Former Super Eagles captain Sunday Oliseh believes the Nigeria Premier Football League is losing its best talents too quickly because clubs are failing to provide players with the financial stability needed to build sustainable careers, Footynaija.com reports.
Concerns surrounding the quality and competitiveness of the NPFL resurfaced after the home-based Super Eagles crashed out at the group stage of last year’s African Nations Championship, leaving many Nigerians questioning the overall standard of the domestic league.
Over the years, a familiar pattern has emerged in Nigerian football. Once a player enjoys a breakthrough campaign in the NPFL, interest quickly arrives from clubs in other African leagues or lesser-known European divisions, with many opting to leave in search of better wages and improved working conditions.
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Speaking recently, Oliseh, who started his professional career with Julius Berger FC, explained that financial security remains the biggest reason players continue to leave the Nigerian top flight.
“Look, football is a business, it’s what he uses to pay his bills, feed his family, plan his future,” the former Ajax midfielder told Brila.
“Even if it’s 1,000 dollars, if you multiply it to Naira it’s a lot of money. When we were playing there was never one month that they owed us. It might be small but we were paid on time.
“People built a family with that money with consistent savings if you want players to stay in Nigeria ensure the league is conducive and okay. Don’t blame people who try to feed their family, put them in your shoes. If you don’t feed your wife she will complain.”
Oliseh is a prime example of top quality players leaving the Nigerian top flight league for greener pastures, having spent just one season at Julius Berger FC before departing for Belgian outfit RFC Liege.
