A country with such a huge population missing out on two World Cups in a row should trigger serious reflection. In a well-run system, a complete overhaul and multiple resignations would have already followed. But no! It’s Nigeria.
As a young pharmacist with a deep passion for sports administration and management, this year started on an inspiring note for me. Earlier in the year, I was appointed as the National Coordinator for Innovations in Sports for the Young Pharmacists’ Group by our dynamic national chairman, Pharm. Tekena George. a role that gave young pharmacists a platform to share sports vibes, stay updated, and even compete in our YPG Fantasy Premier League (now two seasons strong!).
The biggest highlight of my year, however, was being appointed Sub-Committee Head for Games, Sports, and Entertainment at the 2025 DALA Conference, which held in Kano from July 6–11. The mandate was simple yet powerful: create unforgettable memories for young pharmacists at the national conference. With the support of my hardworking LOCs, we pulled off amazing social events that lit up the week. But the crown jewel for me was the National Football Competition at the iconic Sani Abacha Stadium, a thrilling North vs South showdown.
This year’s edition carried deep meaning. The female tournament, proudly sponsored by two distinguished former national chairmen, Pharm. Ethel Mba and Pharm. Yimika Oguns, ended dramatically—1-1 in regular time, with Team South edging it on penalties. The male tournament, however, was even more special. It was played in honor of the late Pharm. Princewill Okitchie, a hardworking young pharmacist who gave so much to YPG Nigeria before his passing on June 15. As sports administrator in charge, I made sure we paid tribute to him, a minute’s silence was held in the 15th minute of the match. It was an emotional but unifying moment. The game itself was fierce, hard-fought, and electric, with Team North clinching a narrow 1-0 victory over Team South.
Looking back, I am truly grateful to have helped bring our National Chairman’s vision of a tournament to remember into reality. Sports has always been about passion, unity, and creating moments that live forever, and this year, we made that happen for young pharmacists in Nigeria.
The real challenge in Nigeria isn’t just identifying the key stakeholders in the future of the sports industry, it’s getting them to recognize their stake in it and commit to the tough conversations that will drive its growth. The government, commercial sponsors, event organizers, content providers, academics, and the great people of Nigeria must come together as stakeholders to debate and shape the future of sports in Nigeria.
I must express deep disappointment with the recent ordeal the Super Eagles @SSE_NGA of Nigeria faced in Libya, where they were stranded for hours at Benghazi Airport. Such a situation points to gross inefficiencies in the Libyan government’s aviation systems and the failure to provide the necessary support for the traveling athletes. This is unacceptable for an international fixture and highlights larger issues plaguing intra-African travel.
The African Union's inability to standardize or streamline air travel between African countries reflects poor administration at the highest level. It is disheartening that while Europe has a unified air travel system ensuring smooth transit between nations, African teams continue to face these unnecessary obstacles. Such inefficiencies hinder sports development across the continent.
CAF @CAF_Online , as Africa's governing body for football, must take a more active role in preventing these unfortunate incidents. They need to work closely with the AU to improve travel arrangements for national teams and hold host countries accountable for providing safe and smooth logistics. Establishing clear travel protocols, sanctions for non-compliance, and stronger partnerships with airlines can help ensure athletes are never stranded again.
The future of African football depends on improved governance and better coordination across all sectors. It’s time for our leaders to act.
-Francis Chukwuemeka Victor
@GoalineGov
Sevilla @SevillaFC_ENG x NPFL @NigeriaPFL Collaboration Agreement.
Sevilla Football Club of La Liga Santander in Spain started a World Alliance Program in December 2021.
https://t.co/fDDIkyrpm9
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In conclusion, the NPFL's involvement in the Sevilla World Alliance Program is a testament to the potential and passion for football in Nigeria. With continued support from both administrators and the government, Nigerian football can reach unprecedented heights.
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