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For more than 20 years, Brigadier Yahaya Pela Habila has been a silent but firm pillar of football development in Nigeria. Habila, a Senior Officer of the Nigerian Army Finance Corps and current Director of Budget at Army Headquarters, is a soldier decorated with the Distinguished Service Star, Forces Service Star, Meritorious Service Star and several Operational Medals.
Beyond the army, his passion for football has left a clear mark from the barracks to the national stage. He sponsored the Dragon Football competition for youth during his tour of duty at 82 Division, Enugu, and has funded several other grassroots tournaments across the country. Their support has also included direct donations to players, coaches and clubs, and welfare assistance for the families of deceased football personalities.
Habila was a key backer of Gombe United FC during their run to the Federation Cup final in 2012 and 2013. He supported Makurdi-based Lobi Stars FC with logistical equipment and provided assistance to the family of the club’s late coach, Solomon Ogbeide. In Enugu, he was a major source of motivation for Rangers International.
He has also facilitated opportunities abroad for young Nigerian footballers, helping many clubs secure overseas without demanding anything in return.
Football agent Chukwuma Udofia Ayaya described him as selfless: “He is the kind of person we need in Nigerian football. He has a lot of passion for the game. He has helped many players realize their dreams and never asked for anything in return.”
Habila, commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in September 1998 as a member of the 45th Regular Course of the Nigerian Defense Academy, has held strategic positions in finance, audit, budgeting and pension administration.
Academically, he holds a PhD in Security and Strategic Studies from Nasarawa State University, Keffi, an MSc in Security and Development from Bangladesh Professional University, Dhaka, an MSc in Security and Strategic Studies and a PGDM from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. He also holds a Bachelor of Economics from NDA and a Professional Accountancy Certificate from the Nigerian College of Accountancy, Jos.
He attended the Nigerian Military School, Zaria, and his hobbies include reading, writing, football, volleyball, farming and traveling.
