Abuja: Some football stakeholders have expressed concerns and expectations as the 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) is scheduled to kick off on Aug. 22.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, in separate interviews, they shared thoughts on improving the league and players’ welfare. A former Super Eagles winger and ex-Julius Berger player, Garba Lawal, praised the NPFL board for efforts to improve standards but noted there’s still room for growth. Lawal expressed concern about the performance of Nigerian clubs in continental competitions, highlighting their struggles to reach the latter stages of the CAF Champions League or Confederation Cup in recent years.
Lawal emphasized the need for greater improvement in the league to restore the dominance of NPFL teams in club football. He suggested that deeper runs in continental tournaments would enhance Nigerian football’s prestige and advocated for better player recruitment and away match victories. He cited South Africa’s success in reaching CAF Champions League semi-finals and finals, attributing it to better organization rather than superior technical skills.
Another former Super Eagles player, Edema Fuludu, emphasized the importance of maintaining the new league calendar aligned with European schedules. He praised the NPFL for stabilizing the calendar and finishing the league on time, viewing it as a positive development for Nigerian football’s organization. Fuludu also stressed the need for fair officiating and proper involvement of State Football Associations in match preparations.
Harrison Jalla, Chairman of the Professional Footballers Association of Nigeria Task Force, highlighted the significance of a stable league calendar for player transfers and overall development. He commended the improved officiating standards last season and suggested that timely payments and fair remuneration for referees and commissioners would reduce the likelihood of manipulation.
Jimmy Aimuagbonrie, coach of Fortress FC, acknowledged notable progress in the NPFL under current leadership, particularly in facilities and stadium standards. He called for improved media coverage of the NPFL and emphasized the importance of player welfare, including insurance schemes and transparency in welfare matters.
Tony Nwadike, Executive Chairman of Premium Sport Hub, advocated for technology-driven officiating in the NPFL to match top African leagues. He noted the advancements in VAR in South Africa and suggested Nigeria should invest similarly to improve match technology.
