Super Eagles legend and former Nigeria captain Ahmed Musa has issued a passionate call for a full-scale overhaul of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), following his observations of African clubs participating at the FIFA Club World Cup.
In a thoughtful reflection posted on his official social media handle, Musa expressed both admiration and concern. While African clubs continue to make impressive strides on the world stage, he questioned whether Nigerian clubs are truly ready to compete at such a level.
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“The tournament is a money-spinner for African clubs,” he noted. “But when we compare them to our domestic league, the NPFL, it becomes a sober reflection.”
According to the former Leicester City forward, the issues affecting the Nigerian domestic scene go far beyond the pitch. He emphasized that while Nigeria has no shortage of footballing talent—ranging from grassroots to elite level—raw talent alone is not enough in the modern football ecosystem.
Musa stressed the need for a holistic review of how the league is organized, highlighting weak club structures, inconsistent funding, and outdated policies as major hindrances to growth.
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“We must collectively decide to make our football work,” Musa stated, “if we want our clubs to be competitive both continentally and globally.”
The 2013 Africa Cup of Nations winner also pointed out the alarming state of officiating in Nigerian football. While other African countries consistently produce referees for CAF and FIFA competitions, Nigeria continues to lag behind in this critical area of the game.
He concluded his reflection by extending his best wishes to all African teams participating in the FIFA Club World Cup, hoping their success becomes a model for what is possible if the right steps are taken.
Musa’s comments resonate beyond fans and players. His message challenges football administrators, investors, and policymakers to prioritize reform. The NPFL has long been a breeding ground for talent, but without the infrastructure, accountability, and international-standard officiating, that talent may never fully blossom.
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His appeal is not just a critique—it’s a call to action. For Nigerian football to rise, everyone from club owners to football authorities must get involved in shaping a future that allows local clubs to thrive beyond the nation’s borders.
Picture Credit: Ahmed Musa X Page
