Super Eagles captain, Ahmed Musa, has called for a total overhaul of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), urging stakeholders to reform club structures, funding systems, and officiating standards to align with modern global football standards.
In a strongly worded message posted on his official Facebook page, the Kano Pillars forward drew attention to the impressive performance of African clubs at the ongoing FIFA Club World Cup, noting how far behind the NPFL currently lags in comparison.
“I’ve been watching the FIFA Club World Cup closely, especially the African clubs. Beyond the excitement, this tournament is financially rewarding for them,” Musa wrote. “But it’s a moment of sober reflection for us. Can our clubs really compete at this level? What are we doing wrong?”
Musa, who has played for top clubs like CSKA Moscow and Al Nassr, stressed that while Nigeria has abundant football talent, that alone is no longer sufficient in today’s highly competitive football landscape.
“We need a comprehensive review of the league’s organization, club management structures, and sustainable funding models. Talent isn’t enough anymore—we need a proper system,” he said.
He added that strategic reforms and clear policies are urgently needed to reposition Nigerian football. According to him, a lack of professionalism, poor management, and outdated frameworks continue to hold the NPFL back from reaching its potential.
Musa also raised concerns about the quality of refereeing in Nigeria, questioning why Nigerian officials are absent from major CAF and FIFA tournaments.
“Where are our referees? While other African nations produce match officials for international tournaments, we are nowhere to be found. That’s not good enough.”
He concluded by appealing to all stakeholders—from football administrators to club owners and government officials—to work together and build a stronger, globally competitive league.
“We must make a collective decision to fix our football. Only then can our clubs rise to the level of competing continentally and globally,” Musa stated, while also wishing African teams success at the Club World Cup.
As the FIFA Club World Cup continues, Musa’s comments have sparked renewed conversations around the future of Nigerian football, with many echoing his call for urgent and sweeping reforms to unlock the nation’s vast football potential.
