FIFA PRESIDENCY: I Want Kalu To Succeed Me – Blatter

Ahead of the FIFA presidential election in February 2016, former FIFA president Sepp Blatter, who is currently on a 90-day suspension has publicly declared his support for Nigerian businessman, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu, to become the next FIFA president.

Speaking to a Swiss radio in Zurich, the 79 year old said the former Abia State Governor has the experience to head the world football governing body.

Blatter said: “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.

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“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.

According to Blatter, if Africa want’s to produce the next FIFA president, then they should nominate Kalu because of his deep passion for the game.

“If Africa hopes to win the support of other federations, then they must queue behind the Nigerian business man. 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.

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“With Kalu Africa stands a better chance, he concluded.

The Confederation of Africa Football (CAF) is expected to meet on Monday to decide on an African candidate for the election. Orji Kalu and Segun Odegbami are the two candidates vying for the post.

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