NPFL’s Road to Revival: Why Investment and Infrastructure Are Key to Its Future

By Fakorede King Abdulmajeed | Fuxma Media | April 29, 2025

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has long been a cornerstone of Nigerian football, showcasing the immense talent that this football-crazy nation has to offer. Yet, for all its potential, the league continues to face one glaring obstacle: the lack of significant investment and proper infrastructure. While the passion and enthusiasm from fans remain at an all-time high, the NPFL has struggled to keep pace with the ever-growing demands of modern football. From outdated stadiums to underdeveloped facilities, it is clear that if the NPFL is to compete at a continental and global level, it must prioritize investment and infrastructure.

Football leagues worldwide, particularly in Europe, owe much of their success to the immense financial backing and infrastructural development they have been able to secure. The English Premier League, La Liga, and even the South African Premier Division (PSL) provide clear examples of how strategic investment can transform a league from being a regional player into a globally recognized brand. The NPFL, however, has remained largely static, failing to leverage its rich history and fan base to secure substantial sponsorships, government support, or corporate investment. This is a problem that must be urgently addressed if the league is to realize its full potential.

One of the most pressing challenges for the NPFL is its infrastructure. The state of the league’s stadiums is, frankly, abysmal. Iconic stadiums like the National Stadium in Abuja and Enyimba International Stadium in Aba, which once stood as symbols of Nigerian football’s glory, are now in a state of disrepair. Seats are broken, lighting systems are outdated, and the overall matchday experience leaves much to be desired. This is not just a minor inconvenience; it directly affects the quality of football on display and drives fans away. Without modern, well-maintained facilities, the NPFL struggles to create the atmosphere necessary for top-level competition and fan engagement.

The lack of investment in training facilities is another issue. Players in the NPFL are forced to train in subpar conditions, which affects their development and performance on the pitch. While Nigerian footballers have immense talent, the absence of modern training equipment, coaching staff, and resources means they are unable to reach their full potential. This puts Nigerian clubs at a severe disadvantage when they compete in continental tournaments such as the CAF Champions League. In contrast, clubs from countries with better-funded leagues are able to provide their players with the tools necessary for success. This gap in infrastructure is why Nigerian clubs have struggled to make a lasting impact in African club competitions.

What is clear from the success stories of other football leagues is that investment is the key to unlocking growth. For the NPFL to thrive, it must attract significant investment from both the public and private sectors. The government, for its part, should recognize the potential economic benefits of investing in football infrastructure. Countries like Rwanda have demonstrated how government-backed initiatives can transform a league, providing a foundation for both grassroots football development and national pride. The Nigerian government has an opportunity to do the same, not just by investing in the stadiums but also in youth academies, player development programs, and league-wide marketing.

However, government support alone will not be enough. The private sector must also step up. Corporate sponsorships have the potential to drive the league forward, but Nigerian businesses have yet to fully embrace the commercial potential of football. Brands such as Globacom and Bet9ja have supported the league in various ways, but much more can be done. Big businesses should recognize that investing in football is not just about charity, it’s about tapping into a massive market. By building strong partnerships with clubs, the private sector can help elevate the NPFL, creating a league that generates revenue through ticket sales, merchandise, and broadcasting rights.

Additionally, technology can play a significant role in modernizing the NPFL. Digital platforms can be used to enhance fan engagement, provide live streaming of matches, and create interactive experiences for supporters. The success of social media-driven leagues like the Indian Super League (ISL) shows that fan engagement, both online and offline, is crucial to a league’s success. The NPFL can take a leaf from the books of these leagues by utilizing social media to connect with fans, provide behind-the-scenes content, and build a sense of community around the league. These initiatives, when coupled with better infrastructure, could help change the perception of the NPFL and attract new fans.

When looking for examples of successful leagues, the PSL stands out as a model for the NPFL. The South African league has consistently invested in both its stadiums and its players, attracting top talent from across the continent. Its matchdays are a spectacle, with well-organized events, fan engagement, and top-notch facilities. The success of the PSL in recent years shows that with the right infrastructure and investment, it is possible to build a league that is not just competitive but also financially viable.

The time for the NPFL to evolve is now. The league must stop being content with its current position and start thinking bigger. By attracting investment, improving infrastructure, and engaging with fans in innovative ways, the NPFL can position itself as one of the premier leagues in Africa. But this transformation won’t happen overnight. It will require strategic planning, collaboration between the government, private sector, and clubs, and a long-term commitment to developing the sport at every level. If done right, the NPFL can become a source of national pride, a platform for African footballing excellence, and a viable business model for investors.

Nigerian football fans deserve a league that matches their passion. The NPFL has the potential to deliver this, but only if the necessary investments are made in its infrastructure. It’s time for the NPFL to look beyond the current challenges and start building for a better, more sustainable future. The future of Nigerian football depends on it.