Former Super Eagles goalkeeper, Abiodun Baruwa, has called for comprehensive reforms within the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), arguing that the nation’s biggest challenge in sports development is not a lack of progress but the absence of an effective administrative structure.
Baruwa, popularly known as Omo Alhaja during his playing career, said Nigeria possesses the talent, experience, and human resources required to compete at the highest level but continues to struggle due to systemic shortcomings in football administration.
Speaking on the state of football management in the country, the former international noted that while there are competent and experienced administrators within the NFF, meaningful success can only be achieved when their expertise is supported by a well-organized and sustainable system.
According to him, leading football nations have consistently excelled because they have built strong institutions, clear development pathways, and transparent administrative processes that support long-term growth.
Baruwa stressed the need for improved planning, accountability, grassroots development, and continuity in football administration, adding that frequent policy changes and weak structures often hinder progress in Nigerian sports.
He also called for greater investment in youth development programmes, coaching education, and sports infrastructure, noting that these are critical components for producing world-class athletes and maintaining competitiveness on the global stage.
The former goalkeeper expressed confidence in the potential of Nigerian football, insisting that with the right structures in place, the country can reclaim its position among the world’s leading football nations and achieve sustained success across all levels of the game