Africa has lost a 'great jewel' with Sepp Blatter's exit, says ex-Ghana FA chief Nyaho Tamakloe

Former Ghana FA chairman Nyaho Tamakloe believes Africa last lost a ‘great jewel’ following the imminent exit of long-standing FIFA boss Joseph Sepp Blatter.

The shocking announcement from the 79-year-old on Tuesday got world football tumbling, just days after he won his re-election bid.

Blatter enjoys unwavering support on the continent after imparting positively with lots of developmental programmes.

Africans see the Swiss as a friend to the continent as he preaches equity, fairness and equality among nations.

Ghana has benefited from several projects undertaken by the world governing body since Blatter took over and ex-Ghana FA chairman Dr Nyaho Tamakloe believes his exit will make Africa poorer.

“Africa has lost a great jewel. Take it from me. Blatter is loved by Africans and for a number of good reasons,” he said

“You can say all the things about corruption but he has done a lot for football in Ghana and on the continent.

“I dare say that without him Ghana could not have qualified for the World Cup in 2006.”

The unexpected resignation came amid one of the most controversial episodes in FIFA's history.

Seven high-ranking FIFA officials were arrested ahead of the football governing body's meeting last Friday.

Swiss authorities had launched a separate criminal investigation into the bidding process for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups that are set to be held in Russia and Qatar.