Sports
Beyond The Noise: The Hard Realities of Football Governance in Nigeria
By Barr. Adefila Kamal
In any serious football nation, governance is not about noise—it’s about structure, patience, and continuity. The current barrage of criticism against the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) reflects an old national habit: our tendency to destroy what we should improve. Football is not just a sport in Nigeria. It is one of the few institutions that still binds us together across tribe, faith, and generation. From dusty fields in Jos to crowded viewing centres in Lagos, it remains a shared dream — yet beneath the cheers lies a fragile institution once again under pressure.
To understand today’s challenges, we must remember how far we’ve come. When AmajuPinnick became NFF President, he brought a new era of professionalism — connecting Nigeria to the global football community, attracting record sponsorships that made the Federation nearly 90% self-funded, and representing our nation on the prestigious FIFA Council. Under his leadership, Nigerian football regained credibility among international bodies and corporate sponsors. For the first time in years, the NFF was being discussed not for scandal, but for structure.
Pinnick’s tenure also saw visible progress in youth and women’s football. The Golden Eaglets remained world-class, the Super Falcons cemented their African dominance, and the domestic leagues began to attract corporate partners again. It was not a flawless era, but it built a foundation of professionalism — a legacy that today’s NFF leadership under Ibrahim Musa Gusau has worked hard to consolidate with calmness and steady reform.
Unfortunately, as progress takes root, familiar forces have resurfaced. Some of the loudest critics today are the same discredited actors who once fed on chaos within the football ecosystem. They have found in social media and sensational headlines new tools to spread misinformation — not to reform the system, but to regain lost relevance. Their noise is not new. Before the 2022 World Cup qualifiers, similar distractions weakened morale and diverted attention from preparation. The result was national heartbreak. We cannot afford that mistake again.
The truth often ignored in these debates is that football governance anywhere in the world is a long, painstaking process of reform. Institutions like FIFA and CAF have some of the most rigorous audit systems in global sport — and both have consistently affirmed that Nigeria’s football administration meets their standards. The idea that a few loud voices can suddenly delegitimize a system recognized by world football’s governing bodies says more about our national impatience than the NFF’s competence.
In this context, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s bold decision to restore the National Sports Commission (NSC) and take sports administration out of partisan politics marks a turning point. For the first time in decades, sports management is being repositioned under professionals rather than political appointees. This structural reform is not just bureaucratic — it is visionary. It recognizes sports as a strategic tool for national development, diplomacy, and employment, not just weekend entertainment.
Already, the impact is visible. The President’s unprecedented investment in sports — from football to basketball, athletics, and beyond — has raised morale across the board. Enhanced funding, better welfare packages for athletes, and support for international participation are redefining how the Nigerian state treats its sports ambassadors. This is leadership that understands that a thriving sports sector contributes to economic growth, social cohesion, and the nation’s global reputation.
Against this backdrop, the NFF must be understood as part of a larger national reform story. Football remains Nigeria’s greatest unifier and one of its most valuable exports. It generates jobs, fosters national pride, and projects soft power globally. The Federation’s mandate is not only to manage teams but to nurture the system that keeps this cultural engine running — from grassroots development to elite competition.
Every time we undermine our institutions, we weaken our collective progress. No country that constantly attacks its own builders ever grows. The NFF, under the current administration, continues to prioritize youth football, women’s development, and institutional rebuilding — initiatives that may not make flashy headlines but are the backbone of sustainable growth. Reform takes time. It takes quiet work, not noise.
Civil society and the media have a critical role here — not as cheerleaders or critics for hire, but as constructive partners in accountability. Transparency reforms, independent audits, and digital governance tools can strengthen public confidence, but they must be pursued through collaboration, not combat. Our football future depends on it.
President Tinubu’s sports reforms and the NSC’s renewed authority provide the framework for such collaboration. The Civil Society Network for Good Governance (CSNGG) stands ready to partner with the NFF and NSC to ensure transparency, fairness, and engagement among all stakeholders. The objective is not to defend individuals but to protect the institutions that carry our collective aspirations.
Nigeria’s football does not need another war of words. It needs patience, cooperation, and courage — the courage to build on the gains of the past rather than destroy them in a fit of emotion.
Our football story, much like our national story, is one of resilience amid chaos and brilliance amid uncertainty. We cannot afford to keep starting over every few years. The future will not be built by those who shout the loudest, but by those willing to work quietly, strategically, and faithfully to sustain what has already been achieved.
