The Nigeria Football Federation Players Status and Arbitration Committee (NFF PSAC), inaugurated last year under the chairmanship of Otunba Sunday Dele Ajayi, continues to receive widespread acclaim for its effective handling of contract disputes and recovery of outstanding wages owed to footballers across the country by clubs in the Nigeria Premier Football League, and Nigeria National League.
Effective Leadership Restoring Confidence
Since commencing full operations, the NFF PSAC has achieved significant progress in resolving cases relating to unlawful contract termination, unpaid salaries, and contractual breaches.
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Its impact has restored confidence among players, agents, and key stakeholders who had previously expressed dissatisfaction with the absence of a reliable dispute-resolution mechanism.
Observers have commended the committee for insisting on accountability and ensuring clubs meet their financial and contractual obligations.
Life-Changing Recoveries for Players
Several players who had lost hope of receiving their legitimate earnings have described the committee’s intervention as life-changing.
Former Lobi Stars midfielder Babatunde Solomon expressed gratitude after finally receiving outstanding payments, saying:
“I had lost hope of ever getting this money. It comes at the right time because I have many obligations—rent, school fees, and more. Kudos to the NFF Players Committee and everyone who made this happen.”
Former Sunshine Stars defender Isiaka Oladuntoye, owed wages since 2017, also praised the committee:
“I am very happy. It has not been easy since I have been out of the game. This will help me a lot. I never believed NFF PSAC could recover wages owed me since 2017. I commend the NNL and NFF for ensuring I received my entitlement.”
Agents Praise Transparency and Due Process
FIFA-licensed agent Eddie Iseri Ogbemudia, who has handled multiple cases before the PSAC, applauded the committee for its professionalism and commitment to due process.
He highlighted its collaboration with league bodies and the NFF as a key factor in its success.
“What this committee is doing is unprecedented. Soon, there may be no need for disputes over unpaid wages because clubs will most likely fulfil all obligations.”
A New Era of Accountability
With its consistency and strong leadership, the NFF PSAC is setting new administrative standards in Nigerian football.
Stakeholders say its effectiveness marks a shift toward greater transparency, accountability, and fairness for both players and clubs.
Many now regard the PSAC’s work as one of the most impactful reforms in Nigerian football administration in recent years.
Room for Improvement
Despite its progress, some experts believe the committee should intensify its efforts.
Sports lawyer Bayo Ade stressed the need for more frequent sittings:
“The committee last sat in February 2025, and many cases have since been submitted. After clearing these outstanding matters, the PSAC should reconvene quickly.’
“Several cases are still lying unattended since February, and there is also a need to fast-track enforcement within stipulated timelines and clubs who delayed compliance should be made to face consequences of paying interest on the judgment sums.”
