The President of the Niger Football Association, Djibrilla Hima Hamidou has congratulated his countryman, Victorien Adebayor for his exploits in the Ghana Premier League and has urged the player to cut out the ‘childishness’ from his game if he wants to realize his full potential as a footballer.

Adebayor who plays for Ghana Premier League side Inter Allies has received plaudits from various quarters, including praise from opposing fans for his immense quality and performances in the Ghanaian top flight.

The Nigerian import is top of the Ghana Premier League goal-chart with 11 goals in 11 games in the ongoing campaign.

His huge talent has led to assertions that he deserves to be playing in a more glamorous league because he has the abilities to rob shoulders with the very best players in Europe.

Speaking on Tv3’s Ghana Premier League Xpress show, Mr Hamidou said with a bit more focus and maturity, Adebayor can become one of the best players to come out of Africa.

“We have heard all about Adebayor’s exploits in Ghana. His club president is my personal friend so we do stay in touch. Adebayor is a boy with so much quality. He has a gifted foot but he is yet to mature as expected. Now he is a national team player and must be aware of that and act accordingly. At the level of his game, he should have been in Europe by now.”

Adebayor was recently linked with a big-money move to Asante Kotoko and Hearts of Oka but he rubbished it, claiming he will only leave Allies for a move abroad.

At only 23, Adebayor still has age on his side and if his performances continue to grab national headlines then it won’t be long before he heads to the big leagues in Europe.