By Alpha Barrie

Presidential candidate Alhaji Umaru Bah says he is the right man to restore confidence in Sierra Leone Football Association, stating adding he is a candidate of genuine reform, rooted in integrity with a real vision for the future.

The Real Republicans Chairman is one of two candidates cleared by the Ethics Committee to contest for the presidency, in the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) elective congress slated for August 2, 2025, in Lungi,

Chairman Bah, said he is running on a platform of integrity, development, and national progress through football and he will restore sanity among the football fraternity.

“These coming weeks will be very significant in the history of Sierra Leone football; and the delegates have the ability to define not just their own destiny, but also that of SLFA and the country’s football,” he said.

“The selection of SLFA’s next President and a vote to agree wide-ranging governance reforms can set SLFA on a new path of trust, respect and commercial growth.

“I believe I am that person – a candidate of genuine reform, rooted in integrity with a real vision for the future – and with proven experience to bring growth and development to the benefit the whole football family. The CEO’s Sierramin Bauxite Mining Company and owner of Simbakoro Auto Outlet (Sierra Leone & USA) stated, adding “I am in this race not just to contest, but to make a meaningful difference in the governance of football in Sierra Leone of which my integrity and contributions to the sport speak for themselves.

One of Bah’s most notable achievements was leading Real Republicans Football Club back into the Sierra Leone Premier League after a 13-year absence. As Chairman and CEO, he helped restore the club’s legacy and national pride. “It was a huge milestone,” he said. “Reviving one of the country’s most historic clubs was not just about football—it was about reigniting national spirit.”

Appointed as Team Manager for Leone Stars by the SLFA in September 2024, Bah had previously managed the home-based national squad, guiding them to a 3–2 aggregate victory over Cape Verde and earning a spot against Mali. To further motivate the players, Bah personally donated $10,000 to reward the team’s performance.

He also played a pivotal role in reviving Sierra Fisheries FC—now known as Sierra Duper Fisheries FC—bringing the once-glorious club back into national competition after decades of dormancy. The club, which holds the distinction of being Sierra Leone’s first to reach the quarter-finals of a CAF competition, is currently active in Division 1 and gradually reclaiming its place in the national football narrative.

“My vision for Sierra Leonean football is one rooted in discipline, teamwork, and unity,” he stated. “I am committed to structured development, collaboration with stakeholders, and preparing Leone Stars for international competitions like the Africa Cup of Nations.”

Looking ahead to the SLFA elections, Bah remains confident. “With the help of God and the support of the delegates, I am ready to lead football into a new era after August 2. I believe I have what it takes to be the next SLFA President.”