Sierra Leone’s football is in crisis—not because of a lack of talent or potential, but because of persistent leadership failures at the highest level. Across the board, from the national A-team to the U-15 squads, from the women’s national team to grassroots development programs, the story is the same: money owed is not paid, support promised is not delivered, and the dreams of our footballers are being crushed by silence and neglect.
This is more than just a financial issue. It’s a national shame.
Players representing the national senior team (Leone Stars), the national home-based squad, and the female national team have all faced similar frustrations. Despite putting their lives on hold and giving their all for the badge, they return home to empty pockets and hollow congratulations. No allowances. No bonuses. No accountability.
Even the U-20 and U-15 youth teams, who should be the foundation of our future football success, are being ignored. These young talents participate in regional and international competitions, representing Sierra Leone with pride—yet their efforts are not acknowledged with even the most basic financial or developmental support.
And it doesn’t stop there.
Funds meant for coaching courses, referee training, and grassroots development programs have either gone missing or been indefinitely delayed. Promises are made on paper, but nothing materializes on the ground. Those entrusted with developing football are left stranded, forced to work with no resources, no motivation, and no hope.
At the center of this failure stands the former President of the Sierra Leone Football Association, Thomas Daddy Brima. Many believed his leadership would bring reform and restore integrity to our footballing system. Instead, his tenure has deepened mistrust, widened inequality, and left the entire football community feeling betrayed.
This is not how football should be run.
Football is more than a game—it is a lifeline for young people, a symbol of unity, and a source of national pride. But when our football leaders fail to honor basic responsibilities, they destroy the hopes of those who give everything for the country.
It is time to speak out. Time to demand transparency. Time to call for accountability. Time to reform the SLFA from top to bottom.
If Sierra Leone is to rise again on the global football stage, we must clean our house. We must respect our players, pay what is owed, invest in our youth, and rebuild the trust of the football-loving public.
Until then, the broken promises will continue to haunt us—and Sierra Leone’s football dreams will remain just that:
By: Ibrahim Bugalo
