Football enthusiasts list why Nigerian clubs struggle in Africa
By Idun Maximus
Some football enthusiasts at the weekend in Lagos expressed regrets over the inability of Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) teams to compete effectively on the African continent.
They wondered that Nigerian clubs were once dominant, but now struggle and have become what they described as a shadow of their former selves.
Independent sports writer, Pius Ayinor, said Nigeria has slipped down the ladder, recalling a time when local teams were stronger contenders in every competition.
He noted that clubs like Enyimba International of Aba won the CAF Champions League back-to-back in 2003 and 2004, unlike today’s North African dominance.
“One major factor is the quick departure of our top players abroad. They leave at the slightest opportunity, even to obscure leagues,” he said.
Ayinor explained this trend is tied to Nigeria’s economic situation. The exchange rate makes modest contracts abroad appear lucrative when converted to Naira.
“Many players overlook the cost of living in those countries. They just see a high Naira value and accept,” Ayinor added.
He said this means players who earn continental tickets often depart before the next season’s campaign even begins.
“Look at the Super Eagles’ goalkeepers who came from the NPFL — they’re now abroad, sometimes facing Nigerian teams in continental matches.
“Simply put, we lack quality, organisation, and financial backing to compete strongly in Africa now,” he said.
Coach Uni Dan Kakwi blamed the exodus on financial challenges, with players chasing better pay overseas, even within Africa.
“The salary structure in the NPFL is poor. Some players prefer clubs in Kenya or Tanzania where their earnings are better after conversion,” Kakwi said.
He also cited the lack of CAF-accredited courses to develop local coaches, which affects technical competence.
“Coaching is vital. Teams succeed with well-trained coaches. Many of ours lack exposure to modern techniques,” Kakwi said.
He criticised football administrators for retaining ageing coaches instead of grooming younger, more dynamic ones.
“Modern football demands up-to-date coaching methods. We’re stuck in the past while others evolve”, he said.
Former FCT Vice Chairman, Patrick Nwaogu, said Nigerian clubs must build solid structures to remain competitive on the continent.
“Except for Remo Stars FC, no club has a structure that guarantees sustainability,” he said.
Nwaogu warned that most teams depend on proprietors or government. If support is withdrawn, collapse is inevitable.
“Most clubs are government-owned. A change in leadership could mean the end for some teams,” he said.
He added that clubs lack self-sufficiency, owning neither stadiums nor merchandise to generate income.
Sports analyst, Raymond Nwabuda described the situation as sad, blaming multiple structural and strategic failures.
He pointed to poor recruitment, lack of continuity, and weak welfare for players and staff.
Nwabuda also cited poor planning and the absence of a business mindset in running football clubs.
“Clubs are state-run, not privately managed. It feels like running public service, not a business.
“Most lack the liquidity and expertise to manage continental-level projects,” he said.
He added that Nigerian clubs often lose key players after qualifying and can barely progress beyond group stages.
“Teams from Nigeria are no longer feared or respected in African football,” Nwabuda said.
