Former Nigerian international Mobi Okparaku has expressed doubts over the prospects of the ongoing reform process in Nigerian football, admitting that he is not optimistic about the country achieving the desired positive outcome.
Okparaku believes the major problem is not a lack of knowledge among football administrators, but their unwillingness to take the difficult decisions required to move the game forward.
According to the former international, those entrusted with running Nigerian football already understand what needs to be done, but personal interests continue to stand in the way of meaningful progress.
“They know what they are supposed to do, but they lack the willpower to do it,” Okparaku said.
He accused some administrators of prioritising their personal interests over the development of Nigerian football, arguing that the continued pursuit of individual benefits has contributed significantly to the problems confronting the sport.
Okparaku further alleged that some officials view football administration primarily as a means of advancing their personal careers, rather than as an opportunity to build a stronger system for the country.
He warned that unless there is a genuine change in attitude and commitment among those responsible for administering the game, the current reform process may fail to produce the transformation Nigerians are hoping for.
His comments come at a critical time for Nigerian football following the resignation of the former Nigeria Football Federation leadership and the subsequent move to restructure the administration of the game.
While stakeholders have described the development as an opportunity for a fresh start, Okparaku remains cautious, insisting that changing personalities alone will not solve the deeper problems.
For the former Super Eagles player, the success of the reform will ultimately depend on whether those in charge are prepared to put the interests of Nigerian football ahead of personal ambition.
