The Executive Director of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Dr. Emmanuel Saffa Abdulai, has disclosed that Leone Stars head coach Mohamed Kallon is yet to receive a salary since his appointment earlier this year.
Speaking on Truth Morning Devotion, Dr. Emmanuel Saffa Abdulai explained that Mohamed Kallon chose to continue with his duties while salary negotiations are still ongoing. “Mohamed Kallon decided to take up the responsibility even though his pay package has not been finalized. For now, he is only receiving match-day appearance fees and related allowances,” he stated.
Mohamed Kallon, a former Leone Stars captain and one of Sierra Leone’s most celebrated international footballers, was appointed head coach in February 2025. His appointment, though controversial in some quarters, was largely welcomed by the public, who viewed him as the right choice to inspire the national senior men’s team.
Mohamed Kallon, a UEFA/FIFA Pro License holder, signed a three-year contract with the Leone Stars, renewable based on performance. His unveiling ceremony at the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) headquarters was attended by key sports stakeholders, including former SLFA President, Thomas Daddy Brima, Harold Nat-Johnson, NSA officials and representatives from the Ministry of Sports.
While praising Mohamed Kallon’s patriotism and commitment, Dr. Emmanuel Saffa Abdulai stressed the importance of offering the coach a decent and sustainable salary package. “He is giving his all to the job and we believe his remuneration should reflect his experience, qualifications and what he represents for Sierra Leonean football,” he added.
Former SLFA President, Thomas Daddy Brima, previously described Mohamed Kallon as “the people’s choice,” noting that his appointment was driven by overwhelming public support. “Mohamed Kallon has the experience, professionalism and passion for the game. We believe he is the right man for the job,” he emphasized.
At his unveiling, Mohamed Kallon expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him and vowed to repay the faith with results. “I have served my country as a player and now I am determined to do so as a coach. My goal is to qualify the Leone Stars for major international tournaments, just as I did as a player,” he said.
Mohamed Kallon led preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, with Sierra Leone facing Guinea-Bissau on March 20, 2025, followed by a crucial match against Egypt on March 25, 2025. Training sessions were scheduled at the SLFA Academy in Freetown.
The appointment of Mohamed Kallon represents more than a coaching change; it marks a generational shift in Sierra Leone’s football management. His leadership is expected to inject renewed energy into the Leone Stars, inspire young players and strengthen national unity through sports.
However, stakeholders and fans alike are calling on the Government, SLFA and the NSA to expedite the resolution of his salary negotiations to ensure stability and to allow Mohamed Kallon to focus solely on achieving success on the pitch.
