Revealed: Three Reasons Why Nigerians Don’t Care About the NPFL but Are Passionate About European Clubs
It is no secret that Nigerians are more passionate about European football clubs than their own domestic league. The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), especially in the southern part of the country, struggles to attract the same level of support.
Speaking on episode four of The Unseen Stage Podcast, Manchester United fan Samuel Asikpo shared why the NPFL lacks followers compared to European leagues. In response to questions from the host, Nsikakabasi Akpan, Asikpo outlined three major reasons: poor officiating, poor branding, and lack of openness in the management of the league.
Asikpo, who revealed that he stopped attending NPFL matches two seasons ago, stressed that transparency in club operations is a key factor.
“I think openness is a major issue,” he said. “Openness in terms of the management of the clubs and players. For example, I don’t know how much NPFL players are earning. You don’t know how many years contract they have signed. You don’t know the transfer fees. There is no information out there.”
He added, “It is very difficult to follow that type of league. It is the news about these players that makes fans want to go to the stadium to see how they will perform.”
However, by the end of the podcast session, Asikpo softened his stance and promised to return to watching Nigerian league matches. He also encouraged other fans to look beyond the challenges and support the NPFL, with hope that things will improve.
