The Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA), as well as Nahim Khadi’s former clubs and colleagues, have been mourning the death of the former football administrator.

The Ex-Sierra Leone Football Association president Nahim Khadi, who died in London on Tuesday, aged 75, was elected as FA boss in 2004.

After his resignation in 2012, he returned to the UK to live with his family. Before his appointment, he served as a Team Manager for our darling Leone Stars. Nahim was an honourable man who tried his best to bring sanity to football in our country.  

He also served as team manager of Old Edwardians when he guided them to a league title in 1986 before moving to East End Lions to serve as a coach in 1989, winning the FA Cup after a 1-0 win over Real Republicans in the final played at the Siaka Stevens.

The country’s football body (SLFA) noted that his impact on football is a lasting legacy.

“The SLFA is deeply saddened by the passing of their former boss. Nahim Khadi’s impact in Sierra Leone football both as a player and a football administrator will forever be remembered.”

East End Lions Football Club noted that the late “Nahim Khadi was a great man, husband, father and someone who is more than just a coach or leader. He was an exceptional coach and a true asset to our team during his reign when he contributed to our history with success in the 1989 Sierra Leone FA Cup.”

Former club Old Edwardians acknowledged his service as they wrote, “Nahim Khadi was a Friend and Father of high integrity and his passion for football was unmatched. We pray that God grants the late Nahim Khadi eternal rest and also grant those he has left behind the fortitude to bear the loss.”

“Old Edwardians Football Club wishes to extend its deepest sympathy to the family of Nahim Khadi, friends & loved ones. Our thoughts are with you at this difficult time.”

BBC Sport reporter Fajah Barrie recalled, “Before he became president, he was a footballer featuring for the national team Leone Stars whom he also served as a Team manager. At the club level, he played for five Sierra Leonean clubs, including Mighty Blackpool, East End Lions, Old Edwardians and Diamond Stars.

He also served as team manager of Old Edwardians when he guided them to a league title in 1986 before moving to East End Lions to serve as a coach in 1989, winning the FA Cup after a 1-0 win over Real Republicans in the final played at the Siaka Stevens.”

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