Former Super Eagles leftback Elderson Echiejilé has stated that, despite the influx of ex-internationals into the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL), more needs to be done to bring the league up to global standards.
In an exclusive chat with a Persecondnews correspondent in Lagos, Echiejilé noted that while the experience of ex-internationals is valuable, it will be futile without a solid structure and policy backing.
The 2013 Africa Cup of Nations winner, who began his career at Bendel Insurance, acknowledged the positive impact of former Super Eagles players returning to the NPFL.
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Echiejilé, however, cautioned that talent alone is insufficient.
“There is a lot of talent in the league… but not good enough to challenge with the big boys in Africa and the world.”
The full interview:
PSN: What’s your take on ex-internationals coming back to the national league?
Echiejile: “I’m thrilled to see them back in the league playing and coaching; that’s a very courageous step; they will definitely help the league with their experience.
“There is a lot of talent in the league I once played in; from then till now they have been significant growth but not good enough to challenge the big boys in Africa and the world.
“There is a whole lot of work that still needs to be done; the people at the top need to be intentional about structures and policies to drive football growth.”
PSN: What is your opinion on the suffering endured by the national team, the Super Eagles, during their 12-hour hostage at Al Abraq Airport in Libya?
Echiejile: “Firstly, the dark art of the North Africans isn’t a new thing, but they have to understand that football has evolved; you have to be professional about the logistics of your visiting team.
“What we witnessed in Libya was a major setback for them; they can do better; they should do better.”
Persecondnews reports that as the NPFL continues to evolve, Echiejilé’s words serve as a reminder that structural development and policy implementation are crucial to the league’s growth and global competitiveness.
While the influx of ex-internationals is a positive step, sustained efforts are required to elevate the NPFL to the next level.
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