Former Nigeria international Loveday Omoruyi has called for a comprehensive restructuring of Nigeria’s national team system, urging the creation of multiple layers, including A, B, and C teams, to ensure sustained development and continuity.
Speaking on the challenges facing Nigerian football, Omoruyi stressed that the country must move beyond short-term solutions and establish a clear pathway for talent progression.
“We need structure,” he said, emphasizing that success cannot be built on sporadic planning.
According to him, many of Nigeria’s past stars emerged because they were given opportunities at the right time, a system he believes must be formalized rather than left to chance.
“Talent needs opportunity,” he implied.
Omoruyi proposed a system where different tiers of national teams operate simultaneously, allowing players to gradually integrate into the senior setup.
By having A, B, and C teams, he explained, Nigeria can ensure that players are consistently monitored, developed, and prepared for higher levels of competition.
“This creates continuity,” he noted.
He also highlighted the benefits such a structure would bring to friendly matches, which he believes should serve as platforms for testing new players and refining team identity.
“Friendlies should mean something,” he stressed.
Without a proper system in place, Omoruyi warned, Nigeria risks falling into a cycle of repeating the same mistakes, expecting different results without making meaningful changes.
“We can’t keep doing the same thing,” he said.
His proposal reflects a growing call for deeper reforms within Nigerian football, focusing on long-term planning and sustainable development.
As discussions around restructuring continue, Omoruyi’s message is clear.
If Nigeria wants to remain competitive, it must build a system that supports growth at every level.
Because in football, success is not accidental.
It is designed.
