Sakaja Foundation takes over management of Nairobi United FC

“You will never lack. I want you to wake up, work, and think about football," Sakaja told the team.

In Summary
  • the Sakaja Foundation will, going forward, manage the entire activities of the football club that currently ranks fourth in the FKF National Super League.
  • Sakaja said he is committed to ensuring the team thrives and becomes better.
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja in a joint picture with Nairobi United FC team outside City Hall on Friday, September 27, 2024
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja in a joint picture with Nairobi United FC team outside City Hall on Friday, September 27, 2024
Image: HANDOUT

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja's foundation has taken over the running of affairs of the Nairobi United FC.

The Sakaja Foundation will, going forward, manage the entire activities of the football club that currently ranks fourth in the FKF National Super League.

Addressing the team while unveiling the transition on Friday at City Hall, the Nairobi governor said he's committed to ensuring the team thrives and becomes better.

He vowed to roll out a plan that will see the team elevated to the National Kenya Premier League in the long run.

“You will never lack. I want you to wake up, work, and think about football. Put all your energy here; I believe in winning. Let’s be winners,” Governor Sakaja passionately told the team.

Sakaja emphasized his commitment to supporting the club through the foundation but urged players to maintain discipline and a winning mindset.

"Be your brother’s keeper, be in the right mindset, and we shall be winners. That is the story of Nairobi United,” he added.

The Governor expressed his vision for the club to join the Kenya Premier League noting that it is possible with hard work and dedication.

"We must work together—no relaxing. If you relax, we will replace you. But if you work hard, the team will grow,” he warned.

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja in a joint picture with Nairobi United FC team outside City Hall on Friday, September 27, 2024
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja in a joint picture with Nairobi United FC team outside City Hall on Friday, September 27, 2024
Image: HANDOUT

In addition to his plans for Nairobi United, Governor Sakaja highlighted his administration’s commitment to developing sports infrastructure in the City.

He noted that, apart from the existing Dandora Stadium, work is underway on the Woodley and Kihumbuini stadiums, which are expected to be completed soon.

Governor Sakaja announced that the Sakaja Cup will resume next month and will bring together teams from across the City.

"The Sakaja Super Cup will begin in October, and it will be bigger and better,” he confirmed.

The transformation of Nairobi United is set to include significant investments in training facilities, the recruitment of new talent, and enhanced support for the club’s management and players.

“Nairobi United has immense potential, and we are committed to turning it into a team that can compete with the best in the country,” Sakaja said.

Organizers from the Sakaja Foundation, led by Osman Abdi, reassured Nairobi United of their commitment to meeting the team’s needs.

They emphasized plans to establish an academy to nurture young talent.

“This will be a great team. We want to assure you that even young footballers will be included in this initiative, mentoring them to become seasoned players,” said Osman.

WATCH: The latest videos from the Star