National League Club Owners and Managers Association (NALCOMA) has expressed profound sadness over the death of renowned football administrator and former Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Smart City Football Club, Alhaji Kamaldeen Olaoye.
NALCOMA, in a release signed by its President, Godwin Enakhena, described his passing as a monumental loss to Nigerian football.
Alhaji Olawoye passed away on Friday after a brief illness at Almat Medical Centre, Ebute Metta, Lagos, leaving behind an enduring legacy of commitment, integrity and selfless service to football administration.
In the statement by NALCOMA, the association said it received the news of Olawoye’s demise with shock and deep sorrow, noting that Nigerian football has lost one of its finest administrators whose contributions to grassroots and club football development will remain unforgettable.
According to Enakhena, the late football administrator devoted several years of his life to the growth of Smart City FC, where he played a leading role in building a solid administrative structure that transformed the club into one of Nigeria’s foremost football development institutions.
“Alhaji Kamaldeen Olawoye was a consummate football administrator, an exemplary leader and a humble servant of the game. His dedication, professionalism and passion for youth football development earned him the admiration and respect of everyone who had the privilege of working with him.
“Even after stepping away from active administrative duties, he remained a respected mentor whose experience, guidance and wise counsel continued to impact the club and the wider football community. His legacy will continue to inspire present and future generations of football administrators.”
NALCOMA also commended Smart City FC for the honour accorded the late administrator, including the suspension of training by the club’s Founder, Hon. Anthony Adeyinka Adeboye, alongside the management, coaches and players, as a mark of respect for his years of dedicated service.
The association noted that beyond his administrative accomplishments, Alhaji Olawoye was passionate about nurturing young talents and using football as a tool for youth empowerment and positive social transformation.
NALCOMA extended its heartfelt condolences to the Founder, Board, Management, players and staff of Smart City FC, as well as the Olawoye family and the entire Nigerian football fraternity.
The association prayed that Almighty Allah forgives his shortcomings, grant him Al-Jannah Firdaus, and give his family, friends and colleagues the strength and fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
