Nigerian Football
Pinnick calls for infrastructure adequacy and maintenance culture
Former President of Nigeria Football Federation and Nigeria’s FIFA Council Member, Amaju Melvin Pinnick OFR, has called for new methods and a re-dedication to the ethos of sports infrastructure maintenance in the country.
Delivering this year’s personality guest lecture of the Faculty of Education, University of Ibadan on Tuesday, the FIFA Council Member and Member of the CAF Executive Committee started with a brief overview of the country’s sports infrastructure landscape.
He remarked on the relevance of hosting major competitions for sports infrastructure abundance, traced the era of decline and neglect, and concluded by stating that plenteous and well-maintained sports infrastructure is crucial for Nigeria’s success in international competitions.
“Poor sports infrastructure has the consequence of limited talent development, reduces competitiveness, is a major disincentive to athletes, makes it impossible for any nation to host competitions, and hurts a country’s pride and sense of identity,” Pinnick said, as he delivered his paper titled, The Challenges of Sports Infrastructure and Maintenance in Nigeria: Prospect for the Podium Performance.
To ensure a positive turn-around, he advocated for public-private partnerships in infrastructural development and maintenance, innovative funding models, adopting modern maintenance technologies, capacity enhancement for maintenance experts and a cluster model that will rank States according to sports infrastructure available in their domain and also engender stiff competition among them for infrastructural sufficiency.
“There are a few success stories on the African continent, such as South Africa and Morocco, which have a national sports maintenance agency.
“We do not necessarily need to copy them; we can develop what will work for us. What is important now is that we must confront this sport infrastructural deficit head-on and the Federal Government, States, local councils, tertiary institutions, private club owners and private investors all have roles to play.
“With improved sports infrastructure round the country, there will be brighter prospects for podium performance by our athletes in international competitions, as we will be able to discover more talents in their youth, can nurture them and utilize the facilities optimally to blood them to real competitors. In addition, our country will be able to host major competitions, and our national pride and sense of identity as host of big events will be restored.”
In his opening address, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Kayode Adebowale , emphasized the university’s vision and mission, which includes fostering a love for sports and promoting national growth and development.
He noted that sport plays a vital role in shaping individuals, communities and nations, and commended Pinnick’s efforts in advancing the cause of Nigeria sport internationally.
The Dean of the Faculty of Education, Professor Olufemi Adegbesan, hailed Pinnick for his engaging delivery, which was also inspiring, insightful and thought-provoking. He described him as a visionary leader, astute administrator and a passionate advocate of sport infrastructure development in the country.
Goodwill messages were received from FIFA President Gianni Infantino, CAF President Patrice Motsepe (virtual), as well as Alhaji Shehu Dikko (Chairman, National Sports Commission), Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau (President, NFF), Barr. Seyi Akinwunmi (Former 1st Vice President, NFF) and Ms Aisha Falode (Member, NFF Executive Committee) were all physically present.
The carnival-like opening to the lecture featured dance performances by Itsekiri and Brazilian groups, and a special performance by the Nigeria Football Supporters Club led by its President-General Worldwide, Dr Rafiu Oladipo.
Pinnick was presented with a distinguished service award by the Faculty of Education. The award was presented by Professor Aderonke Baiyeroju, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academics).
The guest lecture had in attendance the full team of the university’s management. Also present were Oyo State Sports Commissioner, Hon. Wosilat Adegoke; Oba James Odeniran, Chairman of Oyo State Football Association; former NFF General Secretary, Dr. Bolaji Ojo-Oba and; NFF’s Director of Communications, Dr Ademola Olajire.
The global economic power of football (soccer) is truly immense, standing as one of the world’s most influential and profitable industries. The beautiful game generates billions of dollars annually through revenue, employment, and global commerce.
Recent estimates, according to a new report from consultancy firm Kearney, revealed that the global sports market, encompassing professional leagues, broadcasting rights, sponsorships, betting, and merchandising will be worth US$602 billion by 2030.
According to FIFA, “The global football market is witnessing a dynamic evolution, characterized by increasing participation rates and a growing emphasis on youth development programs, which collectively enhance the sport’s accessibility and popularity across diverse demographics.”
Major leagues such as the English Premier League (EPL) generate between $6–7 billion annually, while the UEFA Champions League brings in billions of dollars through TV rights and commercial deals. The FIFA World Cup 2022 alone generated more than $7.5 billion in revenue according to the world football governing body.
Beyond revenues, the football industry has demonstrated an exceptional capacity to create jobs directly — through players, coaches, referees, and administrators — and indirectly across media, tourism, logistics, and security. Every major football club today drives local economies through matchday activities, merchandise sales, and hospitality services.
Television and digital broadcasting rights remain football’s biggest money spinners. The EPL’s broadcasting rights, for instance, are valued at over £10 billion per cycle, with networks such as SuperSport (Africa), Sky Sports (Europe), DAZN, Amazon, and ESPN paying premium sums for coverage.
Moreover, digital platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Meta are revolutionizing the way football content is monetized, expanding access and engagement for millions of fans globally.
Football’s commercial appeal continues to attract massive sponsorship deals. Global brands such as Nike, Adidas, Coca-Cola, and Emirates invest billions in the sport annually.
For example, Real Madrid’s sponsorship deal with Emirates exceeds $70 million per year, while Manchester United’s record-breaking Adidas kit deal — valued at $900 million (2024–2035) — underscores the immense commercial potential of football branding.
