NPFL: Alimi Reveals Reason Local Players Have Stunted Growth

NPFL: Alimi Reveals Reason Local Players Have Stunted Growth

Sampson Adedeji

Former Remo Stars F.C. attacker Sikiru Alimi has opened up on what he believes is responsible for the stunted growth of players in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Alimi, who previously played in the Nigerian topflight, said many players in the league are afraid to speak out or demand accountability due to fear of being victimized.

According to him, players who attempt to challenge the system risk being blacklisted and labeled as arrogant, a situation he believes has slowed down the development of the domestic league.

The forward therefore called on senior Nigerian stars such as Brown Ideye and Ahmed Musa to use their influence to amplify the voices of players still competing in the local league.

“This is the major reason the NPFL has had a stunted growth. As an NPFL player who has really not made a name and strong personality for himself yet, you dare not speak or demand accountability because you will definitely be silenced by being blacklisted and tagged arrogant,” Alimi said.

“I’ve been there and I’ve done it a couple of times. It takes bravery beyond kicking balls on the pitch. The cycle will continue if people like you and Ahmed Musa don’t continually lend your voices because they are definitely louder.”

Alimi further stressed that the current structure tends to keep players silent and powerless, adding that collective advocacy from established footballers could help bring meaningful change to the league.