Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, President of the West African Football Union (WAFU) Zone B and Ghana Football Association (GFA), has arrived in Niamey, Niger, to preside over the 17th General Assembly of the sub-regional football body.
Okraku was warmly received at the Diori Hamani International Airport by Colonel-Major Djibrilla Hima Hamidou, President of the Nigerien Football Federation, and WAFU B Executive Director Philippe Tchere.
The WAFU B General Assembly is scheduled to take place at the Radisson Blu Hotel on Friday, November 22, 2024. The assembly will be attended by high-ranking African football officials, including:
- Samuel Eto’o, President of the Cameroonian Football Federation (Fecafoot).
- Presidents and General Secretaries of the seven WAFU B Member Associations (MAs): Ghana, Nigeria, Cote D’Ivoire, Benin, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Togo.
Kurt Okraku will deliver the opening address, where he is expected to outline his vision for the development of football in the sub-region.
Key Topics of Discussion
The General Assembly will serve as a platform to discuss:
- Infrastructure development.
- Governance reforms.
- Financial sustainability.
- Youth development and women’s football.
- Competition reforms to increase regional competitiveness.
Kurt Okraku is anticipated to emphasize inclusivity, creativity, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to excellence, aligning with his transformative vision for WAFU B.
Strong Leadership and Achievements
Under Okraku’s leadership, WAFU B has introduced new competitions and modernized football administration in the region. His efforts have focused on reviving the competitiveness of regional tournaments and fostering unity among the member associations.
Accompanying Okraku are Prosper Harrison Addo, GFA General Secretary, and Abdul Razak, Ghanaian football legend and 1978 African Footballer of the Year.
Niger’s Role in Hosting
Niger’s preparations highlight the country’s commitment to facilitating a successful assembly. The warm reception at the airport and the arrangements at the Radisson Blu Hotel reflect the host nation’s readiness to support the growth of football in the region.
This assembly marks a significant milestone in WAFU B’s journey towards football excellence, unity, and development in West Africa.