Football’s influence extends well beyond the pitch. The sport drives massive investments in stadium construction, transportation upgrades, and urban development.
Mega-events such as the World Cup, AFCON, and UEFA Euro attract millions of tourists, boosting host nations’ GDP through hospitality, retail, and tourism spending. For instance, Qatar 2022 contributed billions of dollars to its national GDP through infrastructure projects and global exposure.
In Nigeria, football continues to stimulate both national and local economies — creating opportunities in youth engagements (through academies and grassroots programs), media growth (sports journalism and broadcasting), and corporate investments (banks, telcos, and private sponsors of clubs and leagues).
The economic power of football is nearly unquantifiable. Football clubs today have evolved into major financial assets — some football clubs are publicly traded or backed by institutional investors.
Examples include Manchester United, listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), and Juventus, listed on the Borsa Italiana (BIT).
Similarly, in Nigeria, The Nigeria Football Fund (TNFF) — managed by GTI Group and regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) — exemplifies how football can be harnessed as an investment vehicle to drive sports development, financial inclusion, and national growth.
Football is not just a game — it’s a global economic powerhouse shaping industries, nations, and generations.
In light of the above, it is evident that the private corporate organizations have a significant role to play in the development and sustenance of the Nigeria football ecosystem for mutual benefits.
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Rivers United head coach and technical manager, Finidi George, has praised young defender Ochiobi Elias following his outstanding performance in the club’s hard-fought 1-0 victory over Niger Tornadoes in a rescheduled Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) fixture on Wednesday at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium, Port Harcourt.
The left-back, who played the full 90 minutes, was instrumental in helping Rivers United maintain a clean sheet, marking one of his most confident outings since his promotion to the senior squad.
Finidi, visibly impressed after the match, revealed that his decision to give Elias a full game was driven by trust in the player’s potential, despite his limited minutes earlier in the season.
“I think he did well. Normally, we should have been bringing him in gradually — maybe 15 minutes before giving him a 90-minute match,” Finidi said. “But I trust him, and I’ve spoken to him. He should be relaxed, calm down, and play his football.”
The coach also highlighted a near-miss moment when Elias came close to scoring late in the game, a chance Finidi felt could have crowned his stellar performance.
“I think today he would have scored a goal at the last moment, but he still wanted to square the ball, look for somebody,” Finidi added. “I’m quite happy with his performance, and we will keep encouraging him to do better. I am very, very pleased.”
Elias, a product of the Rivers United youth team that won the NPFL Youth League in 2024, has been gradually integrated into the first team under Finidi’s guidance. His performance on Wednesday is seen as a major step forward in his development and a sign of his growing confidence.
The youngster is now expected to retain his place in the squad as Rivers United travel to Aba this Sunday for a crucial NPFL clash against Enyimba.
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Strategic partners of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) on the President Federation Cup, GTI Group, have congratulated the football governing body on the successful hosting of its Annual General Meeting (AGM) held last weekend in Ibadan, Oyo State.
In a press statement issued on Friday in Lagos, GTI’s Head of Media and Publicity, Andrew Ekejiuba, lauded the NFF Board under the leadership of Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau for the smooth conduct of the AGM and the significant progress made in Nigerian football development.
According to Ekejiuba, the Ibadan meeting reflected Gusau’s commitment to engaging stakeholders and strengthening unity across the football ecosystem.
“GTI Group congratulates the Nigeria Football Federation on the successful outcome of its Annual General Meeting held in Ibadan, which the President of NFF, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, used the occasion to demonstrate his commitment to engaging positively with football stakeholders, including state football associations, clubs and fans,” he said.
“His interactions with the various groups at the AGM showcased his impactful leadership and dedication to promoting Nigerian football and fostering a collaborative environment.”
Ekejiuba also highlighted the Super Falcons’ recent achievements and the growth of domestic competitions, particularly the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), as key milestones recorded under Gusau’s leadership. GTI serves as a strategic partner of the NPFL, supporting its structural and commercial transformation.
The statement further expressed appreciation to Governor Seyi Makinde and the people of Oyo State for their hospitality and support during the AGM. Ekejiuba noted the governor’s commendation of the improved standard of refereeing in the NPFL under the administration of Otunba Gbenga Elegbeleye.
However, GTI also used the opportunity to express disappointment over the early exit of Kwara United and Abia Warriors from the CAF Confederation Cup, urging Nigerian clubs to raise their competitive standards on the continental stage.
“It is unfortunate that both Kwara United and Abia Warriors crashed out at the preliminary phase of the CAF Confederation Cup last weekend. This clearly shows that Nigerian clubs must raise their game in order to compete favourably,” the statement read.
“The future remains bright, but that is why GTI has been calling on Corporate Nigeria to invest more in our football, just as is done in thriving leagues across the world.”
Ekejiuba also extended words of encouragement to Remo Stars and Rivers United, who are still flying Nigeria’s flag in the CAF Champions League.
“We encourage them to dig deep and remain focused to ensure successful campaigns. They should give Nigerian football fans something to cheer this season because we understand how demanding continental competitions can be,” he concluded.
GTI Group reaffirmed its continued commitment to working closely with the NFF to advance football development, promote professionalism, and attract sustainable investment into the Nigerian game.
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