Patrick Osaweme, a distinguished Nigerian-born FIFA agent based in Russia, has lauded the transformative efforts of Gbenga Elegbeleye, Chairman of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL), for revitalizing the Nigerian football league.
Born and raised in Ibadan, Osaweme, originally from Edo State, expressed deep admiration for Elegbeleye, describing the former Director-General of the National Sports Commission as an invaluable asset to Nigerian football.
In his appreciation, Osaweme noted how Elegbeleye’s leadership has brought the NPFL to international standards, making it an exciting prospect for Nigerians living abroad who now follow the league with renewed interest.
Reflecting on the league’s previous challenges, Osaweme observed, “Gone are the days when hooliganism, boardroom points, referee shenanigans, and empty stadiums characterized the Nigerian league.
Since he assumed office, things have changed. He is leaving no stone unturned in changing the face of Nigerian football.”
Osaweme, a prominent figure in the *Sports World Platform*, a leading Nigerian sports group on WhatsApp, highlighted how critical stakeholders in the diaspora now perceive the NPFL under Elegbeleye’s leadership.
He emphasized the strides made in improving the league’s image and noted that the chairman’s efforts have eradicated the “win at home” syndrome, aligning the league calendar with global standards.
“I must state here that Honourable Gbenga Elegbeleye is an invaluable asset to Nigerian Football. He has improved the image of the league by ensuring that a win at home syndrome becomes a thing of the past. We are very much excited to watch good football from our base in Europe with spectators filling the stadiums,” Osaweme enthusiastically remarked.
The Russia-based football intermediary, who has brokered numerous successful deals, praised Elegbeleye’s commitment to stabilizing the NPFL and urged stakeholders to continue supporting the chairman in achieving long-term success.
Osaweme commended the league’s efforts in improving referee accountability and attracting sponsors, contributing to the overall growth of Nigerian football.
