Professional Footballers Association of Nigeria (PFAN) Task Force has made a clarion call for a radical transformation of Nigerian football, emphasising the untapped economic potential of the sport.
The task force chairman, Harrison Jalla, in an interview with LEADERSHIP Sports, criticised the current administration of football in Nigeria, asserting that the right leadership and strategic initiatives could revitalize the industry and make it a significant driver of employment and economic growth.
“The resources from betting alone could sustain football in Nigeria if managed properly,” Jalla stated, pointing out the stark contrast between the financial benefits derived from football in Europe and the minimal gains in Nigeria.
He expressed concern that the current leadership lacks the vision to leverage lucrative opportunities, particularly in television and private sector investments, which could dramatically enhance the growth of the sport in the country.
Highlighting the popularity of European clubs among Nigerian fans, Jalla noted that many supporters wear jerseys of teams like Arsenal and Chelsea, yet the local league struggles to attract attention. “If we organize our league effectively, the revenue from merchandise sales alone could support our clubs,” he explained, suggesting that better management and marketing could create a robust football economy.
Jalla also emphasized the potential for football to stimulate related sectors, such as tourism. “If football grows, the tourism industry will benefit as well, creating a ripple effect that can boost the economy,” he added.
He underscored that football is uniquely positioned to become one of Nigeria’s largest employers, providing opportunities from youth academies to professional clubs.
As he concluded, Jalla urged stakeholders to “wake up from our slumber,” calling for a collective effort to explore and exploit the vast potential within Nigerian football. With the right strategies and investments, he believes the sport can reclaim its status as a cornerstone of national pride and economic vitality.
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