If we truly love Nigerian football, then this is our duty — to defend its institutions, refine its processes, and build on its progress. Anything less is self-sabotage.
Barr. Adefila Kamal is a legal practitioner and development practitioner. He is the National President of the Civil Society Network for Good Governance (CSNGG), with a focus on sports governance, civic accountability, and institutional reform.
The international break gives way to a packed Easter weekend of football across Europe, headlined by FA Cup quarter-final drama in England and high-stakes league action in Spain, Italy and France. With titles, European places and silverware all on the line, the margin for error is rapidly disappearing.
FA Cup: Heavyweights Collide in Quarter Finals
Saturday’s action is headlined by a blockbuster at 1:45 PM as Man City face Liverpool in a clash between two of England’s dominant forces. City arrive with momentum after their Carabao Cup triumph, while Liverpool will be eager to respond after a recent dip in form.
At 6:15 PM, Chelsea host Port Vale in a tie that carries enormous pressure for the Blues. Chelsea’s season has unravelled in recent weeks, while Port Vale continue to embrace their giant-killing run.
The quarter-finals continue at 8:00 PM as Southampton face Arsenal under the lights. Arsenal will be desperate to respond after their cup final disappointment, while Southampton will look to capitalise on home advantage.
Sunday rounds off the action at 5:30 PM with West Ham vs Leeds in an all-Premier League encounter, with both sides seeking momentum in an evenly matched contest.
All FA matches air live on SS Premier League (DStv Ch. 203, GOtv Ch. 65).
La Liga: Title Race Intensifies, Madrid Derby Looms
Saturday begins at 3:15 PM with Real Madrid travelling to Mallorca, aiming to maintain pressure at the top. The headline fixture follows at 8:00 PM as Atletico Madrid host Barcelona in a crucial meeting that could shape both the title race and the battle for the top four.
Sunday’s action features Getafe vs Athletic Club at 1:00 PM and Valencia vs Celta Vigo at 3:15 PM, before Monday night sees Girona take on Villarreal at 8:00 PM, with Villarreal looking to protect their position in third. La Liga matches air live on SS La Liga (DStv Ch. 204, GOtv Ch. 62).
Serie A: Pressure Mounts on Inter as Rivals Close In
Sunday night’s standout fixture comes at 7:45 PM as Inter host Roma, with the league leaders seeking to halt a dip in form.
Monday delivers a full schedule, beginning at 11:30 AM with Udinese vs Como, as the in-form visitors look to extend their remarkable run. Juventus face Genoa at 5:00 PM under mounting pressure, before Napoli host AC Milan at 7:45 PM in a decisive clash between Inter’s closest challengers. Serie A fixtures will be shown on SS Africa 2 (DStv Ch. 208, GOtv Ch. 64).
Ligue 1: Title Chase Heats Up Across France
Friday night opens at 7:45 PM with PSG hosting Toulouse, as the leaders balance domestic priorities with looming European commitments.
Saturday’s headline fixture at 8:05 PM sees Lille take on Lens in a high-stakes northern derby with title implications.
Sunday features Angers vs Lyon at 2:00 PM, before Monaco host Marseille at 7:45 PM in a crucial encounter that could reshape the race for Champions League qualification.
Ligue 1 matches air on SS Football (DStv Ch. 205, GOtv Ch. 61), with selected fixtures on SS Africa 1 (DStv Ch. 207, GOtv Ch. 63).
Weekend Highlights
FA Cup
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Man City vs Liverpool — Sat, 1:45 PM
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Chelsea vs Port Vale — Sat, 6:15 PM
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Southampton vs Arsenal — Sat, 8:00 PM
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West Ham vs Leeds — Sun, 5:30 PM
La Liga
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Mallorca vs Real Madrid — Sat, 3:15 PM
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Atletico Madrid vs Barcelona — Sat, 8:00 PM
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Getafe vs Athletic Club — Sun, 1:00 PM
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Valencia vs Celta Vigo — Sun, 3:15 PM
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Girona vs Villarreal — Mon, 8:00 PM
Serie A
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Inter vs Roma — Sun, 7:45 PM
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Udinese vs Como — Mon, 11:30 AM
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Juventus vs Genoa — Mon, 5:00 PM
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Napoli vs AC Milan — Mon, 7:45 PM
Ligue 1
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PSG vs Toulouse — Fri, 7:45 PM
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Lille vs Lens — Sat, 8:05 PM
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Angers vs Lyon — Sun, 2:00 PM
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Monaco vs Marseille — Sun, 7:45 PM
Watch Every Game
Catch all the action live on SuperSport on DStv and GOtv. Matches are also available via DStv Stream and GOtv Stream.
