(From Kofi Addae, GNA Special Correspondent, Khartoum, Sudan) Khartoum, Sudan, Feb. 24, GNA - President of Federation of International Football Associations, (FIFA) Sepp Blatter and Issa Hayatou, President of Confederation of African Football (CAF) have advised football Federations in Africa to cooperate with their respective Governments to develop the sport holistically.

They underlined the huge contribution by Governments in the development of the game and have therefore urged the Federations to foster good relationship with legislative authorities in their countries to curb the recurring instances of alleged interference in the running of football. Speaking at the 33rd Ordinary General Assembly of CAF, Hayatou acknowledged the huge impact made by Governmental support towards the development of the game on the continent.

Hayatou said the participation of the various Federations in the tournament were made possible largely due to the financial support from their Governments.

"We cannot do without Governments. Funding from them (Government) is very crucial to African football. We respect their contribution because the National Associations are able to participate in our competitions with thei= r funding." FIFA President Blatter added that the fact that National Associations are autonomous does not relegate Governments out of the equation. "Governments are very necessary in Africa as they support the nation= al teams, and provide infrastructure. We need to strengthen our relationship with the authorities." The duo have subsequently urged the various Federations to make up wit= h their governments in line with achieving their desired goals and objectives= .. The disclosure by Blatter and Hayatou is seen as a step by most football Federations hiding behind their autonomist status when it comes to accountability.

Clashes between football Federations and governments are a regular feature in Africa with Ghana and Nigeria being the latest examples.