The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) and the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at improving the coverage and promotion of domestic football across the country.
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Under this agreement, FRCN will provide live match commentaries, in-depth analysis, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and league officials to bring the NPFL closer to fans nationwide.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, NPFL Chairman, Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye, described the partnership as a transformative step for Nigerian football. He emphasized that the collaboration will increase the league’s popularity, attract sponsorships, and enhance fan engagement, ultimately contributing to the growth of professional football in Nigeria.
Elegbeleye highlighted the importance of radio in reaching football fans, particularly in rural areas where many rely on radio for sports updates.
“Unlike television, which requires you to be at home, radio allows fans to follow matches anywhere—whether on a farm, at work, or on the move,” he explained. “This partnership with FRCN will ensure that millions of Nigerians stay connected to our league, boosting its visibility and the entire football ecosystem.”
He also underscored the role of radio commentary in the past, which helped fans recognize players and clubs.
“In the past, people knew our players by name because of live commentary. Without regular match coverage, it’s difficult for fans to connect with footballers. Frequent mention of a player’s name helps build recognition, which is essential for marketing our players, clubs, and the league,” he added.
Elegbeleye further noted that the NPFL has made significant strides in recent years, with improved league ratings and more local players earning national team call-ups.
On his part, the Director-General of FRCN, Mohammed Bulama, reaffirmed the corporation’s commitment to rekindling football passion in Nigeria.
He emphasized the historical role of Radio Nigeria in sports development, noting that the corporation has played a key part in promoting national unity and immortalizing Nigerian sports icons through legendary commentaries.
Bulama recalled how radio commentaries once boosted stadium attendance and newspaper sales, with fans often bringing radio sets to matches for real-time analysis.
“There was a time when Nigerians would watch football on television but mute the sound to listen to the vibrant commentaries on radio,” he said. “During that era, Radio Nigeria dominated sports commentary, driving football enthusiasm to remarkable heights.”
However, he lamented the decline in local football commentary, which contributed to a shift in fan interest toward foreign leagues like the English Premier League.
“To reverse this trend and put Nigerian football back on a growth trajectory, the NPFL and FRCN are re-establishing this strategic partnership to restore the culture of live football commentaries on radio,” Bulama concluded.
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