Manage or upgrade your subscription via the MyDStv or MyGOtv apps, visit www.dstv.com or www.gotvafrica.com, or dial *288# to stay connected.
As anticipation builds toward the 2026 FIFA World Cup, African football continues to command global attention with a new generation of stars and established leaders ready to shine on the biggest stage. The World Cup 2026 African Players Watchlist highlights a blend of elite talent and rising influence, with key players expected to carry their nations deep into the tournament.
Leading the spotlight is Mohamed Salah, whose consistency, speed, and goal-scoring ability remain crucial for Egypt’s ambitions. Salah’s experience in high-pressure matches and his leadership role make him one of Africa’s most dependable performers heading into the tournament.
Nigeria’s hopes will heavily rely on Victor Osimhen, a striker known for his explosive pace, aerial strength, and clinical finishing. Osimhen has developed into one of Europe’s most feared forwards, and his ability to deliver in decisive moments could be key for the Super Eagles on the global stage. From Cameroon, Bryan Mbeumo brings versatility and attacking intelligence. His ability to operate across the front line, combined with his creativity and work rate, makes him a valuable asset in breaking down organized defenses.
Meanwhile, Hannibal Mejbri represents the new wave of African midfield talent. Known for his energy, technical skill, and vision, Mejbri adds dynamism and unpredictability to Tunisia’s setup, especially in high-tempo matches. These players reflect the tactical diversity and growing strength of African football. From attacking firepower to midfield creativity, their performances will shape not only their national teams’ success but also the overall competitiveness of African nations at the World Cup.
Tracking top-performing players and key moments gives you a sharper edge when breaking down fixtures and spotting winning opportunities. Easywin Nigeria makes it simple to turn that insight into real value, offering competitive odds, live match updates, fast payout systems, instant withdrawal options, cashback rewards, and a rewarding double deposit offer that keeps you in control.
Step into the excitement of World Cup 2026 with Easywin Nigeria. Stay ahead with smart predictions, explore upcoming matches, and unlock cashback benefits alongside the double deposit offer, all on a secure and seamless platform built for a winning experience. The World Cup 2026 African Players Watchlist showcases the continent’s growing influence in global football. With stars like Salah, Osimhen, Mbeumo, and Mejbri leading the charge, Africa is set to deliver excitement, quality, and unforgettable moments on football’s biggest stage.
By Dipo Olowookere
Italian professional manager and former player, Roberto De Zerbi, has returned to England to serve as the new Head Coach of Tottenham Hotspur’s football team.
He will fight to ensure the London team does not play in the Championship next season, as the team currently sits one point from relegation.
The former Brighton manager is taking over from Igor Tudor, who parted ways with Tottenham a few days ago.
In a statement, Spurs said the appointment of De Zerbi is subject to a work permit.
The club’s Sporting Director, Mr Johan Lange, said, “Roberto was our number one target for the summer and we are very pleased to be able to bring him in now.
“He is one of the most creative and forward-thinking coaches in world football, and brings with him a wealth of experience at the highest level, including in the Premier League.”
Reacting to his choice for the job, De Zerbi said, “I am delighted to be joining this fantastic football club, which is one of the biggest and most prestigious in the world.
“In all my discussions with the club’s leadership, their ambition for the future has been clear – to build a team capable of reaching great achievements, and to do that playing a style of football that excites and inspires our supporters. I am here because I believe in that ambition and have signed a long-term contract to give everything to deliver it.
“Our short-term priority is to climb the Premier League table, which will be the complete focus until the final whistle of the last game of the season. I’m looking forward to getting out on the training pitch and working with these players to achieve that.”
De Zerbi earned almost 300 appearances in his playing career across 15 years. He began coaching in his native Italy and in June 2018, joined Serie A side Sassuolo, earning recognition for his exciting, attack-minded and possession-based approach.
He took charge of Shakhtar Donetsk in May 2021, leading them to the UEFA Champions League group stage and the Ukrainian Super Cup – his first piece of silverware as a coach.
Heading to East Sussex to join Brighton & Hove Albion in September 2022, De Zerbi helped secure the Seagulls’ highest-ever Premier League finish in his debut season, earning European qualification for the first time in the club’s history.
In his most recent role at Marseille, the Ligue 1 side finished as runners-up in 2024/25, earning a spot in the UEFA Champions League.
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