Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Sunday Dare, has described late former Technical Director of the Nigeria Football Federation, Kashimawo Laloko, as one of the best grassroots coaches Nigeria ever produced.
The minister said this in a statement by his Special Adviser (Media), John Joshua-Akanji, on Monday in Abuja following the demise of the coach on Sunday.
“My condolences to the family of Chief Laloko on his death. He was not just a coach, he was a talent hunter and technically sound.
“I followed his trajectory as coach of Stationery Stores of Lagos, Wikki Tourists of Bauchi, The Gambia National team, Technical Director of the NFA as well as Founder of the Pepsi Academy.
“He was just not dedicated, hardworking and a disciplinarian, he made his mark everywhere he worked.
“He was one of Nigeria’s best coaches, even when he became a paramount ruler, he was never tired in lending his support to Nigerian football,” Dare said.
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The minister also recalled how the late coach was at the media unveiling of the National Principal’s Cup in Lagos in 2020 and was very excited about the revival of the competition.
“Laloko was so passionate about Nigerian football and gave everything for its growth. Nigeria has lost a great man. May his soul rest in peace,” Dare added.
Laloko, 76, died in Lagos on Sunday.
The late coach was credited with the discovery of many great players including Mikel Obi, Ezekiel Bala, Osaze Odewimgie among others.
He held the traditional title of Parakoyi of Egbaland in Ogun. (NAN)
