The Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL), under the leadership of Chairperson Nkechi Obi, has found itself at a critical juncture. I remember vividly little over a year ago, the NWFL Board, during its Annual General Assembly (AGA) themed “Women Football Rising,” pledged to drive the growth of professional women’s football in Nigeria. Ms. Obi herself emphasized the importance of increasing female participation and building capacity within the league. However, recent events suggest a troubling disconnect between these promises and the board’s actions, raising serious concerns about the NWFL’s commitment to democratic principles and the future of women’s football in Nigeria.
The core of this controversy lies in the proposed expansion of the NWFL Premiership. At the AGA, a key decision was made to expand the league from 16 to 18 teams for the 2024/2025 season. This decision was not taken lightly; it was the result of a democratic vote by the league’s congress. Out of 35 delegates, a clear majority of 22 voted in favor of expansion, with 16 specifically endorsing its immediate implementation in the 2024/2025 season. This decisive vote should have been a moment of celebration, a testament to the league’s commitment to progress and inclusivity.
Instead, the NWFL Board, led by Ms. Obi, has chosen to disregard the outcome of this democratic process. This blatant disregard for the will of the congress is not only disappointing but also deeply concerning. It undermines the very foundation of the league’s governance and casts a shadow over its commitment to the development of women’s football.
The situation is further exacerbated by the cases of Osun Babes and Pelican Stars. These two clubs represent the ambition and potential of Nigerian women’s football. Their promotion to the Premiership is not merely a matter of fairness; it is a test of the NWFL’s commitment to upholding democratic principles and its own stated mission. These clubs, having performed well enough to warrant promotion within the agreed-upon expansion framework, are now facing an uncertain future due to the board’s refusal to implement the congress’s decision.
This is not the first time the NWFL has faced the issue of league expansion. In 2023, the league successfully expanded from 14 to 16 teams. This expansion was implemented smoothly and without controversy, setting a clear precedent for respecting the AGA’s resolutions. This precedent makes the current situation even more baffling. If the NWFL could respect the majority vote in 2023, why is it failing to do so now? This inconsistency erodes trust in the league’s governance and raises questions about the motives behind the board’s actions.
Expanding the league offers numerous benefits. It creates more opportunities for players, coaches, referees, and administrators. It fosters greater investment in the women’s game, both at the grassroots and professional levels. It increases the visibility and appeal of the league, potentially attracting more sponsors and fans. By delaying the expansion, the NWFL is not only denying these benefits to the women’s football community but also actively hindering its own progress.
This moment is pivotal for the NWFL and the future of women’s football in Nigeria. The decisions made now will determine whether the league progresses toward greater inclusivity and professionalism or regresses into stagnation and distrust. Expanding the league and promoting deserving teams like Osun Babes and Pelican Stars sends a powerful message: that Nigerian women’s football is committed to growth, fairness, and democratic principles.
The promises made by Chairperson Nkechi Obi and the NWFL board in their first year—to enhance female participation, improve personnel capacity, and drive meaningful growth—are being put to the test. Now is the time to honor those commitments. The ball is in the NWFL’s court, and the stakes could not be higher.
By respecting the will of its congress and embracing an inclusive vision, the NWFL can chart a course for a brighter future for Nigerian women’s football. This is more than just an administrative decision; it is a declaration of the league’s values and its commitment to fairness, progress, and democracy.
The congress has spoken. It is time for the NWFL to listen, act decisively and uphold the democratic principles upon which any successful league should be built. Only then can the NWFL truly fulfill its promise to drive the growth of women’s football in Nigeria.
