Super Eagles captain, Ahmed Musa, has urged a comprehensive reform of Nigerian football after expressing his thoughts on the performance and potential of African clubs at the ongoing FIFA Club World Cup.
In a strongly worded statement on his Facebook page, Musa praised the African representatives at the prestigious tournament, calling the Club World Cup “a money-spinner” and a major platform for African clubs to showcase their growth. However, he did not shy away from expressing deep concern over the disparity between those clubs and the realities of Nigeria’s domestic scene.
“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 (NPFL),” Musa remarked.
The former Leicester City and Al-Nassr forward questioned whether Nigerian clubs are in any position to compete at that elite level. He called for an urgent review of league organization, club structures, and sustainable funding, while also urging policy reforms to drive meaningful progress.
Musa emphasized that while Nigeria is blessed with immense footballing talent — from the grassroots to the elite level — talent alone is not sufficient in modern football.
“Our football is not lacking in potential,” he said. “But these factors aren’t enough in a modern football system. We must collectively decide to make our football work, which will ensure that our clubs compete at the continental and world level.”
Musa also raised concerns about refereeing standards in the NPFL, pointing out that while other African countries are producing match officials for CAF and FIFA tournaments, Nigeria seems to be falling behind.
“What about the referees and officiating?” he asked. “We must work hard to ensure our football meets global standards and organization.”
The Super Eagles skipper concluded his statement with a message of support to African clubs at the tournament: “Wishing all the African countries at the FIFA Club World Cup success.”
Check out his post below:
Musa’s remarks have sparked renewed conversation around the need for structural reforms in Nigerian football — a conversation many hope will finally lead to the changes long overdue.
