FOROYAA Newspaper (Serrekunda)
12 July 2008
opinion
Kebba Yorro Manneh — The fourth article in the series of the above caption delves in-depth into the tenure of office of ALHIAGI E O.B. CONATEH which began in December 1993 as highlighted in the second article. The tenure began on a good pedestal as he, by virtue of his charisma, Philantropism and above all an amiable, hence accessible personality, was a rallying force that augured well for football as it brought the two protagonists under one unified umbrella. This is hence the legacy he bequeathed for the welfare of football.
It began by consolidating the gains of the turbulent years whilst nipping it in the bud all the constraints of the said years. The fertile ground for football was able to thrive. Thrive it did, as all hands were on deck to ensure that.
Thank God, with the advent of the FIFA subvention, there was a good omen for the necessary projections to take. Thus, for the first time ever, all competitions were entered into thus:
1. THE AFRICAN NATIONS QUALIFIERS
2. THE UNDER 17.
3. THE UNDER 20
4. THE CLUBS CHAMPIONSHIPS hitherto shunned by non participation.
Along side that, female football was introduced and GFA engaged in decentralization. The GFA became more inclusive as is evident in the setting up of a REGIONAL BUREAU, expanding competitions and promoting the game to take on a national character increasingly.
Clubs were pampered with funds from the FIFA subvention which though not in line with FIFA financial regulations helped to sanitise the operations of both clubs and management to be on a better footing. This paid dividends as clubs participated fully.
Overall his tenure was crowned with all the successes too numerous to mention in a newspaper column. But as it all happened in the recent past it was, and still is, a legacy worthy of both emulation and commendation.
No wonder, when his tenure came to a end in 2001 he was crowned LIFE PRESIDENT for his services when endeavours to keep him on were gently but firmly rejected by him. He was determined to pass the mantle to the younger generation. To date he is hailed for the unique sense of purpose, selfless service, pride and dignity.
The era thus ended in glory.
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