The group of Ex- Footballers of the Premier University in Nigeria, University of Ibadan has congratulated the League Management Company on the 30 years anniversary of the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL).
The group, in an extensive discussion on their WhatsApp platform on Wednesday paid glowing tributes to the founding fathers of the League, stating that the efforts of the likes of Chief MKO Abiola, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, Chief Lekan Salami, Chief Patrick Osakwe, Chief Teluwo, Chief Idama, amongst others, led to what we know today as the Nigerian Professional Football League.
The group advised the League Management Company to intensify efforts in ensuring that private individuals and bodies returned fully to the management of clubs to gradually disengage government involvement in running of clubs in Nigeria. They further said that the Government should provide some initial financial assistance while allowing the clubs to fend for themselves as done in European and other established leagues worldwide.
They also said that corporate bodies will confidently identify with the clubs for endorsement and sponsorship, amongst others, when they are run privately and professionally.
They also suggested that the stadia should be upgraded to be fan friendly. The dressing rooms and tunnels should be upgraded to meet international standard. Saunas should be provided at every stadium in the country. The field area and sizes should also be upgraded to FIFA standard.
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Credit: Blueprint