Suspended FIFA president Sepp Blatter, has declared support for Nigeria’s Orji Kalu to succeed him.
Kalu, a former Governor of Abia State, north-east Nigeria, is gunning for FIFA top job alongside an ex-international, Segun Odegbami.
While Odegbami has formally declared his bid and appears to be enjoying the backing of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Orji Kalu on his part is yet to formally declare his ambition.
Also, the Confederation of African Football is due to meet next week to decide on a candidate for the election scheduled for next year.
However, Blatter told a Swiss Radio on Sunday, that Kalu has what it takes to the world football to the next level if given the chance.
His words, “The position of the FIFA president is too important to be left to just anybody.
“I have heard of some candidates who want to take over from me.
“But I find the businessman from Nigeria, Kalu, very qualified and interesting because he is not only a businessman, but a politician with lots of contacts and corporate experience.
“He can bring his great experiences to bear in the running of world football.
“He is passionate about the game.
“I remember how he sponsored one of Nigerian clubs to win the CAF championship twice.
“He is a man that can take world football to the next level.
“If Africa hopes to win the support of other federations, then they must cue behind the Nigerian businessman.
“Football has developed beyond just anybody taking over.
“I sacked Jerome Champgne in 2010, so how can he come back to lead an Association he tried to destroy.
“You need a man who can command respect and win friends for football.
“With Kalu, Africa stands a better chance.”
