Chairman of the Professional Footballers Association of Nigeria (PFAN) Task Force, Harrison Jalla, has called for urgent reform in Nigeria’s football ecosystem, advocating for the players union to take a central role in managing their welfare.
Jalla, who was reacting to the visible absence of senior officials of Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the National Sports Commission (NSC) at the series of events marking the burial of former Nigerian international Peter Rufai, who was laid to rest in Lagos on Friday, said their absence was inexcusable and exposed the federal government to unnecessary attacks and ridicule.
Reflecting on the emotions expressed by fellow former players Taribo West and Etim Esin at Rufai’s burial, Jalla, in a statement he released to journalists on Monday, stated that their reactions were a natural response to years of neglect and marginalisation in the sport, demanding that the NFF and NSC formalise a collective bargaining agreement with PFAN.
He urged for unity among current and retired footballers. “No group of professionals will remain oppressed forever, especially in a field they devoted their lives to,” he asserted,
Ahead of the 2026 NFF elections, Jalla called upon all stakeholders to come together for the betterment of the sport.
“The time for reform in Nigerian football is now,” Jalla declared. “The future of our sports hinges on our commitment to ensuring proper representation, care, and accountability for our athletes.”
While acknowledging that the government has shown appreciation for athletes through financial rewards and honours, Jalla urged for improved governance and accountability within the sports administration.
“Shehu Dikko must urgently take the lead in protecting the image of the Federal Government. A government that has shown appreciation to athletes—by giving $100,000 each, houses, and national honours to female football and basketball teams—clearly means well. But indiscretion and poor service delivery by sports administrators are undermining these good intentions,” he said.
In a show of support, Jalla commended those who contributed to Rufai’s funeral arrangements, including PFAN, the Lagos Legends Club, the NFF, and various sports organisations. He specifically praised Waidi Akanni, a former Lagos FA Chairman, for his leadership in ensuring a dignified farewell for his friend.
