Former Super Eagles striker and coach Samson Siasia has announced his readiness to start afresh after completing the ban imposed on him by FIFA. Speaking at a world press conference in Abuja organized by his friends, Siasia expressed gratitude to those who supported him during his challenging times, including Chief Segun Odegbami, Governor Douye Diri, Minister of FCT Nyesom Wike, Abuja All Stars, and many others.
“I can’t thank Chief Segun Odegbami enough for his support during my ordeal. He was the first person to call me, asking how he could help, and he provided all the assistance he could. Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State and Minister of FCT, Nyesom Wike, are men whose support, both financial and emotional, has been invaluable,” Siasia said.
He also expressed his appreciation for the support of former Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Lucky Irabor (rtd), Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo (Tompolo), Babbigton Ashaye, the Nigeria Governors Forum and its DG, members of Abuja All Stars, and many others who stood by him.
“Five years have come and gone, and now it’s time to hit the ground running. I’m ready to start anew. I’ve received a few offers, including from abroad, but nothing concrete yet. I recently had discussions with Ferdinand Mbum, General Manager of Mighty Jets, and visited Plateau State to watch a preseason tournament. I was supposed to meet with the governor, but he was in Abuja. We’ll see how things turn out,” Siasia concluded.
Other notable attendees at the event included former Super Eagles defender Chikelue Iloenyosi, Brown Ideye, Gbolahan Salami, and many others.
Siasia was initially given a lifetime ban from football by FIFA, but he challenged the decision in court, where the ban was reduced to five years.
