In the wake of the successful regional elections held by the North-East Region Football Association (NERFA), on 12th June 2023 at the NERFA Secretariat on 6 Azzolini Highway, Makeni which came as a directive from the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) asking all regions to conduct regional elections, a new era of opportunity and growth awaits football in the North-East region. The consensus decisions taken by the general membership for electing the Chairman and Vice Chairman, along with the appointment of a capable and dedicated executive team, sets the stage for a promising four-year mandate.
The election gathering, attended by members of the NERFA, demonstrated a commitment to upholding the principles of the NERFA legal instrument. While the absence of opposing candidates led to a consensus process of electing the incumbent Chairman, Brimah Jalloh, and the newly elected Chairman of the Tonkolili District Football Association (TDFA), Abdul Pascal Gbla, as Vice Chairman.
The newly elected executive team is a blend of experienced individuals, each entrusted with specific roles to fulfil the diverse needs of the Northeast region’s football landscape. The former Secretary for the Koinadugu District Football Association (KDFA), Sheku Bilo Conteh is the new Secretary General, Robert Melvin Turay who is currently serving as the scribe for the Bombali District FA, as the Assistant Secretary for the region.
Mohamed Milton Koroma, elected as the Head of Competitions, Saudatu Sesay elected as the Female Desk Officer, the Falaba district FA Chairman, Chernor Marju Barrie elected as the Financial Secretary while Abdul Sembu Koroma, the current Vice Chairman for BDFA, deputizing him. Tejan Frederickson Fatorma was elected as the Head of Media and Marketing. With this team, the foundation is set for comprehensive and inclusive development.
The presence of sports journalists from various media outlets during the elections served as a testament to the transparency and accountability upheld by NERFA. Their keen observation ensures that the region’s football endeavours will be well-documented and widely recognized.
Abdul Karim Kabba, the representative of the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) who served as supervisor for the proceedings, acknowledged the integrity and fairness of the election process. This commendation affirms the credibility and legitimacy of the newly elected executive team.
The newly elected Chairman, B.J. as he is affectionately called expressed his commitment to working closely with all members of the association, recognizing that collective efforts are necessary to advance and prosper football in the region.
As the North-East Region Football Association embarks on this new chapter, the collective healing and growth of football in the region become the primary focus. The successful elections catalyze progress, and with a dedicated leadership team in place, the Northeast region can look forward to an exciting future on and off the field.