Elegbeleye Praises Gusau, NFF Congress Expansion

Gbenga Elegbeleye, Chairman of the Nigeria Premier Football League and Second Vice President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), has lauded NFF President Ibrahim Gusau’s decision to broaden the Federation’s Congress, calling it a “bold and progressive step” for Nigerian football.

Speaking from Abuja, Elegbeleye emphasised that this move grants clubs a direct voice in football governance, a development he believes is “long overdue.” The revised structure will see the NPFL represented by ten delegates, with five specifically drawn from the top five clubs at the close of the 2025/2026 season. The Nigeria National League and Nigeria Nationwide League One will each also appoint two delegates.

He clarified that these top five NPFL clubs will gain voting rights in the upcoming NFF elections, a system intended to foster greater competitiveness and reward strong performance within the domestic league.

Elegbeleye acknowledged that while Nigeria narrowly missed World Cup qualification, national teams have shown “notable progress” under Gusau’s stewardship. He pointed to the Super Eagles’ journey to the Africa Cup of Nations final in Gusau’s inaugural year, followed by a subsequent semi-final finish and bronze medal, as indicators of consistent improvement.

He also highlighted incremental advancements in age-grade competitions, crediting Gusau with establishing a “solid foundation for sustained growth,” despite facing financial limitations.

Elegbeleye asserted that Gusau’s progression through various administrative and FA leadership roles, culminating in the NFF presidency, has provided him with the necessary experience and insight to “reposition Nigerian football.”

Furthermore, he commended the support given to domestic leagues, including the NPFL, Nigeria National League, Nigeria Nationwide League One, and Nigeria Women Football League, viewing it as clear evidence of a leader dedicated to “grassroots development and youth empowerment.”

“Gusau is committed to growth. With the structure being put in place and the backing for our leagues, Nigerian football can only move forward,” Elegbeleye stated.