Nizam Criticizes Inaction in Elevating Maldivian Football

Mohamed Nizam from Buru Sports has remarked that there are insufficient constructive efforts being made to improve the current state of Maldivian football.

During his recent presidential address, Dr. Mohamed Muizzu voiced apprehension regarding the unsatisfactory condition of football in the Maldives. In reaction to Muizzu's comments, Nizam shared a Mihaaru news article on social media, adding the caption "Next step."

When asked about his social media statement, Nizam, formerly the coach of the U-17 national team, expressed that football has regressed to a concerning level, with insufficient efforts from the government, FAM, and clubs to uplift the state of football in the country.

"It's not just the government and the FAM. The responsibility extends beyond them to do a sustained job to improve football," said the coach, who won the 2018 edition of the national league with TC.

Nizam, who previously served as a member of the Sports Council, noted that with each change in government, a new set of individuals favored by the administration is introduced into sports associations.

"If this doesn't occur [when the government cannot appoint its preferred individuals to lead the associations], it results in the neglect of the sport," Nizam remarked.

"You can observe the outcomes during the previous administration. They've even attempted to convey that investing in football is futile."

Nizam emphasized that individuals with a background in sports should manage sports administration. He highlighted the importance of collective efforts from all stakeholders in football to identify the factors contributing to its current state.

"A comprehensive master plan for football development is essential, and unfortunately, with each change in government, this continuity is disrupted. Sustainable growth in football is unattainable if the approach is altered with each change in leadership," stated Nizam, who previously served on the executive committee of the Olympic Committee.