Super Eagles captain, Ahmed Musa, has called for a comprehensive overhaul of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), stressing the urgent need for reforms in league organization, club structure, and officiating standards.
In a post shared on his official Facebook page, Musa expressed admiration for the African clubs currently participating in the FIFA Club World Cup, describing the tournament as both exciting and financially rewarding.
However, he used the opportunity to draw a stark contrast between the global stage and the state of Nigeria’s domestic league as the Competition features no teams from Nigeria.
“I have been following the FIFA Club World Cup, and my focus has been on the African clubs in the tournament. Apart from the excitement, the tournament is a money-spinner for the African clubs,” Musa wrote.
“It’s a sober reflection if we compare the African Clubs at the Club World Cup to our domestic league, the Nigeria Premier Football League. Can we compete at this level? What are we not getting right?”
The former CSKA Moscow and Al Nassr forward called for a deliberate review of the NPFL’s framework, noting that talent alone is not enough to thrive in the modern football environment.
“We need to review the organization of the League, clubs’ structure, and funding. We need to set out new policies and drive the reforms. The NPFL is not lacking in potential, our football has got an abundance of talent and potential from the grassroots to the elite level, but these factors aren’t enough in a modern football system.”
Musa emphasised the need for collective commitment among stakeholders to elevate Nigerian football to global standards, both on and off the pitch.
“We must collectively decide to make our football work which will ensure that our clubs compete at the continental and world level.”
The NPFL star also questioned the current state of officiating in the country, highlighting the absence of Nigerian referees in CAF and FIFA tournaments.
“What about the referees and officiating? Other African countries are producing referees for CAF and FIFA tournaments, but what do we have here?”
He concluded his post with a note of support for the African representatives at the ongoing FIFA Club World Cup, wishing them success in the global competition.
Musa’s remarks have already sparked conversations across the football community, with many echoing his concerns and calling for urgent steps to revive the fortunes of Nigeria’s top-flight league.
Sports247.ng
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