Former Nigeria international Austine Popo has thrown his weight behind the National Sports Commission’s (NSC) drive to reform Nigerian football, insisting the era of clubs depending almost entirely on government funding must come to an end.
The former striker, who now serves as convener of the National Association of Nigeria Professional Footballers (NANPF), described the Commission’s reform agenda as a long-overdue step towards building a more competitive and commercially sustainable domestic league.
His comments come amid renewed efforts by the NSC to encourage clubs to adopt modern football business models, improve governance and reduce their reliance on public funds.
Speaking on the proposed reforms, Popo argued that many clubs have become too comfortable waiting for government allocations instead of developing strategies to generate revenue through sponsorships, merchandising, ticket sales and private investment.
“The reforms are long overdue. Government cannot continue to fund football clubs forever. Clubs must begin to think like businesses and find ways to generate their own income,” Popo said.
He criticised those opposing the proposed changes, claiming resistance is coming from individuals who have benefited from the existing system and are reluctant to embrace accountability.
According to Popo, sustainable football can only be achieved when clubs become financially responsible and are encouraged to compete both on and off the pitch.
“Those saying these reforms won’t work are the same people who want government to keep paying the bills without putting in the work. That mentality has held Nigerian football back for years,” he added.
Across Africa, leagues in countries such as South Africa and Morocco have made significant strides by attracting corporate investment, strengthening club administration and improving commercial operations. Many stakeholders believe Nigeria’s vast football fan base presents similar opportunities if the right structures are put in place.
The NSC has repeatedly stated its intention to work with football stakeholders to create a more sustainable ecosystem capable of attracting private investment while improving the standard of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) and other domestic competitions.
For Popo, however, meaningful reform will require more than policy announcements, t will demand a cultural shift among club administrators who must embrace innovation, financial discipline and long-term planning if Nigerian football is to compete with the continent’s best.
