In a recent turn of events within Nigeria’s football fraternity, former Super Eagles defender, Sam Sodje, has voiced his disappointment regarding comments made by fellow ex-international, Jay Jay Okocha,
concerning the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL). Okocha, a former Bolton Wanderers midfielder and a prominent figure in Nigerian football history, had expressed his preference for watching English Premier League (EPL) matches over NPFL games, citing the need for an upgrade in the NPFL’s standards to attract quality sponsors.
Sodje, who had served as the chairman of the Football Association in Delta State and had a distinguished career with clubs like Reading and Portsmouth FCs, issued a statement admonishing his fellow ex-professionals to be cautious about their remarks regarding the NPFL.
He urged Okocha to provide further clarification on his comments,
highlighting the potential negative impact on efforts to promote the local league and attract business sector investment into Nigerian sports development.
Sodje stressed the importance of solidarity and cooperation within the Nigerian sports sector, drawing parallels to the development of the European sports sector, which has been built on the efforts of individuals and stakeholders. He called for a concerted effort to enhance the NPFL and the sports sector as a whole, enabling them to compete favorably on the global stage.
While Sodje expressed his desire to avoid unnecessary debates, he emphasized the need to safeguard the NPFL’s reputation and the dedicated work of those striving to elevate Nigerian sports. His statement encapsulates a call for unity and responsible discourse within the Nigerian football community.
This exchange of perspectives between former football luminaries underscores the ongoing dialogue surrounding the NPFL’s growth and its place within the global football landscape. It serves as a reminder of the importance of constructive criticism and collaborative efforts in nurturing Nigerian football to reach new heights.
