Former Super Eagles defender Emmanuel Babayaro has expressed strong belief that ex-professional footballers are well equipped to take up leadership roles in Nigerian football administration.
Amid ongoing discussions about reforms within the Nigeria Football Federation, Babayaro argued that former players possess valuable experience that can help drive meaningful change.
“We understand the game,” he said, highlighting the unique perspective ex-players bring to decision-making.
According to him, having played at the highest level, former professionals are better positioned to identify the challenges within the system and propose practical solutions.
“They’ve been there,” he implied.
While acknowledging that some ex-players who previously held administrative roles may not have delivered the desired results, Babayaro insisted that this should not discourage others from stepping forward.
“Not everyone is the same,” he noted, emphasizing that there are many capable individuals who deserve an opportunity.
He also pointed out that leadership should not be limited to the most popular or well-known names, suggesting that competence and vision should take priority over reputation.
“It’s about ability,” he stressed.
For Babayaro, involving ex-professionals in football governance could bridge the gap between administration and the realities of the game, leading to more informed and effective decisions.
As Nigerian football continues to navigate challenges, his call adds to the growing conversation about who should be responsible for shaping its future.
Because in football, experience matters.
And as Babayaro believes, those who have lived the game may be best placed to lead it forward.
