows interest they should play the games there."

The former Nigerian player however admitted that it is important for the venue to be known on time.

"The team must know on time the venue for their games so that the players can move in there and familiarised themselves with the pitch.

"There is still time but it shouldn’t be stretched too far," he said.